Kate said ".....At Wilkinsons, if you have one near you, they are selling
packs of matting 2mx60cm.The marked price is £4.99 but they are selling for
£2.50p........."

You could try the low cost foam carpet underlay that you can get, the one
with the backing of woven plastic strips.
It's easy on the pocket, easy to lay and will last several years.
Even better if you get it by the roll.
But it is even better if you can find someone who is having new carpets,
then you can probably get the old underlay for nothing.
--
David Hill
Abacus nurseries
www.abacus-nurseries.co.uk