Recycled rake

These days, eco-friendly practices are at the top of many gardeners’ agendas, as sustainability redefines one of the nation’s favourite activities. Single-use plastics

have become a big no-no, so readers may be interested in the Clear ’N’ Collect multipurpose rake. This large-capacity rake glides over lawns, gravel and hard standings, where its hinged scoops are pulled together to contain leaves, weeds, brambles and other debris. Once the rake is full, you open it up over a wheelbarrow, compost heap or green waste bin to dispose of the contents.

The rake is made entirely from recycled plastics – including former car dashboards and electrical goods that are otherwise tough to repurpose. When it reaches the end of its life span, the rake can be returned to the same recycling pool it originated from. It has a price tag of £24.99. More information can be found online at clearncollect.com

1836: The Alamo fell to Mexican forces. Legendary frontiersmen Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie both died in the 12-day battle.

1890: An ornithologist released 100 starlings in New York’s Central Park as a memorial to Shakespeare. The starling is now America’s worst bird pest.

1899: Chemist Felix Hoffmann patented the world’s most famous pain-relief drug, aspirin.

1926: The Shakespeare Memorial Theatre at Stratford-upon-avon was engulfed by flames.

1930: Clarence Birdseye marketed the first frozen foods in Massachusetts.

1944: US planes from bases in Britain began daylight bombing raids on Berlin.

1951: Ivor Novello (David Ivor Davies), Welshborn composer, playwright and actor, died in his flat above the Strand Theatre, London.

1961: George Formby, film star and music hall artist, who sang comic songs and accompanied himself on the banjo, died.

1987: The ferry Herald of Free Enterprise capsized with her bow door open leaving Zeebrugge harbour, and 193 died.

1988: Three IRA terrorists were shot dead by SAS men in Gibraltar.