18 Aug

How much topsoil do I need?

Topsoil is a gardeners best friend. Not only does it provide your plants with all the nutrients they need to thrive, but it also supports root growth, maintains soil structure, retains moisture, and much more. In fact, it'sone of the key ingredients for a garden full of healthy, vibrant plants. 

There's a lot to consider when buying topsoil for your next project, including how much you'll need. The good news? Finding out is easier than you might think! 

At MB Wilkes, we've been mastering the art of all things garden-related for almost six decades. Below, we explain the steps you can take to identify the exact volume and depth of topsoil you need for your project.

What is topsoil?

Topsoil is the uppermost layer of soil covering the Earth's surface. As the layer where most of the biological activities of soil occur, it plays a crucial role in supporting plant growth and sustaining ecosystems.

Topsoil is a dynamic mixture of mineral particles (such as sand, silt, and clay), organic matter (decaying plant and animal material), water, and air. Healthy topsoil contains essential nutrients and microorganisms that plants require for their growth.

Topsoil is often confused with compost, but the two are actually very different - topsoil serves as a natural soil layer, while compost is a human-made product that enhances soil fertility through the addition of organic matter and beneficial microorganisms.

How to calculate how much topsoil you'll need

Determining the amount of topsoilyou'll need is fairly straightforward. Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to help you in through the process:

  • Measure the length and width of the area you want to cover with topsoil. Make sure your measurements are in the same units (e.g. feet, metres).
  • Determine the depth of topsoil you need. Typical depths for different purposes are:
    Garden beds: 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm)
    Lawn renovation: 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) 
    Filling or grading: Varies based on the project

We've explained more about how you can measure the required depth in the next section down.

  • Calculate the volume of topsoil needed using the formula: Length × Width × Depth = Volume. 

If your site has an area of 15m x 30m and needs a coverage of 200mm, for example, you should use this formula: 15 x 30 x 0.20 = 90m3.

Make sure your measurements are in the same units. For example, if you're using feet, your volume will be in cubic feet. If you're using metres, your volume will be in cubic metres.

  • Once you have the volume in cubic feet or metres, you can determine the number of bulk bags needed by dividing the total volume by the bag's capacity. Keep in mind that bulk bag sizes differ, so be sure to compare the contents of different bags to get the amount right.

If you instead need to calculate the necessary tonnage for buying loose topsoil, make sure to examine the product's bulk density. This density varies based on the specific type of topsoil and its composition.

How deep should topsoil be? 

The recommended depth of topsoil all depends on the type of plants you intend to grow, the climate, and the specific characteristics of your land. However, a good rule of thumb is to have a topsoil depth of around 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 centimetres). This depth providesa sufficient amount of fertile soil for most plants' root systems to establish and thrive.

If the soil is shallow and poor quality, you may want to bring in the recommended amount of topsoil to provide the best growing conditions. To give your plants an even better shot at thriving, think about incorporating compost, organic matter, and nutrients to boost soil quality.

If your existing soil is already good quality, a thinner layer of new topsoil might do the trick, either to achieve the desired depth or to create a level surface with good texture. Don't forget that some plants, especially those with deep-rooted systems like trees, could use more topsoil depth to really flourish.


Premium-quality topsoils at a price that makes sense

Now that you've got a good handle on how much topsoil you'll need, you can move onto the next step: getting it delivered right to your front door!

At MB Wilkes, we take pride in being Dorset's top choice for high-quality soils and landscaping products. Whether you're in need of one bag or several dozen, you can count on us to supply the perfect topsoil for a thriving garden. Even better? We can do so at some of the most competitive rates on the market! 

We offer our soils in both bulk bags and loose, and we're more than happy to work around your schedule as needed during delivery. If you've followed our guide but you're still scratching your head about how much soil to get, don't worry -- we're here to chat about your project and recommend the right option for your needs. 

Why not browse our full range of soils today? If you have any questions about our products or services, don't hesitate to reach out online or give us a call on 01258 857465. Let's get started! 

