Well yet another year has passed and I hope you all had a good Christmas and may I wish you all a Happy New Year. You will find the handbook with this issue so why not take the time to see what is included. The year’s rallies for groups will enable you to plan for the year ahead. Don’t forget the National Rally this year is being held at Malvern, details are in the handbook as are details of the homecraft competition. There is also a listing of Certified locations and some campsites. Just need somewhere to stay for a night or two? Why not look at the Safe Nights, places where members allow other members to park on their property.
Trade shows are also happening throughout the year, if you want to camp with the Club then state it on
I look forward to meeting more of you as the year goes on and hope you all enjoy the year ahead in your motorhomes.
Kate Jones Club Chairman
www.themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Chairman:
Kate Jones (07747 000587 or 01935 863815)
Vice Chairman: Jacci Durkee (07931 527691)
Members:
Carol Biggs (01473 620933)
Derek Clarke (07931 733656)
Graham Durkee (07931 527691)
Peter Johnston (07810 434110)
Les Kendrick (07860 286561)
Selma McMullan (07752 678454)
Sue Pilkiw (07562 324325)
Keith Poole (07736 544490)
Anne Taylor (07414 852497)
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: Julie Stanbridge
CL & Night Stops: Carol Biggs (01473 620933)
Exhibition Team: Jacci & Graham Durkee (07931 527 691) grahamd@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk Head Show Marshal: Sue Pilkiw (07562 324325) suep@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Homecraft Coordinator: Peter Johnston (07810 434110) peterj@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk Magazine/Handbook : Sue Pilkiw (07562 324325) suep@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Health & Safety Officer: Keith Poole (07736 544490) keithp@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Casual Campsites: Ann Bond (07805 795549)
Financial Officer: Paul Maguire (07973 827506)
Insignia: Marion Brooks (0208 6412283) insignia@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Junior Leaders: Maria Hill & Gill Crosby juniors@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
National Rally Site Manager & Head Show Marshal: Mick Pilkiw Webmaster: Peter Heale (07894 583520)
Haven Liaison: Pet Heal (01454 320924)
To email a member of the Council of Management please use first name & first letter of surname followed by @ themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk ie katej@ themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Please note that Secretary details may have changed due to AGMs.
Jan Wilcox 07833 625740
westcountry@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Carole Bennett 07769 944009 sussex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Janice Wellard 07831 659951 kent@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Barbara Mossman 07727 100456 essex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Derek Clarke 07931 733656 anglia@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Diane Milton 07971 888492 eastwessex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Peter Ingham 07815 789909 chiltern@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Sue Pilkiw 07562 324325 eastmidlands@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Amanda Windmill 07896 175860 severnvalley@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Penny Feeney 07518 271742 nwmidsnwales@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Steven Wright 07966 224196 lancashire@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Jacqui Emmott 07833 393987 yorkshire@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Tony Edwards 07976 235365 northerncounties@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Aileen Clark 07771 845199 scotland@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Alastair Bartlam 07754 131893 westwessex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
EGM will be held on 14th Jan 2023 avon@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Barbara Noble 07722 885018 swpeninsula@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Pauline Greaves 01873 857542 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
Andrea Barker 01914 104227 serg@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Wendy Jefferson 07714 616715 motorcycle@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Contributors: Jack Bancroft, Kavanagh Deville, Frances & Michael Howorth
Advertising: Danny Lewis E: danny.lewis@micropress.co.uk T: 01502 725862
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 2023. 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.
At a mere 5.8 oz, the Bond is a lightweight multi-tool that provides 14 hard-working tools, including a non-locking 2.9” 420HC knife blade, wood/metal file, pliers and more - making it everyday UK legal carry.
The Bond comes with a nylon sheath and and is backed by a 25-year warranty.
Available online from: www.leatherman.co.uk
For the first CCS of 2023 we are heading back to one of our favourite sites, Hendra Holiday Park in Newquay, Cornwall from the 10-24 June. Next we head to Teignmouth Rugby Club on the 26 June - 10 July and finally we finish in Shropshire from 4-18 September at The West Midlands Showground. As requested by sites, bookings will again be required, ensuring members have a pitch on arrival. Bookings open next year, dates and more details to follow in the magazine and 2023 Handbook.
The Warner booking line is now open for next year’s show. Mick and Sue Pilkiw, Head Marshals and their team look forward to welcoming you to the 2023 shows which are as follows:
• Peterborough 21 -23 April
• Newbury 19-21 May
• Norfolk 21-23 July
• Malvern 18-20 August
• Shepton 8-10 September
• Lincoln 22-24 September
The Club are pleased to announce that we have secured another deal with Haven Holidays for 2023. Please do not contact Haven direct, in late January the code will be available from the head office or the Members’ Area of our website.
Connect with our social media to make sure you are always up-to-date. Here are two QR codes to get you started...
As Avon Group failed to elect a Committee at its AGM on Saturday 22nd October 2022, an EGM has been arranged at which it is hoped members will come forward to stand as Committee Members. Failure to do so will result in the Group folding –please don’t let this happen.
The EGM is to take place at 11am on Saturday 14th January 2023 in the Orchard room at Baileys Court Activity Centre, Baileys Court Road, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 8BH
Valid MCC membership cards will need to be shown on entry.
This venue is not far from Jct. 16 of the M5. It will be a day meeting, therefore there is no overnight parking.
This is the one last chance to save Avon Group! So come on Avon members, don’t let our Group disappear. There’s a great rally programme arranged for 2023 by our Rally Officers and ample funds in the bank account to provide enjoyable events – don’t let it go to waste.
Sue Turl, Chairman, Avon GroupNEWLAND MEADOW (CL94346)
Please note the cost at this CL has changed: £25 with EHU, £20 without. There is a 20% discount to MCC members.
THE TIPPLE INN (NS54413)
This night stop is no longer available to Club members.
The Casual Campsites of 2022 ended with a very successful weekend at Croft Water Park near Tewksbury. Ann and Jane welcomed members on Thursday and we all spent the rest of the day settling in. The weather was frosty and cold but the welcome was warm. Friday members were treated to mulled wine and hot mince pies. They were also encouraged to take part in a tombola, the proceeds of which went to MacMillan Cancer charity. Even though the weather was still cold people stayed and chatted to each other and enjoyed the company. In the evening some took advantage of the café menu to eat and then card bingo was played. There was also a tabletop quiz with cryptic clues to towns and places in the UK. In all 69 units were booked in and welcomed.
Saturday some people took advantage and went into Tewksbury, others walked around the lake or visited the local village, possibly to work up an appetite for the evening meal. Saturday evening we all gathered in the restaurant ready for the Christmas dinner which was enjoyed by all. The staff did an excellent job providing a three course meal for 137 people. After
continued on p10
continued from p8 the dinner the raffle was held again the proceeds going to MacMillan. Sunday and we woke to a carpeting of snow but this did not deter Ann and her helpers serving tea and cakes in the afternoon. A lot of members left on Sunday as planned but the hardy few stayed on until Monday.
Over the weekend a total of £258.38 was raised for the charity, this was made up from Tombola £54, Raffle £162.75, collection box £21.63 and a donation of £20. Thank you to all who donated prizes and money.
Don’t forget to look in your handbook for details of the 2023 Members Casual Campsites.
visiting the
listed.
Club member Charlotte Nightingale has been coordinating educational, training and enterprise projects for young people in Ghana, her country of origin, since 2003. With her family and staff in Accra, Charlotte works to improve the life chances of Ghanaian young people.
Covid hit Charlotte’s projects hard but with so much generosity from supporters Charlotte and her husband Albert were again able to send off a consignment of much-needed laptops, printers, stationery, books, gardening tools and other useful items on the
4,500 mile journey by land and sea to Accra.Each journey takes three to four weeks and the same van goes all the way, uninterrupted!
Charlotte said: “A special thanks to everyone for their continued support and on behalf of the young people, I am full of gratitude to all our sponsors and donors for their generous donations.”
All donations and purchases in the UK go directly to the young people who need them.
If you can donate goods, offer funds towards transport costs or sponsor a young person, please contact Charlotte on ceo@tewbit. com.
5 berth, rear island bed, side facing settees and over cab fixed bed. Full appliance kitchen, washroom with separate shower, cycle rack, awning.
There are three visits planned for Friday 26th May; Ross on Wye, Hereford and the Hop Pocket Shopping Village and The Morgan Factory, all offered at cost. The coach company we are using this year will allow wellbehaved dogs on board – but dogs are not allowed into the Morgan Factory and we have no information about whether you are allowed into shops and cafes at our other destinations. Visits need to be booked and paid for at the point of booking.
Ross on Wye £10 per person. Full day. The delightful town of Ross on Wye lies beside the River Wye on the northern edge of the Forest of Dean.
It is a quintessential market town where you can browse independent shops and visit cafes for a relaxing cuppa. The redstone Market House building, built between 1650 and 1654 stands at the centre of the town. The upper storey now houses an arts and crafts centre.
The ruins of Wilton Castle, to the west of the town, have been restored and opened to visitors. The town has a number of sculptures by Walenty Pytel – the left bank of the Wye shows two of these. Despite the common belief that both depict swans, one in fact shows ducks!
If you enjoy a ramble, then you can stroll alongside the 19th century mock-Gothic walls past the pastel hued dwellings tumbling down the hillside and enjoy the scenic beauty as you walk down to the river.
Hereford and Hop Pocket Shopping Village £10 per person. Full day.
Hereford, the historic ‘capital city’ of the Wye Valley, is situated amid extensive rural landscape close to the Welsh border and the cathedral dates from 1079, making it one of the oldest in England.
Hereford is the home of the largest cider maker in the world and was the birthplace of the famous Hereford breed of cattle. Locally produced high quality food and drink are an increasingly important element in the quality of lifestyle of Herefordshire. There’s lots to do and see in Hereford. You can visit the magnificent Hereford Cathedral, a historic centre of international importance, or one of the fascinating
continued from p13
museums – Hereford Museum & Art Gallery or The Old House Museum.
History, museums, shops, places to eat, local produce… a good place to explore.
The Hop Pocket Shopping Village is a rural shopping destination that can be found 12 miles from Hereford.
The Foodhall stocks fine and wonderful things to eat and drink, with fresh meat and pies, fresh bread and pastries, as well as fruit and vegetables, cheeses, smoked fish and Pâtés. There is a wonderful garden centre, which is well stocked with good quality plants.
The Farmhouse Family Restaurant is at the heart of the site selling coffee and tea, freshly made lunches, homemade cakes, and a play area.
