WORK has started on the former Homebase store in York.

The major DIY and gardening retailer closed its shop on Foss Islands Road retail park earlier this month, following a final closing down sale with signs saying 'everything must go'.

The company announced in February that it was intending to shut 40 of its stores across the United Kingdom, following 'a poor trading performance' with York among those affected.

At the time of the announcement York shoppers voiced their disappointment at the closure, but many recognised it was in the wake of strong competition within the sector, with Wickes, B&Q and Screwfix among the other York stores vying for custom, along with online retailers.

Refurbishment work of the store is expected to take about ten weeks to fit out the shop which is due to become a B&M shop.

The nearest Homebase store is in Selby.