yes that will be a perfect time :)

I agree, hardy in most of the UK.

Hi, there are about 250 species of Camellia, not all of which are hardy, they range from fully hardy, to frost tender, the most common of which is C japonica, which has lots of varieties, with some flowering in autumn, early winter, early spring, late spring, and early summer, a few flower in autumn, and again in early to late spring, you probably have 1 of these, as they're the most common, they're also fully hardy, but there are other species that wouldn't survive outside, so I wouldn't make assumptions about hardiness, without trying to find out, or confirm the species, Derek.

Is there any chance you could find out where it came from? The nursery might be able to tell you the variety.

thanks again for all replies

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/gardening/article-1241417/MONTY-DON-Why-Camellias-everyones-cup-tea.html
gives info on camellias. It will probably not help with the plants own specific name but it could help give a few clues as to its origin and likely hardiness. Does it have large or small leaves, was it bought from a supermarket, garden centre or nursery?