I have been fretting recently over how to get a telescopic view of Jupiter and Saturn, which currently only rise about 15 degrees above my horizon (my location 53:22:59). I already use a water butt stand, but this still doesn't give enough elevation for my 200mm Dob. to see over my garden fence.

This morning, I was wandering around B&Q in search of household items when I spotted a stack of four-legged green objects which turned out to be 'kiddies picnic tables'. Hmm... Possibly a bit flimsy, but nice broad rectangular top with short legs. Sale price £6.50. It seemed worth a try so I bought one.

This is the result. It seems quite sturdy though I have yet to test drive under night-time conditions. An added bonus (?) is that I now need a ladder to reach the eyepiece. I instantly thought of the 7th Earl of Rosse and Birr Castle! (see neighbouring images).

Delusions of grandeur . . .

[Next evening at 19.20, I managed to view Jupiter for about ten minutes between cloud. The set-up remained remarkably stable - and I did not fall off the ladder!]