Latest news with #B&Q


Daily Mail
2 hours ago
- Automotive
- Daily Mail
RAY MASSEY: It's a Grand day out for Vauxhall's spacious new SUV
To be fair, I haven't tried the kitchen sink yet, but over hundreds of miles of driving, I've had a good go at squeezing a whole assortment of items into the new Vauxhall Grandland SUV. That includes: supermarket shops, potted shrubs and bags of top soil, compost and bark-chipping, plenty of luggage, golf clubs and trolley, DIY kit from B&Q, and even an Ikea 'Billy' bookshelf – the ultimate test. But it's not just the flexible boot and folding-down rear seats that are a boon in this comfortable five-seater family vehicle. With its contemporary styling, black roof and tinted rear windows, it looks cool, too. This SUV will grow on you, as it did me. Riding on 19-inch wheels, my 136 horsepower Grandland GS hybrid was powered by a 1.2 litre, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, connected to a 21kW (28hp) electric motor. The GS trim is the middle of three levels between Design and Ultimate. For everyday use, I kept mine in Sport mode – which was jauntier than the other two options of Eco and Normal. With an acceleration from rest to 62mph in 10.2 seconds, and a top speed of 126mph, it achieves a decent lick on faster roads and for cruising long distances on motorways. It's frugal, too: it will start with well over 500 miles of range on a full tank. But generating additional electric power on the move means that it also does more than 50 miles to the gallon. It's surprisingly nimble, too. While the range starts from £34,755, as driven, my SUV was priced at £37,350 – including £700 for the spectrum blue paint. You can shop around for finance deals and offers and, after a deposit, you could be paying as little as a few hundred pounds a month. I must admit that when, in Germany last autumn, I first tried out the more powerful 213hp battery-powered Grandland Electric (0 to 62mph in nine seconds and a range of 325 miles) along with the petrol hybrid version, I found the latter a bit underpowered. But having lived with the hybrid for a while on UK roads, I've grown to enjoy its virtues. The folding down rear seats increase load-lugging capacity in the boot from 550 to 1,645 litres Vauxhall may not be the most fashionable of badges, but with plenty of interior space, the sharp, modern face and uncluttered lines of the new Grandland won't disgrace anyone's driveway. The folding down rear seats increase load-lugging capacity in the boot from 550 to 1,645 litres. The shallow V-shaped grille and 'vizor' lights and illuminated Griffin badge and illuminated Vauxhall name on the rear hatch adds to a tidy package. This month Vauxhall launched the new range-topping 325hp Grandland Electric AWD, its first fully electric car with all-wheel drive, which accelerates from 0 to 62mph in 6.1 seconds and has a range of 311 miles. It goes on sale in early Autumn priced from around £43,000. Howay the Leafs! As Sunderland climbs back into football's Premier League alongside rivals Newcastle, Nissan has unveiled its third generation Leaf electric compact SUV at its factory in the north-eastern city. In a vote of confidence in Britain as Nissan makes global cuts, the sportier- looking model will be built at the Sunderland plant with its 6,000-strong workforce. Vote of confidence: Nissan has unveiled its third generation Leaf electric compact SUV Just over five inches shorter but slightly higher and wider than the outgoing model, this new Leaf crossover has sharper looks, up-to-date tech and promises plenty of interior space. It accelerates to 62mph in 7.6 seconds, and Nissan say it can cruise for 200 miles at 80mph (where legal). Two battery options (52kWh and 75kWh) give ranges of 270 miles and 375 miles respectively – the latter getting you from London to the Scottish Borders. Orders begin in autumn ahead of spring deliveries. Expect prices to start from just under £30,000.


