Your questions answered

ANSWERED

QMy friend has been diagnosed with a serious illness. Cards in the shops are very maudlin and don’t say what I feel or reflect our kind of friendship. Can you help me find suitable cards and gifts that are more upbeat? Jayne, Colchester Yours says When someone is ill, it can be very hard to know what to say or what to buy them, especially if it involves long or frequent stays in hospital. And while flowers will always cheer you up, the founder of Not Another Bunch of Flowers, Anikka Burton, knows from personal experience that it’s the practical (not boring) gifts that are the most appreciated. From get well soon and empathy cards that’ll make you both laugh and cry, to hospital hampers and chemo-care packages, a selection of useful tailored gifts are available.

QI’d like to refresh my outdoor furniture ready for summer, what would you suggest? Marjory, Dorset Yours says PlastiKote has a range of spray paints for most surfaces. PlastiKote Outdoor is the first spray paint to be designed specifically for use outdoors on virtually any surface. It has all-weather and rust protection, is UV and scratch-resistant and is available in eight colours, four metallic finishes and four hammered effect finishes. Available from most DIY stores. Visit www.plasti-kote.co.uk for ideas and useful ‘how to’ guides to make the most of your outdoor space.