Motor Caravanner - February 2025

From the Chair

It doesn’t seem that long ago that I was wishing you seasons greetings and now some of you have been to a Burns Night rally and will be looking forward to a Valentine one, enjoy.

Publisher/Editor: Mark Shreeve T: 01502 725839

Advertising: Mark Huggins T: 01502 725866 E: mark.huggins@micropress.co.uk

Sinead Taylor T: 01502 725865

You may also be aware that the National Rally is open for bookings, it’s going to be a good one. See page 8 for more details. I do have to report that Avon Group unfortunately did not manage to form a committee at its EGM, so the Group at this time is closed. If within the next three months a group of members can form a committee then it can continue with the already planned rally programme. Fingers crossed for some of the Avon members to come forward and continue this great Group. Contact the office if you think you could help.

Unfortunately, Council of Management voted to a small increase in membership fees. See below for more details.

As always enjoy getting out in your motorcaravans. Happy travels.

To keep in line with rising costs, there will be a small increase in the cost of our subscriptions, coming into effect from 1st April 2025.

• Full Membership for one year £39

• Associative membership for one year £20

• Full Membership for five years to remain at the current cost of £175 The increase will not come into effect until 30 March 2025. Please note, when you receive your reminder that your subscription is due for renewal by 1st April, you can still pay at the old rate until the end of March. Or contact head office and switch to a 5-year membership, giving you a saving.

Club Contacts

COUNCIL OF MANAGEMENT

Chairman:

Jacci Durkee (07931 527691)

Vice Chairman: Sue Pilkiw (07562 324325)

Members:

Alistair Bartlam (07754 131893)

Carol Biggs (01473 620933)

Derek Clarke (07931 733656)

Graham Durkee (07931 527691)

Les Kendrick (07860 286561)

Kim McKelvie

Selma McMullan (07752 678454)

Keith Poole (07736 544490)

Steve Wynn (07916 131892)

MCC Sec & Administrator: Ron Harris

Wood Farm Estate, Marlbank Road, Welland, Malvern WR13 6NA T: 01684 311677

E: info@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Office opening: Mon-Thu 9-5pm Fri 9-2pm

MCC Office Administration: Penny Stoyles

CoM WITH REPONSIBILITIES

CL & Night Stops:

Carol Biggs (01473 620933)

Disability Advisor: Keith Poole (07736 544490)

keithp@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Exhibition Team:

Jacci & Graham Durkee (07931 527691) grahamd@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Haven Liaison:

Alistair Bartlam (07754 131893)

Head Show Marshal: Sue Pilkiw (07562 324325) suep@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Homecraft Coordinator:

Selma McMullan (07752 678454) homecraft@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Magazine/Handbook : Sue Pilkiw (07562 324325) suep@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

GROUP SECRETARIES CONTACT LIST

Jan Wilcox 07833 625740

Publisher/Editor:

Contributors:

Health & Safety Officer:

Keith Poole (07736 544490) keithp@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

CLUB OFFICIALS

Casual Campsites:

Kate Jones (07747 000587) katejone@googlemail.com

Financial Officer: Paul Maguire (07973 827506)

Junior Leaders: Maria Hill & Gill Crosby juniors@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Head Show Marshal: Mick Pilkiw

Webmaster: Anna Billson webmaster@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

To email a member of the Council of Management please use first name & first letter of surname followed by @themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk ie jaccid@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Jo Smaje 07528 845553 sussex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Sharon Jarvis 07428 909442 kent@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Liz Dyer 07899 848074 essex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Sandra Glendenning 07876 473055 anglia@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Diane Milton 07971 888492 eastwessex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Peter Ingham 07815 789909 chiltern@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Bob Smart 07943 075876 eastmidlands@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Gail Cole 07881 691211 severnvalley@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Penny Feeney 07518 271742 nwmidsnwales@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Steven Wright 07966 224196 lancashire@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Raymond Bolton 07837 323412 yorkshire@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Peter Ridgers 07789 177806 northerncounties@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Aileen Clark 07771 845199 scotland@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Alastair Bartlam 07754 131893 westwessex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Christine Gautier 07976 306116 avon@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Sheila Revill 07796 188220 swpeninsula@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Heulwen Hewitt 07913 810417 swwales@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Peter Moore 07790 779024 nenevalley@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Heather Jennings 07875 191797 isleofwight@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Irene Hewitt 07880 736307 northernireland@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

As N. Ireland Group

Wendy Jefferson 07714 616715 motorcycle@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

All opinions expressed in these pages are those of the Editor and his contributors and do not necessarily represent official Club policy. All Material copyright. The Motor Caravanners’ Club Ltd 2024. All Rights reserved. While every care is taken when accepting advertisements neither the Club nor the Publisher can accept responsibility for unsatisfactory transactions which arise. Printed by Micropress Printers Ltd.

The opinions, advice and information contained in this publication are offered solely to inform members as to matters which will be of assistance to them.

The Motor Caravanners’ Club and Countrywide Publications accepts no responsibility for any opinion, advice or information expressed by any person in any article contained herein and members should seek their own counsel on matters before acting or relying on any opinion, advice or information.

Club News

WE'RE ALL GOING ON A SUMMER(ISH) HOLIDAY!

Join the Club on a two-centre Spanish holiday later this year

The Club are organising a twocentre holiday in Spain later this year and would like you to join them. Beginning at Camping Playa Tropicana, Alcossebre, Comunidad Valenciana (21 Sep - 5 Oct) we will then move to Camping Lo Monte, Pilar de la Horadada, Comunidad Valenciana for the second half (5-19 Oct).

The holiday is a fixed four weeks (14 days at each site) and will cost £825 per unit (two people). This does not include crossings although these can be arranged via our travel provider if required.

Each site has EHU (with Tropicana being 10A and Lo Monte 16A) and a range of facilities. In both cases, dogs are allowed but may be subject to a local charge on arrival (we can advise on this).

The sites are approximately 3½

hour drive apart on good toll-free road. For an overview of each sites please visit:

• www.alanrogers. com/campsite/ camping-playatropicana-comunidadvalenciana

• www.alanrogers.com/campsite/ camping-lo-monte-comunidadvalenciana

A booking form will be made available to any members that are interested on 10th February – if you might be interested, or would like more details, please drop an email to stevew@themotorcaravanners club.co.uk so that we can gauge numbers ahead of the booking going live.

We will be seeking a host (or hosts) for this holiday and anyone

interested should also contact Steve on the email address above for details.

Please be aware that Camping Playa Tropicana is approximately 2km from the town centre of Alcossebre, so it is potentially a drive or cycle ride to access the town itself.

As an aside, this could be a great follow-on to our France rally from 31 Aug -14 Sep, which includes a ferry crossing between the UK and France that could be arranged to cover this event as well.

Pilar de la Horadada.

The HPC Hydraulic Levelling System is truly a step ahead for motorhome owners. Covering all requirements expected from a levelling system. it is simply and quickly operated using the on-board touch-screen controls or operated remotely from an iPhone 5 and above or an Android phone via a Bluetooth free app. Accompanied by the AS Air Suspension system, all your suspension and levelling needs are catered for. At AS Air Suspension UK Ltd, we seek to continually improve and stay ahead of our competitors. Using innovative materials to reduce the weight of the systems, without any compromise to quality.

LONG-STANDING CLUB MEMBER HONOURED WITH GROUP PRESIDENT ROLE

At their Springfields Rally in December East Midlands Group Chairman Paul Arndt presented long standing member Anne Taylor with her chain of office as Hon. President. Anne has been a member of the Group for many years and has served on the Group Committee as Treasurer (she still holds that post) and Chairman –again for many years. The members attending the Group's AGM in October unanimously voted for her to be offered the position of Hon. President because of her commitment, dedication, and loyal service to the Group. She has also served on Council of Management, only recently stepping down from this role.

LeoBay is quite unique as it is a campsite with fitting facilities, so if there’s that little something you need doing from replacing a bulb to a complete conversion we do it all. Our experience goes back 40 years. Our core experience is in auto electrics and vehicle security as well as vehicle diagnostics, we use factory diagnostic software to solve your problems. Trained in both vehicle and mains voltages we can also inspect and test your mains hook up too! Gas that’s no problem either! Now there’s a service that makes life simple, so next time you need help, come and stay at LeoBay, a nice cuppa on arrival, we will sort your problems while you relax on our 1st class site. There’s even a courtesy vehicle to use during your stay at LeoBay!

LeoBay is a site in a million, completely built by us and independent, so all are welcome whether you’re a club member

or not. We have drawn on our 25 years as motorhomers, collating all the best bits from the many sites we have visited over the years. The pitches are all wide hardstanding, with a 10amp hook up and your own grass area to spread out on, the site sits up on a hill over looking the sea with amazing views. On site facilities include a unique summer kitchen, where everyone can chat, relax and eat under cover, there’s a barbeque and pizza oven for you to use, or sit and relax by the open fire with a bottle or two. We like to make sure you’re warm and comfortable so the shower block is heated, with two large rooms, and to top it off the gardens are just splendid. Pets are welcome; the dog walks along the shore are great, there’s plenty of wildlife to watch. So as you can see it’s well worth a visit at just £25 per night all in.

A CAMPSITE WITH A DIFFERENCE... SPECIALISTBATTERYLITHIUM

Anne Taylor being presented with her chain of office as Hon. President of the East Midlands Group with Chairman Paul Arndt.

COULD YOU HOST OUR FRENCH RALLY?

We are currently looking for hosts for our first French rally in May as the original hosts have unfortunately had to drop out due to unforeseen circumstances. If you are interested in helping out please contact Steve Wynn (stevew@ themotorcaravanners club.co.uk).

CASUAL CAMPSITE IN N. IRELAND

Details of this year's Casual Campsite in Northern Ireland have now been confirmed and will take place 17-26 August at Cookstown. Further details on this and dates when bookings start for all Casual Campsites will feature in future magazines and on the Club website.

CLUB ENDS F.I.C.C. AFFILIATION

A reminder that as of 31 December 2024 the Club is no longer affiliated to the F.I.C.C. As a result, CCI cards issued by our Head Office are no longer valid.

OBITUARY

Ralph Marriott It is with sadness that Chiltern Group has to announce the passing of Ralph Marriott, who with his wife Christine, had been members of the group since July 1999.

BEAT THE THIEVES WITH PHYSICAL SECURITY

Over 100,000 vehicles are stolen in the UK each year and many are taken using electronic means without using a key! It’s time to return to traditional physical security.

The Armaplate Resolute is a new steering wheel lock designed for the Motorhome and CamperVan market, offering the highest levels of security and protection.

It works by disabling both the steering and the braking system!

The product is Police Approved and it won the highly coveted Sold Secure GOLD AWARD!

The Resolute is easy to handle, quick to install and easy to store away.

Unlike other steering wheel locks, the Resolute will not cause damage to the steering wheel.

For more information on this or any of our other vehicle security products, visit our website or call us on 0845 838 0700

HOLIDAY PARK

SUPER DUPER SUPERVAN

After a bit of a lull in new ‘zero engine emission’ light commercial vehicle launches, 20 are scheduled for this year, yes 20! Although that’s the number for mainland Europe, it wouldn’t be too much of a leap of faith to assume that most will make it across the channel to Blighty. One that will be of interest to motorcaravanners is the Farizon SuperVAN. It is targeted at the VW Transporter/ Ford Transit Custom market sector and is underpinned by a brand-new purpose built chassis-platform… amusingly referred to by Farizon as a ‘Skateboard’. The motor is located forward and drives the front wheels. 2025 Q2 launch models should be available at 67kW or 83kW (325mile range) with a top-tackle 106kW

Gentleman Jack provides a sneak peek…

variant arriving before the end of the year. It is claimed that the latter will offer a 342-mile range, but in which model wasn’t clear at the time of writing. As the previous sentence suggests, SuperVAN isn’t a Billy No-Mates, but a range of delivery and glazed vans at three lengths and with the choice of three different roof heights. MTPLM for all is likely to be 3,500kg, and if so, the available payloads will be between 1,100kg – 1,300kg. It doesn’t look particularly streamlined to my eye, but the boffins tell us that it is… very streamlined…and has achieved a drag coefficient of 0.29, whereas the current competition can only manage between 0.32 and 0.33. The designers are adamant that there are many advantages

Farizon SuperVAN has already been launched in Europe and is rumoured to be arriving here in the summer, possibly after the importer Jameel Motors unveil it at the Commercial Vehicle Show.

to the SuperVAN being designed ‘from-the-wheels-up’ as a (solely) electrically-powered, front wheel drive vehicle. I’ve picked out four. First, driver control and automated assistance systems are said to ‘achieve symmetry within the ‘drive-by-wire’ architecture’. My

interpretation of what is meant by ‘symmetry’ is that DAS (Driver Assist Systems) deployment will be automatic, and one won’t have to manually switch-on ‘traction control’ and the like. Second, the batteries are of a new type. Farizon is remaining tight-lipped about their exact construction details, but we do know that there will be a different battery chemistry for each type of driving situation. Next, there is immense rigidity built into the battery load deck and coachwork, which enables the complete removal of the ‘B-pillar’…resulting in a fullheight combined front and side door aperture that is 1.5m (almost 5’)

In this press image the cab on commercial variants looked a tad soulless, but will take advantage of the latest technology.

All models will be built on the all-new front wheel drive ‘Skateboard’ platform-cab.

wide. Finally, front wheel drive has facilitated a (completely flat) load deck just 550mm (1’ 9.75”) from the ground.

Readers might recall that I’m fairly cynical over whether new prototypes and concepts ever make it into volume production…but this one already has. Its European

launch happened a few months ago in Belgrade, Serbia. It is claimed that the SuperVAN has, ‘already satisfied all regulations on crash requirements both in the EU and the UK’. I’d have thought that should have been crash safety requirements, but perhaps something has been lost in translation. UK prices

SuperVAN will be available at three lengths and with three roof heights. Note the absence of a ‘B’ pillar.

Farizon has already committed to tailoring its SuperVAN to different end users…including us!

are still to be released, but at launch they are likely to be very competitive. SuperVAN will benefit from a 4-year/120,000-mile body warranty, plus an 8-year/160,000 mile warranty on the drive train and batteries. Super!

THE KNOWLEDGE

Farizon is a comparatively new company and was formed in 2016 with the specific aim of researching, designing, and building commercial vehicles powered by batteries and/or Methanol/Hydrogen. Their product line-up will cover everything from three-wheeled micro-vans to articulated lorries and mega-sized

coaches. It is funded and owned by Geely (pronounced with a hard ‘G’) which is China’s largest privatelyowned automotive group. Geely Automotive also includes Volvo and LEVC, the latter produce our iconic London ‘black cabs’.

EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMANCE, ALWAYS PILOTE

Discover a selection of 2 low-profiles and 2 A-class models on 7,2m, with automatic transmission and 2 different bedding options, that has been designed for you to experience ultimate comfort with exclusive, high-performance equipment :

• 200 Ah lithium-battery

• Truma® Combi D6 E heating system

• Compression refrigerator

• 2 x 100 W high-efficiency solar panels

Everything you need on a high performance vehicle is included for a special price!

BACK TO BIRMINGHAM

PFrances and Michael Howorth offer a sneak preview highlighting what will be on Show in February at the NEC

itching the concept of a perfect summer

The Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show, is rolling back to Birmingham this February. The adventure that awaits motorcaravanners at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) Birmingham starts on Tuesday 18th and runs through until Sunday 23rd February.

This is the UK’s largest, start of year, leisure vehicle and camping show and it will, as is usual, span five halls covering almost 20 acres. Over 420 exhibitors will bring together the very best in motorhomes, campervans, tents, outdoor gear, campsites and destinations. The

Show plays an important part in kickstarting orders for the industry at the beginning of the year. Surprisingly there is only a 20% cross over in visitors from the October show, yet this show is still expected to attract around 100,000 buyers from all across the UK.

special show-only offers, it is a good place to the start season. Many visitors go to order a new 'van, with the opportunity to step inside and compare over 700 new leisure vehicles, or to simply shop for those all important essentials for the year ahead.

Elddis, Buccaneer and Xplore are

Scan

Made to re-Adventure

Discover our latest products at the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show, Birmingham NEC, 18th–23rd February. Whether you’re fully prepared or love to wing it, we’ve got you covered! Visit us in Hall 4, Stand 4150.

to return to the show to exclusively reveal new models. Erwin Hymer Group UK is set to return too. They will debut new models, new ranges and even new brands. Campervan fans will be delighted to find even more pop-top, high top and AWD models on display. Affinity RV, Bilbo’s, Bodans, Campersales, Citroen, Dirty Weekender, Dreamer, Ecowagon, Hillside Leisure, Jans Lifestyle, Kaktus Vans, Knights Custom Conversions, Mega Mobil, Murvi, Project Yonder, Rolling Homes, Tourne Mobil, Vantage Motorhomes, Westfalia, Wildax and other top manufacturers and converters will be showing new models.

Motorhome manufacturers and converters will be showing new models with a huge choice of layouts built on a variety of chassis – including VW, Mercedes, MAN, Ford, Fiat and Renault. Top UK and European van builders will also be exhibiting at the event, including; Adria, Auto-Trail, Bailey, Carthago, Coachman, Chausson, Euro-Mobil, Hillside Leisure, Morelo, Malibu, Knaus, Rapido, Roller Team, Rimor and many more.

advanced technologies, such as Starlink for optimal connectivity, gasless electrical setups, and domestic-inspired kitchens with ovens, enabling a home-away-fromhome experience.

Founded by Oliver Arnold, a military veteran with a passion for British craftsmanship and problemsolving, personalisation is at the heart of their process. Whether it’s

schemes, or installing unique features like pull-out piano keyboards, the team collaborates closely with clients to deliver vans that perfectly suit their lifestyle and aspirations.

As well as the latest leisure vehicles the show provides expert advice on getting started, offering inspiration about where to travel and the opportunity >>

The Inspiration Theatre always attracts a crowd.

to try a host of free activities including van manoeuvring sessions (remember to bring the driving license).

The Inspiration Theatre offers a chance to discover new holiday locations, routes and itineraries. Special guests who share a love of the great outdoors will give talks on destinations that include Scotland, Portugal, Switzerland and Norway. They will feature alongside cooking demonstrations and other road trip stories.

Speakers will include co-host of The One Show, Alex Jones, Megan McCubbin, best known as one of the faces of BBC Two’s Springwatch and Winterwatch, wildlife cameraman and presenter, Hamza Yassin, radio presenter Jenny Powell and former pro tennis player, and campervanner, Annabel Croft.

As well as bringing together the best of the UK’s nature-loving personalities, the Inspiration Theatre will also host free cookery demonstrations by TV chef Kwoklyn Wan and campervan cook Vanlife Eats.

Travel guide authors, Gemma and Campbell (aka Highlands 2 Hammocks) will share their top tips for road trips around stunning Scotland and the NC500. Our colleague, the travel writer Marcus Leach, will take you on a captivating journey beyond the familiar sights of one of Europe’s most under-rated countries – Portugal, and author of the Slow Road travel book series, Martin Dorey, will offer the ultimate guide for road tripping around the Emerald Isle.

Aselection of quality frame, inflatable, fixed and drive away awnings to extend leisure vehicle living space will be pitched-up from the biggest brands including Dometic, Dorema, Isabella, Olpro, Outdoor Revolution, Telta, Thule, Vango and Trigano. Plus, all the necessary technology and kit to make touring hassle free and

Bring along an extra haven on your motorhome travels

BUDDY

Create shelter under your motorhome’s roll-out canopy with the stylish awning sides and front

enjoyable will be available – think levelling systems, electric caravan movers, batteries, security systems, solar panels, satellite systems, wifi and much more.

For those motorcaravanners who prefer to carry tents to expand their living space, an area covering over 11,000m2 will be bursting with the latest inflatable, pop-up and poled tents, roof-top tents and trailer tents in a huge, dedicated Tent & Camping Hall. Outdoor brands including Cabanon, Camp-Let, Coleman, Comanche, Kampa, Khyam, Latitude, Outdoor Revolution, Opus, Outwell, PJ Outdoors, Quest, Raclet, RoofBunk International, Snow Peak, SkyPod, TentBox, Trigano, Vango, Zempire and more will be showing their new 2025 ranges. Camping equipment and accessories including sleeping bags, ground mats, seating, BBQs, gadgets and more will also be available.

For practical and technical help and advice on leisure vehicle ownership, visitors can head to the Advice Hub. Ask The Expert Q&A’s will see experts offer security advice, tips for travelling with pets and insights to get road ready.

Those looking for more action can take to the water to try out paddleboarding and kayaking on the indoor Watersports Pool. The Beachside Café features a sandy beach area for little ones to build sandcastles and a helter skelter

The only scheme of its kind to be approved by all UK major manufacturers for in-warranty habitation servicing for touring caravans and motorhomes.

It is now the UK’s largest group of independently assessed mobile and fixed workshops nationwide and is seen as the benchmark for motorhome and touring caravan servicing in the UK. Giving you

For a full member listing please visit

Are you driving illegally?

When did you last check your motorhome weight? Ministry figures suggest up to 80% of motorhomes may be operating overloaded!

Drive an overloaded motorhome and you not only risk a fine, you also risk your insurance and the safety of you and your passengers!

When looking to buy your next motorhome, insist on an accurate, up -to-date weight ticket! The brochure may state a MIRO or payload allowance, but these f igures can be out by as much as 5% (average 125kg).

This is more likely to be against you than in your favour, so it is always recommended that you visit a weighbridge to check your vehicle’s weight.

Need to uprate to carry more payload?

If you think you might have a payload issue, we can help. SvTech is able to increase/uprate the payload allowance on many makes and models.

Behind the scenes of every SvTech uprate, testing of a vehicle is carried out to create a ministry recognised test report, which is then use to cover subsequent uprates. This report and testing is vital in supporting an uprate, and is a legal requirement. Do not be fooled into thinking it’s just a paperwork exercise, as offered by others.

Reaching 70? Need to consider downrating?

SvTech can downrate your motorhome to 3500kg should you not pass, or wish to take, your medical. You must first weigh the motorhome to find out what payload you will have available at 3500kg . For further guidance on downrating please visit our website at www.svtech.co.uk/motor-home-downrates

To promote road safety, SvTech designed a free -to-use, Load Distribution Analysis (LDA) program which helps the user to know their likely laden weight and how best to position their goods about the vehicle to avoid an axle overload . Please visit our website www.svtech.co.uk/lda to find out how you can stay safely within your vehicle limits.

For any questions regarding these matters, please contact 01772 621800 or email, webenquiries@svtech.co.uk

offering views of the Show, will leave visitors looking forward to their summer holidays ahead.

Whether you are already a fan of the freedom and adventure that caravan, motorhome, campervan and camping holidays provide or are looking to find out more about getting started, this is the show to visit. Not only will visitors be able to research and compare the very latest model ranges, but they will also be able to speak with manufacturers and experts directly and benefit from special show offers – all in one day!

Tickets are now on sale for just £13 (including parking), saving £3.50 on the door price. But online bookings will add a transaction fee of £1.25. Early booking is advised, as prices will rise on 18 February and tickets may sell out before then. Children under 16 years attend free with a paying adult.

GROUP NEWS & DIARIES

FEBRUARY 2025

ANGLIA

Group news coordinator: Gemma Mathers

T: 01502 725813 E: groupnews@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Post: Motor Caravanner magazine, Countrywide Publications, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6SZ

Deadline: 5th of the month for inclusion in the following month's magazine

52 Vans attended our Christmas rally at Sheringham, including 3 Chiltern, 5 East Midlands and 2 Essex. Friday night we enjoyed a ploughman’s supper followed by best Ladies and Gents Christmas top/jumper competiton. This was followed by 12 days of Christmas which had every table jumping up and down when it was there turn to sing and Ben running round the room directing everyone. Great fun was had by all. We then finished the evening off with a few games of bingo.

Saturday was a free day to wander into Sheringham if you were brave enough to tackle the winds from Storm Darragh. Then in the afternoon everyone decorated their table ready for the evening. We were back in the hall for 5pm for Bucks’ fizz and then our three course Christmas meal. The chef done us proud, there was so much food. Then we danced to Lainy King to try and burn off some of those calories. Sunday morning was a coffee morning, Bengy’s bonus ball was drawn as well as the raffle. We had over 60 raffle prizes and a record 8 people made it onto a chair for winning 3 or more prizes. A fantastic weekend was had by all.

50 vans attended our New Years Eve rally at Terrington. 36 Anglia, 1 Kent, 1 Essex, 5 East Mids 5 Chiltern and 2 Nene Valley. Monday night we started the evening with cheese, pate, crackers and mulled wine. This was followed by a general knowledge quiz and Bingo.

Tuesday was a free day to go out and explore the local area or take the bus to go further afield. In the evening, we all met up at 6pm for the buffet the committee had prepared. Then it was time to dance the night away with The Dave Whiskey Roadshow. We had not had a disco before but we will have one again, as he was great. He played all requests that was asked for and had the dance

floor full all evening.

On New Year’s Day the Men cooked the Great Anglia Big Breakfast Brunch for everyone. Thank you Ben & Keith for getting the barbie ready at 7am so that everything was ready and cooked in time. There was free time in the afternoon for chilling out with friends or to have a nap. Then we had afternoon tea (sandwiches, coffee and cake time). Then back in the hall in the evening for the Chinese raffle which saw the homemade Gin, a sloth and a rabbit cuddly toy frequently changing owners. Fun and laughter was had by all. After a break Keith gave a short speech and then it was time to draw Bens Bonus balls and the raffle. Thank you to all members that attended and helped to make it a great success.

Upcoming rallies: Valentines Rally 21st – 23rd February and NOT 14-16th February as stated in the rally programme (the school changed the date.) Fakenham High School NR21 9QT Start time 5.30pm.

This rally is Bookable so please call Teresa on 07739 463321 or email Teresa.poole50@virginmedia.com

AVON

Members attending the Christmas Celebrations at Fromebridge Mill coped ably with Storm Darragh. Thankfully, apart from rockin’ and rollin’, none of the vans sustained any damage. Thursday evening we gathered in the bar for a natter and card bingo.

On Friday some members went walking to the garden centre or a nearby pub, followed by the Christmas Meal, with a disco, in the evening. On Saturday we met up again in the restaurant to be entertained by Irena a talented singer, back by popular demand. She did well to travel to us in the storm, thank you. Ann and Jane were the main hosts, again, thank you.

GROUP

New Year was spent at Whitstone School, Shepton Mallet. Even members living locally found areas they didn’t know, when following our town trail. Based on the fancy dress theme of, “Come Dressed as a Book Title”, we had a Compendium of Challenges for each table with all points for the many quizzes and challenges accumulated for a joint prize. Nine hats and 14 6”x 6” squares (to make into blankets) were knitted to be sent to a Premature Baby Unit and more are promised. Mainly the gents, with help from some ladies when they were stuck, completed a rather tricky jigsaw. Most of the pieces were different shapes, some with completely smooth edges. Others made square hard-boiled eggs, did the dingbats quiz, made paper planes to race, did juggling and/or made a sketch of Pete, our chairman. The winning table was presented with two bottles of bubbly and a big box of chocolates.

We had a platter supper on 30th December, with handsliced ham, a variety of continental cuts, cheese and hardboiled eggs and tomatoes. Separate platters held a choice of pickles and coleslaw and of course fresh baguettes and butter. Dessert was a selection of home-made cakes with cream. No-one went home hungry, that’s for sure. All this was followed by an excellent evening of entertainment by DAZ.

All those in fancy dress, ‘Come as a Book Title’ on New Year’s Eve were winners, and were awarded for their efforts with chocolates. Before the celebrations we had a short video of the Cinescenie at Puy du Fou, which told the history of their French Chateau. The grandeur of the aristocrats living the high life contrasted starkly with the lot of the peasants, who eventually revolted and set fire to the chateau. They seemed to be going off to war quite often, culminating with the sirens, searchlights and aerial attacks of WWII. The finale was a fantastic firework and fountains display. Puy du Fou is must to visit if you are near Nantes in France, allow several days to visit the park. We had tea/ coffee and fresh home-made cakes one afternoon, more quizzes and card bingo.

Thanks are due to Margaret, who arranged the decorations in the hall and held a popular line-dancing session, also to Raye and Diane for the excellent home-made cakes. This will be my last Group News as I will not be seeking re-election at the EGM on 18 January. I do hope a new committee can be formed, and I wish Avon well. Bye, ACG Upcoming Rallies: Please watch our website and Facebook for news of the outcome of the EGM.

CHILTERN

I write this as we are recovering from a great rally celebrating seeing out the old and bringing in the new year, and wish all MCC members a healthy and happy year to come. We had 37 vans, 15 visitors from 10 different groups. Here are some of the comments we received.

On our way home from our first Chilterns New Year Rally, and what a fantastic few days it’s been. A massive thank you to all the Committee for your dedication and

hard work, ensuring that everyone had a good time; hopefully you managed to enjoy it too. The catering was excellent, disco was fantastic and the games, quizzes and competitions kept everyone busy with plenty of competitive spirit! Well done Paul for finding tracks with all those colours and animals for the music quiz! Elaine.

Thank you Chiltern for another great rally. Your Committee did an amazing job, in both the planning and delivery, ensuring everyone had a brilliant time. The food, games and music were all excellent. Well done to all involved. Janice.

Thanks to all the Chiltern group Committee and members for an excellent New Year Rally rally from start to finish. Your hard work was appreciated. Marion. The flying chickens were unbelievable! Vivien.

We’d like to thank everyone at Chiltern group for making us feel so welcome and for a fantastic New Year Rally. The committee worked so hard to keep us entertained over the course of the rally and gave us a New Year Party to remember. Thank you all from grateful Northern Counties members. Denise.

Upcoming rallies: Feb 7–9, 2 nights, Barnstones, Great Bourton,OX17 1QU, BOOKABLE. Feb 8, Day Meet, Gt Bourton Community Hall, OX17 1QU. An expression of interest would be helpful to help with catering.

EAST MIDLANDS

Springfields at Spalding James Bond/Christmas Shopping weekend 6th - 8th December, 21 vans braved Storm Darragh and all got parked up safely and all got away without any difficulty on the Sunday. Friday evening the rally was opened by our Chairman Paul Arndt, welcoming everyone and soon followed by an American Supper which was contributed to by all and was heartily consumed by all. The evening was then filled with Bingo and a James Bond Quiz.

Saturday evening was the main event of the weekend being James Bond Night. Everyone dressed in their glad rags, had a photo opportunity in front of the James Bond Gun Barrel logo and were served a glass or 2 of bubbly to help the festivities along. We were then treated to the evenings professional entertainment in the form of the

Chiltern Group

party duo 'Rewired' who enticed many to the dance floor, dancing the night away. Sunday coffee morning, the raffle was drawn and the Chairman thanked all for coming and wished everyone a safe journey home.

The Christmas Party rally at Corby Glen was a new venue for the East Midlands area and proved to be well received by the members. 28 vans were parked up on the Friday before meeting in the hall to start the festivities. There was a couple of Christmas themed quizzes followed by a Christmas carolls singalong which was interrupted by a mass “snowball” fight joined in by kids and adults alike. Saturday morning provided a craft session for the kids and the afternoon a Christmas film on the large screen for everyone. The evening started with a welcome buffet followed by a visit from Father Christmas himself and young and not so young games of musical chairs. The evening was then handed over to the professional entertainment courtesy of Kylie Dee, well received as usual. Sunday morning, after coffee, the raffle, the Chairmans closing speech, and a few words from Sue Pilkiw to promote some of the upcoming events held by the national club.

The New Year Rally at Ingoldmells started on the Monday with 33 vans arriving including 2 from Anglia 1 from Nene Valley and 1 from Yorkshire. All were welcomed on arrival with tea/coffee and biscuits in the hall and a chance to catch up with friends old and new. The evening started with the Vice Chair welcoming all before the bingo and very cryptic quiz, the latter being won by Val and her table with a very impressive score, miles in front of any one else! New Years Eve was party night with live entertainment and everyone thoroughly enjoying the brilliant atmosphere. Wednesday morning Chairman’s Chat and raffle and then a fantastic buffet started the evening before fun and games for all to enjoy. A brilliant rally thanks to stewards; Pauline, John, Sandra and Rob

Upcoming Rallies: February 14-16 Tattershall Village Hall,LN4 4LL. February 28-March 2, Marshalls Sports Ground, DN21 1UU. Both rallies bookable through Anne Taylor.

EAST WESSEX

This year all vans to our New Year's Rally were from our own group. After the welcome on Monday evening, we had a round of Who Dares Wins with table three winning (after coming up from the rear with help of double points). Some foot-tapping music finished off the evening.

New Year's Eve afternoon commenced with card bingo and then a fun game of Guess the Film Theme Tune quiz. After an American Supper in the evening, entertainment started with a game of Left/Right/Centre (Sheila won) and then the Sock Game (Larry and Sheila triumphed). This was followed by plenty of dance music building up to a crescendo that had everybody on the dance floor (with some persuasion) to ring in the New Year. Big Ben chimes and Auld Lang Syne followed. The music continued as everybody wished each other a Happy New Year.

On New Year's Day some of us frequented local pubs

for a bite to eat and a drink. With tea and biscuits in the afternoon we had a game of Indoor Bowls (won by Bob). In the evening we consumed what was left of the buffet and some delicious sausage rolls made by Larry's sister. This was followed by a Raffle and a General Knowledge quiz (won by table three). Music to jig to rounded off the evening. After a get together for coffee on Thursday morning we all said our farewells and made our departures.

Our next rally is Valentines in Ringwood. Some of the entertainment lined up for this includes: Valentines Table (not Family) Fortunes!; Left/Right/Centre; Card Bingo; Skittles / Deck Shuffle and some Valentines music. See you there.

Upcoming rallies: 14-16 Feb: Ringwood Junior School, Hightown Road, Ringwood, BH24 1NH. Valentines, two nights, hardstanding, heated hall. £15 pupn (£13 singles). Arrivals from 5pm. 28 Feb-2 Mar: Easebourne CE Primary School, Wheelbarrow Castle, Easebourne, GU29 9AG. St David's Day, two nights, hard standing, heated hall. £15 pupn (£13 singles). Arrivals from 5pm.

ESSEX

December 30th-January 2nd. Pleshey Village Hall was the chosen venue for the Essex New Year Party. It proved to be a lovely friendly rally and when the vans were parked up we all met up to meet and greet in the hall and enjoyed some very welcome soup provided by Chrissy. We gathered back in the hall that evening for a game of Bingo and bought tickets for a one off raffle prize of a £25 voucher off a future rally. Nick Woodcroft entertained us throughout the weekend with many quizzes, some to be completed in the vans. Background music, while everyone caught up, provided a very friendly atmosphere to the evening.

New Year’s eve morning Sue and Nick served tea and toast and arrangements were made to decorate the hall that afternoon. As the weather was crisp but dry that day, some members walked locally while others walked 3 miles there and back to the lovely village of Howe Street and had drinks in the Michelin starred pub and restaurant the Galvin Green Man. That evening was smart dress and the hall was decorated in black and silver, where members had their photos taken in front of a very festive backdrop. We then enjoyed a generous and delicious shared food table.

Pass the parcel provided by Sue and Nick was great fun with everyone joining in, followed by a brilliant dice game run by Chrissy Scotchmer. We then danced the night away and counted in the New Year followed by Auld Lang Syne.

New Years morning bacon rolls, tea and coffee proved very popular. Later that day many went to the Leather Bottle for a pint or three and had a laugh with some of the locals. After dinner together in the hall and a quiz and board games we ended a brilliant weekend slightly earlier! Anne.

Upcoming rallies 14-16th February, Mayflower High School, Stock road, CM12 0RT start time 5pm. 21-23rd March, Room in the Roding, Dunmow road, Beauchamp Roding Ongar, CM50PF. BOOKABLE. Contact Liz Dyer 07899 848074

KENT

Happy New Year to all our Kent MCC members!! As I write this article, we are experiencing heavy winds and lots of rain with some snow across Kent with the temperature soon to be plummeting down! Not a lot to look forward to but we do have something to look forward to…..our rally season is opening up and probably you will receive this magazine at the same time as our first rally at Sandwich is in progress. Tony and Marilynne have a fun weekend planned and hopefully you have braved the weather and joined us in all the shenanigans which will feature in the March magazine.

Our Rally Programme for 2025 is now available on the Kent MCC Website at kentgroupmcc.weebly.com with latest updates being communicated via our Facebook page - Kent Group of the Motor Caravanners’ Club. If you are aware of someone who does not have internet access, please consider calling them to keep them updated. Please do come along to the rallies where you can meet up with old friends and make new friends. If you are new to rallying, then please do be encouraged that we are a friendly bunch and would love to meet with you.

Upcoming rallies: Our first rally for 2025 will be 14th to 16th February 2025 at Sandwich Junior School, St Barts Road, CT13 0AS. Come along and join in some fun and games, hosted by Tony and Marilynne Hill, as we try and take away our winter blues! Friday night will see the return of our annual Broomsticks and Beans Bags game which is highly infectious with teams fighting with great determination to win, shin pads may be a good idea! Saturday night will be the Gangsters and Molls Valentines extravaganza with Chicago Gangster Hot Baps (pulled pork with accompaniments of apple sauce and stuffing) being served. Feel free to dress to impress as we play Gangstopoly, a team game involving chance, skill and some clever gangster moves. The school is a short walk from Sandwich town centre which offers the visitor a stroll around its many original buildings including several listed public houses. This is a bookable rally. Start time 5pm.

Friday 14th to Sunday 16th March – Palm Bay School, Palm Bay Avenue, Cliftonville, Margate, CT9 3PP. The school is adjacent to the beach and a short walk along the flat promenade to Margate. This is a bookable rally. Start time 5pm. Please contact Sharon on kent@ themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk for any bookable rallies.

LANCASHIRE

Canberra Club Christmas Dinner. Friday evening was in the hall, many members wore their Christmas jumper’s, there was Bingo by Allan and a quiz by Barbara also Bonus ball and sale of raffle tickets along with music and line dancing by Carole. Saturday morning 10.30am in the hall for Tai Chi with Janet and Stephen followed at 11am with Barbara making Christmas table centrepieces, lots of members took part. Stephen Judged the competition and Lesley was

the winner. The evening commenced at 6.30pm in the hall for the Christmas meal, later we had Take Your Pick by Allan and Brian, Allan took photographs of couples with our President Jack and Chairman David in front of the Christmas tree. The evenings artist was Joe Hall who entertained us all, followed by music from Carole and chit chat among friends. Sunday coffee morning David our chairman thanked the committee for their hard work in making it a memorable Christmas rally, and also thanked all who came. There were 27 Vans all from the Lancashire group, Mel’s chosen charity made £56, well done to winners of the raffle prizes, bonus ball etc. and he wished everyone a Merry Christmas and safe journey home.

Warton Cricket Club New Years Rally. Over the period of 4 days, we had Bingo, Take Your Pick and Play Your Cards Right by Allan & Brian. Tai Chi by Janet & Stephen plus various games during the afternoons. Sunday evening Postie Sue & Bill were Bookies for the horse racing game, Mel was compere, the winner was Beattie after 4 races, we had a quiz each by Carole & Allan, Rob did a game fifteen bags with hidden objects to feel and guess. Brian did scores for the Curling winners, Jimmy & Postie Sue.

Monday the artist had everyone singing & dancing, followed by Line dancing and music by Carole who did a fantastic job. Tuesday all had a buffet, a big thank you to committee & members who put on a great spread. In the evening, we had a Fancy-Dress Parade, the winners were Janet & Stephen, then followed Talent night where certain members performed and entertained us all. Angie & Rob brought two crates of beer and bottles of wine for everyone, music and dancing continued till midnight when we all gathered in a circle for Auld Lang Syne to bring in the New Year.

Wednesday coffee morning David our chairman thanked all winners of various raffles, the committee and members for the buffet, Mel’s chosen charity raised £114, 21 vans in attendance all Lancashire. David wished everyone a Happy New Year and a safe journey home.

Upcoming rallies: 24 - 26 January Turnover Farm Burns Night. 7-9 February Whittingham PR3 2JE. 21-23 February Canberra Club BB2 7LF.

Lancashire Group

MOTORCYCLE

Whilst you are thinking about new clothing for the MCG Rallies this year, here are the results of the Motorbike Gear survey that some of you filled in at our 2024 AGM.

GLOVES: No make preference came out overall. Most have separate Summer and Winter gloves and one pillion has heated gloves. HELMET: Flip helmets are the most popular especially amongst glasses wearers, followed by Full Face helmets. A few mentioned preferences for a drop down sun visor. The different makes that were mentioned included Nolan, Shark, Arai, HJC and Shoei. The main reason for choosing a helmet was comfort. JACKET: Frank Thomas was the most popular followed by Alpine Stars, then Richa, Merlin and JTS. It was noted by many, that you needed to go one size up on all makes. Many had separate jackets for Summer and Wet weather and a couple of you are wearing leather jackets.

TROUSERS: Frank Thomas and Oxford were joint favourites followed by Dainese and Bullit. Everyone said their jeans were true to size and the armour was comfortable. Textiles: No favourite. We are wearing Frank Thomas, Alpine Stars, Dainese and Merlin. Thank you for reminding us on the Washing instructions: take out Armour and wash inside out. BOOTS: No favourite again. We are wearing J&S, Daytona, Frank Thomas, Forza, Forma, RST, Alpine Stars, Oxtar and Wrangler. You told us that your boots are comfortable and many have lasted years. ARMOUR: Everyone was happy with protection that came with their jackets and trousers. Several of you mentioned that you had changed to D30 protectors as it is lighter in weight and allows more freedom in the legs. AIRBAGS: Only one of you told us about these. Cost was about £500. They had experienced ‘inflation' and the airbags had to be sent back to suppliers to be regassed. HI VIZ: Most said they did not wear it unless they were Tail End Charlie. HELMET COMMS: the majority use Cardo and one uses Sena. Most of you said they were easy to set up and use. Finally we asked what was your Best Buy and here are some of your replies: “my boots are 30 years old” “Gortex clothing" "My Wax Cotton Jacket is so warm and Waterproof".

Upcoming rallies: MCG are attending The National Rally this year, 22-27 May at Hatton Countryworld. We are hoping to be given our own area. This will be followed by an MCG Rally at Uppertown Farm, 27 May - 3 June (new dates are being negotiated as we write this). Checkout the MCG Website, MCG Facebook page and MCG campers WhatsApp group for the latest updates.

NENE VALLEY

Nene Valley Christmas Meet Pattishall Village Hall. Well what a fabulous weekend we all had with plenty to eat and drink, evenings of entertainment and good parking on hard standing at this new venue. We welcomed guests with a warm drink and biscuits and began our festivities in the evening. Jane hosted a couple of games of Bingo and

Pat, Diane and Mick relieved our guests of money for the Raffle and Bonus Ball. This was followed by a warm mince pie for everyone, including gluten free for those indulging. Tony had prepared one of his by now infamous quizzes that made the old grey matter working overtime. After time for everyone to catch up on the latest gossip and news, Paul and Pat led everyone in a rendition of The Twelve Days of Christmas with all the action. Everyone joined in and there was much laughter amongst us.

We had a coffee morning on Saturday followed by a setting up session ready for the evening. Six o clock saw us all gathered in the lovely hall, all dressed up for a sherry/port/juice reception organised and sourced by Tony and Kathleen and a bottle of wine was provided for each couple for the meal. In the meantime Mick drew the Bonus Balls with his usual finesse! We partook of a delicious roast dinner prepared by outside caterers with pavlova or Christmas pudding for afters. Entertainment by Nick Dadds got most up dancing and his lovely voice and repertoire took peoples memories back to their much younger days. The huge raffle was a great success. Our guests from Anglia revelled in the fact that not only did they win at Bingo and the Bonus Ball but took some of the top Raffle prizes back over the borders! A huge thank you who worked and helped to make this meet happen, particularly in view of the setbacks we had along the way. So successful was this meet that John has already had bookings for next year!

Our Rally on 14 – 16 February will be held at at the Fun Farm, Weston close to Spalding with hard standing, water and chemical disposal. The site is next to Baytrees Nurseries and Garden Centre where there is a restaurant, coffee shop, pet shop, food hall, giftware and retail outlets. Baytree Owl and Wildlife Centre has an impressive collection of over 60 owl and birds of prey. Doodles offer pottery painting sessions. If that’s not enough to keep you entertained there is a regular bus service (Stagecoach 505) from the nearby stop to Springfields Outlet Centre, and to Spalding.

Upcoming rallies: February 14-16 The Fun Farm, High Road, Weston, Spalding, PE12 6JU . Start Time 1pm, Cost £11 pupn Bookable. March 14-16 The Cock at Broom, 23 High Street, Broom, Biggleswade, SG18 9NA. Start Time 1pm, Bookable, Cost £14 pupn. April 11-13 Prince William School, Herne Road, Oundle PE8 4BS.

Nene Valley

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NORTHERN COUNTIES

Northern Counties 2024 rally season ended with 2 great parties. Firstly the Christmas party held for the second year at Darlington Auction Mart. The rally was held on the weekend of storm Darragh but no storm was going to dampen the spirit of members. Although a new venue last year, Dots cafe attached to the auction mart and the caterers for the Christmas party has become a firm favourite with members. Members pulled on their festive Christmas jumpers but Ann Mark and Alan Murray took the prize for the best festive outfits. Members were in fine voice to sing for their supper with Neil Huggon leading the group with a rendition of The Twelve Days of Christmas.

The final rally of the year was at Redcar racecourse. On the welcome night members enjoyed entertainment from singer Stephz. On New Year’s eve members enjoyed a buffet and entertainer Alan Stevens helped members welcome in 2025. During the rally Neil Huggon led a 3 mile ramble firstly to the nature reserve then a windy walk along the seafront before ending back at the site. There was a spontaneous visit to a local pub by some members who definitely took over the place. During the New Year rally Janet Naylor was co-opted onto the committee as assistant rally officer. Janet will be a great asset to the committee and we thank her for agreeing to take on the role.

The upcoming rallies listed below are both bookable and can be booked via the website. Both venues have been on the programme previously and proved popular. Keilder Campsite is located within Keilder forest Northumberland and well known for its dark skies. The night sky can be beautiful in this area so definitely worth a visit if you enjoy seeing the stars at night.

If you are wanting to plan your year further, a full list of rallies for 2025 and up to date information can be found on the club’s website www.mccnortherncounties.co.uk. The Facebook page Northern Counties MCC may also provide up to date information for any future rallies. Denise Hurst.

Upcoming rallies: 28 February – 2 March Blucher Social Club, Stephenson Terrace, Bulcher, Newcastle NE15 9SN. Start time 12 noon BOOKABLE RALLY.

21 March – 24 March Keilder, Keilder Campsite, Keilder, Hexham, NE38 1EJ. Start time 12 noon. BOOKABLE RALLY

N. IRELAND

28 vans arrived at St. Pius College, Magherafelt on Friday and we were warmly greeted, received the new Rally Handbook for 2025 and parked up by our hosts for the weekend Irene and Robbie who were assisted by Selma and Elmer. In the evening we went over to the hall to decorate our tables and were greeted with mulled wine and mince pies by Selma and her helpers. Everyone was in the festive spirit wearing Christmas jumpers and Santa hats. We all enjoyed a game of pass the parcel, each table shared their prize which was a big bar of Galaxy chocolate. Peter Johnston entertained us all with everyone joining in and singing Christmas carols. The 12 days of Christmas was the best song of the night with members volunteering to play the leading roles, well done to you all.

On Saturday evening we had live music which had us all up on the dance floor and a raffle with many lucky winners. Harry Aston celebrated his birthday with a beautiful cake. Sunday morning Selma and her helpers had tea, coffee, biscuits and cake for everyone, thank you ladies. Our chairman Sam thanked everyone for coming, wishing all the members a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Ramunas and Rita Pareige were congratulated on their new van. Happy New Year to you all. Michelle, Bill and Emilee. MCCNI New Year celebrations at Cookstown Primary School 30th December 2024 -1st January 2025. We had a great Old Year out and New Year Celebration which was well hosted by Brian & Hayley and ably assisted by Harry & Jane. Monday evening got off to a great start with a slideshow of photo highlights from 2024 organised by Andy with help from several ‘technical advisors’ and accompanied by great music provided by Albert.

Our last Bingo game of 2024 followed with many happy winners. More great music from Albert accompanied many happy conversations with memories shared and plans for the incoming year discussed. We all headed for bed ready for the celebrations to come. Tuesday morning and afternoon were spent by many members heading into Cookstown for some last-minute shopping, visits to a variety of hostelries, restaurants and hotels for lunch. The celebrations for ‘Old Years Night started around 9:00 pm with live music which had people up dancing all evening. A very full raffle was held during the evening with a variety of prizes won. A super Photobooth was set up and run by Peter and Marie Johnson giving couples and groups a great photo opportunity to record the evening. Celebrations at midnight saw everyone on the floor dancing the New Year in and all giving a hearty rendition of Auld Lang Syne.

Our Chairman, Sam Arlow gave a short speech welcoming the incoming year with the MCCNI, thanking all involved in running the group throughout 2024 and looking forward to 2025. On Wednesday the coffee morning was attended by all and there were no signs of anyone being under the weather from the festivites. The draw for the tickets to the Annual Dinner Dance took place and the Complimentary Weekend Ticket was won by Mark &

Jacqueline Hutchinson. The £70.00 Meal Voucher was won by Ivan & Alex Mellon. The Number Plate draws went to Albert & Olivia Everett and Barbara & Maurice McIhagga. Vouchers for free nights based on attendance at rallies went to Albert Everett and Norman McKee. The absence of two stalwart couples from the celebrations was noted –Dessie & Ruth Ross and Tom & Agnes Adair. Their company was missed and good wishes from all were expressed for a quick return to full heath and our outings. The Rally was closed by our Chair Sam who thanked all those who attended making it a very special start to the groups 25th Silver Anniversary Year. Bob & Iris McEwan.

NWM&NW

Our Christmas Party was again held at Bickerton Village Hall on 13th to 15th December. Numbers were limited this time to avoid the difficulties experienced moving round the room last time. 26 vans attended parking safely on the ample hard standing. Many thanks to our new rally officer for parking everyone. Friday evening was our usual bingo session when there were six different winners over the three houses. Money all nicely shared out. This was followed by a parade of Christmas jumpers. Our lady winner was Sue Ford and the winner for the men was David Jones. Well done to them.

On Saturday morning while the tables were being set out Lyn Linay held a hot chocolate and games interlude. The hot chocolate proved very popular as it was accompanied by delicate sweet treats. Some members went off to decorate their vans for the early evening judging. The Christmas meal began with our usual sherry reception. The meal was wonderful and enjoyed by everyone. Everything was served hot. Many thanks to the new caterer and waitresses for all their hard work. It was coffee morning and raffle draw on Sunday when prizes were presented. The decorated van competition organised by Jane was won by Mike and Kerry Burn with an abundance of Christmas characters displayed around their van together with moving Christmas tree in lights. The runners up was a very tuneful entry from Tim and Dawn Day. Many thanks to judges David and Lynda Bish who wrote a poem in honour of the event. The alphabetical anagram competition with a Christmas theme was won by Brian and Jane Parnill. "Only here for the Beer", Phil Ford and the Williams family were the runners up. Well done to everyone for all your efforts.

The New Year was celebrated at Tilstock Village Hall. Things were a little uncertain as Eileen was taken into hospital in the run up to the rally. We hope she gets better soon. On Monday there was a marvellous bring and share evening with a selection of sandwiches, other savoury items and some wonderful cakes and gateaux. Thank you everyone. Darren Hill managed to arrange some music for the evening and Lucky 13 card game, as a change from bingo, kept everyone entertained. Ron Maddox particularly enjoyed as he won twice. For New Year's Eve, the room had been suitably decorated by Shirley and thanks to Darren's

technical know-how there was more music and the chimes of Big Ben at midnight. A delicious beef stew followed by gateaux was served and enjoyed by all. A big thank you to everyone who helped to make this rally a success.

Upcoming rallies: 14th to 16th February Cranage Village Hall, Cranage, Knutsford Road Cheshire CW4 8QE . St Valentine's Theme. Bookable. 28th Feb to 2nd Mar Brymbo Sports and Social Complex, Heritage Way, Wrexham, LL11 5TG St David's Day.

SCOTTISH

At the AGM in October 2024 it was agreed that all Scottish Group Rallies in 2025 would be bookable and payable on arrival. Rallies can be booked by contacting the Rally Officer at scotland.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk or the Secretary at scotland@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk . Hosts are needed for some rallies.

On arrival at a rally please have a sealed envelope containing payment in cash for the number of nights staying plus £1.00 per person rally fee. The front of the envelope should be clearly marked with your name, membership number, group and registration number. Please note that all rallies start at 2.00pm unless otherwise notified do not arrive before the advertised start time.

SEVERN VALLEY

New Year’s Rally at Christopher whitehead School, Worcester. The Rally started at 12 midday on Sunday 29th December 2024 and a steady stream of vans were booked in and given an itinerary of the weekend’s events and useful information about local services. In total we had 66 vans from 12 groups to include SV, NWM, SSW, W Wessex, N Counties, Nene Valley, West Country, Lancs, Chiltern, E Mids and Motorcycle Group.

The dining hall at the school was opened at 4pm for tea/coffee and mince pies to welcome everyone. 7.30pm in the evening the main hall was opened which had been decorated and tables set out by John and Pat Kirby. And there was music by Pluck and Strum to start the weekend off.

Monday 30th the dining hall was opened for tea and coffee. At 2pm there was a whist drive run by Beryl and Jan for anyone who could play or wanted to learn how to play followed by card craft flower making from Pat and knitting/ loom hat/ pom pom making by Gail. The weather was lovely and sunny on Monday, so some members took the opportunity in the morning to explore the City of Worcester. At 4pm another opportunity to have tea and coffee and play Bingo. Again, the main hall opened at 7.30 in the evening and Mel and Him duo singing songs from the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and eighties which was a great hit with all MCC members.

On New Year’s Eve from 11am the hall was opened if anyone wanted tea/coffee and there were Puzzles, games, DVDs for people to watch on the projector screen and a >>

Quiz run by Phil and prizes were given for first and second winners, followed by Bingo at 4.30pm.

In the evening there was a Disco by DJ Ritchie. A cold buffet, to which everyone commented that they thoroughly enjoyed. Each table were invited to bring decorations for which there would be a prize for the best table and the theme was through the decades from the 50’s onwards and the best costume for men and women also received a prize. A Raffle was drawn and run by Chris Windmill for the air ambulance, Hampers donated by Chris also.

At midnight we all welcomed in the New Year singing to Auld lang Syne before everyone went back to their van for the night, the weather had changed and become very windy during the day followed by heavy rain overnight. On New Year’s Day the hall was opened once again for tea/ coffee in the morning with Games, Puzzles etc. A Raffle was held by Severn Valley at 12midday with various prizes.

There was afternoon Bingo and in the evening an entertainer called Wayne the Weird a comedian who was brilliant went down a storm with everyone who stayed, unfortunately some people had to leave early due to work commitments etc. Departure was on Thursday at 12pm.

Upcoming rallies: March 14th-16th at Barons Cross Pub in Leominster.

S&W WALES

Hi everyone, it is a very wet, cold and grey day as I write this report; perfect weather for reflecting on the excellent rallies in 2024, the good friends in the club and for planning future motorhome trips to cheer us up.

12-14th Dec – Tycroes RFC. This was the popular venue for our Christmas Party rally which was hosted by Muriel & Dave Butt and Liz & Colin Davies. The visitors were Bob & Dilys Jerrett- and Smiths from Avon. The weather was misty but dry, which always helps, and some visited nearby Ammanford, took a walk or supported the local rugby team during the weekend. We were in the comfortable club lounge on Friday evening; Keith’s Bingo was ‘interesting’ as there were three power cuts during the last game! The quiz on ‘Dogs’ was wone by Graham’s Gang and a good time was had by all.

The Saturday evening party was in the function room and there was much table preparation for the ‘Best Decorated Table Competition’ which was judged by Colin

and Dave. The standard was so high that joint winners were chosen, ‘Laura’s Gang’ and ‘The Claytons’, thanks to everyone for joining in. The evening started with the ‘Coffee Morning’ with an excellent selection of raffle prizes; special congratulations were given to Laura & Nigel Rees on the arrival of their first grandchild, Abel. Everyone enjoyed the absolutely superb buffet before settling down to be entertained by ‘Black Gold’, a four piece group from Llanelli, who were excellent. The whole evening was a resounding success.

29th Dec-1st Jan – Kidwelly Community Centre. The hosts for this New Year Rally were Sue & Keith Howard and Muriel & Dave Butt who welcomed 17 vans to this cosy venue. There were our regular Avon visitors, Bob & Dilys Jerrett and first timers, Rose & Nigel Jenkins.

The warm and welcoming hall, with endless tea, coffee & biscuits was ideal for the rally events, which included an afternoon film show with Billy Connelly and Bingo & a Quiz most nights. The Curling Challenge was a highlight; the trophy was won by the men and, this year, they did not cheat! Well done to the team. The evening entertainment was provided by Idge Logan with a variety of musical styles, which was enjoyed by all.

Muriel had crocheted a beautiful blanket which she had been raffling in aid of the Welsh Air Ambulance; the lucky winners were Debbie and Lyn (Ty Croes); £117 was raised for this worthy charity, thank you Muriel. Special birthday wishes were given to Bob Jerrett who will be a very ‘young’ 85 years old on 17th January. The hosts would like to thank everyone who came, you made hosting so easy, enjoyable and fun.

Upcoming rallies: 27th Feb – 2nd March – St.Richard Gwyn Catholic School, Barry, CF63 1BL – A Welsh theme -St.David’s Day, entertainment (semi-finalist of BGTalent), Bara Brith competition, hall, showers, toilets, hard-standing - starts 12 noon. 13th-16th March – Ty Croes RFC, SA18 3NY – Six Nations Weekend- entertainment (favourite ‘Spider & Trio’), showers, toilets – starts 12 noon. FOR ALL BOOKABLE RALLIES PLEASE CONTACT OUR RALLY OFFICER on 07791524227 or keithjhoward17@gmail.com

SUSSEX

The days are slowly getting longer and brighter and we are all looking forward to an adventure filled year, travelling near and far, meeting up with friends old and new.

Our Christmas rally at Willingdon was a great success, with a fantastic American Supper/Bring and Share meal on Saturday evening. The table groaned under the weight of many tasty treats and everyone had brought brilliant contributions to ensure that we had enough energy to enjoy DJ Tom and his wide range of popular music to listen, sing and dance to. Thank you everyone for making this a spectacular event, including the buffet which I’m sure we will try again in the future. The Table Top Sale and Tombola made an extra £48 for our charity, the KSS Air Ambulance. Congratulations especially to Jacqui for her hard work.

S&W Wales

I’m not sure how much the ‘traders’ made but there was an impressive range of items on sale. Hopefully your vans were lighter and wallets heavier on the way home. Carole Bennett also had a fabulous earring stand in aid of Neuroblastoma UK, a charity supporting rare childhood cancer. She raised £39 from the sales which will be doubled by Gift Aid to £78. So well done to all. Also, thanks for your kind comments on our Facebook page, it’s great to feel appreciated.

The New Year rally at Bexhill was hosted by the Sussex committee, with visitors from East Wessex, Anglia and Kent groups adding to the Sussex throng. Despite the wind, rain and cold, everyone joined in to see in the New Year, with music from Mel, as fantastic as ever, and DJ Alan taking us all back to our youth. The wine and cheese supper was a welcome addition to the party festivities, supplementing members’ own full tables. Many joined in with the theme by dressing in 60/70’s colourful garb, the winner being Sheila from Sussex as decided by the secret judge, otherwise known as George, also from Sussex (however, it was closely contested by the East Wessex group who were just pipped at the post). Well done! Although some had to leave early, the games night on the first evening of the new year provided extra fun and was organised by Marilyn and Mary, with ‘Musical Cups’ and ‘Would I Lie to You’ added to our repertoire. Thank you for your support and help in making this an enjoyable event.

All Sussex members should by now have received their 2025 Rally programme, some by attending the day Soup Meet at Dial Post in January, others by mail. If for any reason you did not get a copy, let the Committee know and one will be speedily dispatched to you. You will see that there are still a couple of rallies requiring hosts. If you feel inclined to help out with any of these, please contact Mary Campbell or myself, for details. Being a host can be as involved as you want, the only stipulation is to check in attendees, collect the necessary fees and follow the rally pack which gives you all the information and guidance you need. Anything else, such as quizzes, games, etc is up to you. Help is always available and it is a wonderful and rewarding opportunity to get to know and support your fellow members, as well as being fun!

Upcoming rallies: Valentine rally at Easebourne Primary School, near Midhurst, GU29 9AG 14-16 February, arrivals after 5pm please. To be hosted by Jo and Clive, with

professional entertainment from Vanessa. Please indicate your intention to come by booking, to ensure a space. March, 21-23 at the Barn, Lancing, BN15 8JG, from 2pm (booking required if you want EHU). Please check the website for any changes due to hosts, weather or any other reason. Sometimes there are things outside our control which can affect the rallies.

SWP

Our New Years Rally was held at Trevarrian Holiday Park, near Newquay, Dec 30-2 Jan. Although the weather wasn’t kind to us, with extremely strong winds and at times torrential rain a total of 22 vans (1 Avon, 2 West Country, and 19 SWP) gathered to see the end of 2024. After getting settled we all enjoyed a basket meal and a game of ten pin bowling. Then many took part in a very serious game of Bingo while many enjoyed meeting up in the bar with old and new friends. Tuesday 31st the majority took the bus to enjoy the delights of Newquay, for a beer or coffee etc. Some braved the cold weather to go walking along the many coastal paths and beautiful countryside to Mawgan Porth or Watergate Bay.

New Years Eve turned into a fantastic party night, where we all merry and danced the night away. At midnight everyone joined hands to sing Auld Lang Syne then went around the room wishing all a very Happy New Year. It was a very memorable and enjoyable evening, although the weather was against us it did not stop us having a great time. On New Years day our hosts Mel & Pete held a coffee morning and raffle draw. Our Chair Linda, thanked everyone for making the rally a huge success and reminded us we still need Hosts for a couple of our rallies, which would be in danger of being cancelled if hosts do not come forward.

On New Year’s day a lot of our members enjoyed a very tasty roast dinner at ‘The Travellers Rest’ the local pub which is just a short walk from the site. The 2025 Rally Programme is almost finalized, just a couple of items to be confirmed. Sheila will then send to all the members via email, in the meantime you can view our programme on the SWP facebook page under the tab (Features).

Please remember if any changes to the rally programme are necessary they will be notified to all MCC members through the monthly newsletters, SWP and MCC websites, and our SWP Facebook page.

Upcoming rallies: FEBRUARY 28-3 MARCH = 3 nights

Trevarrian Holiday Park, Mawgan Porth, Newquay. TR8 4AQ. £23.00 pupn inc EHU. MARCH 21-24 = 3 nights

Tencreek Holiday Park, Polperro Road, Looe, Cornwall PL13 2JR. £23.00 pupn inc EHU

WEST COUNTRY

I hope everyone got home safely from our Christmas Rally, which unfortunately Storm Darragh decided to cause the electricity to fail, and we were unable to enjoy the meal on Saturday evening. However, Jason Toft certainly had

everyone up dancing on the Friday night and many had enjoyed the coach trip into Exeter for some Christmas shopping.

All our rallies are now open to booking from all groups information about our programme and booking forms are on the website. Please remember we do have a deposit for every rally you wish to book this year and confirmation of your booking will only be given when the form and deposit have been checked. The early part of the year has bookings coming in and as usual our Exmouth rally is filling up.

Our first rally is our Valentines one which is taking place over the Valentine weekend. There is entertainment on Valentine’s evening itself with Jason Toft, who will no doubt get your feet taping and you singing along. This is then followed by our Unity rally, which at the sites request has a closing date for bookings of the 28th February, so if you want to enjoy some sea air and cycle rides towards Weston we will welcome you.

Upcoming rallies: 12th – 16th February Riverside Caravan Park South Molton EX36 3HQ. 25th – 30th March Unity Farm Brean TA8 2RB.

WEST WESSEX

West Wessex MCC saw the New Year in at St Michael’s Middle School at Colehill and were joined by members from Essex, Kent, Sussex, Avon, Chiltern, and East Wessex. On the 29th there was Meet and Greet and a music quiz. On the 30th we enjoyed some line dancing before tucking into sausages, new potatoes and beans, followed by apple strudel. Afterwards we were entertained by Nigel from the Avon group, who sang and played the guitar. Thank you, Nigel. This was followed by bingo. On New Year’s Eve, we tucked into roast beef or roast pork with all the trimmings, followed by a selection of desserts. Afterwards we danced into the early hours, seeing in the New Year with the Enigma Road Show. Many thanks to Keith. On New Year’s Day we enjoyed jacket potatoes with coronation chicken or cheese, followed by a selection of desserts. Huge thanks to ALL who helped to make the rally a success. Special mention must be made of Andy and Babs, who again did all of the cooking, and Gill who did much of the background work, which isn’t always recognised.

The 2025 Rally Book was given to WW members who

attended. Everyone else will have received theirs in the post in the following days.

Upcoming rallies: The first rally will be on March 13th17th at South Lytchett Manor, Dorchester Road, Lytchett Minster, BH16 6JB. Please book with Hosts, Judy and Roy, on 07831420815.

YORKSHIRE

13 -15 December York Auction Mart. What a weekend! Hosted by Malcolm and Carol with help from Shell, we had 41 vans attending, 27 Yorkshire, 5 N Counties , 5 Lancashire, 2 Chiltern, 1 Anglia and 1 E.Midlands. The weather was clear but cool enabling the ralliers to travel into York over the weekend and visit the Christmas market. Friday night the Christmas meal, home cooked by the resident chef, was served and enjoyed by everyone. Then the evening activities began, music by DJ Mark , Bingo, and games organised by Shell and Carol ( It’s after 8, Hooked and swinging balls ). Saturday evening, Pie and peas was the dish of the day, again provided by the resident chef. The evening included a sing along with our very own Graham Sugdon “Suggy “ accompanied by Ken, a Quiz and more fun and games. A great weekend for everyone.

28 Dec 2024– 2 Jan 2025 Malton & Norton RUFC – New Years Party. Happy New Yeeha. Our theme for the New Years Eve was Country & Western. Sunday saw the arrival of the partygoers, 33 vans in all 23 Yorkshire, 3 N.Counties, 2 E.Midlands, 2 Essex, 1 each from W.Wessex, Lancashire and Severn Valley. Once everyone was settled and rested they were ready for the evening’s festivities which included music by DJ Mark, games, quizzes and bingo. The committee opened the room Monday & Tuesday afternoon for tea, coffee, biscuits and cake, it was great to have a natter and catch-up with friends. Many of the ralliers went into town for shopping and/or visiting the local hostelries. Monday evening a Pie & Pea supper was enjoyed before everyone was entertained by Rachel B.

New Year’s Eve was theme night and many of the partygoers took part in dressing for the theme. Viddles for the evening consisted of a buffet and we saw the New Year in with Johnny Flinton as our entertainer. The last night of the rally gave us a Wild West quiz, games and music from DJ Mark. The weather held off until Wednesday and the ralliers enjoyed some beautiful sunsets and some even saw the Northern lights. Thank you to the committee members, who attended, for all their hard work in putting together a great New Year rally

Upcoming Rallies: 14-16 Feb Valentine’s Rally at Wetherby Racecourse LS22 5EJ. 23-30 March Marsden CC HD7 6NN (this is a bookable rally).

RALLY AMENDS

YORKSHIRE 10th-12th January rally at Skipton Auction Mart has been cancelled. It has been rearranged for 28th February to 2nd March 2025.

West Wessex

TimE TravEL

IN THE BEGINNING

The first pre-production Auto-Sleeper was built in 1961 by Calverley Trevelyan on a brand-new Morris J2 (pictured). Immediately behind the side-hinged rear door was a foldaway awning tent for his children to sleep in. Subsequent early production models used the Austin J2 derivative and were built in Manchester by Calverley Trevelyan and Bob Halling. All were pre-sold by Henly’s of Bristol

COULdA SHOULdA

TwO FOR TwENtY-FIVE

Could have been hugely popular… indeed should have been hugely popular…but wasn’t! First-up is the Luxor, the only Auto-Sleeper ‘A’-Class. It was an imported Italian Ducato-based Mirage shell with a bespoke Auto-Sleeper interior. Second was Vivanti, Auto-Sleeper models re-badged and offered for hire to folk joining an organised motorhome tour from partners CAMC, Haven Holidays, and GB Privilege.

The company grew exponentially and soon moved to bigger premises in the village of Willersey in Worcestershire, still its home today. Two noteworthy developments were: (1) Their signature solid-sided parallelogram action elevatingroof (pictured raised on a VW T4 Transporter Trooper). (2) Beautifully fluid GRP monocoque bodies that featured on many different models. The original was designed by William Towns. Pictured is a 1998 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter based Medallion

Currently the appealing AutoSleeper range includes 1 pop-top campervan, 9 high-top PVC’s and 15 coachbuilts. In addition, the Fusion collection is a collaborative project with the Italian converter

McLouis. Pictured are A-S ‘little and large’, the Ford Transit Custom based campervan (4.972m/16’ 4”) and the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter underpinned low-profile overcab Bourton Duo (7.92m/26’ 0”).

Next-Generation Fusion Models

The 2025 McLouis Fusion Motorhome range has been updated with aesthetic enhancements for new season and latest Fiat chassis. Starting at 6.59 meters in length, Fusion offers a selection of thoughtfully designed layouts that are both practical and equipped with a wide array of high-quality features. Each model is constructed with a keen eye for detail. The lineup features four models, all expertly crafted in Italy to meet UK specifications, each offering four berths and at least four travel seats.

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River bend in the Forest of Bowland.

OUT & ABOUT

ENGLAND'S HIDDEN GEM A JOURNEY THROUGH

Frances & Michael Howorth head northwest and take Voyager into Lancashire, one of England’s most surprising of counties.

Lancashire in the northwest of England is a county bursting with great landscapes, wild ocean coasts, wide open spaces, rich culture, diverse heritage and plentiful food and drink. Covering 1,200 square miles touring the county offers unparalleled flexibility and a chance to immerse yourself in its diverse attractions.

yourself in its diverse we

more about the

We began our own tour in Pendle, visiting the Heritage Centre. It is free to enter, and we wanted to learn more about the witches. The trials of the Pendle witches in

A sign on Pendle Hill

prison. Of the eleven who went on trial all, save one, executed by hanging.

1612 are among the most famous and best recorded of the 17th century. The twelve accused lived in the area surrounding Pendle Hill and were charged with using witchcraft to murder ten people. All but two of the accused were tried at Lancaster Assizes in a series of trials that became known as the Lancashire witch trials. One was tried at York Assizes, and another died in prison. Of the eleven who went on trial all, save one, were found guilty and executed by hanging. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1964, the lion’s share of the Forest of Bowland lies inside the county. The forest provides those of us in motorcaravans some of the

lies inside the county. The forest provides those of us in

most peaceful touring destinations in the country, offering opportunities for remote walking, riding and cycling. Here you can explore pretty villages and hamlets steeped in history, or while away your time observing some of the rare birds and wildlife. If that’s not your bag you can simply indulge yourselves eating and drinking in some of the area's fantastic cafes, tearooms, hotels, pubs and inns.

On our first evening we enjoyed a stunning meal at The Rum Fox in Grindleton. It is a stylish country pub and restaurant, a cosy den rooted in the rolling hills of the glorious Ribble Valley. Chef-Proprietor Bob Geldeard and his team strive to offer the finest of food and drink, with the emphasis on the seasonal, the local and the surprising. Menus change weekly, with exciting seasonal specials always available, alongside a surprise >>

five course tasting menu. Sunday lunch is a firm favourite, always featuring classics such as roast beef and Yorkshire pudding or roast pork belly stuffed with homemade black pudding and crispy crackling.

Throughout the Ribble Valley there is a network of paths and the view from the summit of Pendle Hill on a clear day is glorious and well worth the effort of climbing it. Nestling at the foot of the hill, Downham is one of the prettiest villages in the area. It is quiet and unspoiled and comes complete with a gurgling brook running past the village green and stone-built cottages.

developed as the textiles industry grew. It has a generously sized central car park and facilities, as well as The Cabin Cafe. The village of Sabden is another great base to explore the Pendle Hill area. Sanwitches Cafe in the village and the Nest on the Hill at the Nick of Pendle, both provide welcoming refreshment stops.

of the hill. There are plenty

We enjoyed a lovely 6.5km Downham circular walk passing Twiston Mill and offering great views of the hill. There are plenty of tempting opportunities for refreshment nearby. The Downham ice cream shop is one, or you can visit the Greendale View Kitchen just outside the village, or Hudson's, another traditional ice cream shop in the centre of neighbouring Chatburn.

hamlet of Holden and The Garden

Like many small villages around Pendle Hill, Barley began as a farming community and

with its babbling brook and has earned the title of 'Best on many occasions. Before

Bolton-by-Bowland is certainly worth a visit for motorcaravanners who enjoy walking, cycling and photography. It is a tranquil and charming spot with two greens around the church in the middle of the village. Drop into the tearooms and ask them for details about the village heritage trail as well as 5.3km nature walk across surrounding farmland. Nearby is the attractive hamlet of Holden and The Garden Kitchen is a must-visit destination for garden lovers. Waddington, with its babbling brook and beautiful Coronation Gardens, has earned the title of 'Best Kept Village in Lancashire' on many occasions. Before the county boundary changes of 1974, it was often the best kept village in Yorkshire too!

often the best kept

Mentioned in the Doomsday Book, Chipping is a picturesque village on the slopes above the River Loud. In medieval days no less than five water mills were sited along Chipping Beck. This is a conservation area with stone-built cottages, a 17th century school and alms houses endowed by John Brabin, a dyer and cloth merchant. The village also has a l3th century church, which was partly re-built in 1505 and 1706 and again in the 19th century. If the children

walking opportunities from here that explore the River Ribble.

There are three pubs and a number of good walking opportunities from here that explore the River Ribble.

Throughout the Ribble Valley there is a network of paths and the view from the summit of Pendle Hill on a clear day is stunning."

shutterstock.com / Milosz Kubiak

shutterstock.com / AnnetteWillacy

River Ribble and Pendle Hill.

Downham ice cream shop

shop in the centre

community and

Statue of Alice Nutter one of the group of people tried for witchcraft.

Ware travelling with you, then consider making a day of it at a nearby visitor attraction. The Wild Boar Park offers a great family day out and boasts a good on-site café. The village also has a farm shop selling wonderful

e love exploring new areas and here, there is much to see and do. With many historic halls, castles and places of interest to visit you may like to use, as we did, The Holgates Ribble Valley campsite as your base. The campsite is situated midway between the picturesque market towns of Clitheroe and Skipton. Just under ten miles away the ancient market town of Clitheroe boasts a Castle, said to be the smallest Norman castle in England, and is home to a museum aswell as 16 acres of gardens, housing Lancashire's first Labyrinth. Clitheroe is well known for its plethora of specialist shops. Byrnes Wine Shop is famous for its enormous underground cellar, bursting with unusual vintages from all over the world. Cowman's Famous Sausage Shop sells more than 75 sausage varieties while the Exchange Coffee Company stocks more than 35 coffees and 60 specialist teas. If you remembered to pack your clubs inside your motorcaravan, you might want to enjoy a day at Clitheroe Golf Club, one of the country's best inland courses.

In Skipton, 12 miles northeast of the campsite, the high street leads up to the church, behind which you see the impressive facade of the 900-year-old castle, and Skipton Woods. The High Street is home to the town's famous market with its

Cumbria

As incredible as the scenic Lake District is, with its large expanses of water and soaring mountains, there is a lot more of Cumbria, for those travelling in motorcaravans, to enjoy. The county boasts more than 100 miles of stunning coastline roads, stretching from the Solway Firth in the north, to Morecambe Bay in the south. Here you will discover secluded beaches, majestic castles, hidden lakes and awe-inspiring mountains. The best bit of all is that driving

here is much more tranquil than the Lake District. In 2021, Cumbrian Tourism conceived a 200-mile motorcaravan tour in a bid to keep roads surrounding the Lakes clear of heavy traffic. They designed the route to inspire those in campervans and motorhomes to explore this captivating area. It takes in isolated bays, proud headlands, storybook islands and fascinating tales, while avoiding touristic bottlenecks and traffic jams.

Downham Village in the Ribble Valley.

shutterstock.com

/ Jeanette Teare

Waddington in the Ribble Valley.

The Rum Fox in Grindleton.

Chatburn.

View of the Solway Firth.

World-famous Settle-Carlisle Railway.

many varied and interesting stalls, and to numerous shops. Wander around the town ducking down the many alleyways or 'ginnels' as they are called hereabouts to savour the town's history and character. Explore these side streets and you will find individual shops, cafes and restaurants. We enjoyed walking the area around canal with its footpaths, picnic areas and marina, that offers boat trips under the shadow of Skipton Castle.

Home to the world-famous Settle-Carlisle Railway, the bustling market town of Settle is just 13 miles from the campsite and is ideally situated between the scenic Yorkshire Dales and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that is the Forest

and historic buildings and the town is a great place to relax. We enjoyed the scenery walking up Castleberg Hill to take in the commanding views across the countryside towards the Lake District and Pendle Hill in the opposite direction.

We have, in our travels for this

Greater Manchester

Greater Manchester is the third most populous county in England after Greater London and the West Midlands. The county was created in 1974 from the city and associated towns that had formerly been in Lancashire, adding in a few that were lying south of the River Mersey and had once been in Cheshire. Based upon the textile industry, which collapsed in the 20th century, Manchester has been the most successful at re-inventing itself and is now a lively, modern destination. Sports fans might like to visit Old Trafford, the Etihad Stadium or the National football museum, while history buffs may well opt for the People's History Museum, the Manchester Museum or the Science and Industry Museum.

A large multi-award winning market is located at the heart of Bury. With over 350 stalls the market opens every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and is a great venue for day visitors either on its own or as part of a

magazine, been fortunate to have visited several small boutique gin distilleries. But we have never, until now, tried our hand at making our own gin. All that changed when Richard and Rachel Trenchard welcomed us to Goosnargh Gin at the base of Beacon Fell on the edge of the Forest of Bowland. Not only do the couple make and sell their own handmade gins, but they also run their own Gin School. Richard is also one of a kind when it comes to tutoring. He is both witty and wonderfully knowledgeable. More importantly, he makes the class educational, fun and truly entertaining all at the same time. Rachel home-bakes cakes which you sample during coffee breaks, during

visit to other nearby attractions. Stay at the Hawthorne Caravan and Campsite in Oldham set in The Lows Nature Reserve at the foot of The Pennines. It is a lovely 15 pitch campsite in the countryside of Oldham close by tram metro links into Manchester, Bury and surrounding areas. Owners Steve and Nicky will make you very welcome.

tsrettuhs

Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester.

Clitheroe Castle.

Skipton canal.

which Richard tells stories about how he forages locally for botanicals used in making gin. Working with our own miniature stills we are guided by Richard to assemble our own selection of botanicals which we infuse into our spirit. Best of all, you get to take away a bottle of gin of your very own making.

rubbed with the traditional butter, which allows the cheese to breathe and develop over a maturation period of two to six months. The flavour of the unpasteurised milk and the buttered muslin rind produces a rich and complex white Lancashire, which melts in the mouth. It also creates the desired ‘buttery crumble’, with a clean and lactic flavour.

HNot far away, Graham Kirkham makes a traditional Lancashire Cheese, using the milk from his family’s own herd of Friesian cows. The cheese

is made over two days, using a third of the curd from each day of cheesemaking. This method comes from the days when farmers only had a few cows, and it would take them two days to get enough curd to fill one cheese mould. The Kirkham family is the last of the traditional Lancashire cheese makers. He and his family have been making cheese this way for three generations.

Cheshire

two way

Kirkham at Mrs Kirkham's Lancashire Cheese.

Cheshire has a lot to grin about. And it is not just Lewis Carrol’s cat that is enjoying life. We did too when we toured the area and discovered why the country has so much to offer to motor caravanners. If Cheshire’s Cat is said to be sly, tricky, deceitful, manipulative, and mischievous then the county he is named after, is rich, rural, with towns and villages supporting agriculture, cheese, salt, silk and chemical manufacturing. Base yourself at Elm Cottage Touring Park in Winsford some 20 miles from Chester and visit Jodrell Bank, famous for its landmark radio telescopes or the Anderton Boat Lift a world famous and free to visit heritage site. Whitegate Way is a former 6-mile railway line route now given over to walkers and cyclists. Nearest access is Whitegate station café just a mile away from the Elm Cottage Touring Park.

Winsford Marina is another a lovely spot in which

Once the cheese is made it is then cloth-bound and

istory runs through the cobbled streets of the compact city of Lancaster. Culture and heritage capture and inspire those who visit and perhaps the best place to begin to understand its complexities is with a visit to Lancaster Castle. Gregory, an accredited Blue Badge Guide, met us at the entrance and began to explain the many roles the Castle has played in the history of the city. The Lancashire Witches were imprisoned and tried here in l6l2 and by the mid-19th century, it was one of the largest debtors' prisons outside London. After this it became the world's first female-only penitentiary. Since then, it has been a prisoner-of-war camp and even a police training academy. Until 2011, the Castle operated as a Category

to spend a few hours watch the canal boats and yachts stopping at the marina. The marina is home to a wide range of wildlife, especially waterfowl. Otherwise consider the Blakemere Craft Centre a family-run attraction. Packed with activities, enticing eateries, and independent shopping opportunities, the village is free to enter and offers free parking. There’s something to suit everyone, in Cheshire, whatever the weather.

Garry Basnett

Jodrell Bank.

Richard Trenchard welcomes Michael to Goosnargh Gin.

Graham

Isle of Man

An almost mystical island The Isle of Man is located at the geographical centre of the British Isles in the middle of the Irish Sea. Tynwald, the island's 1,000-year-old Parliament, makes its own laws and oversees all internal administration, fiscal and social policies. The Isle of Man is the first entire nation in the world to be recognised as a UNESCO

Biosphere. That status was awarded in recognition of the island’s extraordinary natural environment, vibrant culture, unique heritage and close-knit community.

The island's open roads offer motorcaravanners a wealth of great driving opportunities covering all corners of the island. Sit in the driving seat and be wowed by majestic scenery. The Isle of Man has over 500 miles of relatively

uncongested public roads, 100 miles of beautiful coastline, 32 beaches, 33 National Heritage sites and 18 scenic glens. The island offers drivers the freedom to make unscheduled stops anywhere, to uncover legendary landmarks and treasures. Somewhat surprisingly, there is no national speed limit on the Isle of Man meaning that some roads may be driven at whatever speed you deem safe and appropriate. In built-up areas a speed limit of 30 mph usually applies and there are 20 mph speed limits in some local areas. With 26 official dark sky sites for stargazing, the highest concentration of dark skies anywhere in the British Isles, the island is best known as an outdoor adventure hotspot. It is perfect for walking, cycling, camping and wellbeing holidays, or somewhere to simply switch off whilst immersing yourself in its 10,000-year story.

Contact us on: Northern Ireland office: Coleraine Tel: 028 7035 1199; York office: Pocklington Tel: 028 7035 1199 or +44 7545 745 791; Southern Ireland office: Leitrim Tel: 00353 (0) 877406708 Email: info@nutttravel.com or log on to www.nutttravel.com and use our Live

Douglas Lighthouse on the Isle of Man.

shutterstock.com / Richard Faragher

C prison. Even today, it still boasts the country's oldest continuously working Crown Courts, complete with 18th century branding iron in the dock. Now, the focus is on the conservation and protection of the fabric of these historic buildings.

The next day we travelled towards Morecambe Bay driving through the Forest of Bowland to stay at Red Bank Farm. Its spectacular shoreline location affords stunning panoramic views across Morecambe Bay, the Lakeland Hills and some of the most beautiful sunsets that England has to offer. The campsite has limited availability with just 28 pitches, so we suggest you book well in advance if you want to stay here. And if you ever need a reason to do so then its on-site eatery is the perfect one. Archer’s Cafe sells homemade cakes or, if you are looking for something more substantial, the menu has a wide choice of meals and snacks all day including Salt Marsh Lamb, a Lancashire delicacy.

Touring Lancashire was for us a real eye-opener. We began our tour wondering how

we might fill our days and ended up having to miss out on the last two days of our itinerary simply because we had found the country to be so full of surprises and wonderful diversions. We had planned to visit the quintessential British seaside resort of Blackpool famed for its entertainment and nostalgia. But time was against us, and we missed out on its historic amusement park with its modern rides, and we never did get to climb to the top of the Blackpool Tower. Nor did we visit Lytham St. Annes, said by many to be a tranquil alternative to Blackpool’s bustling energy. This coastal area combines traditional seaside charm with upscale elegance. St.

Merseyside

The metropolitan county of Merseyside borders

Lancashire to the north, Greater Manchester to the east, Cheshire to the south, Flintshire to the southwest, and the Irish Sea to the west. Liverpool its largest city is a thriving capital of culture with museums and galleries for every taste, many of which are free to explore. Liverpool's stunning waterfront and dramatic skyline are one of the most iconic and photographed views in the world. The mighty River Mersey has dominated the way the city has developed, from the earliest settlements on its banks through to its role as bustling port and its recent transformation. If you see yourself as a bit of a culture lover, then you will adore the selection of museums and galleries. Some favourites from National Museums Liverpool are inside the Walker Art Gallery, World Museum and Museum of Liverpool. On the Royal

campsite which offers motorhome facilities close to the beach and the classic St. Anne’s Victorian pier with family-friendly attractions.

As you may have guessed, we enjoyed our time in Lancashire. We loved its mix of bustling towns, serene countryside, and coastal treasures, all within manageable driving distances. Its network of roads better maintained than most and abundance of camping facilities make it a haven for campervan enthusiasts. Whether you’re drawn to the historical allure of Lancaster, the breathtaking landscapes of the Forest of Bowland, or the charm of seaside towns like Lytham St. Annes, Lancashire is one of England’s Hidden Gems that offers something for everyone.

Albert Dock you will find Tate Liverpool and Liverpool Mountain.

Take a ferry and cruise the waterfront to view the iconic mercantile buildings known as the "Three Graces" – Royal Liver Building, Cunard Building and Port of Liverpool Building – stand on the Pier Head. For an overnight stay consider the Hidden Corner Campsite or the RV park inside Liverpool Marina in Coburg Dock.

Liverpool Skyline building at Pier Head.

Top left: Gregory Wright our blue badge guide at Lancaster Castle. Top right: Morecambe Bay pier.

Frances and Michael Howorth suggest key tips for both first-time and seasoned buyers and sellers

BUYERS SELLERS GUIDE

AND

It is easy to see why those who do not have a motorcaravan become somewhat envious of those, like us, who already own one. The freedom of the open road, the thrill of spontaneous adventures and the comfort of home – all wrapped up in a mobile package. Motorcaravans offer folk like us the chance to explore in unparalleled style and convenience.

Buying a motorcaravan is a major investment which calls for careful research and planning if it is to lead to unforgettable adventures. For many readers our suggestions below may sound like us trying to teach our grandmother how to suck eggs, but there are a few readers who may just welcome a useful guide to buying or selling a campervan or a motorhome.

The process of buying a motorcaravan can be overwhelming. Buyers have to focus on priorities, stay within budget, and take time to make the right choice. Whether you are buying your very first motorcaravan, upgrading to a larger model, or selling your current vehicle, the goal is to make informed decisions. In this guide we try and help those buying and selling a

motorcaravan by highlighting points that should be considered.

Understanding needs and budget is a good place to start. Before stepping foot in a dealership or browsing online listings, you must first define what you need. A clear understanding of priorities will help streamline the search and hopefully prevent costly mistakes.

Consider some of the following factors. How do you intended to use the van? Are you planning weekend trips, seasonal travel, or full-time living? The duration and type of travel will influence the size, interior layout, and features you will need.

many people will you need to accommodate? Consider if you need a spacious lounge, large kitchen, extra storage, or bunk beds. When it comes to setting the budget, do not just consider the asking price. Factor in operating costs such as insurance, road tax, roadside breakdown assistance, campsite fees, fuel cost and consumption.

Remember owning a motorcaravan also involves costs beyond the purchase price. Maintenance costs include regular checks for brakes, tyres, batteries, and engine health. Factor in offseason storage fees if you do not plan to use your van year-round. Unexpected repairs can arise, so having a contingency fund is a wise precaution.

