As the sun start makes a more regular appearance, we all look to those lovely hot summer days and balmy evenings that will be spent outdoors.

There are lots of things that you can do to spruce up your outdoor space…

First things first, have a good clean up. Get the jet wash out and clean your patio or decking.

Then look at any planters that you may have in the garden. Do they need new plants? Would they benefit from a bit of colour be adding to the pot? Painting a coloured stripe around a terracotta pot is a cheap and simple way of adding a splash of permanent colour.

Next take a look at any furniture you have outside. Would that benefit from a hosing down too? If its wood then a coat of oil will make it look good as new or you might consider painting it. Once you’ve done this you can add some cushions to the seats. These will not only make the seating more comfortable but they too will also add some colour to your outdoor space.

Then a few flowering plants and maybe some carefully placed lighting and you are good to go. If you don’t have electric outside don’t worry, there’s lots of lights you can buy which are solar powered or some even use batteries. Strings of fairly lights can look particularly pretty strung around your parasol or a topiary tree.

Whilst outside don’t forget to take a look at your BBQ. That probably still has some remains of the last BBQ of last year in the bottom of it. But leave the job of cleaning that for another day. For now sit back and relax. Take in the fruits of your labour and enjoy your outdoor space.