Little whirlwinds in the home

Half-term week could see home insurance damage claims of up to £106 million - or one per cent of the cost of the 1987 storm.

An estimate from Sainsbury's Bank calculates that the combination of bad weather, children, their friends and over-excited pets will add to risks of damage to the home.

Steve Johnson, head of Sainsbury's Home Insurance, said: "A week of having your children at home can be a challenge in terms of keeping them amused and entertained.

"If the weather is poor and they have to spend more time indoors, the chances of your home being damaged in some way by them, or their friends, increases."

In another report, however, the Halifax calculates that the cost of a day out for a family of four can cost around £125.

17/10/2007 12:32:30