Lawnmower Death

No, I am not talking about the metal band who parodied the thrash genre with classic (?) tunes such as 'Scum' and 'It's a Lot Less Bother than a Hover' (they cleverly dropped the 'a' from 'death', inspired), but the tragic end of my first lawnmower, given to me by my Nan.

The Doctor with Agent Orange (and a rake)

I thought buying a replacement would be a simple enough task (any emotional attachment obviously put to one side); Agent Orange blows up, I purchase a new machine. But alas no, the wonder-web has once again led me into a whole new world. Who would have thought that the decision would have been so complex, I have to make choices; Will it be plastic or metal blades? Do I need a roller? Would I benefit from a rotary or should I stick with the humble hover? What size will I need for a small/medium garden? What I do know is it won't be petrol for they are immensely expensive.

The first lawn mower was invented by Edwin Budding in 1827 somewhere in Gloucestershire. Interesting fact, one to remember for a pub quiz. His design replaced the scythe and it took a further ten years for his original concept to be developed further. I wonder what he would think of the modern day mower, would he be as amazed as my Great Gran was the day an automatic washing machine landed in the house (pulled up a chair and watched the whole cycle by all accounts, a few 'eeehs' and 'ahhhs' leaking out of her at the programmes transitional points). The fact that the ride on mower's Great Great Great Great (maybe a few more Greats required?) Grandad was the scythe is pretty cool, I think Edwin would be impressed.

So, I have read reviews, I have price checked and I think I might have to go for the Bosch Rotak 34 Ergoflex Electric Rotary Lawnmower. Apart from the documented box issue, I think it will make me happy. Alex doesn't have an opinion, he claims that this falls into the category of soft furnishings.