Britain’s beleaguered high streets have seen nearly 20,000 jobs lost or put in jeopardy since Christmas, as retailers struggle with mounting costs and falling consumer confidence.

Analysis by Altus reveals 18,722 roles have been made redundant or put under threat since December 25.

A total of 14,377 jobs have been lost while 4,345 remain at risk.

The figure, which amounts to around 400 jobs a day, reflects the collapse of several big high street names including HMV, Patisserie Valerie and Oddbins.

In addition, the likes of Tesco, Marks & Spencer and Santander have all announced thousands of job losses.

Retailers have been battling the rise of online shopping, higher costs and low consumer confidence as shoppers rein in spending amid Brexit uncertainty.

Robert Hayton, head of UK business rates at Altus, said: “It remains tough for high street businesses right now whilst Brexit uncertainty is also hurting both manufacturers and the services industries.”

Business rates is the biggest overhead firms are grappling with and, from March 25, high street stores will need to stump up still more cash for their quarterly rent bills.

“During the last decade, revenue from business rates has risen by 32 per cent in England, up £6.04billion to £24.76bn for the current year,” Mr Hayton said.

Businesses will also have to cater for an increase in the National Living Wage, which comes into effect on April 1.