A MAJOR charity with 600 stores around the UK is to lose several branches as it’s hit by “huge challenges to the UK high street”.

Barnardo’s children’s charity said it had been dealt a blow from increased costs and reduced consumer spending, as well as a rise in online platforms like Vinted selling second-hand clothes.

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Barnardo’s is shutting down several of its charity shops around the UK as it faces huge financial challenges Credit: collect

Many of the branches yet to shut have launched huge closing down sales as they try to clear stock, and are no longer accepting donations.

Its branch in Kirkham, Lancashire, shut its doors for good on Friday, May 15.

Another Barnardo’s store in Newton Aycliffe, Durham, also closed down yesterday.

Meanwhile, its store at Central Six Retail Park in Coventry will be closing at the end of May, although the exact date is not yet known.

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And its Bishop’s Stortford branch has announced it will be closing on May 24, with 50% off all stock in the store.

Its Chippenham store also shut on May 2 after more than 12 years, with locals left devasted.

“So, so sad, best charity shop around with the best friendly staff, will be very much missed,” one shopper wrote on social media.

Another wrote: “I’m gutted it’s closed down, the community will miss you”.

Barnardo’s managing director Mark Gregory said: “In the last few years, there have been huge challenges for the UK high street, including increased operating costs for shops and reduced consumer spending, related to the economy and the cost-of-living crisis.

“As well as this, the rise in online platforms selling pre-loved clothing has impacted on the income of charity shops.

“Our shops provide vital income for our work with children, young people and families across the UK.

“We regularly review their performance and, where stores are not generating a positive contribution that we can invest in our work to change childhoods and change lives, then we have to make the difficult decision to close them.

“We’re extremely grateful to all the wonderful colleagues who work in our shops, and especially to our incredible volunteers, to members of the public who make generous donations, and to everyone who shops with us whether on your local high street or online.”