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The Irish Sun
12 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- The Irish Sun
Cheap £9 buy will instantly elevate your garden – it adds privacy and enhances your plants
IF you're getting your garden ready for summer, this feature may be worth adding. You can pan out in peace with no worries of nosy neighbours with this budget buy. 2 Adding the Smart Garden Climbing Plant & Fencing Mesh to your garden can improve your privacy Credit: Sam Turner And even if your outdoor space isn't overly exposed, this item is still worth your time. It will instantly elevate the look of your garden as well as adding privacy to your space. So whether you enjoy lying out in the sun or dining al fresco, this buy may be for you. The You can choose between green or brown designs with the size options 0.5 metres by five metres or one metre by five metres. The fencing is made of "strong UV-stabilised rigid plastic" with "easy to cut" mesh. According to manufacturers, this "can be used in a variety of ways to enhance your garden". It is said to provide "sturdy support for climbing plants, against walls or arches". Most read in Fabulous Gardening experts recommended climbing plants to create a natural barrier in your backyard. The pros at I made a DIY fence for £68 with pallets from Facebook Marketplace - it gives more privacy & people say it's 'fantastic' Instead of opting for tired hedging, they recommended gardeners "consider screening off areas within your backyard using shrubs or climbing plants as opposed to blocking your whole boundary". They suggested ivy, jasmine, clematis, and roses for "maximum screening power without creating an overly boxed-in look". Another 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. And a £10 B&M You can also And its not just fences that can help give you privacy in your garden, one Meanwhile, a Home Bargains buy is said to Read more on the Irish Sun And a £10 B&M You can also 2 Climbing plants can create natural barriers in your garden during the summer (stock image) Credit: Getty
Scottish Sun
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
Bargain £10 gadget is perfect for elevating your garden's privacy – but you'll have to be quick to bag the deal
Watch the video to see how one woman transformed her garden using a privacy fence PEACE OF MIND Bargain £10 gadget is perfect for elevating your garden's privacy – but you'll have to be quick to bag the deal SHEIN is selling a £10 buy perfect for keeping prying eyes from peeking into your garden. With temperatures set to soar again this weekend, Brits across the country are likely making plans to soak up the sun in the garden. Advertisement 2 The fence is priced at just £10 Credit: Shein 2 The screen will prevent neighbours from peeking into your garden Credit: Shein However, there's nothing worse than sitting out on the patio, glass of wine in hand, only to discover that one of your neighbours is peering 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. For a hassle-free solution, Shein's Artifical Ivy Privacy Fence can keep snoopers out for just £10. The fence, which has been slashed from its original price of £11.25, features a stylish green leaf design, that will blend in to your garden's greenery. Advertisement Read more garden stories LEAF IT OUT I hate my garden being overlooked so found a 5m fence to block out neighbours The 50 x 300cm screen can be easily attached to an existing fence or balcony to keep your outside space away from prying eyes. However, you will have to be quick to snap up the bargain, as it is almost sold out on the Chinese fast-fashion website. And the purse-friendly buy isn't the only privacy screen you can buy on Shein at the moment. The e-commerce site's High Strength Privacy Fence is priced at just £7.75, and comes in a wide range of colours, including brown and green. Advertisement The bargain buy comes in a huge range of sizes, from 1m x 2m to 1.8 m x 10m, so you can be sure your garden will be protected, no matter it's size. However, some sizes have already sold out on the Shein website, so you better be quick to snap yours up. I made a DIY fence for £68 with pallets from Facebook Marketplace - it gives more privacy & people say it's 'fantastic' Plus, the product is made from UV blocking and windproof element, meaning you can be sure it won't be battered in any adverse weather conditions. B&Q's Lifelike Grape Leaf Foldable Artificial Green Wall is another penny-pincher friendly buy perfect for keeping your garden secluded. Advertisement The stylish screen comes in a realistic leaf design, perfect for blending in to your greenery. Plus, the product has been made with premium wood and