We have a limited number of tickets to visit the Morgan factory for a guided tour that will last around two hours. One of Morgan’s experienced tour guides will introduce you to the Morgan brand, explaining the story and heritage of the company, before guiding you through each of the factory workshops, giving you
the chance to see how every Morgan car is hand crafted. You will be issued with a headset to ensure you can hear the tour guide clearly in each workshop.
This visit includes some free time during which you could visit the Morgan Experience Centre which has a café, the official Morgan shop and The Archive Room – an interactive museum. (Experience drives and sports car hire are not included).
For safety reasons, the number of wheelchairs per tour is restricted and must be booked. Space on the bus for a wheelchair or mobility scooter is also limited. Please contact Anne Taylor to ensure we can accommodate your requirements before booking this trip.
Full terms and conditions can be found at www.morgan-motor.com/ experience-morgan
THE MOTOR CARAVANNERS’ CLUB INVITES YOU TO JOIN YOUR FRIENDS TO CELEBRATE OUR 2023 NATIONAL RALLY AND AGM 5-NIGHT RALLY
Three Counties Showground, Malvern WR13 6NW Thu 25th - Tue 30th May 2023
Number of nights
5 nights £100 per unit 4 nights £80 per unit 3 nights £60 per unit
Single occupancy
5 nights £87.50 per unit
4 nights £70 per unit 3 nights £52.50 per unit
Coach trips all on Friday Ross on Wye £10pp Hereford and Hop Pocket Shopping Village £10pp Morgan Factory Visit £31pp
Lead adult
2nd Adult 3rd Adult Address
Postcode
Van registration
Is your vehicle more than 9m long?
No Adults No Children
The above rally fees are for two adults, extra adults incur a cost of £2.50 per person per night. Are you towing? car n trailer n caravan & car n
Names & age of children Membership No Group Group to park with Tel No. Tick if this is your first National or Rally n
Disabled Parking Area n Badge Ref No (only needed if parking in disabled area)
EHU for medical need only is available in Disabled Parking Area only at £65. Tick if req n
Long EHU cables may be required EHU remittance due: £
Date arriving Date leaving
Total No. of nights
Ross on Wye no of seats Hereford no of seats Morgan Factory no of seats Rally fee due £ Coach fee due £
Total payment due (rally fee + coach trips + EHU): £
Payment:
1. Online booking form on the MCC website – www.themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk – pay by card at the time of booking.
2. By Post: send your completed form to: The Motor Caravanners’ Club Ltd, Wood Farm Estate, Marlbank Road, Welland, Malvern, WR13 6NA giving your telephone number. The Office will contact you for payment by bank credit or debit card. CONTACT NUMBER
Closing date: Thursday 11th May 2023 (booking forms or cancellation refunds will not be accepted after the closing date)
Signature Date
Even if you have not pre-booked, you are still welcome to come and pay on arrival at £22 pupn
Kavanagh Deville attends the
October Motorhome & Caravan Show held at the NEC, Birmingham. This is part 2 of his report on what to see in ‘23’…
PAs with Part 1, we are concentrating on what hadn’t previously been exhibited in the UK or featured in Motor Caravanner. The show was extremely well-attended and many purchased new ‘vans…some without knowing what the final price will be and/or when it will be delivered to the point of sale.
Motorcaravan converters are at the mercy of third-party suppliers and there are still huge supplychain hold-ups with some items just unobtainable or subject to a price increase every time they are ordered by the factory.
Cottingham-based Swift Group continue to update their offer. Last month we featured the new Fordbased Voyagers, this month it is a brace of Fiat Ducato-based Ascari’s [1]. These are narrow coachbuilts, under 6m in length…actually 5.99m (19’ 8”), and with the same footprint as a PVC. They are likely to appeal to those wanting to explore country lanes and traverse unclassified mountain passes. The interior photographs [2 and 3] are of the Ascari 344, which has four travel seats and two sleeping berths. Grey cab ‘looks the part’, as does the contemporary
interior. Price: from £66,995.
interior. Price: from £66,995. In February’s NEC show report, the launch of the Moto-Trek Terrain PVC was featured, this time it is
two new compact 5.99m (19’ 8”) coachbuilts, the Xplora ELD [4-6] (pictured) and the Xplora FLD. The latter has a surprisingly roomy
washroom and four travel seats. Rear panel in lounge is windowless, great for those who feel the pews in rear lounges are like ‘sitting in a goldfish bowl’, but not so good for nosy parkers like me! As an aside, has anyone ever sat in a goldfish bowl?
Erwin Hymer UK had just one new model, or rather a new version of an existing model. Their twoberth Elddis Autoquest/ Compass Avantgarde 115 [7-9] has grown from 5.7m (18’ 8.5”) to 6.15m (20’ 2.25”) which will both please and disappoint members. Those 115 owners I’ve spoken to at club rallies chose it because of its compactness, and for some the extra length will make it >>
impractical to store at home. On the other hand, those wanting to sleep in single beds can now do so because the settees have been extended. Whichever opinion one holds, there is no doubting that the 115 is very competitively-priced at £56,769. Be aware that the pictured alloy wheels are a cost option at £864.
Knaus can usually be relied upon to exhibit something new… and they didn’t disappoint. VW’s Transporter provides the extremelycivilised underpinnings for their new Vansation 500MR [10-12], a new recruit to their Tourer Van range… which confusingly aren’t vans, but coachbuilts. Some grand GRP moulding here. Vansation 500MR arrives with four travel seats and two sleeping berths as standard though the model exhibited was also equipped with a foldaway overcab bed for two children. Max payload is 381kg and the price is from £72,230. As exhibited with an overcab bed, 150bhp engine, and automatic transmission: £76,399. Length: 5.89m (19’ 4”)
Next-up is another German. This time it’s a Carthago and based upon the Mercedes Sprinter cab…but crucially with Al-Ko Kober wide-track fully-galvanised independently-sprung chassis
extensions. The Chic C-Line T 4.9LE [13-15] has a warm ‘Skandi’ vibe to the kitchen and rear bedroom. Length: 7.5m (24’ 7.5”). Payload on a standard model is 815kg, with an optional upgrade to 1,115kg available. The rear garage has a wide door and can safely cope with 350kg. However, a Group C1 driving licence will be required for all variants. Price: from £102,320. As exhibited (inc 170bhp engine, automatic transmission and chassis upgrade): £134,390.
motorhomes and the Flair 920 [1619] is for many ‘the motorcaravan of their dreams’. Seen before, but just re-launched with new (glass) windows, a heavily revised kitchen, and an all new ‘comfort station’, which is split either side of the central aisle. A Group C1 licence will be required, although the weights will depend on the specification. N+B will do their best
Verona is a fair step away, but not as far as Indiana, USA, where this RV was built. Somerset based Empire RV were showing this Fleetwood Flair 29 [22 & 23]. ‘29’ does refer to its length, but it is the usable interior length measured from the rearmost part of the instrument nacelle/dashboard. Externally, it stretches the tape to 9.45m (31’ 0”). Amazingly, this mobile home is under 7,500kg and can be driven by anyone with a Group C1 licence. I thought it might appeal to the early-retired spending winters on the Iberian Peninsula and ‘empty nest’ fulltimers…and it will. However, at the show a young couple were seriously considering it for their first UK home, eschewing bricks and mortar because they worked
>> example will set you back £326,071 - although the range starts at a more approachable £194, 200.
Length: 9.27m (30’ 5”). Iveco’s Dailey provided the chassis-cab and the in-line engine provides an equine count of 204 to drive the twin rear wheels. Just look at the amount of exterior-access storage on this biggie…
…and on this compact 5.99m (19’ 8”) GRP monocoque Wingamm City Pro [20 & 21] …all the way from Verona in Italy. Four travel seats and two sleeping berths. Price from £110,495.
Highfield, Rushenden, Alsager Avenue, Queenborough, Kent ME11 5LA
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.
For more info or to book call us on 07899 927467 visit the website www.leobay.co.uk or email steve.leobay@gmail.com
in an area with sky-high house prices, and (predictably) houses they liked they couldn’t afford, and what they could afford, they didn’t like, or would require a mega commute. Note to self… never assume anything! For those unsure about moving up to this size of motorhome, Empire RV also have a hire fleet, thus prospective customers can ‘try before they buy’. The exterioraccess second kitchen [24] looked useful. I’ve lived in bedsits that were not much bigger! Guide price at current exchange rates: £182 701. Not cheap, but excellent VFM. I bet it was £182,700 but that they didn’t have enough ‘noughts’ for the windscreen notice.
looked useful. I’ve lived in
bigger! Guide price at current exchange rates: windscreen notice.
“..at the show a young couple were seriously considering it for their first UK home...”
Please note: all rallies for 2023 that require booking will commence at 12 noon on Sunday 8th January. See your programme or Anglia website for details. Bookings for our 60th jubilee rally will be taken for Anglia members only until noon on Sunday 11th March when it will open for members from other groups. Will members please note that if you are unable to attend a rally you have booked for please notify the person that you booked with i.e. Carol or Teresa and not a third party to avoid any delay in offering your place to another member.
Thirty-four vans came to Terrington St. Clements with visitors from Essex, E. Midlands and Lancashire. There were six council members here. Friday evening there was tea, coffee, Chairman’s welcome followed by a quiz set by Derek and bingo which as usual was profitable for some!
Saturday most went out exploring the village as well as patronising the café outside the school gates. Others went on the excellent bus service to Kings Lynn or Spalding taking in the Springfield shopping outlet and Bay Tree nurseries for retail therapy. In the evening we were entertained by our old friend Mark Steele who kept us going all evening. A versatile artist whose guitar playing on solo items is as good as his singing.
Sunday morning the usual refreshments followed by Derek’s Dodgy Dip and the two minute silence. A good raffle was drawn which finished off a great weekend. The stewards Derek and Carol thanked all members who assisted with the parking, hall setting up proving that many hands make light work. The saying really proved itself on this rally.
Fifty units came to Wells including 18 from other groups. Friday evening there was soup and French bread to start the evening followed by carol singing. The arrangement of the Twelve days of Xmas by Derek brought the house down with
each table singing in sequence round the hall. The second time we altered the table sequence and Keith ran himself ragged keeping up since there was no way of knowing whose table was to sing next! This was followed by bingo as usual profitable for some!
Saturday morning the tables were set and the hall decorated by our volunteers and at 5.30pm we gathered for Bucks Fizz and our usual great Xmas meal. Then we were entertained by Simon Lee who we had been trying to book for some time. A great artist who kept us dancing all evening until late.
