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  • Peugeot Expert (2016 - present): Bulkhead Removal

    Welcome to the second instalment of our camper conversion series! In this post, we’ll walk through the process of removing the bulkhead from our 2020 Peugeot Expert. We’ll provide a step-by-step guide along with tips and tricks that will be helpful if you’re planning your own conversion. A full walkthrough video is included at the bottom of the page. Tools used: Ratchet with 10mm socket Electric screwdriver (for floor removal) Step One: Removing the First Section The bulkhead on the Peugeot comes apart in two sections. The top section is easily accessed, while the lower half took a little more time, as the plywood flooring was blocking the last lower four bolts. We loosened the bolts with a 10mm socket. After that, they could be removed by hand. At this point the upper section of the bulkhead can be removed. Step Two: Removing Obstructive Flooring To reach the lower bolts, we had to remove the plywood floor. While this might not be necessary for all vans, we decided to do it since we'd need to lift the floor before adding insulation later on in our conversion. We found that the screws in the metal trim were only connected to the plywood flooring itself, while the screws in the wood were fastened to the van's floor. A few of the screws were rusted and required drilling to get out. The ply floor came out in two sections, making removal easier. There was one section of metal trim that had to be removed to separate the pieces. Note:  Flooring can vary from van to van; some are glued down, which could affect your removal process. Step Three: Removing the Lower Section of the Bulkhead Once the floor has been removed, you will be able to easily reach the final four bolts. Remove the lower four bolts, and the final section will be released. What's Next? In the next instalment of our campervan conversion series, we’ll focus on insulating the floor of the van. Once the insulation is in place, we’ll move on to reinstalling the plywood floor and upgrading it with vinyl flooring. Click here for a full list of all our campervan conversion posts Full Walkthrough Video:

  • Wellington Statue

    Address : Claycart Rd, Aldershot GU11 1QB Location The Wellington statue in Aldershot, England, honours Arthur Wellington, the 1st Duke of Wellington, who famously defeated Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo and later served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. At the time of its construction in 1846, the statue was the largest equestrian statue in Britain, standing at 30 feet (9.1 m) tall. It was originally located at Wellington Arch, Hyde Park Corner, before being moved to Aldershot in 1885. Parking There is a large car park next to the statue. Parking is free. There are no disabled parking spaces. Accessibility The statue is situated up a steep hill, which unfortunately makes it inaccessible for visitors with limited mobility. There are two ways up the hill, both around the same distance of 50 metres: one with stairs and one with a steep slope. There are no benches at the top. The statue can be viewed from the ground. Conclusion With its impressive size and rich history, the Wellington statue is well worth a visit. While the steep hill may make it less accessible for those with limited mobility, there are information boards in the car park so you can still appreciate and learn about the statue without needing to climb the hill. Plus, the surrounding woodlands and open fields make it a great spot for a summer picnic or a dog walk.

  • POTS and Compression Clothing

    If you’ve recently been diagnosed with POTS or another type of dysautonomia, you've most likely heard about compression clothing from your doctor or while researching online. In this blog post, we'll explore how compression clothing works, the benefits it offers for people with POTS, and what to consider when buying them to ensure you get the best results. How Compression Clothing Helps When we stand, gravity pulls our blood down to the lower half of our bodies. To manage this change in blood pressure, the body usually responds by increasing our heart rate and narrowing our blood vessels. However, in people with POTS, this system doesn’t function correctly. Compression clothing works by minimising blood pooling in the lower half of the body, increasing the amount flowing to the heart and vital organs. Benefits By wearing compression clothing, people with POTS should experience less severe symptoms while standing and being active. Being able to spend more time upright and active will support healthier lifestyles and improve both physical and mental wellbeing. How to Pick the Right Compression Garments Types of compression clothing include: Stockings Tights Shorts Socks Abdominal binder/hernia belt Garments that compress the largest blood vessels, which are located in the thighs, buttocks, and belly, provide the most benefits. Socks alone may not help to a large extent. What level is best for people with POTS? Class 2 compression garments, which provide pressure ranging from 23-32 mmHg, are recommended for POTS patients. When Should I Wear Them? Compression clothing isn’t worn all the time; it can change with the seasons and depending on the wearer’s activity. Comfort and practicality are also important. For example, you wouldn't want to feel constricted by an abdominal binder during a meeting, and you may struggle wearing extra layers during the summer. Do wear compression clothing when you are upright and active, meaning anytime your body is working against gravity. You don’t need to wear them when you are reclining or have your legs elevated, such as on a footrest. You don't wear compression clothing in bed unless recommended by a doctor. Conclusion With various options available to meet individual needs, compression clothing can be a valuable tool in managing POTS symptoms. By improving circulation and reducing the symptoms associated with standing and physical activity, these garments can enhance people living with POTS overall quality of life. It's important to remember that effectively managing POTS often requires a multifaceted approach. Combining the use of compression clothing with proper hydration, an appropriate diet, and medications prescribed by a doctor will lead to greater improvements in symptoms. By taking a comprehensive approach to your treatment, you can empower yourself to lead a fuller, healthier life despite the challenges of POTS. Remember that learning to manage life with dysautonomia takes time, but things will improve as you find the treatment and lifestyle adjustments that work for you.

