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Marshalls (MSLH) 255.75p

Orders are rising from the public sector and commercial market as the paving stone maker enters 2008 with a positive outlook. (Read the full story: www.sharesmagazine.com/node/2800)

Shares says: Success in the public sector and commercial is welcome, as they account for more than half of sales. Should provide a catalyst to revive the share price, which slumped during 2007. Worth a punt on recovery potential. SPECULATIVE BUY

Telegraph says: Marshalls, like many a UK gardener, had a pretty dismal summer last year. When the rains came, the company’s well-regarded management issued a collective groan. Who wants to lay a new patio when your garden stands under three feet of water? Given that, the fact that the company was able to assure investors that results would be in line with expectations for 2007 was pretty remarkable. BUY

The Times says: The steady shift away from asphalt towards paving that has benefited Marshalls is continuing. Large commercial projects in the south east such as the Olympics and Thames Gateway should also provide medium-term support. Roll in Marshalls’ scarcity value and 5% dividend yield is attractive. HOLD

The City - Landsbanki says: We remain buyers of the stock based on the strong balance sheet, cashflow dynamics and around 5.5% yield. Marshalls has taken the opportunity in recent weeks to buy back shares, illustrating its ability and desire to use its balance sheet. We see this as taking positive action and encouraging, and not changing bottom-line EPS, with the extra interest charge being offset by the reduced number of shares in issue. BUY