Visitors treated to product showcases from big industry names
Black & Decker gave a first showing to its new Autoselect jigsaw and cordless hammer drill. Each has the facility for the user to select a task from a range of options, and the tool automatically adjusts for optimum performance.

Also on show was the B&D automotive range: jump starters, battery boosters, battery chargers, a power inverter, various portable lights and a 12v travel cooler and heater with a temperature range from -27degC to +50degC.

Vitrex used the Toolbank shows as a launch platform for a wide range of tile cutters. Going head-to-head with Plasplugs, the new versatile range includes manual and powered cutters in three specification levels: Pro for the tradesman, Expert for the enthusiastic diyer, and Hobby for the budget end of the market.

The company is supporting the launch with an unusual competition, in which the prize is a place on a coach tour on WW2 battlefields in northern Europe.

Boa launched revised versions of its Tri-Level spirit levels, with a claimed accuracy of 0.05mm per metre. Features include built-in marking edges, a broad inverted vee foot for use on pipework and ridge tiles, and for stability on flat surfaces, built in handgrips, and the ability to be used vertically for fence posts and brickwork.

Tools of the Trade showed all-new Ragni plasterers trowels, and also revealed that, as of September 1, it has been appointed the exclusive UK distributor for the Italian-made Irega adjustable wrenches.

Toolbank itself was pushing two major promotions: one labelled simply Massive Winter Savings, with a 12-page a3 brochure, and a 'Power Cuts' power tool promotion featuring brands like DeWalt, Einhell, Masterplug, Ryobi and Karcher.