Following a recent DIY accident in Manchester, National Home Improvement Show’s spokesperson, Michael Holmes says: “More than 200,000 people end up in hospital following DIY injuries each year equating to a staggering 600 on average per day. Most of these accidents are a result of power tools being misused. Home improvers are often over ambitious and over-estimate their level of skill.

“As the threat of a double dip recession continues, it is expected that the number of people suffering injury while undertaking home improvements will increase significantly in order to save money.

“However, poorly executed DIY can have more than an affect on a homeowners health and reduce the value of a property as much as 5 per cent. Dodgy plumbing, electrical and major structural works are often the culprit.

“It is recommended that home-owners start with a smaller, less challenging project to start off with while you get their 'DIY legs'. “

Mr Holmes gives the following advice to homeowners: “Do your research and plan out what is required to complete the job and what tools are required. Make sure you understand what is expected of you. Be prepared however to get an expert in for more specialist jobs such as electrical and plumbing work.”