The Yorkshire Post says: Make do and mend as consumers start to fight back

There was a time, not so long ago, when companies prided themselves on the reliability, longevity and sturdiness of electrical items and their like. It was also a source of embarrassment if they broke down prematurely.

Now there is a growing sense, even suspicion, that some goods and gadgets are never intended to last beyond their warranty date because of a mistaken belief, on the part of certain companies, that consumers will simply fork out the money for a new product without quibble.

If their durability can be extended – and there are sufficient tradespeople with the necessary expertise – it will also leave families with more disposable income at a time when the wider economy needs every possible stimulus.