Invest time in exploring different models, brands, and layouts. Attend shows where vans are on display, visit dealerships, and browse online marketplaces and seek advice from other owners. If you are considering buying a ready converted vehicle thank about its brand and the reputation that has in the

Choosing the right vehicle

Motorcaravans come in a variety of different types and sizes and no matter how hard we try and define them in this feature, we will hear arguments from owners explaining that their van is not like those we describe here.

Campervans are typically commercial vans converted to offer sleeping and cooking facilities. Motorhomes are purpose-built and can, because of their body shape, offer more flexibility when it comes to comfort and layout.

Campervans are compact, easy to drive, and suitable for couples or solo travellers. Smaller campervans offer basic amenities because of their limited available space. But

many larger campervans can rival and indeed exceed those amenities offered by a motorhome.

'A' Class motorhomes are generally larger, more luxurious with spacious interiors. They are ideal for full-time living but can be more expensive and more difficult to manoeuvre on smaller roads

Both campervan and motorhome layouts are diverse. Some motorhomes feature over-cab beds, they also tend to feature fixed beds and a bathroom. Campervans offer seating that can be converted into a bed and only the larger versions have a dedicated bathroom.

So, in choosing what to buy, it is important that you consider how much time you will spend inside the van and prioritise comfort and functionality accordingly. When looking at a prospective purchase, consider the kitchen. Facilities can include a stove with a full oven or a microwave with basic two-burner stoves. Washrooms in motorhomes can have separate showers and toilets. But compact motorhomes and campervans are more likely to have a shower, toilet, and sink all sharing one space. Remember adequate storage is essential when planning long trips. Look for hidden

compartments and exterior-access lockers. Can the van carry an external storage box? Will you want to carry bicycles, scooters or surf boards? If so, is there space on board to do that?

Consider the sleeping arrangements, remember that fixed beds are convenient, but convertible seating areas offer flexibility.

When considering vans, try to seek out reputable manufacturers that are known for durability and customer satisfaction. Remember that certain brands hold their value better over time, making them better investments. Consider features and technology offered. Look for energyefficient models, smart storage solutions, and modern amenities that enhance comfort. Reading reviews in magazines such as this and engaging with fellow club members can provide valuable insights into the pros and cons of specific models.

New vs. used

The decision between buying a new or used vehicle is a critical starting point. New vans come with a warranty, modern features, and are free from previous wear and tear. But their higher initial cost and significant depreciation in the first few years might put you off.

Used vans offer a lower purchase price, slower depreciation, and may include valuable upgrades paid for by previous owners. There is however the potential for hidden mechanical issues and wear and tear.

If secondhand is the chosen route, be sure to inspect used vans thoroughly. Try and get advice from an experienced owner or fellow club member to help if this is the first secondhand van you have considered. Buying secondhand offers various options. Many dealerships offer well priced used vehicles that they have taken in as part exchange. Auctions or private sales maybe more affordable but could be riskier especially if you have not owned a motorcaravan before. Always inspect thoroughly and request maintenance records. Online marketplace platforms like eBay allow buyers to browse a wide selection. Before parting with cash be sure to verify that the motorcaravan has no outstanding loans and ensure that you receive full ownership documents.

Make a thorough inspection of a secondhand van inside and out. Look for evidence of leaking, water damage, rust, wear and check the operation of all appliances. Check

the condition of tyres, brakes, and engine before and during a test drive. Assess the handling, braking, and driving position for comfort. Consider engine performance and noise inside the cab. Larger vehicles can drive differently to cars or small vans, so practice navigating tight corners and parking spaces and ask yourself if you are comfortable with what you find.

If you want a new van, remember that most dealerships offer warranties, servicing, and financing options. Sometimes discounts are offered at local and national shows especially when dealers are trying to sell last-season models. Generally speaking however, a secure pre-approved loan from a finance house or bank can strengthen your bargaining position. When negotiating the purchase price ask about extras offered by the dealership. Some offer free servicing or extended warranties. Added accessories like bike racks or awnings can often be negotiated into the deal.

We are often asked for buying tips from potential first-time owners and

our advice is always the same. We always advise a rent before you buy strategy. Renting lets you test layouts and sizes and provides a good insight into what works for you. We also suggest buying off-season. Prices are typically lower at the end of summer or after the holiday season.

Selling your motorcaravan can be, for some, a bittersweet moment. It has, after all, played its part in some incredible memories but selling your van does not have to be stressful. With preparation and strategic marketing, you can maximise value and enjoy a smooth transaction. Before putting your motorcaravan on the market you must first prepare it for sale. First impressions are crucial. Clean, well-maintained motorcaravans attract more interest and higher offers. Start with the cleaning because as you clean you may notice other things that need attention. Wash, wax, and polish the exterior and interior to give it a showroom finish. Deep-clean the carpets, upholstery, and surfaces.

Fix minor issues such as leaky taps or broken catches and consider updating fixtures or appliances to modernise the space.

Determining a competitive price at which to sell is not always easy. But pricing your motorcaravan correctly is essential if you want to attract buyers and close a deal quickly. Start the process by comparing similar models online. Consider the condition, factor in mileage, wear and tear, and any recent upgrades. Solar panels, upgraded suspension, extra house batteries, self levelling rams or new appliances may justify a higher asking price. Consider depreciation from age, mileage, and layout. They all impact resale value. Equally, fuel efficiency and off-grid capabilities can boost values.

Marketing and advertising

Where you sell your pride and joy depends on how quickly you want to sell and how much effort you’re willing to invest. Generally speaking, the broader your marketing reach, the better your chances of selling.

PRODUCTS YOU CAN TRUST

The NEW Wraith 3 is designed to be compact, lightweight and easy to fit whilst ensuring uncompromising security for Motorhomes. Providing a strong visual theft deterrent that offers exceptional, attack resistance.

The Commercial High Security Steering Wheel Lock has a hardened steel construction with a high security locking mechanism. Extremely secure and very easy to fit, in a compact design.

The Milenco BC Lock encases and locks the motorhome brake and clutch pedals, rendering them inoperative. Versions available to fit the majority of motorhomes. Fits in seconds. Now available for VW T5 / T6.

One of the only Motorhome Wheelclamps available that exceeds the Sold Secure Gold standard. Fits steel and alloy wheels. Constructed from the highest quality hardened steel.

The marketing options are numerous. Never forget, members of the Club can, and do, freely advertise vans for sale in this magazine and as an option, it is a good place to start. If that does not work, broaden the reach nationally using online marketplaces such as Autotrader, eBay, or Camper Buyer. But stay alert for scams! Local advertisements in newspaper and regional magazines offer low-cost options as do community notice boards, or local events. Auctions and regional motorcaravan shows can be good for fast sales, although prices may be lower. Specialist dealers like Motorhome Buyers simplify the process. John and Gary have over 30 years of motor trade experience behind them; they offer a fair price and handle paperwork and will even pick up the vehicle directly from you. Timing is important. March and April are the peak motorcaravan buying months. Listing during Spring can increase interest and speed up the sale.

Limit the amount of personal information you divulge. Avoid showing license plates, personal items, or GPS locations in photos.

Professional looking photographs and videos make a difference and can be the motivation behind a potential buyer asking for an inspection. Use them to showcase both exterior and interior, highlighting the best features. When you compose the wording for an advertisement make sure to be highly detailed in your descriptions. Be thorough, and honest. Mention model, year, mileage, special upgrades, maintenance history, and why the van stands out.

When your efforts pay off and you get an enquiry remember that engagement and transparency can help turn that interest into offers. So be responsive, answer questions quickly and openly. Offer to undertake a video walk-through or schedule a showing at a time convenient to your potential buyer. If you are asked to take your van somewhere for a viewing take safety into consideration. Arrange meetings in public, well-lit areas or at your home with someone present.

Keep maintenance records, warranties, and title documents readily available for serious buyers. A record or diary of work done and

trips made showing fuel consumed and milage covered can show you have cared for your vehicle. Remember that flexibility and preparation will help you close the deal confidently.

When getting close to the point where an offer is about to be made make sure you listen to your prospective buyer. Address any concerns calmly and be willing to negotiate but stay firm on your minimum acceptable price. Be professional in finalising the deal. Use a bill of sale, transfer the title properly, and remove any of your personal belongings before handing over the keys. With the right approach, you will not just be selling a motorcaravan, you will be passing on the excitement, freedom, and endless road trips that come with it.

Whether you're embarking on the adventure of buying your dream campervan or parting ways with a cherished motorhome, we hope this guide has proved helpful. By staying informed, patient, and strategic, you'll drive away with the best outcome – ready for whatever awaits you around the corner.

Campsite Directory

Camping Los Gallardos

In sunny Almería, Spain - It’s Europe’s sunniest spot!

•

• Bowling greens

• Busy bar, restaurant & shop

• Full services (Inc: UKTV hookup & much more)

• Full service pitches available Family-run park overlooking Port-Eynon Bay. Pitches for motorcaravans, tourers and glamping pods, as well as self-catering bungalows. Within walking-distance of the beach. Clubhouse with licensed bar, serving meals. WiFi. Grocery shop & laundrette. Outdoor heated swimming pool. Children’s play area. Tennis court. Booking advised for bank/school holidays. Open 1st March until New Years Day.

Bespoke

CLIP

£109.95

Junior racks for small bikes and scooters,

Senior racks for larger bikes up to 120kg

Lightweight • Clips on to tow bar in seconds

• Four tie down points for securing scooter

Dave Cooper (Motor Caravanner), Unit 7 Pettings Court Farm, Hodsoll Street, Wrotham, Kent, TN15 7LH. Tel/Fax: 01732 820082

Website: www.davecooper.co.uk

Email: info@davecooper.co.uk

Tea break teasers

See page 68 for solutions

Codeword

Crack the code and fill in the grid. Each letter of the alphabet is represented by a number from 1-26. Two letters are given as a starter, can you decipher the rest of the code to discover all the words?

Sudoku

The objective is to fill a 9x9 grid so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 3x3 boxes contains the digits from 1 to 9. A cell is the smallest block in the game. A row, column and region consists of 9 cells and the whole game consists of 81 cells.

Pearman Briggs Leisure Ltd

Pearman Briggs Caravan Sales 224 Cheltenham Road, Longlevens, Gloucester, Glos GL2 0JW 01452 524700 or 01452 524192

Pearman Briggs Motorhome Sales Field View Bungalow, A38 Gloucester, Leigh, Glos GL19 4AA 01531 822666

Cotswold Edge Leisure Vehicles Ltd Evesham Rd (A46), Beckford, Nr Tewkesbury, Glos GL20 7AS 01386 882866

www.pearmanbriggs.co.uk www.cotswoldedge.co.uk

7 hardstanding pitches Can now take up to 3 RVs • Families welcome • 26 level pitches on 2 acres • Seasonal pitches for £1,900 • Family-run

• Quiet and secluded • A sun-trapped valley in the heart of ‘1066’ country • Easy access to beach and historical sites • Residential homes for sale Covid pro fog sterilise machine now installed to keep all our facilities clean and sterilised

Meadowview Park, Crazy Lane, Sedlescombe, Battle, East Sussex TN33 0QT T: 01424 870147

MOTORHOMES

ELDDIS SUNSEEKER CV40, 2022, manual, 3150 miles /3 berth.

V.G.C. Light blue. Diesel. One owner. £51,000. 07963540637. (Plymouth Devon).

ACCESSORIES

MOTORCYCLE

CLOTHING. Jackets, trousers, gloves, boots. All in very good condition.

Some unworn. All good quality makes. Bikes sold owing to ill health. Ring for further detail. Tel: 01639 812244 / 07980 253286 (Port Talbot)

A. FRAME. Supplied by Armitages, complete with keys, lockable tow hitch, electrics and fixings. Reason for sale: sold motorhome. £110 ONO. Tel: 07806779268. (North Somerset)

Tea Break Teasers

YOUR NEXT Adventure STARTS HERE

Auto-Sleepers, a renowned British company, has been crafting high-quality luxurious touring motorhomes for over 60 years. Our motorhomes are perfect for those seeking the ultimate, first-class camping experience.

At Auto-Sleepers, we understand that everyone has a unique vision of the perfect motorhome. That’s why we offer a range of options to help you find your ideal vehicle for your touring holiday. From versatile campervans to spacious coachbuilt leisure vehicles, each featuring top-tier specifications for the new season, there’s never been a better time to invest in an Auto-Sleeper motorhome. Explore our premium flagship ranges today.

COACHBUILTS & CAMPERVANS

Classifieds

Over

The

We are based in Deeside,

Enhance and smarten your Motorhome with Alloy Wheels. 15” and 16” heavy duty wheels to fit most vans from £500 for 4. We can supply by Mail Order or fit in our tyre depot near Chester. See our website for more choice.