Stretching calves and repairing leather tear

[NotJustACigar]

I bought some boots online but can't quite zip them up as my calves are kinda thick. What's the best way to stretch the leather do you think? I don't really want to spend £30+ on boot stretchers. Could Timpsons do it do you think? Otherwise what's the best easiest cheapest way?

Also a pair if my favorite Ecco leather boots has developed a hole in the leather where my big toe has managed to poke through. Any way of getting this repaired? Timpsons maybe? Thanks for any advice.

Any advice from anyone at all please?

I'm looking for the same thing OP, I've got two much loved pairs of knee high leather boots that no longer fit due to calf width changing as a result of exercise.
I was thinking of getting some boot stretchers....

Thanks bluesheep. I've heard about people stretching boots by using a hairdryer or by putting them in the freezer however I don't want to ruin them. Boot stretchers may be the way to go.

Yes I've read about the hairdryer and freezer methods but they both sound risky to me.
I'm going to look into getting boot stretchers I think