AN online toolkit aims to help retailers, councils and community leaders revive some of Britain's most most challenging high streets.

Experts have been holding workshop sessions designed to help regenerate shopping areas struggling to compete, says the Department for Communities and Local Government.

A new online action pack has been developed on the back of these sessions which sets out all the learning and tips so more communities can access advice.

The workshops and the action pack cut through the jargon and bureaucracy and explain the first steps people need to take to bring life back to their parades, shopping streets and retail centres.

Stakeholders keen to revive streets and those looking for new ideas have now committed to work together to drive forward a revival of their local high street.

The government said it was committed to supporting high streets as part of its long-term economic plan by providing local shops and businesses with a billion pound package of investment.

It also backed the Great British High Street competition that saw towns and villages across the UK battling it out for the coveted title of best high street.

This renewed focus has led to revival for many high streets across the UK with latest figures showing that year-on-year average weekly retail sales increased by 4.8% in January.

This was the 23rd consecutive month of retail sales growth and the longest period of sustained year-on-year growth since May 2008.

In addition, overall vacancy rates are now at their lowest level since 2010. At 70%, reoccupation rates for the high street are higher than they are for shopping centres or retail parks.

High Streets Minister Penny Mordaunt said: There is enormous potential for our high streets and the action pack ensures people have the tools and know-how to bring life back to their streets.

The pack includes short, easy to use guides aimed at retailers and local people who are looking to take the first steps towards supporting their high street.

The Kick Start your High Street Action Pack is available at http://thegreatbritishhighstreet.co.uk/kickstart.