Oxford News
Four ways to save your garden furniture this spring
But with spring around the corner, Brits across the country will be preparing their outdoor spaces for more frequent use.
One furniture specialist has shared his tips and tricks to help revamp your grubby table and chairs in time for the warmer weather following four simple steps.
Matthew Lock, director of luxurious garden furniture specialists Luxus Home and Garden, said springtime is the perfect excuse to deep clean and prepare your garden for sunny weather.
He says the first step is to inspect and access your furniture before giving it a good deep clean with warm soapy water and a bristle brush.
Then he suggests carrying out any repairs on the outdoor seating to make sure it’s safe and durable for the rest of the year.
Next, Matthew says a lick of paint or covering it in a fun fabric can help make it look brand new again.
Lastly, the director suggests covering the furniture in a protective sealing can help maintain its life and shield it from moisture and UV rays.
Matthew said: “Winter can be a challenging time for garden items if left outside to face the harsh weather conditions.
“However, spring is in sight and it’s a great opportunity to give garden furniture a deep clean and prepare your outdoor space for the brighter days ahead.
“Inspect each item carefully for any damage and carry out any work needed to ensure it is structurally sound and rough edges are sanded properly.
“A deep clean with warm, soapy water and a soft bristle brush can make a world of difference, while an equal parts white vinegar and water solution can be used to tackle stubborn dirt or grime.
“When the item has dried, it may be worth applying a protective sealer, which is recommended every 12 to 18 months, depending on the type of wood.
“With winter on its way out, it’s worth taking a little time now to give garden items a new lease of life as we prepare to spend more time enjoying our outdoor spaces.”
Here are Matthew’s four top tips on how to revive your winter-beaten garden furniture.
Deep clean to banish dirt and grime
Outdoor furniture can be exposed to a range of dirt, grime, algae and bird mess in the darker months.
Tackle stains with a soft bristle brush or cloth and a solution of warm, soapy water. Particularly stubborn dirt can be banished with an equal parts white vinegar and water solution.
It’s important not to use harsh chemicals such as bleach, while pressure washers on a high setting can cause chips and cracks, so care should be taken.
Carry out necessary repairs
Rough edges, chips and cracks are not uncommon with wooden items, so it’s worth tackling these early to avoid bigger problems down the line.
Pay close attention to joints to make sure the item’s structural integrity is good, and sand down any blemishes to ensure a smooth finish.
Metal furniture can be prone to rust, which can often be tackled with a wire brush and rust remover.
A fresh coat of paint or new fabric
Exposure to the harsh winter elements can leave outdoor furniture in need of a facelift.
A new coat of paint or fabric can make a big difference, giving it a fresh look and feel and this can also be useful if you want to give your whole garden a new theme or aesthetic.
You may also consider purchasing some new cushions to give an old item a new look.
Don’t forget the protective seal
Protective seals play an important role in maintaining an item’s lifespan and keeping and shielding it from moisture and the sun’s UV rays.
Different types of wood can require an oil to add some colour, so make sure you choose one that is suitable for your wood and taste. If you prefer your wood to grow old gracefully, we suggest you keep your surfaces clean, which will enable the wood to possess an even patina throughout.
If you decide to treat your wood, the general rule is to apply a protective coat every 12 or 18 months, depending on its usage and condition.
Thames Valley Police has released a CCTV image as it asks for the public’s help in identifying a man who may have vital information about the incident at Templars Shopping Centre in Cowley.
The reported ‘sexual assault’ happened when a woman in her 20s was inappropriately touched over her clothing at around 3pm on Tuesday, June 30.
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No arrests have been made at this time and the police has asked for anyone with any information to come forward as soon as possible.
Investigating officer PC Emily Rice said: “We are releasing this CCTV image as we believe the individual pictured may have information that could assist our investigation.
“If this is you, or if you recognise the person shown in the image, please contact Thames Valley Police.”
Anyone with information can make a report to the police online or call 101, quoting reference 43260331880.
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Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through its website.
Appeals for public help in finding individuals by the police can relate to suspects, witnesses or others who may have vital information in relation to the incident.
They do not mean the person is to blame nor do they imply guilt.
The scheme, which took effect on August 28, includes a wide range of furniture and home essentials.
In a statement, IKEA said: “From much-loved favourites to everyday essentials, customers can discover New Lower Prices both online and in-store, helping make it easier to create a home you love, whatever your budget.”
Among the discounted items is the KALLAX shelving unit, soon to be available for £49—down 18% from £60.
The HEMNES daybed, which functions as a sofa, single bed, double bed, and storage unit, will be reduced by 15% from £329 to £279.
In addition to these savings, IKEA is offering more than 1,000 exclusive in-store-only prices with discounts up to 25%.
The company said: “In time for cosy season, in stores nationwide, IKEA is also offering 20% off throws, bedspreads, candles, floor and table lamps, plus selected rugs, thermal curtains, seasonal duvets and cookware, from 7th September to 1st November nationwide.”
The history of IKEA
IKEA was founded in 1943 by Ingvar Kamprad when he was just 17 years old.
Originally, the company sold small goods such as pens and wallets, but in 1948, Kamprad expanded into furniture.
This was facilitated by Ingvar’s father, who gave him a small sum of money for doing well in school, which he used to set up a company.
In 1953, the company adopted flatpack furniture, solving costly transportation problems.
IKEA grew steadily throughout the 1950s in Sweden, before expanding into Denmark and Norway in the 1960s.
By the 1970s, the brand had entered markets in Australia, Austria, Canada, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Singapore, and Switzerland.
The first UK store opened in Warrington in 1987, marking the start of IKEA’s growth in the British market.
Today, IKEA employs nearly 12,000 people across its 22 UK locations.
Have you bought items from IKEA before? Let us know in the comments.
Thames Valley Police has released CCTV footage of Juan Carlos Clarke, who the force launched a manhunt for just under a week ago,
The 34-year-old is wanted on recall to prison with the photo showing Mr Clarke in Cornmarket, Oxford, at around 1.10pm on Thursday, August 27.
READ MORE: Manhunt launched after ‘sexual assault’ at Oxford shopping centre
A spokesperson for the police said: “We are continuing to appeal for the public’s help to trace Juan Carlos Clarke, who is wanted on recall to prison.
“We are now releasing a recent CCTV image of Juan, taken in Cornmarket, Oxford, at around 1.10pm on Thursday 27 August.
“Please note that he has recently shaved his hair and may look different from previous images circulated.”
Police reiterated other defining characteristics about him, describing him as being of medium build and having a full beard, as well as a broken or missing lower tooth and a tattoo of two eyes in the centre of his back.
They warned that anyone who sees him, should not approach him.
The spokesperson added: “Juan is described as being 5ft 11ins tall, of medium build and with a full beard.
“He has a broken or missing lower tooth, a scar on his left forearm and a tattoo of two eyes in the centre of his back.
READ MORE: Oxfordshire police ‘welcome’ prime minister’s update on PC Harper killers
“He is known to frequent Oxford city centre, Cowley, Jericho, the Oxford canal towpaths, and has connections to Banbury.
“Do not approach him. If you see Juan, call 999 immediately, quoting reference 43260436595.
“Anyone with information about his whereabouts should call 101 or report online, quoting the same reference.”
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