Sunday morning tea, coffee and mince pies followed by Dodgy Dip and a massive raffle. Some members won several prizes and it was great fun. As is our custom the profit from the raffle will be donated to East Anglia Children’s Hospice and we raised £200! Keith thanked all who had donated prizes and also thanked Teresa, Carol and Derek for their huge amount of work put in behind the scenes to make this a success. He also thanked all Committee members who parked up the vans and also acted as tea ladies. Scribe Derek
Upcoming rallies: 27-29 January at Roydon Village Hall IP22 5RB. Bookings to Teresa.
Our last rally under the Avon banner (unless we are able to form a committee at the EGM). Held at a new venue for our group. It started on the Thursday morning, two motorhomes from our group committee arrived Wednesday late afternoon in thick fog to find half of our allotted car park full of contractors’ lorries and heavy earth moving equipment! The environment agency was undertaking major work! We would have no choice but park up our members much closer than usual, massive thank you to all who joined us for your understanding of our predicament and putting up with the noise Thursday and Friday.
What a fantastic venue Fromebridge Mill in Gloucestershire, just off the motorway and great walking
along the river for those who have dogs. With a designated area inside to enjoy a drink/food in a warm and fascinating environment where the signs inform you “dogs are welcome with well-behaved owners”! Many of those who arrived on Thursday enjoyed their hospitality for drinks and food, alongside bingo in the room above the bar.
Friday everyone now booked in, the staff at the Mill had worked hard rearranging tables and forming a dance floor. We all arrived at 6.30pm for a sit-down meal at 7pm. The bar was manic but staff kept calm and worked through it, with tables set out in the main restaurant. We enjoyed a three-course meal, the staff serving, alongside the kitchen staff worked incredibly hard to bring out multiple choices of food, clearing tables in between courses, all for £27 per head including a disco and three nights parking for just £10 (that would be donated to MacMillan charity).
Saturday morning, no construction working, the fog has lifted slightly it’s quiet except for the sound of cascading water falling into the mill pond. The upside of being forced to park our motorhomes much closer than normal and some door to door it had everyone talking to each other. Many walked up to the garden centre super store with a great cafeteria. Pete and Sue Turl ran a free taxi service for those who needed assistance – much appreciated. There was a bus stop outside to Gloucester and its Victorian market.
Saturday night we all met in the main restaurant where the Avon Group put on live entertainment, Irena, who had the dance floor buzzing all night. If this is going to be the last rally the Avon Group ever hold, we said goodbye in style.
Thank you to fellow members of the committee for staying on making this rally possible, with a special thanks to Rally Officers Rowena Moulding alongside Hilary Dean for their work making it possible. Not forgetting Sue Turl our Chairman who put untold hours organising and running our Group.
Our EGM will be held on Saturday 14 January 2023, at 11am, at Baileys Court Activity Centre, Bradley Stoke, BS32 8BH. If you don’t want this to be the last Avon rally ever, the Group needs volunteers, it will fold if a committee cannot be formed.
Roger MouldingAn enthusiastic turnout for the Chiltern Christmas Party weekend, held at The Hurst Community College. Arriving briskly after the opening time led to most vans being parked up in short order on the tarmac surface of the sports courts.
The heating in the hall worked well this year and soon had everyone in a jovial and sociable mood. The entertainment on the first night was provided in house by organising a Christmas themed jumper/costume parade followed by quizzes, musical and written.
Through Saturday we gathered in the hall for mince pies and coffee, later getting the tables ready for the evening and encouraging them to be decorated by offering a drum of sweets for the best table. The evening started with bucks fizz, beer or soft drinks on arrival accompanied by festive tunes from the DJ (who royally entertained us throughout
the evening). Caterers provided a delicious buffet of Christmas fayre, serving generous portions. The grand raffle was well received and enjoyed by all considering the many happy and smiley faces. A most enjoyable and dance-filled evening had to be reluctantly drawn to a close at 11.30pm. Sunday had the usual coffee morning with the chairperson’s address summarising the attendance of 31 van, 21 Chiltern, five Motorcycle, two West Wessex, one Sussex, one Severn Valley and one Lancashire. Not forgetting our President, Del, who was accompanied by his daughter and son in law.
Upcoming rallies: 11 February is a day meet Gt Bourton V.H. OX17 1FH. 10-12 March at Old Warden V.H. SG18 9HQ, Bookable.
To book a rally, contact Anne Taylor: text or email anneeastmidlands@gmail.com. Bookable rallies: Burns Night at Hose Jan 20-22, Valentine’s Night at Waddington Feb 10-12, Marshals Yard Feb 24-26 and the Country and Western Rally at Ingoldmells March 23-26. Booking forms are available at rallies or on our website under gallery. Unfortunately, there has been an increase in the number of members not arriving for rallies they have booked and leaving us with no time to fill the places with members on the waiting list. The effect of this has been two-fold; disappointment for members who wished to come and secondly, rallies being run at a loss. The committee is doing its absolute best to keep the price of rallies to minimum, but we cannot sustain repeated losses. As a result, until further notice, a booking fee of £10 is required with each booking. You will find our Refund Policy in the Rally Booklet. We understand that circumstances change, sometimes at the last minute – but we do urge you to let us know as soon as possible if you are unable to attend a rally you’ve booked.
Your rally booklets arrived the week after our dinner-dance at Springfields and will hopefully have been posted out in time for the 2023 rallies (fingers crossed for an uninterrupted postal service). As usual, if you haven’t received your booklet by the end of January, please contact me (Sue).
Brownhills rally: 22 vans attended the rally and were greeted by the stewards Anne, Geoff, Chris and Janis. The Chairman opened the rally and welcomed new members and visitors from Severn Valley and Yorkshire. Those who attended the rally could use all the facilities, plus they were given 10% discount in the accessory shop.
On Friday evening the members played bingo and chatted with old and new friends. Jane and Paul ran the raffle. On Saturday some members went into Newark and others stayed and visited the showroom and I believe some were tempted to buy. Saturday evening, a bonfire-themed quiz was prepared by Janis and then the members got into teams and Geoff and Anne did their five-part logic and picture quiz which was won by Paul, Jane, Bob, Robin and Barbara.
Sunday morning some members went into the cafe for breakfast and saying their goodbyes before heading home. Thanks to the stewards for a lovely weekend.
Collingham rally: On a very wet afternoon 28 vans were welcomed and parked up by the stewards Champa, Bill, Dot and Dave. Friday evening the chairman opened the rally welcoming a first-time visitor from Severn Valley. Raffle and bingo tickets were on sale. Played a game of bingo then the members spent the evening catching up with friends.
On Saturday some members went shopping in Newark, others walked into Collingham and some walked to the local bird sanctuary. Saturday evening there were two quizzes and something new for us – John and Joan gave a country dancing class which was well received by all.
Sunday there was a coffee morning then the raffle was drawn. The rally was closed by the chairman who thanked John and Joan and then thanked the stewards. Yvonne
Upcoming rallies: 20-22 January is Burns Night at Hose Village Hall, Harby Lane, Hose, Leics, LE14 4JR. 10-12 February is Valentine’s Night at Village Hall, Waddington, Lincoln, LN5 9NX. 24-26 February is Casino Night at Marshalls Sports Ground, Middlefield Lane, Gainsborough DN21 1UU.
Wet, wet, wet! That’s the only way to describe our Halloween rally at Fort Widley, as the rain fell and carried on falling. 17 vans turned out – three from Sussex, 14 from East Wessex. It had been forecast, but the optimists amongst us enjoyed a sunny Friday afternoon and took full advantage of it, disappearing into Cosham to look for bargains, or out to the pub for a bite to eat. Pete entertained us with his music in the evening and line dancing teacher Caroline tried to teach some of us a couple of dances with hilarious results; eyes in the back of the head would have come in very handy.
The rain began during the night, along with strengthening winds, and continued on and off during Saturday with heavy downpours. Those with transport ventured out for lunch and browsing charity shops whilst others stayed in vans. We got together for afternoon tea and card bingo in the hall.
Determined to make the most of our weekend, the hall was decorated for Halloween and the evening began with hot dogs and onions prepared by Larry and Sheila, to warm us through. As it was also bonfire night there should have been firework displays to enjoy from our elevated position overlooking Portsmouth but alas, the rain put paid to that. Still, we danced to Pete’s disco, Jim called the raffle and the Secretary did chit chat.
Ominously the torrential rain carried on overnight and inevitably we woke to flooding in the field with some vans starting to sink as grass turned to mud. As luck would have it, a man with a tractor turned up to prepare the surface of the riding school next to us, a visitor happened to have the mother of all tow ropes in his van, and the kind tractor driver agreed to tow those who needed it off the field. By 9.30am all were off the grass and most decided to call it a day and go home. First time hosts Graham and Jill did a grand job, helped by Jim. We were very pleased to meet new members Philip, Diana, Les and Karen and just hope you don’t think
having to be towed off the field was typical of our rallies. We’re on hardstanding for the next few months.
On behalf of the East Wessex Committee I’d like to wish everyone a very Happy New Year and happy rallying in 2023. Diane
Upcoming rallies: 10-12 February at Ringwood Junior School, Hightown Road, Ringwood BH24 1NH. Arrivals from 5pm. 3-5 March at Easebourne CE Primary School, Wheelbarrow Castle, Easebourne, GU29 9AG. Arrivals from 5pm. Our 2023 rally programme is still being finalised so rally booklets have not yet been posted out. Keep an eye on our website: eastwessex.uk for any updated information about rallies or contact the rally officer.
Our November meet was at Mayflower School, but we changed from the 6th form room to the main hall with entertainment, this seemed to go down very well. Can I thank everyone for their patience whilst parking everyone up in the dark with no lights.
Our usual start for the weekend, bingo and background music and friendly chats to catch up with one and another. Saturday was left to members to do their own thing ie shopping, or finding a local pub or restuarant. Evening entertainment was with N.V. James, a very versatile singer who got people up dancing. Unfortunately the time of closing was 11pm sharp as caretakers were not very accommodating. Sunday morning raffle was pulled and we cleared the hall to be on our way home by 1pm. Bob
Upcoming rallies: 27-29 January at Chelmer Valley School CM1 7ER. Starts 6pm, not before. Entertainment singer Carol Harper. 17-19 February at Westcliff High School for Boys (Not Girls School) SS0 0BP. Entrance via Kenilworth Gardens. Starts: 5pm, not before.
Happy New Year to all our Kent MCC members! As I write this article, we have had no rally in November and our Christmas and New Year rallies have not yet happened so news on the shenanigans during those weekends will appear in the February 2023 magazine!
Our Rally Programme for 2023 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. Let’s hope that things can get back to normal for our 2023 rally season and so rather than missing out get those dates in your diaries!
We have seen a lot of new members joining us at our rallies during 2022 as well as visitors from other Groups popping in on their travels. It is so good to see new people and you are all very welcome. We know that many of you have said that you enjoyed your visit and will come back to see us again. If you have not been to Kent Group before you will be sure of a warm welcome – so why not pop along.