weather resistant plastic, making it extra durable - so you don't have to worry about it coming down in windy or rainy conditions. What are your rights over a fence row? IT'S very important to know your rights if you are embroiled in a fence row with a neighbour. How do I know which side I own? A boundary feature can be a fence, wall, hedge, ditch, piece of wire, or sometimes even just the edge of a driveway. The only way to know for certain who owns what side and to avoid any neighbour disputes, is to refer to the title plan or Land Registry. In this, the T mark is used to indicate who the boundary belongs to and therefore who is responsible for its upkeep, say pros at Jacksons Fencing. Larger developments tend to have some indication provided by the builder, but there are no hard and fast rules People often think they are responsible for the left (or right) hand boundary wherever they live, but there isn't any legal basis for this. You can check with HM Land Registry to see which boundary feature you are responsible for. Often households can't get hold of the paperwork but experts say they shouldn't panic. Homeowners can guess who owns the fence by checking where the rails are. Pros say: "The fence is typically facing away from their property so that their neighbour gets the 'good' side. 'This is the most secure way of facing fencing so there are no rails for anyone to use to climb into your garden. 'This is then repeated with the neighbour on the other side to ensure that each home has both a 'good' and 'bad' fence side.' Walls and fences are often built on the land of the boundary's owner with the edge of the wall marking the limit. While professionals agree a glimpse at the fence can give you a hint, it's not foolproof - so you can't be certain. Fines and punishment It is recommended to always check legal documents before making changes to avoid hefty fines. There is no law that the neighbour has to get the good side of the fence, so it's completely up to whoever owns the fence. Fencing pros have suggested: 'It may be worth selecting a double-sided panel with no 'bad' side as both sides look the same and rails are concealed within the fence panel.' If one boundary backs onto a road or footpath you can install the panels with the rails on the inside But if it's installed on the outside, it can provide an 'easy ladder for burglars to enter your garden'. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Property Litigation Association have created a mediation service to help neighbours resolve disputes over their property boundaries without resorting to court action. RICS also provides a list of surveyors who could assist in boundary disputes. If a dispute continues, it is ultimately a court that makes decisions, but they do not like such disputes being put before them. Changing a boundary If you want to change an existing boundary, such as replacing an old fence with a new one, we always recommend discussing with your neighbour first and making sure it is all agreed. The registered titles can help you to reach an agreement, but only if this information has been added. In terms of decorations on a fence legal advisers recommended asking around over who actually first installed it. But they also urged caution before getting to work on amending the fence without getting more certainty yourself - since there is a danger of actually being prosecuted for criminal damage. How high can a garden fence be? The height of the fence is measured from your ground level, this can have an impact when, due to slopes in the ground, your garden may be at a higher level than your neighbours'. A garden fence can be as high as 100m but you need to get planning permission if it's over than 2m. However, there are some complications to this. If you are thinking about front garden fences, restrictions state that fences alongside a driveway can be a maximum of 1m or 3ft. You would need to get planning permission for putting a trellis on a fence of 2m. But, if any plant that you grow on that trellis exceeds 2m, you do not need to obtain a permit for the growing plant. A product description reads: "Bring refreshing greenery to your outdoor décor with this artificial hedge panel. "Designed for versatility, it works as a fence screen, wall décor, or garden hedge. Advertisement "Its durable construction offers UV protection, while the breathable design ensures proper airflow. "Perfect for balconies, patios, or terraces, it combines beauty and practicality without the need for ongoing maintenance." However, the privacy screen is only available online, so you will have to order it via the B&Q website instead of heading to your local store if you are keen to snap up the bargain.