Scottish Sun
8 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
B&Q shoppers are racing to snap up £10 buy that elevates your garden and instantly adds privacy
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) B&Q is selling the perfect budget friendly product to elevate your garden and add instant privacy to your outdoors space. With summer now upon us, and the Met Office predicting a heatwave is "likely" this weekend, many of us are likely planning to spend lots of time relaxing in the garden. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 B&Q is selling the perfect product to add privacy to your garden Credit: Alamy 2 Ornamental grass is great for adding privacy to your garden Credit: B&Q However, there's nothing worse than sitting outside with a glass of wine and a good book, only to realise that your nosy neighbour is peeking at you over the fence. Putting up a large fence around your garden may seem like the obvious choice to keep away prying eyes, but this can be expensive - and can sometimes lead to disagreements with neighbours. Paul CEO of plants and perennials specialists J. Parker's revealed that one stylish way of creating privacy in your garden is by planting ornamental grasses. He said: 'Grasses can be used easily to create internal screens or hedges that flower beautifully, move in the slightest breeze, and need little care during the summer months. "I recommend silvergrass or pampas grass to not only conceal your garden, but to introduce interesting textures. "Their fast growth rate makes ornamental grasses ideal for privacy hedges because new plants can rapidly fill in any gaps.' B&Q's Stipa Pony Tails Ornamental Grass is currently priced at £10.49, making it a perfect solution for penny pinchers. The height of the plant when you purchase it will be 30-45cm, but ornamental grass can grow up to three metres tall. The plant is low maintenance, so won't cause you any stress, plus its feathery plumes will elevate the look of your garden into a stylish haven. The expert revealed that another handy tip to add privacy to your garden is to cover up fences with evergreen climbers. I hate my new build garden being overlooked so found a 5 METRE privacy fence to block out nosy neighbours for under £30 He said: 'If you want to disguise fences, balcony railings or rooftop spaces, evergreen climbers are a fantastic solution. "Star Jasmine would be my top choice, it's a hardy, vigorous grower with glossy evergreen foliage, so it's the perfect all-year-round cover. "In summer, it bursts into fragrant, star-shaped flowers that fill your garden with an enticing scent. "If you don't have a surface to grow against, create a living fence by planting shrubs or small trees close together to make a natural wall of privacy. How to create privacy in your garden CREATING privacy in your garden can be achieved in a number of ways depending on your budget, and the size of your space. Here are some effective ways to enhance privacy in your garden: 1. Fencing Install a tall, solid wooden or vinyl fence. This is one of the most straightforward ways to gain immediate privacy. Or use lattice panels, trellis, or slatted fencing to add a decorative touch while still offering privacy. 2. Hedges and Plants Fast-growing evergreen shrubs or trees like Leylandii, Thuja, or Bamboo along the boundary of your garden can help with privacy. Grow a dense hedge using plants like Boxwood, Privet, or Laurel. It may take time to grow, but it provides a natural and green privacy screen. Use climbers like Ivy, Clematis, or Wisteria on fences or trellises to create a lush, green privacy barrier. 3. Outdoor Curtains Hang outdoor curtains around pergolas, gazebos, or patios for an easy-to-adjust privacy solution. 4. Sound Barriers A water fountain or small waterfall can help drown out noise, adding to the sense of privacy. Or install fencing designed to reduce noise if privacy from sound is also a concern. "Varieties like golden privet hedging or, for a shorter screen, Salix (like Flamingo Willow) are trendy options that work well to cordon off designated areas in your garden.' Salix, or flamingo trees grow tall and quickly, meaning that they are a popular choice for hiding gardens from prying eyes. The trees are native to the UK and are popular due to their bright pink foliage, which is a similar shade to the flamboyant birds they are named after. This makes them perfect for adding a splash of colour to your garden, whilst also ensuring your outdoor space is shrouded from prying eyes. Shoppers have recently spotted flamingo trees for sale for £13 at Asda.


