Despite its somewhat dry-sounding name, Companies House is a treasure trove of good stories. And you don’t need to be an accountant to read them.

The financial reporting rules for Britain’s largest companies – those with shares listed on the London stock markets (either with a full listing or on the junior Alternative Investment Market) – are generally well understood.

On the day of half-year or full annual results, the figures are available through the London Stock Exchange Regulatory News Service from 7am, and free from online services such as InvestEgate. The company itself will usually publish the results on its website.