M&S: Don't let thieves spoil the view

With last Sunday (March 29th) heralding the official beginning of British Summer Time, conservatory owners should be wary of garden thieves, it has been suggested.

Home insurance provider M&S pointed out that with the average UK garden containing over £700 worth of plants, bushes, trees and shrubs, an attack by criminals could lead to costly losses.

With this figure not taking furniture, equipment and ornaments into consideration, the company advised homeowners to check their policy to see what is included to ensure the view from their conservatory is not spoiled long-term.

M&S insurance manager Judith Roberts noted Brits spend thousands of pounds on home security systems each year.

"However, despite the huge amount of time and money invested in many gardens, security levels are often very poor, making them an attractive target for thieves and vandals," she added.

Insurance firms Halifax and Saga both recently released figures showing an increase in garden thefts over the summer months.