Bosch AHS 52 LI 18v Cordless Electric Hedge Trimmer

Battery life seems quite good at around an hour, cuts well, good point of balance and fairly quiet.

BUT, and this is a big BUT - the DC electric motor appears to be made from chocolate. The shaft that connects the motor shaft to the drive dog for the blade mechanism is the diameter of a safety match, and seems to be made of a very poor quality soft metal.

The blades becoming jammed does not seem to cause this component failure. Closer examination seems to reveal metal fatigue instead, as the shaft appears to twist itself off over time.

I replace the motor in mine, and the replacement has just failed (£26).

I have just bought a corded trimmer from B&Q for £20, which is one-fifth of the price of the Bosch one.

If Bosch is going to trade on its past quality and sell cheaply made rubbish like the AHS 52LI, I'd suggest they have a look at what's happened to Volkswagen. People aren't stupid, and catch on quick.

Very poor, Bosch is now on my s***list.

Ordered Thursday morning following a friendly phone call to confirm availablity and the product was delivered Friday afternoon. With the best price for the product on the internet and superb customer service I would not hesitate in recommending to all.