Right, said thread: Let's find new talent - and flog some clothes

Sponsored programming. Branded content. Product placement. Call it what you like, there's a new kind of TV show that walks a fine line between genuine entertainment and one big advert.

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Jamie Oliver did it with his air fryer show, where he was not only clearly using Ninja products but the programme was full of the type of loving closeup previously reserved for the stars of Neighbours.

Now M&S are at it, not only with Cooking With The Stars, where participants use Marks and Sparks products, but with M&S Dress The Nation (Tuesday, ITV1).

Once the store of choice for frumpy dressers and those looking for stout shoes or underwear made to last, M&S's womenswear has had something of a renaissance of late.

Since 2022, when designer Maddy Evans took over at the helm, the crimplene trousers and fussy frilled blouses have been elbowed out of the way by a far chicer collection.

Yes, you can still purchase a robust bra or a pair of universally unflattering ski pants, should you wish. However, the latest collection is more likely to feature an off-the-shoulder sweater and palazzo pants than an industrial strength panty girdle.