We're planning to pave a patio approx 40m2, and I'm keen to use natural UK stone, rather than concrete imitations or imports. I've found Welsh Gwrhyd Blue Pennant paving via Marshalls. The "premium" stuff looks excellent -- at £49/m2! (They describe it as "one of the most durable paving material available".) They also do cheaper "cottage" paving for £26/m2, which they say is of "seconds" quality, and give the following description: "The cottage grade is of seconds quality and will contain more heavily riven/textured pieces with cracks and laminations. Some pieces may also be broken which all adds to the rustic characteristic of the cottage paving." The cheap price is nice, but perhaps it's suspiciously cheap...
My questions are:
1. Is there anyone here who has used this stuff (cottage grade, I mean) and can report on its durability?
2. I'm wondering whether this description sounds more like "rejects" than normal "seconds"? Any opinions? I did ask their saleswoman, who assured me they weren't rejects. I'm assuming that Marshalls, as a reputable firm, would be honest about this...
Any advice appreciated: thanks!