NUDES NOT GNOMES IN THE GARDEN

You may think that a naked neighbour spotted dead-heading his roses in the dark of night is somewhat eccentric – but evidently some 5 percent of Britain’s millions of gardening addicts regularly potter about their plants in the buff.

This is revealed in a survey commissioned by whisky house, Grants, responsible no doubt for providing a warming dram for some of these naturists. Gardening is enjoying a boom, as more of us opt for entertaining at home, and prefer to do so out of doors. Garden centres report a growth in sales – especially in night blooming plants, as the Victorian fashion for enjoying the cool of the evening in the garden returns, aided by warmer temperatures.

A third of gardeners somewhat surprisingly like tending their plants in the dark – though this is less surprising for those who do so minus their clothes. The survey also found that the average time planned for gardening each week had gone up from just over 8 hours last year to 15 this, while in the over-54 age bracket, that rose to 24 hours a week. 

To aid nocturnal enjoyment of our gardens, Grants has commissioned celebrity gardener Chris Beardshaw to create three blueprints for an After Hours Garden, to feature night blooming plants, subtle lighting and materials that will reflect the moonlight.  Go to the www.grantswhisky.com/gardenafterhours website for his advice.

But, just in case it all sounds like too much hard work, Grants provides an online bar, with a range of cocktails to enjoy after sun-down, inside or out.  There is also an online competition to win a case of their whisky.

GOING TO THE MOVIES AT HOME

Going to the movies at home is increasingly popular, as new technology has developed quality screens and systems to fit a room near you, so if rain stops play outside then its off to the pictures indoors.

Kent Home Cinemas is just one of a number of companies concentrating upon this market. They will install systems suited to individual requirements, including the latest flat screens, video projection, surround sound systems, wireless multi-room audio, effect lighting, touch-screen remote controls and a large selection of equipment cabinets and seating.

And they have just launched a new range of luxury seating that promises rather more comfort than is available at the local Odeon. These electrically reclining seats offer multi-positions at the touch of a button, come in quality leather, and with their own drinks holders. You can even eat popcorn in peace (it is now being banned in some cinemas).
The FrontRow range starts at just £860. For more information on this and their other products see www.kenthomecinema.co.uk