If you only have a small garden, then a sweeping brush for the hard surfaces and a rake for the lawn should be sufficient.

Choose your rake carefully. The ideal leaf rake shouldn't dig into the lawn like a scarifying rake, but instead glide over the surface, containing the leaves within its curved shape so that you can gradually accumulate a heap. Most hand tool companies include these in their range - choose tough wire or rubbery tines for longevity and expect to pay from around £15.

Then comes the problem of transferring the leaves to barrow or bag. The traditional two boards are fine for moving wodges of leaves, but if you don't like bending, a long-handled leaf grab (with plastic or metal blades) may suit you better.