As I've said before, I would like to see local mini-marts prosper but I think they need to diversify and offer something different to do so. I can't say I've seen much evidence of any of them trying that, which is disappointing. I don't think imploring people not to use Sainsbury's will be a very effective strategy.

I've thrown a few ideas out previously but here's another - I'd love a stockist in HOP of old fashioned sweets in jars. I know there is Sugar Mountain but I don't get to Dartmouth Road very often. I'm sure other people will have ideas for how local mini-marts could offer something different...