Unfortunately around six years ago we were burgled - the intruder just opened the side gate and helped himself to our car keys which were lying on the kitchen table. We had never thought of using additional security as we live in a 'good' area and had neighbours either side and opposite. Fortunately the car had a tracker and the thief was caught and we were told he was part of a group that were targeting our area for specific car thefts.

It certainly shook us all up as a family so we changed the locks, fitted a bolt to the back gate, had the alarm checked and were advised by Victim Support to add a padlock to our back gate as a deterrent. We did not have time to shop around so bought this Abus padlock from our local ironmongers for around £15 and it was supplied with 2 keys but we were advised it could be re-keyed.

Luckily, since then we have had no problems with security but, to be honest, the padlock is only really for show as it would be easy enough to just break or climb over the 7 foot gate if an intruder was insistent on trespassing.

Despite the bad winters and our peculiar UK climate the padlock still looks pretty shiny and it has not rusted or corroded at all. The keys still fit well and the lock is easy to undo. It clicks shut so, once opened, you do not have to remember your key to re-lock it.

The Abus padlock is quite strong and measures around 50mm in width, about 76mm tall and just under 20mm deep. It has still retained most of its original colour and texture and was a good buy as it gets plenty of use because of the numerous different coloured bins that need to be put out almost every day of the week!

The padlock weighs around 280g so is not too lightweight not too heavy and we were advised at the shop that it was suitable for low to medium security.

I would recommend this padlock but I'm certain you would find it cheaper if you shopped around.