Stephen's Tools

In the on going work of establishing my orchard and bringing the surroundings under control and into some semblance of order I have had reason to use a range of tools.  Some of these tools have proved poorly made and harmful to my state of health.  I had three days off work with a severe back problem caused by using a shovel with a shaft that was designed for someone of no more than five feet tall.  From my enquiries it seems that nearly all standard forks shovels and spades are designed for people who are less than average height.  My search for a shovel with with a usable shaft only turned up straight shafted shovels, nothing with a T or D handle.  I eventually bought a cheap round mouthed shovel from B&Q.  It is far from perfect but it does fulfil my needs to some extent.  I can use it for prolonged periods without causing me further back pain.  I am continuing my search for good usable work tools and I intend to use this page to document the success and failure  of this endeavour.