The atmosphere is very relaxed and you are free to join in as much, or as little, as you wish.
17-19 February is our first rally in 2023 and is at Sandwich Junior School, St. Barts Road, Sandwich, Kent CT13 0AS. This is a bookable rally so please contact Jan on kent@motorcaravannersclub.co.uk to book. 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, gates in the old town walls, almshouses, churches and the White Mill. There is a lovely small Nature Reserve with good pathways and down on the riverside a Viking historical group have a small living museum and are in the process of building a replica Viking boat. A bus ride away is the beautiful city of Canterbury. On the Saturday night we have an Elvis impersonator, so dust off your Teddy Boy outfits and your full petticoated skirts and come rocking with us!
Looking forward, our spring rallies are as follows: 24-26 March at Bridge Farm, Appledore, Ashford, Kent TN26 2DA. Bookable rally. 6-10 April at St. Richards School, Bexhill, East Sussex TN10 1SE (by kind permission of Sussex). This is our Easter rally and plans are afoot for a full programme of activities throughout the weekend with two nights of professional entertainment with MattrockingRobbins and Goldilux. This will be a weekend to remember but is bookable, so please do contact Jan on the details above.
Happy New Year to all MCC members, 2023! The first rally in November was at Hoghton VH. 22 ‘vans arrived: 21 Lancs and one NWM&NW. Most were sited by 2.15pm by cheerful hosts Mel, Sandra, Jimmy and Carole. All were given a programme which, being our charity weekend, explained the origins of Southport Offshore Rescue Trust. The evening started with paying fees and buying tickets.
Then our Chairperson, Lisa, opened the rally and we continued with bingo after singing the silly Bingo Song, causing lots of laughter! That was followed by Carole’s dreadful quiz, and Dean played music.
A bright Saturday morning and it was over to the hall for breakfast made by our lady hosts. Then after lunch, we went back into the hall for the Table Top Sale. There were plenty of stalls with things for sale plus Guess the Weight of the Cake and Tombola and Name the Bear and many were tempted to enjoy an afternoon tea. It was also good to see some members who were not camping but joined us for the sale. Everyone was pleased that over £400 was raised.
The evening started with Take Your Pick followed by Carole’s crazy quiz, followed by her crazy game: each table were a team and one member had to ‘Do,do,do’ to convey the title of a song to the others. It caused great hilarity! The evening ended with Best of Friends.
Coffee morning on Remembrance Sunday. All were in the hall well before 11am and as it got close Brian brought quiet to the room and everyone stood to hear the chimes of Big Ben on the radio. After the ceremony Lisa closed the rally thanking the hosts and wishing everyone safe travels.
Lisa welcomed 17 ‘vans to Park High. Four NWM&NW and one Yorkshire. She warned people to be careful on the entrance path as there are some deep potholes and informed us of emergency procedures. Allan presented bingo followed by a quiz about Lancashire as we were celebrating Lancashire Day (Sunday). Our team won after a tie break, but the prize, chocolates, was shared with all. Dean played music until 11pm.
Saturday dawned dark and windy and it gradually worsened to a storm by bedtime. Some ventured off site but all met in the hall in the afternoon for games. We had great fun with Bean Bag Boules, Trionimoes, Sequence and Rummicub. We enjoyed a visit from our young adults, twins Adam and Amy and Amy. It was a great opportunity for us
to get to know visitors and new members.
The evening started with Allan and Brian continuing their theme from last year of Ferret Fanciers Association. Such hilarity! Brian then read the Proclamation whereby Lancashire became The County Palatine of Lancashire whose boundary includes Merseyside, Greater Manchester and part of Cumbria and part of Cheshire. The hosts then served, ‘stew and hard’ to all. Brian gave us another quiz which was a mixture of Lancashire and general knowledge. This time won by the NWMs team who also shared the prize. Dean played lots of Lancashire based music throughout plus dancing and Best of Friends to end.
Sunday brought coffee and Lisa who closed the rally thanking hosts and helpers and wished all a safe onward journey. Alma
Upcoming rallies: 20-22 January Burns Night at Turnover Hall Farm, St Michaels on Wyre PR3 0UE. Own drinks. 3-5 February at Whittingham & Goosnargh, Whittingham Lane, PR3 2JE. Bar drinks only, pub, indoor games.
Pillion riding. What was it that got me to try this new experience you ask? I had been rallying with the MCG for 4 years and not going on the ride outs. It wasn’t my thing I thought. Then my husband bought a Royal Enfield 350 Meteor and asked if I wanted to try it. It was certainly a change from his Suzuki Bandit. I was turning 65 and thought surely I’m too old for this lark! But decided if I didn’t do it now I never would. I borrowed a helmet and some gear and went for a short ride. It was ok-ish! But no going back now, Pandora’s box was opened!
Yes it was quite odd to pull on a very tight helmet. My ears folded over on the first attempt! My head seemed very heavy with the extra weight. I was sure I was going to topple over and looking out of what seemed like a goldfish bowl, I wondered if this was really for me. If I thought the helmet was difficult then the clothing was even trickier. The trousers were just too big and bulky. How was I supposed to bend my knee to get on the bike. I felt like the Michelin Man. There was only one way this was going now so I had to buy gear that fitted me.
After a few initial fears and changes to my attire I mastered it and have been riding for a year now. My husband tells me that I have travelled around 4,000 miles. Unbelievable! But true. I’ve learnt a lot too including getting on/off the bike with ease and sitting comfortably.
We now have headsets so we can talk to each other and I can point out things he might miss including pasty shops! Riding is on hold for the winter months and I’m looking forward to meeting up with you all again on this year’s rallies. Noreen
The new venue at Cogenhoe was fine, despite the weather meaning that we had to paddle through the grass to get to the hall. Thanks to Peter and Di for stewarding, backwards
and forwards putting the heating on before we went into the hall, and a lot of locking and unlocking to keep everywhere safe. Peter also gave us a couple of ‘easy’ quizzes. I’d hate to do a hard one! Despite a couple of hiccups the ladies were able to use the decent kitchen to do soup and hotdogs on Saturday, thanks Pat and Jane.
Those that wished could go to the Mud Kitchen cafe just up the road at the Village Hall, I can vouch that they did a very good breakfast bap, and a nice slice of homemade cake. Also, there is a pub and the local Working Men’s Club (that’s what it was called in my youth!) The rally went well, with 21 vans getting safely off the field, so the venue has been booked for 2023. Kathleen
Upcoming rallies: 27-29 January at Wrenn Academy, Doddington Road, Wellingborough NN8 2JJ. Cost £12 pupn. Starts 5pm. 17-19 February at Cogenhoe Bowls Club, York Avenue, Cogenhoe NN7 1NB. Cost £13 pupn. 31 March-2 April at Geddington Youth Club, Grafton Road, Geddington NN14 1AJ. Cost £TBC. Limited to 12 vans.
Hello everyone, welcome to 2023, New Year wishes to all. Hope you have all had a good Christmas. November saw one of our usual rallies at Blucher Social Club with 12 vans from Northern Counties and one from Lancashire. Thank you John and Laine Walker for hosting the weekend.
We have only one meet this month, a Commercial Campsite meet (no hosts) at Wooler, see Riverside Park
website for booking. This year’s National Rally is at Malvern Showground 25-30 May so why not use these winter months to work on your Homecraft entries.
The December Christmas Party and New Year rallies will be reported on in the next Newsletter. Paula & Tony Edwards
Limavady Rally 11-13 – Friday the 11th of November saw us roll up to Limavady High School where our hosts were Chairman David Kyle Ewing and wife Thelma assisted by Hugh and Moira Harvey. The ladies signed us in, and David and Hugh parked us up ready for our weekend. Paul Rixon was on hand to collect our rally dues. The meet and greet began at 8.30 with Play your Cards Right with David and hostess Selma McMullan. There were three winners and after a lengthy run on the final prize with no winner it was unanimously decided to donate the £45 to the Chairman’s charity and the rest of the evening continued with music from Joe and Gary Little.
Saturday, we woke to a bright morning with a lot of members venturing into town to take in the shops and have lunch. In the evening a good crowd gathered in the hall for a great night’s music and dancing with Steve Farlow and Geri Kane with the floor busy all night.
Coffee morning on Sunday was well attended and David thanked everyone for attending and also Thelma, Hugh and Moira for their assistance. Number plate draws were won by Joe Little and Sam Arlow who also won the quiz. In total thirty five vans attended the rally. A huge welcome to John and Margaret Jardine who joined the group at the gate. Look forward to seeing them at a future rally.
Once again a big thank you to our hosts for another successful weekend. Report by Roy Dowie
Our venue was in Armagh High School on 25-27 November. It was in conjunction with a Georgian theme weekend. There were numerous stalls, located around different streets of the city, tempting us with various foods. And of course being Armagh, famous for apples, it was nice to taste all the different products made from the apples. Also, can’t forget all the very talented craft artists whose wares were on display.
On Sunday morning the weather being dry allowed for an outdoor coffee morning. This also was an opportunity to speak with those members who had come along for this meet. The chairman informed us that 31 vans in total attended. He thanked Andy Clarke and Sam Arlow for parking up on Friday evening which was a windy and wet night. A big thank you to Lesley Rixon who ably checked the vans in. The chairman said he had spoken to the head mistress and hopefully we will be able to have use of the hall and toilets next year. A welcome was given to new members Angela and Maurice Carruthers, and to Karen Halford who had not been officially welcomed since joining. Number plate draw was won by Irene and Robbie Hewitt. So, here’s to seeing more members out at our next rally in Cookstown. Safe home. Elaine Kerr
I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and best wishes for 2023. Wistanstow is the only rally to report on, a big thank you to Jon and Elaine Beck who took on the whole rally. There were 18 vans attending with visitors from S&W Wales and Severn Valley. We had the usual bingo on Friday but the callers were Jon and Elaine who spiced things up with some significant numbers. It didn’t prevent visitors taking away the winnings. This was followed by an “easy” quiz set by Jon. Three tables had the same score resulting in a tie break question and it was Fred and Chris’s table declared the winners. The prize was shared out on Saturday.
Many took the opportunity to travel into Ludlow on Saturday. Some went down to the Plough in the village to enjoy a meal while others stayed to take part in the games afternoon. In the evening it was curling with a total of six teams. Elaine was in charge of the scoring with Jon as referee. No mishaps took place just some interesting techniques and references to the floor not being level as the stones tended to veer off to the left. After all teams had taken part there was a nail biting final between the Red Dogs and the Blue Cats. It ended in a very tense tie break (a bit like a penalty shoot out!) won by the Blue Cats. The prize was shared around the room. Thank you to everyone who came and made it an enjoyable rally.
