Pound Shops are booming all over the UK. Pound stores, together with discount supermarkets, thrived in the recession as hard-pressed shoppers sought out the best value. But while the fortunes of the discount grocers have gone into reverse over the past year, as the big supermarkets fought back and shoppers’ confidence has returned, Poundland has continued to grow.

The stores break all the rules of retail. Analysts like to see shops offering similar goods at “good, better and best” prices to provide customer choice. They like stores to be focused and inspirational. Poundland charges just one price – £1 – and sells hair grips and books alongside sandwiches, shampoo and sets of pink spanners for women who change their own tyres.

I have found some real bargains in these stores.