Time Business News
2 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
The Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Premium Smartphone Quickly
In today's fast-paced world, selling your premium smartphone can be a quick and rewarding experience if you follow the right steps. Whether you're upgrading to the latest model or simply looking to declutter, selling your high-end device can fetch you a great price. For example, if you're looking to sell Apple iPhone 15, this guide will help you do it quickly and efficiently. Before listing your device for sale, ensure it's in its best condition. Follow these steps to prepare: Clean Your Phone: Use a microfiber cloth to clean the screen and body. Use a microfiber cloth to clean the screen and body. Reset to Factory Settings: This protects your personal information and ensures the new owner receives a fresh device. This protects your personal information and ensures the new owner receives a fresh device. Check for Accessories: Include items like the charger, original box, or additional accessories to increase its value. The platform you choose can determine how quickly and efficiently you sell your phone. For devices like the Apple iPhone 15, consider the following: Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay or Facebook Marketplace are great for finding buyers quickly. Websites like eBay or Facebook Marketplace are great for finding buyers quickly. Trade-In Programs: Many retailers and manufacturers offer trade-in deals for a smooth process. Many retailers and manufacturers offer trade-in deals for a smooth process. Dedicated Buy-and-Sell Groups: Social media groups focusing on tech gadgets can be excellent for local sales. Research the market value of your phone before listing it. For example, when selling a used iPhone 15, consider factors such as its condition, storage capacity, and any remaining warranty. Pricing competitively will attract more buyers and help you sell faster. Your listing should stand out among others. Include: Detailed Description: Mention that you're looking to sell Apple iPhone 15 or highlight its premium features like a powerful camera or long-lasting battery. Mention that you're looking to or highlight its premium features like a powerful camera or long-lasting battery. Clear Photos: Upload high-quality images showing the phone from different angles. Be prepared for buyers who want to negotiate. Set a slightly higher price than your bottom line to leave room for negotiation. If someone is interested in your used iPhone 15, respond promptly to their inquiries for a smoother transaction. Safety is crucial when selling electronics. Meet in public places if selling locally, or use secure payment methods for online sales. For instance, if you're offering your Apple iPhone 15 to someone outside your city, ensure they pay via a trusted platform. When selling a premium phone, emphasize its standout qualities. Highlight features like a sleek design, cutting-edge performance, and advanced security. Buyers are more likely to pay attention to these details when considering a purchase. Selling your premium smartphone doesn't have to be a daunting task. With proper preparation and smart strategies, you can quickly find a buyer for your Apple iPhone 15 or any other high-end device. Follow these steps, and you'll not only secure a great price but also enjoy a hassle-free selling experience. By focusing on the key points and presenting your sell used iPhone 15 effectively, you'll attract the right buyers and complete the sale in no time. Start today and make the most of your premium smartphone's value! TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Irish Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Irish Times
‘I am Alan f***ing Sugar': I marvel at my business acumen on DoneDeal
We cope with stress in all different ways. Some are healthy, like binge watching reality shows about Mormon wives and their hair extensions. Some are less healthy, like running a marathon instead of going to therapy. But as long as our chosen outlet of emotion isn't hurting anybody else, who are we to judge? My partner would argue my outlet does hurt him. It's not drinking or gambling or live-action medieval role-play. I'm not forcing him to look at my run times on Strava. Instead, he merely has to sit in the car and make sure I don't get murdered while I pick up my latest Facebook Marketplace purchase. You can correlate how much external stress I'm facing in my life to my time spent scouring mid-century furniture on DoneDeal . At my lowest I was convincing my partner to drive to a random person's shed in Monaghan for a €50 piece of furniture that once might have been a dresser that 'just needed to be sanded back'. When things got really bad I was digitally scouring the Waterford Crystal collections of other people's dead grannies, trying to complete my set. 