  • Coalhouse Point Radar Tower

    Address : Princess Margaret Rd, East Tilbury, Tilbury RM18 8PB Location From Coalhouse Point, visitors can enjoy a view of the River Thames, and watch as numerous ships navigate its waters. Coalhouse Point Radar Tower Coalhouse Radar Tower is an early radar installation that was built during the Second World War. At that time, to prevent drawing attention, this structure was initially referred to as the "Water Tower" on maps. Coalhouse Fort Park The radio tower is located a short walk from Coalhouse Fort Park, which features: Engine Room Café Free car park Picnic areas in a parkland environment Riverside views Toilets with facilities for disabled visitors Children's playground Click here , for more info about the fort and its accessibility. Parking Parking at this location is free for all visitors. The car park is large and has  6 designated blue badge parking bays. The car park surface is tarmac. Accessibility The path to this viewpoint features gentle slopes, making it accessible for visitors using mobility aids such as wheelchairs and mobility scooters. The distance from the car park is 500 metres. The surfaces around the radar tower are uneven and slippery, but it can be viewed from the paved path. Push bikes are permitted in the park and along coastal path. The toilets are accessible for disabled visitors in the park. Conclusion Experience the perfect blend of history and nature at Coalhouse Point. Enjoy stunning Thames views, explore the WWII radar tower, and relax in the scenic Coalhouse Fort Park. A must-visit destination for all ages and abilities."

  • Peugeot Expert Campervan Conversion: Sound Deadening

    Welcome to the first instalment of our camper conversion series! In this post, we’ll walk you through the process of removing the ply lining and adding sound deadening to your van. We’ll provide a step-by-step guide along with tips and tricks that will be helpful if you’re planning your own conversion. A full walkthrough video is included at the bottom of the page. What You'll Need Item List 40 x Sound deadening mats: Link 10mm Sound deadening/insulation roll: Link Aluminium foil tape: Link Tools Used Hand and electric screwdrivers Stanley blade Drill (for stubborn rusted screws) Measuring tape Gloves Step one: Removing the Ply Lining Removing the ply lining from the van's walls and doors can be done fairly quickly with the help of an electric screwdriver. Along the bottom of the doors, there were a few screws that had to be removed by hand due to lack of space. Beneath some sections of the ply lining, you’ll find additional layers held in with expansion clips. These clips can be a bit fiddly but are removable by hand. Some of the doors had a thin felt-like cover glued on them, which could also be removed by hand. Tip:  Be sure to keep all the screws and clips for reinstallation. If the wood is still in good shape, you can reuse it after varnishing, painting, or carpet lining. Van with all ply lining removed Step Two: Installing Sound Deadening Mats For this step, you will need: Sound deadening mats Sharp knife Gloves (mats are sharp when cut) We initially ordered 20 sound deadening mats but soon realised that we needed more for adequate coverage. Ultimately, using 40 mats provided generous coverage for our van. Use a Stanley knife to cut the mats to fit into hard-to-reach areas. Gloves should be worn when applying the mats, as the edges are sharp after being cut. Step 3: Removing the Ply Floor and Applying Acoustic Thermal Insulation The final step in soundproofing the van is adding acoustic thermal insulation to the wheel arches to reduce road noise. I'd recommend removing the plywood flooring for easier access and to make way for future work. However, this may not be necessary for all builds. Removing the Ply Flooring We found that the screws in the metal trim were only connected to the plywood flooring itself, while the screws in the wood were fastened to the van's floor. A few of the screws were rusted and required drilling to get out. The ply floor came out in two sections, making removal easier. There was one section of metal trim that had to be removed to separate the pieces. Note:  Flooring can vary from van to van; some are glued down, which could affect your removal process. Cutting and Applying Acoustic Thermal Insulation Items Used: 10mm thermal insulation sound deadening roll Knife Tape measure Cardboard and a pen - to measure shape and copy to insulation Aluminium foil tape We started this step by measuring the wheel arches with cardboard to create accurate templates for the insulation. This was useful as the wheel arches are non-uniform shapes. We then copied these over to the sound deadening insulation to get a good fit without wasting any materials. After sticking all the sections down we used aluminium foil to mask the gaps, creating a complete reflective surface. This also serves as the first step of insulating the van. Whats next? The next step of our campervan conversion will be the bulkhead removal. Stay tuned for future updates; or become a member for email notifications. Click here for a full list of all our campervan conversion posts Full Walkthrough Video:

  • Kings Pond

    Address: Kings Pond, Alton GU34 2SZ Location King's Pond is an 11-acre green space located just outside the centre of Alton. It was created in the late 1700s to serve as a water reservoir for the nearby Spital Mill. Today, the pond is a cherished park for the local community. It has several picnic tables, perfect for enjoying lunch outdoors, along with a short circular path for leisurely strolls around the pond. Parking There is a small on-site car park at this location. Parking is free. There are 3 disabled parking spaces. Accessibility With frequent benches throughout the park, Kings Pond is accessible for visitors who struggle to walk long distances. The paths are paved and well-maintained, featuring gentle slopes that provide access for wheelchair users, mobility scooter riders, and parents with pushchairs. Conclusion King's Pond is a welcoming destination for visitors of all abilities. With its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk. Whether you’re feeding the ducks or spending quality time with loved ones, King’s Pond offers something for everyone.

  • Lubitel 166 Universal: Budget TLR Review

    Lubitel is a Soviet-era TLR that offers a cheap introduction to medium format photography. In this review, we'll highlight its strengths and weaknesses, along with essential tips to help you make the most of this iconic camera if you decide to try one out for yourself. A Brief History The LOMO company was founded in 1914 in Petrograd (now Saint Petersburg). In 1946, the first Lomo Lubitel camera was created in Leningrad. The design is based on the early 1930s Voigtländer Brillant. With a twin-lens design (one lens for viewing the scene and one for capturing it) and plastic body, this fully manual and inexpensive medium format camera put high-quality images within the reach of the Soviet public. Its name, meaning “Amateur” in Russian, reflected its simplicity. Production continued all the way into the 1990s, with several models introduced. These were: Komsomolets "Young Communist": 1946-1950 First Soviet TLR camera. Lubitel : 1949-1956 Introduced coupled lenses for synchronised focusing. Bakelite plastic construction. Lubitel 2 : 1955-1980 Enhanced version of Lubitel with self-timer and flash sync. Lubitel 166: 1976-1986 Shifted to modern plastics with a film counter and better mechanics. Notable collectible version for 1980 Moscow Olympics. Lubitel 166B: 1980-1990 Simplified Lubitel 166 without film counter but added weather symbols for easier exposure settings. Lubitel 166 Universal: 1983-1993 The final model made by LOMO with dual format masks (6x6cm and 6x4.5cm), fairly similar to the 166B. Lubitel-166+: 2008- (manufactured by Lomographic Society) Features and specifications Film Type: 120 film Frame Sizes: 6x6 cm or 6x4.5 cm Lens: 75 mm f/4.5 triplet lens Shutter: ZT-8 leaf shutter, manually cocked Shutter Speeds: B, 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/125, 1/250 sec Aperture Range: f/4.5 – f/22 Focal Range: 1.3 m – infinity Flash Synchronisation: PC cord connection; X-sync at all speeds, M-sync at 1/15 & B Self-Timer: Mechanical, 7 - 15 seconds Film Transport: Manual, operated via a knob on the right side Dimensions: 126 mm (H) x 98 mm (W) x 95 mm (D) Weight: 550 grams Connections: Cold shoe for accessories + PC sync port Tripod Socket: 1/4" Multiple Exposure Capability: Yes (no controls required) Aesthetics and Build Quality The Lubitel captures the classic aesthetic of TLR cameras, featuring prominent twin lenses and a waist-level viewfinder that will appeal to both film enthusiasts and newcomers. Where it differs is its no-frills design. Unlike higher-end medium format cameras the Lubitel lacks decorative trim, presenting a straightforward, boxy appearance with only the essentials for photography. Made primarily of plastic, the Lubitel is lightweight and easy to handle. Despite its plastic body, it feels solid, and the use of metal in its viewfinder and mechanical components adds to its durability. The high availability of these cameras on the market today is a testament to their robust construction. More on their reliability later. Layout and Controls The shutter speed, aperture, timer, and focusing controls are all located around the lens on the front of the camera. If you're transitioning from an SLR or DSLR, these controls may take some time to get used to. However, when shooting at waist height, cocking the shutter and pressing the release button becomes practical and minimises camera shake. The shooting process with the