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25 Jul
Topsoil vs compost: which to use and when
If you have even the smallest touch of green in your thumb, youll know that creating a beautiful, healthy garden involves more than just planting flowers. Choosing the right organic materials is actually the key to having your garden flourish. Two of the most crucial materials for gardening are topsoil and compost, but their similar looks and textures make it easy to get them confused. But don't worry, we're here to help! With nearly six decades of experience in the industry, the team at M B Wilkes knows a thing or two about gardens. In our guide below, we'll explain what topsoil and compost actually are, what sets them apart, and when to use each type to achieve the best results for your garden. Let's go! Are topsoil and compost the same? No. Topsoil and compost are two different things, but they both play essential roles in landscaping. Here are the key characteristics of each type, as well as how they differ in their uses! What is topsoil? Topsoil is the upper layer of soil (hence the name!). It's generally the first 5 to 10 inches (12 to 25 centimetres) deep, and it serves as the primary hub for Earth's biological soil activity. Topsoil is formed over time through the weathering of rocks and the decomposition of organic matter. It contains a mix of mineral particles like sand, silt, and clay along with organic matter like vegetation, dead animals, and leaves. This results in a treasure trove of organic nutrients and minerals, providing the perfect nourishment for healthy plant life. What is topsoil used for? Topsoil is commonly used in landscaping projects to establish vegetation or improve soil quality. It provides a stable foundation for plants and helps retain moisture, allowing roots to grow and thrive. With that said, topsoil alone might not have enough organic matter or nutrients for optimal plant growth. This is where compost comes in! What is compost? Compost is a soil amendment made from the decomposition of organic waste, such as leaves, twigs, kitchen scraps, and other biodegradable materials. This decomposition process is carried out by microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and worms, which break down the organic matter into a dark and crumbly material. Compost is rich in nutrients and organic matter, making it an excellent soil conditioner. What is compost used for? Often referred to as "black gold" by gardeners, compost is prized for its ability to enhance soil health. It's used to improve soil structure, water retention, and nutrient content. When added to soil, compost enhances fertility and promotes healthier plant growth. Should I use compost or topsoil? When deciding whether to use compost, topsoil, or both, you need to consider the specific needs and conditions of your garden. The main difference between compost and topsoil is that compost acts as a soil amendment while topsoil forms the actual soil, so keep that in mind to make the best decision for your garden. Compost works wonders for more demanding plants like vegetables, as it will give them the nutrients they need to flourish. Other types of plants can also benefit from compost, depending on what you have in your garden and the climate you're in. For plants in pots, topsoil alone might not be enough since they can't reach out for more nutrients with their roots. In such cases, adding compost becomes a must to provide those potted plants with the nourishment they need to thrive. If you'd like more specific advice, feel free to reach out to our team – we'd be happy to discuss your project and recommend the right option for you! Can I mix compost and topsoil together? Yes. In fact, it's usually recommended! Compost is fantastic for enriching soil, but it can dry out rather quickly. Mixing it with topsoil is a great way to provide balanced bedding for plants and flowers. It offers the best of both worlds – the root support and water retention from topsoil, combined with the nutrient boost from compost. Keep in mind that this may not be the ideal solution for every project. Depending on the plants you intend to grow, using only topsoil or choosing a different topsoil-compost ratio may be best. Enhance your garden with premium topsoils and composts from M B Wilkes At M B Wilkes, we supply high-quality soils and landscaping products for a variety of garden projects. Whether you're looking for a solid foundational topsoil or a compost that will help your flowers flourish, you can rely on us to provide you with the exact materials you need for a healthy garden – all at some of the most competitive prices on the market. Browse our full range of products today. If you have any questions about our products or services, don't hesitate to get in touch online or call us on 01258 857465. We're here to help!
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26 Oct
An Introduction to Scalpings
// Whether you're planning to construct a residential driveway or a large-scale commercial build, choosing the right materials is key to a successful project. There are thousands of different materials you can choose from, and it's not always easy knowing which will work best for your requirements. Scapings are one such option. These small, rough stones are ideal for creating level sub-bases for driveways, paths, and patios, making them an excellent choice for a wide variety of building projects. MB Wilkes is the leading supplier of 40mm scalpings in Dorset. In this guide, we explain where scalpings come from, why they’re useful, and how much you will need for your build. Already know you need scalpings for your project? Buy high-quality scalpings online today!   What are scalpings? Scalpings are essentially quarry waste. They are clay-contaminated stones that are removed when larger rocks are screened for quality. Whilst the concept of 'quarry waste' may not sound appealing, scalpings are actually the perfect material for evening out foundations - they are durable, versatile, and plentiful. Their low cost can also help you save significant money on your project.   