The founder of Toys R Us has died days after the firm announced it would shut all 100 of its UK stores.

Charles Lazarus died aged 94 in New York on Thursday, according to reports.

He opened his first Toys R Us store in 1957.

A spokesman for the toy chain said: "There have been many sad moments for Toys R Us in recent weeks, and none more heartbreaking than today's news about the passing of our beloved founder, Charles Lazarus.

"He visited us in New Jersey just last year and we will forever be grateful for his positive energy, passion for the customer and love for children everywhere.