The Sun
8 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
B&Q shoppers are racing to snap up £10 buy that elevates your garden and instantly adds privacy
B&Q is selling the perfect budget friendly product to elevate your garden and add instant privacy to your outdoors space. With summer now upon us, and the Met Office predicting a heatwave is "likely" this weekend, many of us are likely planning to spend lots of time relaxing in the garden. 2 2 However, there's nothing worse than sitting outside with a glass of wine and a good book, only to realise that your nosy neighbour is peeking at you over the fence. Putting up a large fence around your garden may seem like the obvious choice to keep away prying eyes, but this can be expensive - and can sometimes lead to disagreements with neighbours. Paul CEO of plants and perennials specialists J. Parker's revealed that one stylish way of creating privacy in your garden is by planting ornamental grasses. He said: 'Grasses can be used easily to create internal screens or hedges that flower beautifully, move in the slightest breeze, and need little care during the summer months. "I recommend silvergrass or pampas grass to not only conceal your garden, but to introduce interesting textures. "Their fast growth rate makes ornamental grasses ideal for privacy hedges because new plants can rapidly fill in any gaps.' B&Q's Stipa Pony Tails Ornamental Grass is currently priced at £10.49, making it a perfect solution for penny pinchers. The height of the plant when you purchase it will be 30-45cm, but ornamental grass can grow up to three metres tall. The plant is low maintenance, so won't cause you any stress, plus its feathery plumes will elevate the look of your garden into a stylish haven. The expert revealed that another handy tip to add privacy to your garden is to cover up fences with evergreen climbers. I hate my new build garden being overlooked so found a 5 METRE privacy fence to block out nosy neighbours for under £30 He said: 'If you want to disguise fences, balcony railings or rooftop spaces, evergreen climbers are a fantastic solution. "Star Jasmine would be my top choice, it's a hardy, vigorous grower with glossy evergreen foliage, so it's the perfect all-year-round cover. "In summer, it bursts into fragrant, star-shaped flowers that fill your garden with an enticing scent. "If you don't have a surface to grow against, create a living fence by planting shrubs or small trees close together to make a natural wall of privacy. How to create privacy in your garden CREATING privacy in your garden can be achieved in a number of ways depending on your budget, and the size of your space. Here are some effective ways to enhance privacy in your garden: 1. Fencing Install a tall, solid wooden or vinyl fence. This is one of the most straightforward ways to gain immediate privacy. Or use lattice panels, trellis, or slatted fencing to add a decorative touch while still offering privacy. 2. Hedges and Plants Fast-growing evergreen shrubs or trees like Leylandii, Thuja, or Bamboo along the boundary of your garden can help with privacy. Grow a dense hedge using plants like Boxwood, Privet, or Laurel. It may take time to grow, but it provides a natural and green privacy screen. Use climbers like Ivy, Clematis, or Wisteria on fences or trellises to create a lush, green privacy barrier. 3. Outdoor Curtains Hang outdoor curtains around pergolas, gazebos, or patios for an easy-to-adjust privacy solution. 4. Sound Barriers A water fountain or small waterfall can help drown out noise, adding to the sense of privacy. Or install fencing designed to reduce noise if privacy from sound is also a concern. "Varieties like golden privet hedging or, for a shorter screen, Salix (like Flamingo Willow) are trendy options that work well to cordon off designated areas in your garden.' Salix, or flamingo trees grow tall and quickly, meaning that they are a popular choice for hiding gardens from prying eyes. The trees are native to the UK and are popular due to their bright pink foliage, which is a similar shade to the flamboyant birds they are named after. This makes them perfect for adding a splash of colour to your garden, whilst also ensuring your outdoor space is shrouded from prying eyes. Shoppers have recently spotted flamingo trees for sale for £13 at Asda.


