I have noticed that DIY stores are doing a roaring trade at the moment.

After months of trying to obtain reasonable quotes from local carpenters and decorators, I have come to the conclusion that they have actually hiked prices following the recent VAT increase. These tradesmen seem to think they alone are affected by a difficult economy and that their customers simply nip into the garden, pick some money off the money tree growing there, buds heavy with £20 notes.

Unless tradesmen adopt a more realistic attitude towards pricing then the DIY stores will become even busier as people borrow DIY books from the library and do the jobs themselves.

The arrogance of some of these tradesmen is astounding. Decorators, carpenters – get reasonable with your prices.

Little wonder that many people spend the weekend putting up shelves instead of partying.

Jason Bull
Montpelier Street, Brighton