THE news that the HMV chain of stores is in trouble is certainly bad for the country’s high streets.

The 92-year-old firm has found trading tough for the last few years as it strove to meet modern shopping habits.

Its problems follow the recent closure of electrical retailer Comet and photographic specialist Jessops who also saw their sales shrink.

All three are casualties of the ever-expanding internet market.

Nowadays, people are finding it easier, and cheaper, to buy products on the web which can be delivered direct to their doors.

Sadly, the loss of trade in this way will inevitably see more closures unless stores and councils find a way to entice shoppers to our town centres.

This could be anything from putting on entertainment, helping to create a cafe culture and being really competitive with special offers.

Small independent shops can also do their bit by offering something different to the internet shopping giants – or diversifying to go online themselves.

The Government also has a responsibility to help out in these tough economic times and give a helping hand to town centre shops so they can remain competitive for years to come.