The sales are upon us and once again Britons are pursuing their favourite pastime shopping.

But this year more than any other we should be grateful that people are rushing out to snap up the bargains.

For despite the economic downturn, it seems that consumers are not especially keen to hold onto their pennies, which is good news all round.

For while the shops are busy, the better the chances are that the economy stays reasonably healthy.

So go on, get out there, walk off some of that Christmas turkey, and spend your money.