The flurry of interest we are currently getting in gear, advice and general questions certainly indicates that this summer, many more people will be taking their holidays in the wilds and on campsites within the UK this year. We are also learning that people are wanting to make their camping or backpacking a little more special in some way.

The High St 'package' retailers have their customer base of course, however we are finding our customers more discerning in their approach to the outdoors, which effects their choice of gear and where they are aiming to go. The 'leave no trace' aspect is important, but it is becoming clearer to us that the end user is also wanting 'more simple pleasures' from their time communing with nature.

The Honey Stove and Bush Cooker are cause for reflective moments when preparing the evening meal. They seem to encourage a greater respect for our surroundings and more understanding of the fine food / fuel balance. Just enough fuel to cook with, but not too much to impact on the area. Enjoy the time it all takes and this equates to a more relaxed approach to life. I'm all for it!

Talking of the cooker experiences, how about a kettle in your kit? Some may laugh at the idea, however if you enjoy a good brew and your food tends to be of the instant freeze dried variety, then a kettle is a pretty efficient tool. It makes the most of the heat output by any stove and tucks away nicely when not needed. Oh, and it's on special offer at the moment too!

We hope you enjoy the coming months and the promised good weather. After two years we deserve a good summer!

Bob and Rose 18/6/09