Bull might be set in an antique shop but the most priceless relics can be found lurking in the script. This three-part series, written by Gareth Gwynne and John-Luke Roberts, is not afraid to fall back on a clichéd gag but does it with such cheesy relish that you can’t help but laugh.

Tonight’s second episode finds Rupert Bull’s knackered shop threatened by a big-time rival over the road called Mumford and Sons - the shop formed a band as a gimmick which got out of hand, we are told. Mumford’s boss is played by Kevin Eldon, which is always a good sign. And Robert Lindsay is excellent as the varnished Bull. Tonight’s episode also includes a self-mocking cameo from Pam St Clement which will delight any passing EastEnders fans.

A lot of the budget seems to have gone on Bull’s flashy suits and the elaborate junk shoppy props. Sometimes it feels as if the filming has settled for a take that does not quite hit the spot, but the rough and ready quality has a certain charm about it. And there are some nice little bits of attention to detail. Note the way Maureen Lipman’s chain-smoking Beverley uses a cup-shaped hat on her head as an ash tray.

The biggest influence here seems to be the work of Graham Linehan and Arthur Mathews and I suspect if we looked at early Father Ted episodes they might not be the slickest of comedies either. Bull might not be the smoothest kid on the block either, but along with the creaky gags there’s plenty of inventiveness and playfulness at work here.  

Wednesday, 10pm, Gold.