Burnley Poundworld boss returns to TV screens

Burnley Poundworld manager Ian Gilbert became an instant hit when he featured on the BBC’s “Pound Shop Wars” last year – and this time around viewers can expect to see him rapping in the aisles in his own inimitable fashion.

The 49-year-old stole the show with his high energy performance in work which led him to being dubbed the “grafter with the laughter”.

Now, the second series which started this week, will focus even more on the Burnley store.

Ian said: “The first series proved to be incredibly popular and in fact pulled in 5.9 million viewers.

“Our store features in all but one of the episodes in the new series, which is great for the town.”

Bubbly Ian revealed that since the programme first aired he has been inundated with requests from customers for autographs and “selfies”.

He added: “I like to thank all our staff always wear a smile – mine is tattooed on. It doesn’t cost a penny to smile and the customers appreciate it.

“Since the first series I have been made manager following the departure of my predecessor Geoff Heathcote who has gone to work in Iraq.

“I can’t thank Geoff and the rest of our staff enough. They have all been brilliant and I think that shows up in the series.

“Some people complain about discount stores but I believe we offer brilliant value for money which can only be good for local shoppers.

“I believe we are a champagne store with lemonade prices.”

Pound Shop Wars’ eight-episode second series began on Wednesday and will run each week at 7-30pm on BBC One.