Dear Martyn

Thankyou for your enquiry yesterday. I have investigated the issues you raised further.

Serengeti Eclipse

I have double checked the issue of the stainless steel cover plate on the Serengeti Eclipse. In fact it does not come with one, but there is no central hole in the middle of the top of the inground base so the cover plate is not required for the parasol and base to work effectively. I attach the inground base instructions and diagram from the manufacturer Woodline. I also attach further specification details. We are out of stock of the Serengeti Eclipse 3m square for the Season, so it would be for next year. However, if you wanted the inground now, that would be fine, as it is in stock.

Here is a link to the product:Serengeti Eclipse

I will send you a swatch of the Ecru, and Sunbrella Taupe and Black fabrics in the post.

Shademaker Sola

The Shademaker Sola's inground base also does not have a central hole in the middle of the top disc, so the cover plate is also not required for the base to work effectively. The stainless steel cover is offered mainly for aesthetic reasons - it gives a smooth stainless steel finish for the winter months - but it does also help to stop the screw holes in the base getting blocked with debris over winter. I attach a copy of the Shademaker Sola 2010 manual and an image of the stainless steel cover plate.

Here is a link to the product: Shademaker Sola

In terms of colours, the Shademaker Sola 2.7m Square is currently in stock. There are 3 colours in stock

• Forest Green
• Pearl Mist
• Seashell White

Unfortunately, I do not have the actual fabrics in stock of these colours at the moment, but I attach an image showing all the colours. We have the inground bases in stock. If you were to order today the inground base then this can be despatched today. However the warehouse is closed next week so if you are not ready to order today, then delivery would be w/c 13/09/2010. Other colours should be available on 3/4 week delivery.

Regarding the choice between a base plate and an inground fitting, I confirm that the inground fitting will give you the most reliably secure base (provided you follow the instructions attached!) but if your patio/ slabs are sufficiently reinforced or strong, then you could choose to use the base plate which is bolted down.

Finally, both parasols are made for light to medium winds only, but I understand that you are in a sheltered location in any event.

Do let me know if you have any more questions or need more information.