Like the team he owns, Newcastle United, Sports Direct founder Mike Ashley’s wealth is on the rise, The Sunday Times Rich List showed. 

Ashley was the third-highest ranked retailer, roaring up the ranking from 52 to 36 as he increased his wealth from £482m to £1.8bn – perhaps fuelled by sales of the over-sized Sports Direct mugs that shop staff frequently attempt to foist on customers.

Despite his ascent he is still some way behind the top ranked retailers the Westons, down one place to 10th and worth £5.9bn and Sir Philip Green – down four places to 17th and worth £3.3bn.