Hosts or volunteers to book in are still needed for 2023 rallies, so please speak to a committee member if you think you can help. Contact details for the rally officers, Jon and Elaine: email nwmnwrally@hotmail.com or mobile 07525 851394.
Upcoming rallies: 10-12 February at Cranage Village Hall, Pump Cottage, Cranage CW10 9LX. Valentines theme. No arrivals before 1pm. Booking required with Mike on 07756 074777. 24-26 February at Winsford Academy Grange Lane, Winsford CW7 2BT No booking required. Own drinks. Library space for the evening. Shops and well known hostelry nearby.
A Happy New Year to everyone; I hope you are all keeping warm and cheerful as you take the opportunity to plan your 2023 trips in your motorhomes. The shortest day has passed and, despite the winter storms, with each day we get closer to rally time again.
25-27 Novermber at Llandovery Cattle Market. The hosts at this new venue were Moira and Hywel with Keith and Sue who welcomed 21 vans, all S&WW members. Sue had been delayed as she was on jury duty and special thanks are due to Moira who booked in all the vans on her own.
The Friday night in Llandovery town had a very festive atmosphere as it was the night the Christmas lights were being switched on by the mayor. There were Christmas stalls, school choirs and a male voice choir who all added to the festive occasion.
On the Saturday Wales were playing rugby against Australia which was the perfect excuse for many of our
members to visit Llandovery Rugby Club to watch the match. There was a bonus too as the Club served free bowl of cawl (a traditional Welsh soup) to everyone at halftime, but it was a shame about the result!
On Sunday we had an unusual venue for coffee morning, which was the cattle mart shed. Congratulations were given, together with a card, to Heulwen and Jeff who have recently retired.
Our Chair, Betty, joins me in wishing you all a very happy and healthy new year and thanks you for your support during 2022 and looks forward to seeing you at our 2023 rallies.
Upcoming rallies: 3-6 March is St.David’s Day Rally at Princess Gwenllian Centre, Kidwelly SA37 4UL. Bookable. Starts 12pm. 16-20 March at Dunvant Rugby Club SA2 7RU. Starts 2pm. 31 March-2 April at Dan yr Ogof Caves, SA9 1GJ. Excellent site in stunning setting with walks and amazing caves and farm to visit. Bookable. Starts 2pm. For all bookable rallies please contact our rally officer on 07791 574227 or keithjhoward17@gmail.com.
Greetings to all from the Scottish Group. We had a successful rally and AGM at Monturpie site just outside Upper Largo in November. There were nine vans at the rally, eight Scottish and one with visitors from Yorkshire, Mark and Sarah Greeley. A very good high tea was held in the site restaurant on the 5th November. The AGM on 6th November was attended by 35 members including the two visitors from Yorkshire. A full committee was elected and look forward to a good year. The refreshments after the AGM were very good and well worth the money. We wish all members of the Club a very good New Year and look forward to meeting members and visitors at rallies throughout 2013. Jan B
Hello everyone. Hope you had a wonderful Christmas and a happy new year to you all . There are no rallies to report on this month, but by the time the magazine is printed in January the new year rally at Ledbury Rugby club will have taken place, so details will be in February’s group news.
Details have now been confirmed for our EGM, which will be taking place at Yew Tree Farm, Bewdley, DY14 9RE on Saturday 11 March at 10.30am. Following this meeting I will be stepping down as club secretary. For the group to continue a club member is needed to fill the position. If you are interested contact any committee member, details can be found in December’s magazine.
Hosts are still needed for the 2023 rally program. Thank you to everyone who put their names forward to host rallies at the AGM. Without hosts rallies will be cancelled. The 2023 rally programme is available to view online on the Severn Valley website, but due to the postal strikes and the backlog of Christmas mail, the booklets haven’t been posted yet, but will be in due course. Happy rallying in 2023.
Upcoming rallies: EGM on 10-12 March at YewTree Farm, Bewdley DY14 9RE.
Happy New Year everyone! By now you will have received your 2023 rally programme either by email or through the post. Please let Barbara know if you have not got it yet. There are firm favourites, new and revisits to venues this year and to ease the fuel price rise it was decided to rally for a minimum of 3 nights. Most sites offering a private function room are closed during the winter months and this is why we are returning to Trevarrian for a Valentine’s theme rally in February. The committee felt that the Fox & Hounds does not offer our members all-round site facility value for money during the winter months and it is hoped to slot in a rally during the summer months, if not this year, then in 2024. Please note that any changes to this programme will be notified to members through these newsletters, on both the MCC and SWP website and our SWP Facebook page.
There is just the Christmas Shopping rally to report on and here is what went on: A lovely easy-going rally hosted by Linda and Graham Morris who welcomed a total of 15 vans (14 SWP), some were long-standing members and some were new, this being their first time at the Fox & Hounds, all were taken in by the beautiful surroundings. Ralliers made good use of the local bus service, Granite Way for cycling, and walks over the moors.
Friday and Saturday evenings there was lots of laughter and fun in the skittles alley, followed by Sunday morning coffee meet with mince pies, stollen cake and shortbread biscuits. Linda organised a 50/50 bucket (50% of the money went to the winner – who just happened to be Barbs, our secretary and 50% to the Group’s funds). Graham had his drone up over the site and took some great photos, a couple of which are on our Facebook page. Overall the weather was reasonably kind, with some lovely sunny days leading to the first morning frost on Saturday and, yes, it did rain... in fact there was some sleet too. There is doubt as to how much shopping was actually done, but who’s counting!
There are still two 2022 rallies to report on during December and these will be in the February newsletter. A reminder that bookings for rallies were scrapped at the AGM, however members are still required to put their rally fees in a suitable receptacle, stating their name(s), membership number and group, van reg, number of nights and fees.
Upcoming rallies: Valentine’s rally 9-12 February at Trevarrian Holiday Park, TR8 4AQ. 23-26 March at Camping Caradon, Looe, PL13 2NA. Evening disco.
Happy New Year to you all. I hope you had an enjoyable Christmas time and are now raring to go for the 2023 new season, with lots of exciting rallies planned.
Our year begins with an afternoon Soup Meet at Dial Post Village Hall, RH13 8NJ from 1.30pm-5pm on Saturday 14 January. A variety of delicious home-made soups and rolls, as well as tea and coffee, will be served, along with a friendly get together and chats about our upcoming programme, also catching up with friends old and new. Last
year we had our biggest turnout at a soup meet, so let’s try to exceed our previous record.
This will be followed on 17-19 February by our first weekend meet at Thomas A Beckett Junior School in Worthing, BN14 7PR, where we will celebrate St Valentine’s Day with professional entertainment on Saturday evening, hosted by Mary (our new treasurer) and Alan Campbell. I will be making my usual heart shaped chocolates to add to the romantic theme on your tables but feel free to add any of your own ideas to contribute to your table decorations.
In March, we have our very first exciting rally at SEAL Bunn Leisure Park, a Warner Touring Park, in Selsey, PO20 9EL, with all the site’s facilities and entertainments on offer. This is a bookable rally, so contact Carole Bennett (07769 944009) for details and bookings. This will be a very welcome return to Selsey, a place that many will remember as a firm favourite from the past.
Also remember that following our recent AGM, we have now initiated a Loyalty Scheme open to ALL attendees at Sussex MCC rallies (see website for full details, thanks Ian) so there are even more reasons to come and join the fun. Hope to see you all soon. Jo
Riverside Christmas Rally 1-5 December. Wow where do we start! We were joined by 54 vans: 30 West Country, 12 SWP, 10 Avon, two Severn Valley and one East Wessex (just for Christmas Party only).
We had a great fun packed Christmas Rally, even the weather was kind to us even though it was cold. On our first afternoon we had a meet and greet in the club where we enjoyed mulled wine, mince pies and stollen and where old friends and new friends caught up with each other. Riverside
very kindly opened their restaurant for us in the evening where some of us enjoyed a cooked meal, then a bit later we sat down for a few games of bingo followed by singing by Ken, our Entertainments Officer, and background music.
On the Friday afternoon we had another meet and greet for the ones who arrived during the day while others enjoyed a coach trip into Exeter where some enjoyed the Christmas Market on Cathedral Green and the Winter Wonderland if you fancied trying ice skating or just enjoying a wander around all the shops for Christmas presents. Once again Riverside opened their restaurant for those wishing not to cook, then we were entertained by the very talented Jason Toff who also sang requests and a few of us got up and danced the night away.
On the Saturday the day was our own until the evening where we all dressed up in our finery or in Christmas clothes and sat down for our absolutely wonderful Christmas dinner which included a lovely starter, a wonderful Christmas carvery, a great dessert and then tea or coffee with a mince pie. We were all totally full after that but of course we all left room for more drinks. We would like to mention that all the staff at Riverside did a marvellous job for the smooth running of our meal, thank you. We were then entertained by the Bicycle Repairmen and then afterwards our own Ken once again sang a few songs.
On Sunday morning we had our great Christmas raffle where Santa took time out of his busy schedule to hand out the prizes.Thank you Santa. Some of us then returned back to the club a bit later for a Sunday carvery which was once again absolutely fantastic. Then in the evening we had a few games of bingo while watching and cheering on our boys in the Word Cup. Afterwards we had Christmas karaoke and also a few people told a few jokes and made us all laugh.
On Monday it was time to pack up and make a move
home. Thank you to everyone who came and made our Christmas Rally as great as it was.
All that is left to say is Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all from all the West Country Committee.
I write this having just arrived home from a wonderful Christmas Party Rally at Herston Yard Farm campsite. The weather stayed fine but was very cold as 39 motorhomes were parked up on fully serviced pitches on 1st December.
On Thursday evening we gathered in the clubhouse for Keith’s music quiz and then Celtic Shore entertained us with Irish songs and jokes.The club organised a Race Night on Friday evening which later turned into a hilarious sing-song. A raffle raised £408.50 for a local Cancer charity.
On Saturday many people went into Swanage to walk around the stalls of the Christmas Market and listen to the different choirs singing carols. Saturday evening was party night. A surprise visit from Santa with sacks of presents started the evening. Unfortunately, after giving everyone a present and cuddling the ladies, Santa had to fly back to the North Pole and carry on with preparations for Christmas Eve. We enjoyed a Carvery dinner and pudding and then drew the tickets for the Christmas Raffle before dancing till late to the Enigma Roadshow disco. This was an excellent party and we hope to do it all again in 2023.
West Wessex Committee wish all members a Happy New Year and hope that 2023 holds new adventures in your motorhomes. We look forward to seeing you soon.
