The UK’s aquatics and water-gardening industry has been boosted by a huge surge of interest in garden ponds during the coronavirus lockdown.

With the country forced to ‘stay at home’ at the peak of the Covid-19 crisis, it seems many households turned their attentions to building a wildlife or fishpond in the garden.

And that fact has proved good for business for those AQUA 2021 exhibitors specialising in pond-related products.

According to the Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association, ponds and home aquariums have been an important source of relaxation during these stressful times.

OATA’s chief executive Dominic Whitmee said: “Lockdown offered people more time to concentrate on home-based hobbies, including setting up or looking after aquariums. The weather was also perfect to spruce up gardens and to add a pond. It’s great to hear that people have been investing in home aquariums and garden ponds because we know how good both can be for mental health.”