What with all these new rules on what other services an auditor can provide to its client, it's perhaps not too surprising that some of the larger accountants are looking at other ways to bring the cash in.

Grant Thornton has got involved with an authentication company called Bigbluetube in a scheme that is designed to ensure that collectors of limited edition memorabilia are getting the genuine article.

What this seems to involve is GT standing around watching Wayne Rooney signing some papers, before GT does the same thing to guarantee that the first signature is Wayne’s. The question on TS’ lips isn’t who authenticates GT’s signature, but which signature will prove to be the most valuable?