At the beginning of November we held a rally at Rolls Royce Social Club, Barnoldswick and were pleased to welcome a total of 12 vans (nine Yorkshire, one Lancashire, two Northern Counties). A quiz night was held in the social club on Friday and on Saturday night we were entertained by a duo. The weekend was fine which enabled members to walk into town and along the canal taking in the views.
For the last weekend in November the rally was at Hawes Auction Mart. A wet and windy weekend was forecast, however the rain held off through the daytime which enabled several of the ralliers to enjoy walks around the area and wander into town for a bite to eat (pie and a pint or a bit more!). Despite the weather we had a great attendance, 16 vans in total (12 Yorkshire, three Lancashire, one Northern Counties). We welcomed one new rallier from Lancashire and two first time ralliers to a Yorkshire rally.
As Friday night was a football viewing night only a few of us decided to meet up in the available room, this turned into a pleasant social evening. Saturday night had a few more attendees and Paul our host decided to put our grey cells to work with a Dingbat quiz, followed by a general knowledge quiz; prizes were given to the winning teams.
Upcoming rallies: 20-22 January at Rolls Royce Social Club, Barnoldswick BB18 6HJ. Valentine’s rally on 10-12 February at Wetherby Racecourse LS22 5EJ. 24-26 February at Hawes Auction Mart DL8 3NP. 10-12 March at Skipton Auction Mart BD23 1UD. 24-26 March at Marsden Cricket Club HD7 6NN.
Wessex Committee wish all members a Happy New Year and hope 2023 holds new adventures in your motorhomes. We look forward to seeing
In the last issue we learned how we should get ready for winter in a feature that gave top tips on motorcaravan maintenance and servicing ahead of the off-season. Now that the lights come on that much earlier in the day and winter temperatures mean cranking up the ‘vans heating, we now look at how that pre-season maintenance pays off.
As part of our own pre-season maintenance, we change our lightweight duvet for something
heavier and warmer. We also add other less obvious things to our onboard inventory before we hit the road. An electric fan heater is a must for when we are lucky enough to camp on a winter site that offers EHU. We add a 13-amp timer plug and set it to switch the heater on 30 minutes before the wake-up alarm shatters our sleep. That little luxury ensures we wake up to a toasty warm space. We always insulate the windscreen using a padded exterior cover because that huge expanse of glass certainly knows how to sap away the onboard heat.
For many, the winter season offers a chance to visit and stay in places where, because of summertime crowds, where parking is usually difficult. We find the opportunity to visit tourist hot spots,
when traffic volumes are lower, is another benefit of winter vanning. Frequently during the winter months, we find there are more campervan-friendly spaces available in car parks attached to tourist attractions such as stately homes, museums and art galleries.
But getting to these locations in winter months can prove to be more difficult. When it comes to driving in wintery conditions, there are a lot of hazards for motor caravan drivers to consider that aren’t usually there at other times of the year. One study claims that, over the course of the last five years, there has been, on average, a 25% increase in the number of insurance claims made in November, compared to sunny April, which on average sees the
lowest number of accident claims. New data from Admiral Insurance has revealed there are more severe road traffic accidents happening in winter because many motorists
are unprepared for driving in the changing weather and ignore warnings.
Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing (a company that also leases ‘vans) suggests that when driving in snowy and icy conditions campervan owners should drive at a slower
speed and give hazards a wide berth. He says, “In icy conditions, wheel slip is less likely at a slow speed in a high gear. Make sure to get your speed just right, carefully tapping the accelerator pedal and keeping a close eye on speed.”
Motor caravans are obviously heavier than cars and most of us drive both and have learnt the difference between the sizes. Van drivers know that when going downhill, it pays to reduce to a lower gear to make the need for braking a lot less likely. When driving behind another vehicle, you should give the vehicle in front a wide berth. In normal conditions it is recommended to leave a space for another car between you and any car in front, equal to five seconds. However, in snowy and icy conditions, you should leave the space for around 10 times your own van length in front!
Go around bends carefully. When
Stay visible when driving through heavy snow. Ensure your dipped headlights are always on, so you can stay visible to other road users.
“
approaching a bend, remember to brake before turning the steering wheel, reducing the chances of your vehicle slipping. If your motorcaravan loses grip, stay calm, take your foot off the accelerator and make sure your front wheels are pointing in the direction you want to go in. If the front drive wheels on your ‘van lose their grip, the vehicle will lose some, or all, of its directional control. This skid can happen to a rear wheel drive, front wheel or four-wheel drive. Correction however
is always the same. As soon as you feel understeer, decelerate and if possible, reduce the steering to regain traction.
By reducing the amount the steering wheel is turned, the front wheels start to point in the direction the van is travelling. They start to rotate and grip, and steering is recovered.
Once grip is regained, steer back on to the desired course. If the speed is excessive there may not be enough space to regain control. It is
important that you don’t take your hands off the steering wheel and do not suddenly stamp on the brakes while this happens, as this could make you completely lose control of the vehicle.
Stay visible when driving through heavy snow. Ensure your dipped headlights are always on, so you are obvious to other road users. If visibility drops below 100m, switch on your fog lights so you can see further ahead. However, you must remember to turn them off once visibility improves.
When storing up your motorhome for a winter trip remember always to pack with the worst-case scenario in mind. Breaking down or getting stuck on a site in snowy conditions unprepared can be unpleasant at best and dangerous at worst. Your van should be packed with various items to help you survive were you to run into problems. Your phone should also be fully charged with a phone number of a breakdown provider saved on the phone. Things to pack in the cab include: a torch, a hi-vis vest to keep you visible if you break
down,
“Go around bends in the road carefully. When approaching a bend, remember to brake before turning the steering wheel, reducing the chances of your vehicle slipping.
a blanket to keep you warm, some food, a drink, de-icer, an ice scraper, a blanket, phone charger, map, a warning triangle, some jump leads, and a spade.
Accidents on roads can happen and tailbacks can be horrendous. That said we would far rather break down in our motorhome than our car; the ability to jump into the kitchen and brew up a hot cuppa makes sitting in a traffic jam a whole lot easier!
If driving safely is important during the winter months so is keeping yourself warm while you are in your motorhome. Wearing a fleece jacket or jumper in the cooler evenings is a no-brainer but remembering to take some warm slipper socks is one of the lessons experience has taught us. The floor of our campervan loses its heat a lot quicker than the living room at home! Because it gets darker earlier, we always make sure we have extra flashlights and head torches onboard and because those same darker evenings mean we are not walking, hiking, or biking quite so much, we make sure there are books to read and packs of cards or jigsaws to spread across the table, before it is time to resort to the TV for entertainment.
are in your motorhome. Wearing a fleece jacket or jumper in the experience has taught us. The floor a lot quicker than the living room so much, we make sure there are books to read and packs of cards or
In the coldest season we opt for bowls of oatmeal porridge in the morning and pre-made goulash or heart-warming stews for our evening meals. Heating them up onboard raises the ambient temperature in the van and once eaten, provides the fuel to keep our bodies warm. Always partial to a glass of wine or two, we find that on occasions the opportunity to mull some red will present itself and, secure in the knowledge that we are parked up for the night and won’t be driving, we enjoy that as a seasonal variation. Throw in a mince pie or two and suddenly your van takes on a winter character all of its own and helps dull the sound of the wind or rain that sometimes affects dear old Blighty during the midwinter.
In the coldest season we opt for
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.
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
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
Before you head onto those winter roads remember the adage ‘fail to prepare, prepare to fail’. Not only will the basic checks and a good service keep you safe this winter it will set you up nicely for the year ahead...
As well as being your home away from home, your ‘van is also a road vehicle that is likely to be affected by wear and tear just as your car is. As with an MOT, most manufacturers recommend annual servicing to maintain the safety and good working order of your motorhome, as well as protecting the investment you have made in purchasing your ‘van and keeping its value high. Getting your motorhome serviced during the winter months is also a good idea as it often means that workshops are less busy.
We recommend that you get your MOTs and servicing carried out by qualified experts – preferably someone who is a member of AWS (Approved Workshop Scheme). This is a scheme that has been set up to ensure that good practice and consistent standards are maintained when it comes to the repair of motorhomes. Through using the services of an approved workshop, you are able to gain access to
specialist equipment, enabling the technicians to carry out more detailed inspections – especially relating to damp, one of the biggest issues in motorhoming.
A habitation service refers to the living areas of your motorhome – so pretty much all of the inside! It comprises of many types of inspection, although the main areas looked at are:
• Damp checks
• Electrical, gas and fire safety checks
• Chassis mountings
• Appliance checks
• Inspection of your water systems
Smaller functionality checks to see how well moving components like cupboard doors, windows, blinds and door seals work are also often included, although you may have to pay more to include these too.
Future buyers of your motorhome will likely want to see a
full service history which includes a habitation service, so it’s important to keep these up not just for your safety and convenience, but also for the sake of your wallet!
As the name implies, a mechanical service looks under the bonnet at all the essential mechanical components of the vehicle.
Technicians will look after everything vehicle-related, from the engine and dashboard through to exhaust, wheels, tyres, brakes, oil and suspension. The mechanical vehicle service would ideally be carried out by a workshop that specialises in products from the manufacturer who supplied the base vehicle for your motorhome – and will therefore have the relevant parts for it if needed – such as a Fiat or Ford.
If you are due an MOT or service on your ‘van, turn to page 46 for a list of garages and workshops that specialise in servicing and repairing motorhomes.
