Teasmade frankenkettles to make a comeback

The peculiarly British invention combined an alarm clock with a kettle, and promised owners they could wake up each morning to a fresh cup of tea without having to leave the comfort of their bed. At the height of their popularity, two million households had one...

Paul Martin, John Lewis's electrical buyer, said: "Every time I go round a branch, it's the same thing: 'When are you going to restock a Teasmade?' In the run-up to Christmas last year we were getting at least 12 complaints a day. I have relented."

Mr Martin is now seeking an electronics company to make a contemporary model. "We are still in early stages, but hope to have Teasmades back early next year," he said.