Press Release

21-09-2007: Make this Christmas unique with a special gift from Courtyard Sundials

This Christmas why not treat the gardener in your life to an inspired gift from Courtyard Sundials. Whether the elegance of an Armillary sundial takes your fancy or the charm of a wall-mounted feature is more your style, Courtyard Sundials has a broad range of designs to suit all tastes and budgets. Designs in brass, bronze, stainless steel and slate, can be personalised with an engraved dedication or motto.

Sundials are an ancient method of telling time, and the principle is simple. As the earth rotates on its axis the sun appears to move across the sky. The shadow of the ‘gnomon’ (the raised projection which casts the shadow) points towards the celestial pole and moves across the hour band of the sundial (we give full instructions on how to do this). The time is shown by noting the hour line closest to the edge of the shadow. Of the eight types of sundial, those best suited to garden use are the Armillary models, resembling large open globes, and the horizontal sundial mounted on a pedestal.

For those seeking beauty and style, the Plato Armillary sundial measuring 16 inches in height and 13 inches in diameter, makes a dramatic focal point in any garden. Finished in polished brass, and priced at £175, the open orb is certain to add a touch of grandeur to any courtyard or garden. When left to the weather, the Plato sundial will acquire a subtle dark bronze-like finish enhancing its imposing presence.

The Pliny, priced at £195, is a newer version of the Plato model, cast in polished brass but with a simulated patina finish. With the same dimensions as the Plato, Pliny’s impressive looks make it a pleasing feature for a finished garden.

Give loved ones a present to remember this Christmas, with a wall-mounted sundial cast in brass finished with simulated verdigris.

Featuring brass rays radiating out from a central sun with hours from 7am to 5pm, the appealing Sun Face dial will brighten any south facing wall. Measuring 10 inches in height by 12 inches in width, it is priced at £60.

The Sunny Octagonal, cast in polished brass, will make an attractive feature for sun soaked gardens. With hours engraved from 3am to 8pm, this good-looking sundial will delight friends and family tracing those long days of summer. Priced at £70, the Sunny Octagonal, available in two sizes – 11 inches and 7 ¼ inches - can be personalised with the addition of a brass plaque.

Celebrate the passing of the year with the Four Seasons brass and artificial patina sundial, costing £70, cast with hours from 4am to 8pm and measuring 9 ¼ inches by 9 ¼ inches. Each corner of the dial depicts a season represented by an appropriate illustration.

If you are unsure which sundial to give, Courtyard Sundials also offers Gift Vouchers. These are available from £25 in increments of £5. They are available to order online and will be sent out along with a copy of the latest Courtyard Sundials brochure and price list.

Courtyard Sundials will deliver free of charge to any UK location and can export to the USA and Europe and also offers a personalised engraving service, tailored to suit your business or personal requirements on selected models.

Have you got the perfect spot for your sundial? Courtyard Sundials also offers a range of Plinths to give the new sundial the ideal platform and ensure that it is the focal point of the garden. Plinths range in size from 17 inches high to 32 inches and are priced from £165 including delivery to your doorstep

Courtyard Sundials is the UK’s largest retailer of Sundials and is based in Wiveliscombe, Somerset. Mr Richard White, following a life at sea and an interest in celestial navigation and the simplicity of sundials, established the Company in 1999.

For more information contact Richard White at Courtyard Sundials, 16 The Brewery, Wiveliscombe, Somerset, TA4 2NY, Tel +44 (0) 1984 629242 Email sales@courtyardsundials.co.uk or visit the web site at www.courtyardsundials.com

For press enquiries please contact Eloise Jakeman at ADPR on Tel: +44 (0)1935 826451 or e-mail eloise@adpr.co.uk

The text of this release can be downloaded from ADPR’s online pressroom at www.adpr.co.uk

September 2007 (PR 01)