M&D SERVICES LTD
Unit 1 Balaclava Rd Ind Est, Bristol, BS16 3LJ
T: 01179 651900
E: tony@mdservicesltd.co.uk
CHIPPING SODBURY CARAVANS
Badminton Rd, Chipping Sodbury, Bristol, BS37 6LH
T: 01454 318374
E: sales@chippingsodburycaravans.co.uk W: www.chippingsodburycaravans.co.uk
PIONEER CARAVANS LIMITED
Thorney Rd, Eye, Peterborough, Cambs, PE6 7UB
T: 01733 222244
E: reception2@pioneercaravans.co.uk
A&E LEISURE LTD
Unit 51/56 Cosgrove Business Park, Daisy Bank Lane, Anderton, Northwich, CW9 6FY
T: 01606 973005
E: service@aeleisure.co.uk W: www.aeleisure.co.uk
Unit K&M, Boringdon Mill Business Park, Galileo Close, Plympton, PL7 4JW
T: 01752 717750
E: service@dandcmotorhomes.co.uk
W: www.dandcmotorhomes.co.uk
WINSOR GARAGES LTD
Ford Rd, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, CO15 3DS
T: 01255 222110
E: winsorgaragesltd@btconnect.com W: www.winsorgaragesltd.co.uk
Wests Ind. Park, Todd Close, Rainham, RM13 9XX
T: 01708 556237
E: info@motorhomerepairs.net W: www.motorhomerepairs.net
NEWENT AUTO CENTRE
Newent Business Park, Newent, GL18 1HP
T: 01531 828001
E: newentauto@yahoo.co.uk W: www.newentauto.co.uk
CS&R Ltd
Unit 4, Woolmer Trading Est, Woolmer Way, Bordon, Hampshire, GU35 9QE
T: 01483 906435 M: 07979 386780
E: csrcaravanserviceandrepairs@gmail.com W: www.repairscaravan.co.uk
YEW TREE WORKSHOPS
Fawley, Southampton, SO45 1BX. T: 02380 010029
E: yewtreeworkshopsltd@outlook.com W: www.badminstongroup.co.uk
Unit 26, Lamberhurst Farm, Dargate, Nr Faversham, ME13 9EP
T: 01227 751300
E: info@motorhomesrepaired.com W: www.motorhomesrepaired.com
FOX COUNTY MOBILE & MOTORHOME SERVICING (OFFICE ONLY)
Unit G, Armstrong Farm Business Park, Broughton Rd, Cosby, LE9 1RD
T: 07701 019574
E: info@foxcounty.co.uk
SPENCER & GILBERT
3 St. Luke’s Rd, Southport, Merseyside, PR9 0SH
T: 01704 531398
E: spencerandgilbert@gmail.com
CROWN GARAGE
Newton St. Faith, Norwich, NR10 3LG T: 01603 898253
E: enquiry@thecrowngarage.com W: www.thecrowngarage.com
SIMPSONS GARAGE (GT YARMOUTH) LTD
Suffolk Rd, Gt Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR31 0LN
E: service@simpsons-skoda.com W: www.simpsonsmotorhomes.co.uk
THOMPSON LEISURE
SERVICE CENTRE
62c Drumnabreeze Road, Magheralin, Co. Armagh, BT67 0RH
T: 028 9269 3999
E: info@thompsonleisure.com W: www.thompsonleisure.com
ROCKINGHAM CARS FIAT
Cockerell Rd, Phoenix Parkway, Corby, NN17 5DU
T: 01536 268991
E: phil@rockinghamcars.co.uk
W: www.rockinghamcars.co.uk
WHITE ARCHES MOTORHOMES
A45, Higham Rd, Little Irchester, Wellingborough, Northants, NN8 2DU.
T: 01933 277303
E: info@white-arches.co.uk
TURRIFF CARAVAN CENTRE (TCC)
Greengate Lodge, Delgaty, Turriff, AB53 5TA
T: 01888 562186
E: sales@turriffcaravans.co.uk W: www.turriffcaravans.co.uk
CULLODEN SERVICE STATION LTD
Barn Church Rd, Inverness, Inverness-shire, Scotland, IV2 7WB
T: 01463 792979
E: cullodenservicestation@gmail.com
DONALD MACKENZIE LTD
Authorised Fiat dealer. 62 Seafield Rd, Inverness, Inverness-shire, IV1 1SG
T: 01463 235777
E: dmaftersales@dmmotorgroup.co.uk
THE MOTORHOME REPAIR CENTRE
253 Blairtummock Rd, Glasgow, G33 4ED
T: 0141 773 1212
F: 0141 771 1999
E: info@motorhomerepaircentre.com
NEWTON GARAGE LTD
14 The Wisp, Edinburgh, EH16 4SQ
T: 0131 669 6336
E: newtongarage@aol.com
Great North Rd, Kelty, Fife, KY4 0HW
T: 01383 830404
E: sales@northroadgarage.co.uk W: www.northroadgarage.co.uk
SHERIFFMILL MOTOR COMPANY LTD
Sheriffmill Rd, Elgin, Moray, IV30 6UH
T: 01343 547121 or 01343 547378
E: service@sheriffmill.co.uk
Littlecombe Garage, Touches Lane, Chaffcombe Rd, Chard, TA20 1RY
T: 01460 63320
E: caravanmotorhome@btconnect.com
W: caravanmotorhomesolutions.co.uk
HIGHBRIDGE CARAVAN CENTRE LTD
A38 Bristol Road, Highbridge, Somerset, TA9 4EX. 01278 764800
E: AftersalesDept@highbridgecaravans.co.uk W: www.highbridgecaravans.co.uk
Southfields Enterprise Park, Unit 1, Jordans Rd, Ilminster, Somerset, TA19 9FF T: 01460 57524
E: service@southwestmotorhomes.co.uk W: www.southwestmotorhomes.co.uk
PINNACLE MOTOR ENGINEERING
Gordon Street, Stockport, SK4 1RS T: 0161 480 0397
E: info@pinnaclemotors.net W: www.pinnacle-motors.co.uk
SHARMAN CARAVANS
Habitation services to all motorhomes and campervans – AWS approved workshops. Colchester Rd, Ipswich, IP4 4RU T: 01473 713284
E: sales@sharmancaravans.co.uk W: www.sharmancaravans.co.uk
ELMWOOD VEHICLES LTD
Motorhome Servicing & MOTs
278 Kingston Rd (rear of petrol station), Epsom, Surrey, KT19 0SH
T: 0208 394 2847
E: info@elmwoodvehicles.co.uk W: www.elmwoodvehicles.co.uk
Servicing and repairs for all makes
AWS Approved workshop.
The Maultway, Camberley, GU15 1QA
T: 01344 231153
E: help@caravan-service.co.uk W: www.caravan-service.co.uk
CARAVAN TECH SERVICES LTD
(Bailey, Swift and Adria) London Rd, Hurst Green, East Sussex, TN19 7PN T: 01580 860260
E: shop@caravantech.co.uk W: www.caravantech.co.uk
Lifestyle Park, Harbour Rd, Rye, TN31 7TE T: 01797 227337
E: service@jcleisure.co.uk W: www.jcleisure.co.uk
Premier Business Park, Main Rd, Birdham, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 7BU
T: 01243 511189
E: service@premiermotorhomes.com W: www.premiermotorhomes.uk
Units D1-D3, New Barn Offices, Funtington, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 9DA
T: 01243 940050
E: enquiries@reliancecms.uk W: www.reliancecms.uk
Next month in a new series of Tech Talk we will be taking a lighthearted but in-depth look at the history behind different types of motorcaravans and specific features included in their conversion.
This month’s prequel is not as visually-appealing, but is important as I strive to deal with ‘matters arising’ from attending the recent NEC Show for its duration. Thus, what follows is just my interpretation of what is stated on official websites. Follow the links given for further information and to make sure that you agree with my prècis.
On several occasions at the show I overheard prospective purchasers being offered well-meaning but (what I felt to be) less-thanaccurate-advice from some stand staff and from those accompanying them to the show.
It is important to set the record straight to avoid confusion and/ or members unwittingly breaking the law.
Finally, ‘an old chestnut’, but worth repeating. Some retailers do not take account of the effect of the extra equipment fitted as standard on ‘dealer special editions’ when calculating available payload. Double-check that they have by ascertaining the payload of a standard model and comparing it with that quoted for the dealer special edition. Also, not all converters advise that automatic transmission frequently adds to the MIRO (Mass In Running Order), and as a result, correspondingly lowers available payload.
[1] Anybody with Group B1 entitlement on their driving licence can drive any motorcaravan up to 3,500kg MTPLM (Maximum Technically Permitted Laden Mass).
FALSE Only those who passed their driving test in a vehicle with manual transmission can drive a motorcaravan with either manual or automatic transmission. If you passed your test in a vehicle with automatic transmission or in a (solely) electrically-powered vehicle, then you can only drive a motorcaravan with automatic transmission. It is possible to upgrade from an ‘automatic transmission’ licence to a ‘manual’ one without retaking the theory test, but when driving a vehicle with manual transmission, one must be accompanied by somebody who already has that entitlement, and ‘L’-plates must be displayed. www. gov.uk/driving-test
[2] Anybody with group C1 entitlement on their licence can drive any motorcaravan up to 7,500kg.
TRUE, providing there are no other limitations such as ‘Automatic Transmission only’ and that the driver hasn’t contracted any notifiable disease/illness since passing their driving test. A list of those that are notifiable is here: www.gov.uk/driving-medicalconditions
[3] Any motorcaravan under 3,500kg MTPLM can be driven at ‘car’ speed limits.
FALSE For some bizarre reason, the application of speed limits is decided not by MTPLM, but by unladen weight. Only those motorcaravans with an unladen weight of 3,050kg or less can be driven at car speed limits. The unladen weight is not usually given on the VIN plate or in the converter’s published specification. The official definition is here: www.gov.uk/vehicle-weightsexplained . Unladen weight is usually taken to mean the weight of the motorcaravan including fixtures and fittings but excluding engine fuel, freshwater, and any personal belongings. It can be calculated from the quoted MIRO (Mass In Running Order). That said, it is more accurate to empty it of personal belongings, crockery, cutlery, food and so on, fill it with engine fuel and take it to a weighbridge. Ascertain how much fuel the tank holds by consulting the owner handbook. For our purposes, a litre of diesel fuel weighs 0.85kg. Subtract the weight of the fuel from the weighbridge ticket weight and what remains is the unladen weight. A list of public weighbridges is here: www.gov.uk/find-weighbridge However, not all are featured, plus the site sometimes redirects you to your local council website and not all of these list weighbridges. Putting ‘Public weighbridges near (your postcode)’ into your internet search engine usually does the trick.
Motorcaravans
Unladen
Any traffic police officer or emergency service worker who attends RTA’s (Road Traffic Accidents) will wish to remind us that speed limits are not a ‘target speed’ to aim for, but the maximum permissible speed
Footnotes: MTPLM is (appropriately) in common usage among manufacturers, retailers and motorcaravanners themselves. However, in official documentation this figure is often referred to as MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass), or even by the older terms MGW (Maximum Gross Weight) and MLW (Maximum Laden Weight).
A Tech Talk giving a detailed explanation and overview of motorcaravan weights was published in Motor Caravanner magazine January 2021. It is still available to read online. Find www.themotorcaravannersclub. co.uk log-in, click on ‘Information Area’, then on ‘CLUB MAGAZINE & BOOKCASE’.
The NHS reports around 10 million people in the UK have a condition that affects their joints, most commonly in the knees, hands, wrists, shoulders, feet and back.
From genes to diet to lifestyle and even the weather, has an influence on our musculoskeletal health – but nutrition is always essential.
A diet rich in fruits, dark leafy vegetables and oily fish brings helpful antioxidant and anti- inflammatory benefits. A growing number of people are also turning to turmeric-based products and nutritional supplements for extra support.
