YORK is set to lose another major retailer, after Homebase confirmed it will be closing its store in the city.

The massive DIY and gardening shop on Foss Islands Road has put up 'closing down' signs and others saying 'everything must go' and 'everything reduced'.

A Homebase spokesperson told The Press: "We can confirm that our store on Foss Islands Retail Park, York, is set to close on July 4. Our priority now is to continue supporting team members.”

Homebase would not confirm what will happen to staff at the shop.

The retailer announced in February it was to shut 40 of its stores across the United Kingdom - more than a sixth of its 250 stores - but did not disclose which ones were to close.

The announcement, putting up to 2,000 jobs at risk, followed a 'poor trading performance.'

The Press spoke to shoppers as they left the store about the news.

Sue Sharp, 55, of Oakland Avenue, Heworth, York, said: "I think it is really sad. What feels really bad is going in there and picking up a bargain and speaking to staff who might lose their jobs.

"I know lots of shopping is done online but it takes away the personal touch and going in a shop and asking for advice and speaking to people."

Another shopper, Jim Dundon, 61, of Dunnington, added: "I can't say that I'm surprised because there is a Wickes at Clifton Moor and a B&Q on Hull Road. Around the corner from here there is a Screwfix. It is a very competitive sector. When you put that together with the fact you can buy tools and materials online it makes it even more difficult for these type of shops.

"It's just the way things are at the moment."

Gary DiFranco, 37, who lives in York city centre, said: "It is quite convenient having it near the centre of town.

"It is a shame, it has been here for years. I come here for my hardware stuff."

City of York Council leader Ian Gillies described the news as "a blow to York's retail offer."

He commented: "York is not the only one. It mirrors the closure of other Homebase stores nationally. However, we in York must work to attract other retail outlets to mitigate its loss."

UK retailers are struggling in the face of Internet competition, rising inflation and fragile consumer confidence.

In York, shops to close in recent times include BHS and River Island, with Dorothy Perkins/Burtons in Coney Street at risk.