'I'm so sorry to hear about your granny, do you have two of the Champagne flutes in the Lismore pattern?' I would fire off, as if they would actually be used for Champagne and not Aldi sparkling wine. READ MORE I don't even like sparkling wine and I really love using the dishwasher so chances are they would never even make it out of the cupboard. But that's the joy of buying second-hand stuff - there's no need for rational thought. The stakes are too low to think about being practical. What if the President or someone equally important like, I dunno, Twink, suddenly knocked in and I couldn't serve them sparkling wine in crystal flutes (never mind the fact that when the Australian ambassador actually did pop over for dinner, he was happy enough to eat and drink off our mismatched collection of Ikea and Dunnes finest homewares). Now that moving countries from Ireland to Australia has robbed me of access to my beloved Adverts and DoneDeal, I now rely on Facebook Marketplace as my sole trading platform. We're in something of a trade deficit as I'm only buying. In my defence, I had to refurnish an entire house. Rentals in Australia don't come with furniture, so I assumed my natural role as a hunter and gatherer. It's only me and my sniper-like Facebook Marketplace skills in securing an as-new Ikea couch for €350 less RRP that stands between our bums and the cold, hard floor. It can be a treacherous but mostly annoying pursuit. The problem is everyone wants to score a bargain, or make a decent amount of money selling off an item. But we can't all be cute hoors simultaneously. There are people trying to flog 'lightly used' Nars bronzers and La Roche Posay sunscreen. I don't know about you, but when buying products that go on my face, I'd prefer if a stranger's fingers hadn't been in them. [ Sizible: Making sure to get the perfect fit when clothes shopping online Opens in new window ] I blame Dragons' Den reruns for people trying to sell the free coat hangers you get at the dry cleaners for €1 each. Facebook Marketplace really needs an 'Are you well?' button for these types of ads. But in fairness, buyers can be melts too. Like the time I was asked repeatedly if I would drop items I was giving away for free to the other side of Ireland, at my own expense. I was sweaty with anticipation as I messaged a seller last week. She was offering two GHD hair tools, like new. The ones I'd been eyeing up, that retail for more than €150 each new. She was willing to part with them for €30 each. I pounced. I marvelled at my business acumen with that margin. 'I am Alan f***ing Sugar,' I thought to myself as I queued for the ATM on the way to the goods exchange location. [ Yes, will give Irish shoppers choice. But no, it's not 'good news for all' Opens in new window ] It was only in the car as we waited in the pitch black and rainy night did I question if the prices were too good to be true. Her profile looked legit - had been up since the 2010s. But she was selling loads of GHDs. Maybe it was a trap designed exclusively to ensnare millennial women. 'Are you going to get us killed?' my boyfriend asked with a tone that suggested he'd welcome this event over doing any more Facebook Marketplace pickups. No, it turns out she just worked for the company and was doing a spring clean. Behind her lurked her bodyguard boyfriend who met the eyes of mine and gave him the weary nod of marketplace veterans who had seen too much.
Kiwiblog
2 days ago
- Health
- Kiwiblog
So much wrong in one article
Radio NZ reports: More than 80,000 Kiwis must quit smoking before the end of the year to meet the goal of Smokefree 2025, which was launched 14 years ago. But Professor of Public Health Chris Bullen tells The Detail that it is unlikely to happen – 'I don't believe so, sadly. 'The evidence suggests we are not heading in the right direction fast enough,' says Bullen, who is also the director of the National Institute for Health Innovation. 'We have got more work to do in 2026 and beyond.' The smokefree goal aims to have less than 5 percent of the population smoking by December, but the latest data reveals there are still about 300,000 daily smokers across the country. The daily smoking rate has dropped from 16.4% to 6.9% since 2011, which is a huge reduction. It is correct that it is unlikely to drop 1.9% in one year, as those remaining are a small but persistent hardcore. Bullen says part of the issue is, last year, the coalition government repealed three areas of the Smokefree law, most importantly the denicotinisation of tobacco products (where the nicotine is basically taken out of cigarettes) and banning the sale of tobacco products to those born after 1 January 2009. 'I think we could have gotten to the goal under the previous legislation, but that was repealed by the current government. This is just nonsense, and we know it is because look at when these provisions were to come into force. The ban (which would not have worked) to those born after 1 January 2009 would not take effect until 2027, so claiming it would help you make a 2025 target is embarrassing. A tobacco industry-funded report has just revealed that 25 percent of cigarettes sold in New Zealand are from the black market, smuggled into the country, largely from China and South Korea, and available on Facebook Marketplace, at construction sites, and in some dairies. Black market cigarettes are about half the price of legal packets, which can cost up to $45. But Bullen is not convinced the percentage of illegal sales is as high as reported. He says it is more likely around the 10-15 percent mark. He believes the tobacco industry inflates the number – and the problem – to 'encourage the government to ease up on being tough on their product'. Here Professor Bullen has an opinion that the black market is not as high as as reported, but with not any proof or data to back his view. One source of data is government excise revenue on tobacco. For the year to March 2025 it was $1.49b and in March 2023 it was $1.81b. So it has dropped 18% despite the rate going up and no reported change in smoking rates in this period. New research, which overlays vape stores on school locations, shows 44 percent of schools have a vape store within a one-kilometre radius This old chestnut. There is almost no area in urban New Zealand that is not within a 1 kms radius of a school. That is a 314 hectare circle. We have 2,500 schools. Since 2020, it has been illegal to sell vapes to people under 18, but students as young as 10 and 11 are vaping across New Zealand today. Yet he is convinced prohibition works!