Lubitel is generally slower than with modern cameras or even film SLRs, especially since you have to hold the camera at an angle to see which aperture or shutter speed you are selecting. On the back of the Lubitel, you'll find a latch to lock the camera shut after inserting the film, as well as a window that shows the current photo number when winding the film. The camera can accommodate both 6x6 and 6x4.5 film formats with the use of a mask that covers the exposed film—these can be hard to find if not included with your camera. Alongside the main controls, the right side of the camera features the film advance winder, while the left side features a cold shoe. Additionally, there is a threaded tripod mount located on the bottom of the camera. Focusing and Shooting Focusing with the Lubitel can be a bit challenging since it relies on a small circular area of ground glass to achieve accurate focus. LOMO seems to have anticipated this difficulty, as they included a built-in magnifying glass in the viewfinder to help you get a clearer image. Capturing spontaneous moments can be tricky with this camera. I found that estimating the distance to your subject and then checking through the magnifying glass is the most effective way to focus. This method contributes to the slow, deliberate process required when using the Lubitel. While zone focusing can allow for quicker shots, the high cost of 120 film makes me hesitant to risk missing too many photos. This, and the reversed image in the viewfinder which is typical of TLRs, makes patience key when using the 166 Universal. Reliability While it may not be as reliable as digital or higher-end film cameras, the Lubitel is generally considered a reliable camera. However, you might encounter variations in quality from unit to unit, often due to differences in manufacturing, age, and the inconsistent quality control typical of many Soviet cameras. Thanks to its straightforward design, there is less that can go wrong, but there are still some things to look out for. As with many older cameras, the shutter speeds can become less accurate over time; with my model, the shutter performed well until reaching speeds of 1/15 sec or slower. Timers are also frequently the first part of the camera to fail, so should be avoided if possible, as a fault can effectively kill the camera. Another concern is the possibility of misalignment between the two lenses, which can affect focusing. Mechanical degradation due to age is particularly common in cameras that have been stored unused for long periods of time. Unfortunately, due to the low value and high availability of Lubitel cameras, finding a repair may not be economically viable, making replacement a more cost-effective option. Price Depending on condition and the included accessories, prices for the Lubitel 166 Universal typically range from £60 to £100 on auction sites. Given their long production run, you shouldn't have trouble finding a working example, and with patience, you can score a good deal online. When shopping, ensure you only purchase from highly rated sellers or opt for reputable used camera shops that offer warranties. Before making a purchase, consider other TLR cameras. The Lubitel does tend to be the cheapest in its class, but spending a little more will provide higher build quality, easier focusing, and sharper photos. Possible options include: Yashica Mat Minolta Autocord Yashica C or D Lens and Image Quality The Lubitel 166 Universal features a three-element 75mm F4.5 lens. While not known for their image quality, Lubitels can achieve excellent results when the lens is stopped down ,  but, as with any three-element lens, the results will be soft by today's standards at larger apertures. There is also fairly prominent vignetting with wide apertures. Click here for sample photos Conclusion While Lubitels are often considered "toy cameras" due to their low price and plastic construction, I think this is underselling them. With fully manual controls and a glass lens, the Lubitel is able to take high-quality photos when the settings and conditions are right. But, if pixel peeping is your thing, you may want to look elsewhere when purchasing a medium format camera. Whether you're a seasoned film enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the Lubitel offers an affordable entry into medium format photography. If you appreciate its quirks and embrace the learning curve, you may find that it not only enhances your photography skills but also deepens your appreciation for the art of film.

  • Donnington Castle

    Address : D onnington Castle, Castle Ln, Donnington, Newbury RG14 2LE Location Donnington Castle is a ruined medieval castle situated in the village of Donnington, just north of the town of Newbury in Berkshire. The castle is currently managed by English Heritage and is free to enter any time during daylight hours. At Donnington Castle you will find: Access to the castle grounds Information boards sharing details of the castle's history Wonderful views of the surrounding area Car park Well behaved-dogs are welcome at this location. History Donnington Castle was built by its original owner, Sir Richard Abberbury, under a licence granted by Richard II in 1386. The castle changed hands multiple times; residents include: Thomas Chaucer, son of the poet Geoffrey Chaucer, Alice, Duchess of Suffolk Duke of Suffolk William De La Pole This family later fell out with the Tudor monarchs, and the castle became a royal property. In 1514 it was given to Charles Brandon but fell into a state of decay by 1535. The castle was visited by King Henry VIII in 1539, Edward VI in 1552, and Queen Elizabeth I in 1568. By the time the English Civil War broke out in 1642, the castle was owned by the Parliamentarian John Packer family, but after the First Battle of Newbury, it was taken for King Charles I and held by Sir John Boys. They quickly enhanced the castle's defenses by adding earthworks in a star shape to provide gun emplacements. Parliamentarians laid siege to the castle in October 1644, and the garrison held out for 18 months. With permission from the king, Boys surrendered the castle in April 1646 and was allowed to leave with all his men. In 1646, Parliament voted to demolish the castle; only the gatehouse was left standing. Parking The onsite car park is open from 7am to 7pm daily with a £2 charge for non-English Heritage members. Parking is free for members with a valid English Heritage car sticker on display. If you would prefer to pay in advance, visit their website here. There are no designated blue-badge parking spaces. Accessibility The castle is approximately 100 metres from the car park, accessible via a fairly steep gravel path. There's a bench located halfway up the hill. The castle ruins are based on a grassy area, which is uneven. There are no benches around the castle, but there are plenty of places to sit on the castle ruins. Conclusion In conclusion, Donnington Castle is a wonderful location for history lovers or families with young kids looking for a picnic with a view. Free entry and a parking charge of £2.00 make this location perfect for a cheap trip out. Inside the tower

  • Beginners guide to the Olympus OM-10 35mm Film Camera

    Whether you’re picking up a camera for the first time or just discovering the magic of film, this is your ultimate guide to getting started. In this post, we will share some useful tips and tricks on using the Olympus OM-10 for film photography beginners. We will start with its layout and controls, while also sharing some useful pointers along the way to help you make the most of your camera. Layout and Controls Top Plate Starting at the left side of the top plate, you have the power check, on/off, and self-timer dial located under the film rewind lever. When set to check, there will be a high beep to indicate the camera has power. Also on the top of the camera, you will find the ISO selector, which is set by lifting and twisting the dial. Here you will also find the auto/manual/B (bulb mode) selector; both the ISO and mode selectors are a little fiddly but won't need changing very often. B represents bulb mode, which can be used for long exposures. While you are learning, set the camera to auto for an easy user experience. Once you are accustomed to the camera or want more control, you have the option of using the manual adapter. We will get to the manual adapter in a moment, when looking at the front of the camera. The only other items on the top plate are the hot shoe (for flashes), shutter button, and film advance lever. Viewfinder and Exposure When looking through the viewfinder with the camera turned on, the shutter speed is indicated by a red LED on the left side of the frame. After 90 seconds, the LED light turns off to save battery but returns when lightly pressing the shutter. The aperture ring, which can be found on the lens, controls the depth of field. When changing the aperture, the LED will show the relevant shutter speed selected by the camera, automatically providing the correct exposure for the image. Be sure to avoid slow shutter speeds, as they can cause motion blur. A good rule of thumb is to have a shutter speed equal to or above the focal length of your lens, for example, using a 60th of a second with a 50mm lens. Focusing Like all cameras of its era, the OM-10 is manual focus. Looking through the viewfinder, you will see a split prism; while turning the focus ring on the lens, you should aim to have the image at the centre line up. This can be a little tricky at first, but it gets easier with practice. The focus distance is indicated on the lens; using this, you can prepare to take the photo before looking through the viewfinder. Loading Film Loading film into an Olympus OM-10 is relatively straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process. Steps to Load the Film: Open the Camera Back : Locate the rewind knob on the top-left side of the camera, pull it, this allows you to open the camera back. Insert the Film : Take your roll of 35mm film and insert it into the film compartment on the left side of the camera. Make sure the film is oriented correctly; the film should unwind from the bottom of the roll. Thread the Film : Pull the film leader across to the take-up spool on the right side of the camera. Insert the film leader into one of the slots on the take-up spool. Close the Camera Back : Once the film is in place, close the camera back until it clicks into position. Advance the Film : Turn the film advance lever on the top of the camera to advance the film to the first frame. Make sure it is secure by winding the spool slightly by hand. The film rewind lever should spin as the film is pulled through the camera. Set the Film Speed : If using a new roll of film, set the ISO/ASA dial to match the film’s speed (this information is typically found on the film box or canister). This setting is important for getting the correct exposure. Check the Frame Counter : Make sure your frame counter is set to 1. This indicates you're ready to start shooting. The first few times loading film can be a little anxiety-inducing, but after you've put a few rolls through the camera, you'll be more sure of the process. You could also practice with an old roll of unwanted film. Front of the camera: rewinding film and manual adapter When you have finished your role of film you will feel resistance on the advance lever. Make sure not to force the lever, as it can damage the film. You can also keep track of when you are nearing the end of a role with the frame counter at the top of the camera. On the front of the camera body, you will find the film release switch. Follow these steps to rewind the film: Turn the release switch. Turn the rewind lever, following the arrow on the lever's handle, until you notice a shift in resistance. Open the back of the camera and retrieve the film canister by lifting the rewind lever. Also on the front of the OM-10, you will find the manual adapter socket. When you feel confident using your camera and want more control, insert the manual adapter. Make sure to change from auto to manual with the dial previously mentioned on the top plate of the camera. Using the adapter, you will be able to change the shutter speed and have more creative control over the photos you take. Bottom plate The bottom of the camera houses the batteries. The OM-10 requires 2 LR44 button cell batteries. On the bottom of the camera, you will also find the tripod socket and camera serial number, which can be used to determine the camera's age. Conclusion In conclusion, the Olympus OM-10 is a fantastic choice for both beginners embarking on their photography journey and seasoned shooters who appreciate the charm of film. We hope this guide has provided you with the essential knowledge to familiarise yourself with the camera's layout and controls. As you explore the world of film photography, remember that practice is key—so grab your OM-10, load some film, and start experimenting. Embrace the creativity and excitement that comes with each click of the shutter! Happy shooting! For the original Olympus OM-10 manual: Click Here

  • Lefant M210P Robot Vacuum Cleaner: 1 Year Review

    The Lefant M210P is one of the most affordable robot vacuum cleaners on the market and can be purchased on Amazon for £99 or as little as £60 on sites like eBay or AliExpress. In this review, we'll examine the Lefant's price, performance, ease of use, and overall value for money. We will share both the positive and negative aspects of the product that we have discovered after nearly a year of use, enabling you to make an informed decision about whether it is the right choice for you. At a Glance Pros Cons Affordable Less effective on stubborn messes Ease of use Error messages Perfect for keeping on top of mess while out of the house Lack of 5GHz wifi support Specifications Product Dimensions ‎28 x 28 x 7.8 cm Capacity: 500ml Volume: 65dB suction power: 2200 pa Duration on one charge: 120 minutes Design and Build Quality The Lefant M210P features a design typical of most robot vacuums, characterized by a circular body, but it features angular elements on top, giving it a modern aesthetic. The vacuum has some weight to it and feels well-constructed for the price. The plastic body, especially in the lid, does have a bit of a cheap feel to it, but I can't complain too much with Lefant's clear target at the affordable end of the market. One important thing to note is the 12-month warranty that comes with the device, offering peace of mind in case of any issues later down the line. Performance We tested the M210P on a range of surfaces throughout the house. It performed well on both wood and carpeted surfaces but wasn't able to function on deeper rugs. The vacuum was sufficient for cleaning light items such as string, hair, and dust but struggled to remove more stubborn dirt. I found the device perfect for frequent automatic cleaning, but users will still need a more powerful vacuum for stubborn dirt on carpets. Usability The vacuum is easy to set up. After opening the box, the brushes need to be attached, the charger plugged in, and it is ready to go. It's fortunate that the app is not required to function, as it only works on 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, which means I couldn't get it working. This is a shame, as it means I am missing out on some features. The vacuum navigates rooms well, and I was impressed with its ability to untangle itself from loose cables. It pushes against curtains and cupboard doors to reach as much of the floor as possible. This is useful, but the vacuum does make some noise banging into things, although it does have rubber edges to avoid scratches. With only an on/off switch located under the lid and a single button on the top of its body, the vacuum is easy to control. The hoover automatically returns to its charging dock when running low, which is convenient if you leave the vacuum on while out of the house. It was only in oddly shaped rooms that the vacuum would get lost and not be able to find its way back home. One problem that popped up increasingly frequently over the year I owned this vacuum was a red error indicator displayed on the start button of the device. Even after cleaning, emptying, and making sure everything was functioning as it should, the error lights would occur after every two or three uses, requiring multiple resets to get it working again. Until finally, it refused to start at all. I did a lot of reading online and even replaced the battery, but nothing fixed the issue. The one saving grace was the offer to refund the device after 11 months of use. Maybe my device was faulty, but it's something to keep in mind. Value As one of the cheapest robot vacuums on the market, I was happy with the light cleaning it offers, saving time and making it easy to keep on top of messes. Buyers should be aware of other options on the market; often, spending a little bit more will unlock better features such as laser navigation, mopping or self-emptying. Recognizable name brands may also offer higher build quality and longevity, giving buyers greater peace of mind. Conclusion In conclusion, the Lefant M210P offers a budget-friendly entry into the world of robot vacuum cleaners. Ultimately, while it provides decent value for light cleaning tasks, potential buyers should consider investing a bit more for enhanced features and improved reliability available from other brands. If you're seeking an affordable robot hoover, the Lefant M210P could be a suitable choice, but weigh the pros and cons carefully to determine if it aligns with your cleaning needs.

  • Horsell Common

    Address : A245, Woking GU21 4HQ Location Horsell Common is a 355-hectare green space in Woking, Surrey. The common is made up of a mixture of landscapes, including heathland, woodland, and meadows. The common is popular with dog walkers, cyclists, and families who come to visit the sandpit. Despite the high number of visitors, the common retains a calm and peaceful atmosphere. What is Horsell Common famous for? The Horsell Common Sand Pit was chosen by H G Wells as the site of a Martian invasion in his 1898 novel War of the Worlds. The book has been adapted into various films and TV shows. The common has also been a filming location for TV shows and films, including the War of the Worlds TV series, Silent Witness, and the WW2 comedy On the Fiddle. At Horsell Common, you will find: Woodland walks Accessible trails Sand Pit Pond Free car park Wildlife The common is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its biological significance. This heathland is included in the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (SPA) because it provides a habitat for various rare protected bird species such as the dartford warbler, the migratory nightjar, and the woodlark. The heathland is also an important breeding ground for many butterfly and dragonfly species, which can be seen during the summer months. You can also find numerous reptiles at the common, including the common lizard, slowworm, grass snake, and adder. Parking Parking at Horsell Common is free, with a limit of 2 hours. There are around 30 spaces, including two for blue badge holders. Accessibility The main trail from the car park to the sandpit is wheelchair and mobility scooter accessible, with level gravel paths. Venturing further from the main trail, the paths are fairly level but can be muddy/sandy, so could be a challenge for some visitors. Pictures of the different types of paths are included at the bottom of the page. Horsell Common will be challenging for visitors who struggle to walk long distances, with around 300 metres to walk from the car park to the sandpit. There are two benches at the sand pit. Accessible Cycle Route Along this scenic circular route, you'll see all the major points of interest and have the option to stop at the McLaren Centre, where you can take in breathtaking views – particularly during sunrise or sunset. Length:  3.6 miles Duration: 28 min Suitable for: Car park to McLaren Centre - all levels Point 3 onwards - more confident riders Visit our accessible cycle route page for more info Conclusion Overall, Horsell Common is a peaceful location surrounded by nature. With the use of mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or pedal/e-bikes, the common can be accessed by people of all physical abilities. The sandpit is the perfect spot for a picnic, and the woodland offers a wonderful space for young kids to learn about nature. With lots of history and a peaceful environment, Horsell Common is suitable for visitors of all ages. Main trail Sand Paths Smaller less accessible paths, further from the main trail

  • Accessible Cycle Routes: Horsell Common and McLaren Centre

    Address : A245, Woking GU21 4HQ Accessible Cycle Routes In our "accessible cycle Routes" series, we share trails that are suitable for riders of a variety of abilities. These routes may be shorter than those typically found on popular cycling platforms, with gentler slopes and smoother surfaces. This makes them suitable for individuals with health conditions or those in the early stages of recovery. Parking Parking at Horsell Common is free, with a limit of 2 hours. There are around 30 spaces, including two for blue badge holders. About the route Click here for more information on Horsell Common's wildlife, pond, and influence on H.G. Wells's 1898 novel War of the Worlds. Horsell Common, a 355-hectare green space in Woking, Surrey, is a haven for dog walkers, cyclists, and families alike. Visitors can enjoy a mix of landscapes, including heathland, woodland, and meadows. Along this scenic circular route, you'll have the option to stop at the McLaren Centre, where you can take in breathtaking views – particularly during sunrise or sunset. Length: 3.6 miles Duration: 28 min Suitable for: Car park to McLaren - all levels Point 3 onwards - more confident riders A video of the route is included at the bottom of the page. Accessibility Point 1: The initial part of the route from the car park to the sand pit is gentle. The path is flat and well-maintained, so it should be easy to navigate. You'll find benches at the sand pit for a place to rest. The distance from the car park to the sand pit is approximately 400 metres. From the sand pit, turn right onto a long, straight path (a bridleway). This path is generally flat, but it can get muddy. You'll eventually reach a private road. Turn left onto it. This road has some potholes, but they can be easily avoided, and there's never been any traffic on my visits. If you're not planning on visiting the McLaren Centre, just keep following this road for the circular route. Point 2: If you're going to the McLaren Centre, follow the stone path from the private road, through a short alleyway. This path is fairly level, though bumpy. The stone path continues towards Fairoaks Airport and can be followed as desired for a view of the mclaren centre or to lunch tables. From this point, riders can decide which way to continue. Return back the way they came on the easier route, or continue the full circuit, which increases the difficulty and often includes muddy, uneven surfaces and minor slopes. If you plan on continuing the full route there are two options to reach point 3: Crossing a field and to a raised wooden path (physically challenging). Return the way you came and turn right at the private road. Crossing the field, which is often muddy (see video), will take riders to a raised wooden path through the woodland. Make sure to keep speed low to avoid accidents around blind corners, the wood platform can also be slippery when icy. To access the raised wooden path, riders will have to dismount and lift the bike. Point 3: At point 3 the raised woodland path meets the private road again. Turn right for the full circuit. Between points 3 and 4, there are a variety of surfaces. Expect muddy areas and potholes. There aren't many benches here, and while the slopes are gentle, they extend for long stretches. Follow the road until you eventually reach a car park. From there, you'll take the bridleway back up to the sand pit, and then back to the car park where you started. Point 4: At Point 4, there's a pond located just a short distance from the main bridleway. It's a great place to stop and take a break. The paths improve from this point, although there's a slight incline. Remember: Be prepared for varying surfaces throughout the route, especially between Points 3 and 4. The video below will give you a better understanding of the route and its conditions after rain. Conclusion Overall, Horsell Common is a welcoming destination for cyclists of all skill levels. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride or a more challenging route, you'll find a path to suit your needs. With minor slopes, a 250-watt ebike can handle this location with ease as long as you avoid the muddy sections. The longer route is suited to riders who are confident that they can manage uneven surfaces seeking a quick, invigorating 30-minute ride. Path to sandpit

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