The Irish Sun
8 hours ago
- General
- The Irish Sun
B&Q shoppers are racing to snap up £10 buy that elevates your garden and instantly adds privacy
B&Q is selling the perfect budget friendly product to elevate your garden and add instant privacy to your outdoors space. With summer now upon us, and the a planning to spend lots of time relaxing in the garden. 2 B&Q is selling the perfect product to add privacy to your garden Credit: Alamy 2 Ornamental grass is great for adding privacy to your garden Credit: B&Q However, there's nothing worse than sitting outside with a glass of wine and a good book, only to realise that your nosy neighbour is peeking at you over the fence. Putting up a large fence around your garden may seem like the obvious choice to keep away prying eyes, but this can be expensive - and can sometimes lead to Paul CEO of plants and perennials specialists He said: 'Grasses can be used easily to create internal screens or hedges that flower beautifully, move in the slightest breeze, and need little care during the summer months. Read more garden stories "I recommend silvergrass or pampas grass to not only conceal your garden, but to introduce interesting textures. "Their fast growth rate makes ornamental grasses ideal for privacy hedges because new plants can rapidly fill in any gaps.' B&Q's The height of the plant when you purchase it will be 30-45cm, but ornamental grass can grow up to three metres tall. Most read in Fabulous The plant is low maintenance, so won't cause you any stress, plus its feathery plumes will elevate the look of your garden into a stylish haven. The expert revealed that another handy tip to add privacy to your garden is to cover up fences with evergreen climbers. I hate my new build garden being overlooked so found a 5 METRE privacy fence to block out nosy neighbours for under £30 He said: 'If you want to disguise fences, balcony railings or rooftop spaces, evergreen climbers are a fantastic solution. "Star Jasmine would be my top choice, it's a hardy, vigorous grower with glossy evergreen foliage, so it's the perfect all-year-round cover. "In summer, it bursts into fragrant, star-shaped flowers that fill your garden with an enticing scent. "If you don't have a surface to grow against, create a living fence by planting shrubs or small trees close together to make a natural wall of privacy. How to create privacy in your garden CREATING privacy in your garden can be achieved in a number of ways depending on your budget, and the size of your space. Here are some effective ways to enhance privacy in your garden: 1. Fencing Install a tall, solid wooden or vinyl fence. This is one of the most straightforward ways to gain immediate privacy. Or use lattice panels, trellis, or slatted fencing to add a decorative touch while still offering privacy. 2. Hedges and Plants Fast-growing evergreen shrubs or trees like Leylandii, Thuja, or Bamboo along the boundary of your garden can help with privacy. Grow a dense hedge using plants like Boxwood, Privet, or Laurel. It may take time to grow, but it provides a natural and green privacy screen. Use climbers like Ivy, Clematis, or Wisteria on fences or trellises to create a lush, green privacy barrier. 3. Outdoor Curtains Hang outdoor curtains around pergolas, gazebos, or patios for an easy-to-adjust privacy solution. 4. Sound Barriers A water fountain or small waterfall can help drown out noise, adding to the sense of privacy. Or install fencing designed to reduce noise if privacy from sound is also a concern. "Varieties like golden privet hedging or, for a shorter screen, Salix (like Flamingo Willow) are trendy options that work well to cordon off designated areas in your garden.' Salix, or flamingo trees grow tall and quickly, meaning that they are a popular choice for hiding gardens from prying eyes. The trees are native to the UK and are popular due to their bright pink foliage, which is a similar shade to the flamboyant birds they are named after. This makes them perfect for adding a splash of colour to your garden, whilst also ensuring your outdoor space is shrouded from prying eyes. Shoppers have recently spotted


Scottish Sun
a day ago
- Business
- Scottish Sun
All the shops with giant clearance sales on hundreds of outdoor and garden items with up to 88% off in time for summer
We've shared tips on comparing prices to snag the best deal DEAL STEAL All the shops with giant clearance sales on hundreds of outdoor and garden items with up to 88% off in time for summer Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A NUMBER of retailers have launched giant clearance sales on outdoor and garden essentials with up to 88% off. Homebase, B&Q and Dunelm are among some of the chains listing hundreds of discounted products on their websites. