So, there I was last week, trying to be organised by starting my Christmas shopping early. Armed with a list of who’d like what and with a few glorious hours to myself (My Mum had been drafted in to look after the kids), I set off to get as much done as I could.

Wanting a very specific desk diary from WHSmiths, I went upstairs to the stationary department and browsed the available stock. They had slim diaries, A5 diaries with a week to a page, A5 diaries with 2 days to a page and one silver A5 diary with a day to a page. I was after an A5 diary with a day to a page, but it had to be black (some people are very specific in their gift requirements!)

So, I approached the counter to ask if they could go and find one for me. The guy behind the desk looked as though I’d spoken a foreign language and immediately turned to the colleague on his left who dismissed my question with the response, “we’ve only got what’s out”. Now, having worked in Boots for over 7 years whilst as school and university, I’m wise to this particular tactic of avoiding a trip to the stockroom, so undeterred, I said “Would you mind going to check for me?”. I then waited patiently whilst she served the queuing customers and reluctantly went off to check for me. Well, who would believe it - she came back with a wobbling stack of Black A5 diaries with a page to a day. Obviously I was pleased I’d persisted, as I could cross the first present off my Christmas shopping list. My advice to all you shoppers out there is, if it’s not out, make them check the stock room. Who knows that dream dress for the Christmas party that’s ‘not available’ may be waiting in the stock room with your name on it!