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Story summary
- Nearly 13,000 shops closed on Britain's high streets in 2024, with most in the north and coast.
- The decline has boosted support for Nigel Farage, Reform UK's leader, in high-vacancy areas.
- Vaping shops and discount stores have surged, while traditional retailers such as department stores vanish.
- The government unveiled a £5 billion Pride in Place initiative to revitalise communities, but challenges remain.