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Check to see if you can snag a bargain below Credit: Getty Shoppers can pick up the bargain buys just as summer hits and temperatures soar across the UK. We've rounded up some of the major retailers' offerings and the best products we spotted. Bear in mind, these are just some of the best deals we've spotted and you might find them cheaper elsewhere. You can use price comparison websites like Trolley, Price Spy and Price Runner to check out what big retailers are selling a particular item for. It's worth using the Google Product/Shopping tab to quickly scan the internet to see how much a product is selling for too. B&Q B&Q has dropped prices on over 120 outdoor and garden products in its clearance sale, with prices starting from just 50p. Shoppers can buy a five pack of slated plant labels for 50p down from an original price of £4 - around an 88% discount. There is also a 40-piece irrigation kit which has been reduced to £10 from £28 - a 65% discount. Meanwhile, a Burgon and Ball Eco Pot maker kit is now £1.50 instead of £13 - 88% off. Shoppers should be able to order most of the clearance sale items for home delivery but may be charged. Click and collect through B&Q is usually free. Shopping discounts - How to make savings and find the best bargains Homebase Fellow DIY retailer has also cut prices on a number of its garden and outdoor items. The retailer hasn't listed "was" and "now" prices on all the reduced products. So make sure you cross-check how much other retailers are selling a particular item for if it doesn't have these two separate prices so you know you're actually getting a good deal. Of the products with before and after sale prices listed is included 10 LED solar string lights for £5.59 instead of £6.99 - 20% off. There's also a "whimsical" blue garden gnome reduced from £14.99 to £11.99 - a 20% discount. Shoppers can buy wooden garden bordering for £4.99 per 100cm sheet down from £7.99 - 38% off. It appears home delivery isn't available on the clearance items but click and collect is, which should be free. How to bag a bargain SUN Savers Editor Lana Clements explains how to find a cut-price item and bag a bargain… Sign up to loyalty schemes of the brands that you regularly shop with. Big names regularly offer discounts or special lower prices for members, among other perks. Sales are when you can pick up a real steal. Retailers usually have periodic promotions that tie into payday at the end of the month or Bank Holiday weekends, so keep a lookout and shop when these deals are on. Sign up to mailing lists and you'll also be first to know of special offers. It can be worth following retailers on social media too. When buying online, always do a search for money off codes or vouchers that you can use and are just two sites that round up promotions by retailer. Scanner apps are useful to have on your phone. app has a scanner that you can use to compare prices on branded items when out shopping. Bargain hunters can also use B&M's scanner in the app to find discounts in-store before staff have marked them out. And always check if you can get cashback before paying which in effect means you'll get some of your money back or a discount on the item. Dunelm Dunelm has dropped prices on six of its outdoor and garden products, with up to 30% off. We spotted a black modular chair scanning for £111.30 down from £159 - 30% off. There is also a lotus flower plant pot on sale for £14 down from £20 - a 30% discount. Shoppers can buy a steel garden coffee table for £20.30 instead of £29 as well - again a 30% discount. Home delivery is only available on the black modular chair and costs £9.95. All other products can be ordered via click and collect at no charge. Argos Argos has launched a giant summer sale on garden furniture and BBQs with up to 50% off. The retailer has also dropped prices on 20 of its garden and DIY essentials in its clearance sale, with up to a third off and prices starting from £6.70. Shoppers can purchase a Habitat artificial hydrangea cluster for £6.70 instead of £10 - 23% off. There is also a Rattan garden mirror on sale for £8 down from £11 - 27% off. How to compare prices to get the best deal JUST because something is on offer, or is part of a sale, it doesn't mean it's always a good deal. There are plenty of comparison websites out there that'll check prices for you - so don't be left paying more than you have to. Most of them work by comparing the prices across hundreds of retailers. Here are some that we recommend: Google Shopping is a tool that lets users search for and compare prices for products across the web. Simply type in keywords, or a product number, to bring up search results. Price Spy logs the history of how much something costs from over 3,000 different retailers, including Argos, Amazon, eBay and the supermarkets. Once you select an individual product you can quickly compare which stores have the best price and which have it in stock. Idealo is another website that lets you compare prices between retailers. All shoppers need to do is search for the item they need and the website will rank them from the cheapest to the most expensive one. CamelCamelCamel only works on goods being sold on Amazon. To use it, type in the URL of the product you want to check the price of. Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@ Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories