DIY activity 'soaring'

Soaring DIY activity in the UK has suggested Brits are not prepared to let the credit crunch get in the way of their desire to redecorate and refurbish their homes.

According to the latest Experian Retail FootFall Index, last month witnessed an anticipated year-on-year increase in shopper numbers are hardware stores.

The index also found that year-on-year out-of-town destination index dropped by 3.1 per cent, an indication that consumer habits are changing as more people shop locally to save on fuel.

Interest in DIY is also on the rise as people aim to make the best of what they have, reported netimperative.com.

The Daily Mirror reported recently that the UK's "throwaway culture" could also be coming an end as households tighten their belts.

A survey found that more people are fixing old appliances instead of buying new ones.

Psychologist Donna Dawson commented: "Fixing something gives you a great sense of achievement. The fact more women are getting to grips with repairs shows they're less reliant on their male counterparts."