[Lesleyk]

This shrubby plant is in a pot at a friend's house and she and I are stumped.  Sorry, the photo is not brilliant and neither of us has any idea what the flower looks like, so if you get it you must be a genius!

[8doubles]

This shrubby plant is in a pot at a friend's house and she and I are stumped.  Sorry, the photo is not brilliant and neither of us has any idea what the flower looks like, so if you get it you must be a genius!

Looks like a variety of bay .

[sunshineband]

The leaves on my bay are different to this.

I am thinking possibly a variety of Viburnum? 

Time will tell... if it flowers 

[fisher]

Viburnum tinus seems to have similar leaves??

Fisher

[ghost61]

I think it looks like a magnolia???

[3 allotments]

Could be an avacado ?

[New shoot]

I think it looks like a magnolia???

I think you could be right there.  There's one called 'Susan' which has very similar looking leaves 

[snowdrops]

Could be an avacado ?

I thought the same but it looks as if it's outside & I'm sure it wouldn't have survived outside if it were an avocado

[Lesleyk]

It is outside - that is, it is in a pot outside, but only in a pot temporarily until we can find out what it is and plant it out.  It was rescued from a garden, along with a few other plants, after the owner had, sadly, died.  She was a keen gardener, but of course we can't ask her what the plant is.  I wonder if you are right about the Magnolia?  I will see if I can get some better photos and some more info, but thanks for all your suggestions - all gratefully received.  Don't think it's an avocado.

[Bay Laurel]

I would agree with Magnolia, as the leaf is similar to one I have.  B L