Shopping is good for you - it's official

It's a question that has troubled the shopper since the dawn of - am I buying this fabulous new pair of shoes because I need them, or because I've had a lousy day and they'll cheer me up? Well, according to a new survey into the nation's shopping habits by the Retail Trust (the charity for people in the retail industry) a staggering 40% of 18-24 year olds spank their plastic for the sole purpose of alleviating stress. Other age groups aren't far behind with 25 % of people making unnecessary puchases to feel better, and suprisingly it's the worrying Welsh folk who are more likely to turn to the comforting arms of fashion than Londoners. Just don't get stressed over what to buy or you'll be there forever! [Hannah Kane]