What are scalpings used for? Scalpings are largely used as a sub-base material during the construction of car parks, driveways, pathways, and foundations for buildings. They are a cheaper alternative to Type 1 aggregates. When used in construction, scalpings work well to fill gaps within a bumpy foundation and provide an ideal base for paving and slabs. What sizes do scalpings come in? Scalpings are available in a range of sizes, including 40mm, 75mm and 100mm. The size of scalpings refers to the size of the holes in the 'sieve' when they are separated from larger rocks at the quarry. The most popular choice is 40mm, as this is the size that best suits the majority of projects, both commercial and residential.   What amount of scalpings will I need? The amount of scalpings you'll need is dependent on the size of your project. On average, 1 tonne of scalpings will cover 11.4m2 at 50mm thick. If you’re not sure how much you’ll need, you can use our online calculator before buying.   Where can I buy scalpings in bulk? At MB Wilkes, we stock fantastic quality scalpings for sale at low prices. We deliver to the entirety of Poole, Bournemouth, and Dorset, and can transport your scalpings in either bulk bags or loose. No matter the type or scale of your project, we’ll get you what you need without hassle. Buy scalpings online today! To find out more about the range of products we offer, from decorative stones to driveway materials, contact our team today on 01258 857465.
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3 Oct
How to choose the right sports sand for your playing surface
If you’ve ever tried to hit a golf ball out of a bunker or hopped, skipped, and jumped into a long-jump pit, you might have noticed the sand under your feet feels different from regular sand. That’s because it is - it’s sand that’s been specifically designed for use in sports and athletics. While it may make the inside of your trainers a bit gritty, sports sand serves two important purposes: it improves player performance, and it keeps surfaces in good playing condition. The specialists at M B Wilkes are experts in all types of sand, soil, and gravel. Let us walk you through everything there is to know about sports sand, so you can rest easy knowing that your club’s playing surface is in tip-top shape.   What makes sports sand different? Because it needs to provide an even, safe surface for sports to be played on, sports sand has key differences from the sand you find on the beach or on a construction site. Most sports sand goes through a special ‘cleaning’ process that removes clay, silt, dust, and other impurities. This creates a fine, smooth finish that’s perfect for recreational use. To provide you with a safe surface on which to play your sport, sports sand usually has: Smaller, finer grains for a softer surface Impurities removed by washing Air-filled porosity to provide excellent aeration and drainage Consistent grading These qualities make the sand super soft to walk on and quick to dry. It also won’t get stuck on your legs or feet as you run over it.   What makes high-quality sports sand? Not all sand is the same. Different types of sand have different sized grains, mixes, and consistencies, which make certain sands more suited for certain uses than others. Selecting the correct grade of sand for your playing surface is vitally important. The ‘grade’ of a sand refers to the size of each individual particle, ranging from the smallest and ‘finest’ to largest and ‘sharpest’. Each type has distinctly different qualities that are useful in different applications. You’ll find finer sand has less structure and more malleability, while sharp sand is strong but prone to cracks and lesions. Sport sand shouldn’t be either too sharp or too fine – you’ll find that a quality, washed sports sand will be between grades 30 and 45, placing it somewhere in the middle. Sand aids in the process of drainage, with each grade of sand having a different effect on the playing surface. For example, fine sand effectively seals up the playing surface if spread over the top layer, meaning you’ll struggle to get your pitch to drain. Sharp sands will destabilise the surface over time, negatively impacting the general makeup of the soil. This makes it even more important to remember the 30 to 45 grading. In order to get the best results out of your sand spreading, there are steps you should take to make sure you don’t cause unneeded damage to the grass. Post-match, it is recommended that you divot the pitch with a fork, as this aerates the surface after being compacted by players. It also allows you to spread the sand into the top layer of surface soil. If you’re looking for high-quality sand to use for sporting and recreation, make sure the sand is: Low maintenance, so it’s easy to lay and look after Naturally sourced, as sand from natural sources has fewer contaminants and is therefore of higher quality Washed clean of any unwanted particles for a smooth finish. Made of durable aggregate, so it can withstand even the toughest of sports.   Which sports sand do I need? The exact type of sand you should choose depends on what you’ll be using it for:   Sports sand for recreation Our imported washed sand is 0-2mm and ideal for surface dressing sports fields, rugby and cricket turfs, golf bunkers, bowling greens, goal mouths, and much more.   Specialist sports sand from M B Wilkes At M B Wilkes, Dorset’s leading supplier of sand and other landscaping supplies, we have a range of top-quality sports sands for you to choose from. Our naturally-sourced sports sand will create a soft, all-weather playing surface your sports club can rely on. Browse our range of sands to find the right type of you. Our team has the knowledge and experience to answer any questions you may have. Simply get in touch for help choosing the right sports sand for your playing field.
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Most Recent Stories

9 Apr
Your Projects Brought to Life: Before and After Using Our Gravel
Selecting the right gravel for your property can significantly affect appearance, durability, drainage and maintenance. At MB Wilkes, we specialise in supplying and installing high‑quality primary sands and gravels - from decorative shingle and chippings to robust planings and crushed stone - tailored to the unique requirements of every customer. With decades of experience serving homeowners, property managers and businesses across the UK, we understand how material choice, particle size and finish can transform driveways, pathways, patios and more. In this blog, we’ll showcase some recent projects, with images courtesy of CW Stanley who executed the work using our products. With an array of options available, our aggregates will deliver lasting results, enhancing kerb appeal while offering excellent value for money. New Driveway in Merley, Wimborne What a difference a day makes! In Merley, Wimborne, CW Stanley transformed a tired tarmac driveway into a crisp, low‑maintenance surface in just one day. After removing the existing worn surfacing and installing a durable geotextile membrane for weed control and drainage, their team laid a neat charcoal block‑paving edge before spreading our 20 mm Dorset Limestone chippings. The result is an attractive, uniform finish that enhances kerb appeal, improves water runoff and eliminates patch repairs. The customer chose Dorset Limestone chippings for their hard‑wearing quality, natural appearance and cost‑effective longevity - a perfect solution for a hassle‑free driveway upgrade. A Mega Undertaking in Poole, Dorset A mega driveway transformation in Poole, Dorset, was completed in just 1.5 days using our 20 mm Ice Blue decorative gravel, laid over a geotextile membrane to ensure excellent drainage and weed suppression. Crisp concrete kerb stones neatly define the driveway’s boundary, while a smooth asphalt parking bay provides a practical contrast. The finished surface delivers striking kerb appeal, low maintenance and long‑term durability for two neighbouring properties. By combining MB Wilkes’ premium Ice Blue chippings with CW Stanley’s efficient installation, this project achieved exceptional value, performance and a standout aesthetic in record time. A Beautiful Result in Poole, Dorset What a beautiful frontage this is now! CW Stanley completed a stunning driveway transformation this week at a property in Poole, Dorset. After removing the old, uneven gravel and preparing a stable, compacted sub‑base with a geotextile membrane for superior drainage and weed control, crisp grey block paving was installed to define the driveway’s perimeter. Our 20 mm Polar Ice decorative chippings, were laid to a uniform depth, delivering a striking, low‑maintenance finish. The work significantly improved kerb appeal while extending and boosting practical performance - all achieved in minimal time, at exceptional value. A Tasteful Finish in Colehill, Wimborne In just two days, CW Stanley completed a tasteful driveway and frontage transformation at a property in Colehill, Wimborne. After removing old paving and uneven gravel, the team installed a compacted sub‑base topped with a geotextile membrane for superior drainage and weed suppression. Concrete block‑paving edging defines the perimeter, creating a neat, professional finish. Our team supplied 20 mm Quantock Grey decorative chippings, which were laid to a consistent depth to deliver a striking, low‑maintenance surface. The result is enhanced kerb appeal, excellent durability and a practical, value‑adding upgrade. Why Should You Choose MB Wilkes? When it comes to sourcing high‑quality aggregates, MB Wilkes stands head and shoulders above the competition. As a family‑owned sand and gravel quarry based in Dorset, we combine decades of local expertise with the largest product range on the market - from decorative gravels and garden stones to specialist sands, soils and construction materials. Our team of aggregate specialists possesses unrivalled knowledge, enabling us to recommend exactly the right material for any project, whether you’re a homeowner upgrading your driveway or a national developer specifying bulk supplies. MB Wilkes’ reputation for excellence extends across councils, utility companies, sports grounds and public landscaping schemes, reflecting our ability to deliver consistently outstanding service to clients of every scale. Thanks to our strong industry relationships, we offer competitive, transparent pricing without compromising on quality - meaning you benefit from premium materials at the best value. We also make waste disposal straightforward with our inert tip facility, while our versatile fleet of tipper lorries and grab trucks ensures precise, reliable deliveries direct to your site. Above all, our commitment to exceptional customer service means clear communication, punctual delivery and meticulous attention to detail from enquiry through to completion. Whatever your aggregate requirements, MB Wilkes guarantees the highest quality products, unbeatable expertise and complete peace of mind - all delivered from the heart of Dorset. Get in Touch With the Experts Ready to transform your project? Browse MB Wilkes’ full range of decorative aggregates, garden stones, sands and soils on our website and place your order in minutes. For personalised advice, competitive quotes or any enquiries, simply give our friendly team a call on 01258 857465 or complete our quick contact form. Whether you need delivery to your doorstep or guidance choosing the perfect product, we’re here to help - offering expert support, transparent pricing and reliable service across Dorset and beyond. Don’t wait - get in touch with MB Wilkes today and discover why we’re the UK’s leading supplier of high‑quality aggregates now.
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15 May
Summer Gardening Tips and Tricks
The summer months are a busy time for gardeners, as gardening offers a great opportunity to enjoy those long, warm days and evenings. Despite most of the planting of flowers and vegetables being done earlier in the spring, there is plenty to be done over the summer. May and June are ideal times for bedding plants to be planted out, raising foliage plants, and sowing several outdoor seed varieties, including Alstroemeria, Achillea, Arabis, Canterbury Bells, Coreopsis, Erigeron, Myosotis and Sweet William. Weather can be unpredictable during these months, so during May, you want to protect more vulnerable plants with a horticultural fleece, which you can remove in June. As the threat of frost should have passed by June, it is the ideal time to plant bedding plants grown under cover either into borders or into hanging baskets and containers. Late-flowering Annuals Throughout May, you should sow late-flowering annuals such as Nasturtiums under glass. You can expect them to flower from August onwards if you sow them in early May. You may also want to sow fast-maturing annuals, like Clarkias and Calendulas. You will be able to enjoy them blooming throughout the summer, which will add an extra splash of colour to your garden. Don't forget to add some water gel crystals and slow-release fertiliser to your compost when planting. Who doesn't love a Dahlia? Use your time in May to plant Dahlia bulbs, but protect them from slugs. This will also work with your regular gardening jobs of watering, mowing and weeding. Don't forget to spruce up your window boxes too. Check that you have enough topsoil before doing this to ensure a smooth and easy process. Tidy Up June is usually a time for you to dedicate a few minutes to tidying up parts of your garden. Dead foliage should be removed from spring flowering bulbs, excluding daffodils and tulips, which should be left a little longer to die back naturally. Trim or throw away any faded plants and keep on top of your weeding, with a particular focus on your borders and beds. Install Protection Fruits bushes and trees should be inspected carefully to check for pests and diseases and treated if necessary. Soft fruit bushes, such as currants and strawberries, should be protected by a fruit cage or netting to prevent birds from eating the fruit. Carrots should be protected from carrot fly, and cabbages from caterpillar damage by covering them with protective materials. If you are keeping some plants in a greenhouse to keep them safe, they need to be kept well-ventilated during the day as extreme variations in temperature could adversely affect the fruiting of tomato plants. In addition, tapping the flowers of greenhouse tomatoes will improve pollination. Uncover Fruit and Vegetable Strawberry bushes that have been kept under glass should now be uncovered so that pollinating insects can gain access to them. Vegetables such as brussel sprouts, cabbage, celery, courgettes, cucumbers, marrows, runner and French beans that have been grown in a greenhouse should also now be planted out. Don't forget to keep them hydrated and keep the soil as moist as possible. If you have vegetables like marrows, peppers, tomatoes and courgettes, ensure that these are hardened off before you look to plant them outside. Mow Grass Regularly May is the start of the mowing season, and you will need to mow your grass more regularly and ensure that your mower blades are kept sharp. Water Regularly May through September can be hot and dry, so remember to water plants regularly to avoid wilting. To aid drainage, a layer of gravel or shingle is a great solution that also offers a touch of style and texture to your garden area! Renovate Your Garden Summer is also a great time to landscape your garden by adding some raised plant beds using sleepers or even fitting a paved section to create the perfect space for garden furniture.
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27 Mar
How to use decorative stones in your garden
Decorative stone is a term that encompasses a wide range of materials, including gravel, pebbles, and slate. They are a fantastic way to add interest and texture to your garden. Each type has its own benefits. Therefore, you should consider these when deciding which decorative stone to use in your garden. In this blog, our landscaping experts at MB Wilkes, Dorset’s leading supplier of decorative stones, share a breakdown of each type of decorative stone and what they’re best used for. Pebbles Smooth and round pebbles are formed when a stone's rough edges are slowly eroded by running water. As such, they will look perfectly at home as part of a garden water feature. We recommend using colourful pebbles like our 14-20mm Scottish pebbles for an authentic feel.  Due to their rounded surface being safe to walk on barefoot, these decorative stones make good garden pathways, and when combined with landscape fabrics like our woven geotextile, you can prevent weeds from growing underneath.  Pebbles can help prevent soil degradation and eroding too, making them great to enhance the top of potted plants. Pebbles and decorative stones also make for beautiful and natural borders for flower beds.  If you are laying a pathway, contrasting coloured pebbles in the garden is a fantastic way to make a style statement all across your garden. Additionally, you could also use different colours to differentiate the various sections of your garden from each other. Avoid using pebbles on driveways because they are so smooth they will move and shift under the heavy weight of a vehicle. This will cause the driveway to deteriorate quickly. Slate Slate is a fine-grained, metamorphic rock that splits easily into thin slabs.  Much sharper and larger than pebbles, slate is perfect for decorating borders. For example, our black slate would make for a dramatic and modern accent to a path, pond, or patio.  Slate also makes for poor driveway material, as there is always the chance that a sharp piece could slice open your tyre. It is also a relatively brittle material, so putting it under constant stress from heavy cars will cause it to crumble over time. This will lead to the build-up of dust, which could inhibit drainage.  Stone Paving Decorative stones aren't just limited to pebbles and rocks. Natural stone paving is the perfect material for creating gorgeous and perfectly flat patios where you and your loved ones can enjoy many BBQs and garden parties together. We stock lots of different paving slabs in a range of colours, textures and finishes, so you're sure to find one to suit your style.  Gravel & Shingle Gravel is made up of loose rock fragments.  Gravel and shingle are grippy, durable stones, making them excellent choices for driveways and paths. In fact, they are one of the cheapest driveway options available. Outside of filling in the uneven surface now and then, driveway gravel is largely maintenance-free and has no chance of cracking or sinking like asphalt or concrete.  Choose a gravel like our golden shingle for a classic driveway look or opt for something a bit different with our luxurious limestone or elegant blue slate. Gravel and shingle are very good at draining water. If your garden is habitually waterlogged and causing your plants and flowers to suffer, installing a French drain using gravel or shingle will help the water drain harmlessly away. Shingle will also work in any water feature you might have, enhancing the sound of the water falling. Opting for our rainbow shingle will also boost its overall appearance too. Premium decorative stones from M B Wilkes Whether you're looking to build a rustic path or driveway, improve drainage, or simply beautify your garden, our decorative stones offer limitless possibilities. Browse our wide range of premium decorative stones to find the perfect type for your garden. You'll be spoilt for choice at MB Wilkes, as our range of landscape materials, pebbles and decorative stones is the best in Dorset.  If you have any questions about our products, don't hesitate to get in touch - contact us online or call us on 01258 857465.
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