Local MP Marcus Jones has been elected by fellow Parliamentarians as Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Town Centres.

All party groups are made up of Members of Parliament, Peers and some non-parliamentarians to provide a focus on issues of importance. Marcus Jones has become chairman at a time when town centres throughout the country are facing significant challenges, including internet shopping, out of town developments and the economic downturn.

Commenting on his new position, Marcus said: “I am delighted to have been elected as the Chairman of the new All Party Group for Town Centres. I am passionate about our town centres and am well aware of the challenge that they face, particularly from out of town shopping and the internet.

He added: “Town centres are the hub of most towns and a real generator of business and jobs, they are so important to many local economies. I hope that the group will be a strong advocate for our town centres across the country and promote the cause of the town centre whenever we get the opportunity to do so.”