Cash splashed on DIY goods last year sank to the lowest level in 13 years according to a new report by Lloyds TSB.
During 2012 spending on DIY fell for the fifth successive year, with households spending a total of £10.5bn, equivalent to around £400 per household. It's a far cry from the peak spend of £15.5bn back in 2004.

Lloyds housing economist Nitesh Patel said: "The continuing squeeze on discretionary incomes and the subdued state of the housing market is causing many householders to reduce their spending on home improvements.

"With economic conditions expected to remain challenging, the current squeeze on spending on both DIY and tradesmen is likely to continue for some time yet."