To overcome these challenges, scientists in Cambridge developed a unique supplement called Turmeric+, featuring the world’s most scientifically researched bioavailable curcumin formulation, and users are saying that restoring their joint health can be life-changing.
FutureYou Cambridge receives hundreds of 5-star Trustpilot reviews for Turmeric+, like Sylvia Pilgrim from Manchester ‘The difference it made was unbelievable!’ she said.
Turmeric+ was developed by FutureYou Cambridge, a British developer of innovative supplements backed by extensive scientific research.
patented Curcuma Phospholipid Complex formulation called Meriva® that makes curcumin 30 times more absorbable than standard turmeric powder. ‘Our advanced formulation works by using plant-based lecithin to mimic the way the body naturally absorbs curcuminoids after eating turmeric cooked with fat,’ explains Dr Miriam Ferrer, PhD, from FutureYou Cambridge. ‘But it delivers far more than you’d normally get from a meal – the equivalent of 150g of raw turmeric in a single tablet.’
It’s also enhanced with vitamins C and D which contribute to normal function of cartilage and normal muscle function.*
But not all turmeric supplements are created equal. Many focus on one key active ingredient called curcumin – but it’s very difficult for our bodies to absorb, and unless it’s made ‘bioavailable’, it can pass through the gut unused, even if we take lots of it.
The company needed to overcome the key challenge with turmeric: making the curcuminoids much easier for our bodies to absorb. They wanted an alternative, better solution to the black pepper formulations so often used, one that would be rich in the full bouquet of curcuminoids.
So the nutritional experts at FutureYou Cambridge used a
The motivation to allow full mobility in a motorcaravan.
Frances and Michael Howorth explains more.
We have invented a new word! It’s every writer’s dream! Having created it and used it here, all we need now is for significant numbers of people to begin using it in conversation
and, in no time at all, it will appear in English dictionary the world over! The word is ‘Motorvanation’ and it means the motivation that allows for full mobility in a motorcaravan.
Karla Baker and Stephen Wills are writing colleagues of ours and are, like us, members of the Caravan Writers’ Guild. They have motorvanation by the bucketful! A young couple from Dorset, they first met at school and have been putting up with each other since they were 14. But Stephen and Karla are not your average couple.
Karla has a genetic condition called Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) which means that her muscles are weak and she needs an electric wheelchair to get around. You may think this would hold them back, but they have never let Karla’s disability stop them enjoying a life of touring. Quite the opposite, and you only need log onto their website; “Adventure Wheels” to discover how their specially converted “home-onwheels” has allowed them to head off on adventures together. They have already travelled thousands
of miles, and made millions of memories, but they believe there is still so much to explore!
Karla writes, “From our perspective (travelling with a disability), a leisure vehicle has completely transformed our lives! Having a vehicle that’s been modified to suit our exact needs takes away the stress and expense of trying to find suitable accommodation, which makes the whole experience of travelling so much easier and more enjoyable. Because of this, we tend to travel a lot more often, and to places we
probably wouldn’t, if it wasn’t for our leisure vehicle. Spending so much time outdoors and exploring new places has an immeasurable benefit to both our physical and mental wellbeing.”
Motorcaravanning has always been a great way to see the world, no matter what abilities you have but some van owners have disabilities that need to be overcome. Adapting a campervan or motorhome for wheelchair use can be a huge challenge if you don’t know who to speak to. Knowing what is possible to do,
and safely, requires expert knowledge and talented engineers. First choice of van converters for Karla Baker and partner Stephen, would be Coachbuilt, a company based in Nuneaton. Karla says “There really is no modification that they cannot do. From fitting a wider door and hydraulic lift, to installing wet rooms, profiling beds and ceiling-track hoists. We find the quality of their craftsmanship unbeatable and love how they keep the vehicle looking as true to the original as possible!”
Brook Miller Mobility, based just
practically
“From our perspective (travelling with a disability), a leisure vehicle has completely transformed our lives!”Karla Baker
couple who have bags of motorvanation, are Gill and Ian McCaskie. They contacted Brook Miller Mobility, seeking assistance in providing wheelchair access for a Swift Kon-Tiki they had purchased. Ian had already converted the bathroom area into an accessible wet room for his wife Gill, and had done a good job so far, but sought help fitting a wide access door with a wheelchair-accessible lift and compatible electric step. The company removed the 53cm existing door – which comes as standard on the Kon-Tiki – and replaced it with one of 74cm, gaining an extra 21cm to make the entry wheelchair accessible. Once the new door was fitted, engineers
fitted a step infill inside the original doorway to provide a level entrance floor to assist with wheelchair access. They fabricated a fibreglass panel to go underneath the door entrance, which gives a neat finish and keeps the original look of the motorhome, and added a removable cover to the side of the lift which provides access to the manual override function, (access for which is needed in case of emergency operation). Finally, engineers fitted the wheelchair access lift, with a new compatible electric step which can be used when the lift is not required. Brook Miller Mobility then wrapped the door in matching grey vinyl, in keeping with the body of the motorhome. This made the modifications almost unnoticeable so they do not affect the overall exterior look of the vehicle.
Mobility is important for everyone who enjoys motor caravanning and exercise plays an important role in motorvanation and keeping fit, no matter how able you are. But how much should the average adult exercise every day? Dr Edward R. Laskowski is a specialist practitioner in healthy lifestyle fitness who works with the Mayo Clinic to promote such activity.
Laskowski recommends you get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week, or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity. His guidelines suggest that you spread out this exercise during the course of a week. To provide even greater health benefit and to assist with weight loss or maintaining weight loss, at least 300 minutes a week is recommended. But even small amounts of physical activity are helpful. Being active for short periods of time throughout the day can provide a meaningful health benefit.
Moderate aerobic exercise includes activities such as brisk
walking, biking, swimming and mowing the lawn. Vigorous aerobic exercise includes activities such as running, heavy gardening and aerobic dancing. As a general rule, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day. If you want to lose weight, maintain weight loss or meet specific fitness goals, you may need to exercise more.
Reducing sitting time is important too. The more hours you sit each day, the higher your risk of metabolic problems. Sitting too much can negatively impact your health and longevity, even if you get the recommended amount of daily physical activity. Further research has found that people who have lost weight may be more likely to keep off the lost weight by sitting less during the day. Short on long chunks of time? Even brief bouts of activity offer benefits. For instance,
The S-Series offers:
• Compact and simple to operate, the innovative S-Series lift design provides unobstructed access and egress to vehicles.
• Split-platform design enables clear access to vehicle interior.
• Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) compliant lifts available. • Full after sales service package. • Industry-leading Ricon Safety Zone for passenger safety.
if you can’t fit in one 30-minute walk during the day, try a few fiveminute walks instead. Any activity is better than none at all. What’s most important is making regular physical activity part of your lifestyle.
Core happiness goes hand in hand with motorvanation and exercise. Dr Rangan Chatterjee, a general practitioner and host of BBC’s Doctor in the House, is a best-selling mental wellness author. He has enlightened thousands with his three principles of core
happiness: alignment, contentment and control.
Alignment is where our inner values and external actions match up. “For much of my life there’s been a big gap. I got my self-worth from external validation. That’s a very lonely place to be,” he says. “As I’ve repaired that gap, I’m much more aligned.” Rangan says when people’s lives are unauthentic, the gap between the person inside and the one shown to the world is where discontentment lies. We often plug this gap with what he terms ‘junk happiness habits’: behaviours
like consuming sugar, gambling, alcohol, or online scrolling on social media.
“Contentment are the things that give you a sense of peace,” says Rangan. He adds, “When it comes to your life and your decisions, and it’s about giving time to them.”
Control is a word Rangan thought long and hard about using in his book. “It’s not about controlling the world or people around us.” He continues, “It’s what you can do on a daily basis that gives a sense of control over your life.” >>
Research shows people who have higher levels of willpower, motivation and academic success are happier and healthier. But we would suggest that they simply have a higher level of motorvanation!
Vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium and vitamin C, are all essential nutrients that our bodies need in small amounts to work properly. But you do not need to take vitamin supplements to improve your motorvanation. Most people get all the vitamins and minerals they need by eating a healthy, balanced diet and getting outside breathing in fresh air.
Many people choose to take a multivitamin or another vitamin or mineral supplement regularly, but research shows that taking too much, or taking them for too long a period, could be harmful. Nutrition
experts say money spent on vitamin tablets might be better spent on nutrient-packed foods like fruit, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products.
An analysis of research involving 450,000 people, recently found that multivitamins did not reduce risk for heart disease or cancer. The same study tracked the mental functioning and multivitamin use of 5,947 men over 12 years and found that multivitamins did nothing to reduce the risk of mental declines such as memory loss or slowed-down thinking. Another study monitored
the health of 1,708 heart attack survivors who took a high-dose multivitamin and a similar number of survivors who took a placebo over a 55-month period. This study concluded that rates of later heart attacks, heart surgeries and or deaths were similar in the two groups.
As yet we have not managed to package Motorvanation into tablet form, but our own research shows that if you have already got a motor caravan and enjoy using it, you will not need our tablet even if we could produce one!
See page 64 for solutions
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?
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.
FORD HERALD SQUIRE, RL VERSION. 4 berth, 89,174 mileage, oven, grill, 4 hob top and fridge. New March 2000, £8,000 (no offers). Tel: 01442 265828.
APACHI DRIVE AWAY AWNING Cotton type fabric with steel frame. Little use, good condition, £30. Tel: 01730 894418 / 07850 408161 (Hampshire).
KAMPA RALLY AIR PRO XL AWNING Bought from new in August 2020. Manual pump, side poles & window blinds included, plus Kampa 390 floor mat. £300 (RRP £1250+). Tel: 07709 226454 (Essex).
TOW TRUST HEAVEY DUTY ADJUSTABLE TOWBAR Model TALK01. Fits motorhomes with AL-KO chassis. Came off a Bailey Autograph 740, 2015, £150. Tel: 07480 985493 (Devon).
Club members are entitled to a FREE classified lineage advertisement of up to 30 words. To be included, please send your listing along with this form to: Motor Caravanner, Countrywide Publications, Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk, IP18 6DH or email: bazaar@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk.
If you wish to include a photograph, please enclose a cheque for £12 inc vat payable to Countrywide Publications.
Please indicate whether your item is: FOR SALE WANTED
FREE ADVERT ADVERT WITH PHOTOGRAPH (£12 inc. VAT)
I enclose my cheque payable to Countrywide Publications (please write name and address on back of cheque)
PLEASE NOTE:
• Advertisements will be placed in the next available issue.
• Emailed listings that include photos will not be used until the cheque is received.
• Listings will not be used unless a valid membership number is provided
Name: Address:
Postcode: Telephone:
Club membership number:
