Q. Would you point me in the right direction as I am looking for a faux-lead water cistern to replace the council’s water butt which is ugly.

A. Capital Garden Products specialise in pots, urns, fountains and water tanks in fibreglass, which is durable, maintenance free and frost proof. Their false-lead finish is also of course much lighter that the real thing. Have a look at their range on www.capital-garden.com Q. Where can I look for a large antique French mirror – gilded or painted?

A. Why don’t you try The Old French Mirror Company? They specialise in 19th Century French mirrors, and have a wide selection on their website, www.oldfrenchmirrors.com.

You can also visit their showroom just outside Henley-on-Thames in Oxfordshire by appointment (01189 482444).

Another company with a very wide range of antique mirrors is Through The Looking Glass in Kensington Church Street, London W11 (020 7221 4026 ). They have been specialists in 19th Century period mirrors for nearly 50 years. They usually have more than 400 decorative English and Continental mirrors in stock, including overmantle, pier and convex styles in giltwood, silver gilt, marquetry, timber or painted finishes. www.throughthelookingglass.co.uk.

This invaluable online directory features a large database of more than 3,500 companies covering all aspects of interior and garden design and decoration. It’s the essential resource both for professionals and for the general public. Go to www.thehousedirectory.com