Motor Caravanner - June 2022 by Countrywide Publications

Motor Caravanner THE MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF THE MOTOR CARAVANNERS CLUB JUNE 2022

RANGEFINDER MAGNIFICENT MOBILVETTA MOVES ON

CL Sites & ps Night Sto

ke sure Please ma ites ks to pre-boo u go o before y

OUT & ABOUT DOG FRIENDLY SPECIAL

NATIONAL RALLY DIAMOND JUBILEE FINALLY ARRIVES!

PLUS

Get your kicks...

Head to Devon & Cornwall and discover fun-filled activities for all.

for news • group rallies • membership

GROUP NEWS TEA BREAK TEASERS

SCAN HERE TO JOIN THE CLUB

renewals & much more visit

o.uk www.themotorcaravannersclub.c

£1.95 where sold

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INSIDE

JUNE 2022

From the Chair

O 8

CLUB NEWS

NATIONAL RALLY

13 Long-awaited Diamond Jubilee finally arrives!

NEWS

43 Family fun fantasias: head to Devon & Cornwall and discover fun-filled activities for all. 55 Dog friendly: Travelling with your dog home and abroad

Survey results .COM news 11 CL Sites update 13 Obituaries 16 Causal Campsites

OUT & ABOUT

24 Powering up the off-grid life 26 TomTom launches next gen camper sat nav

RANGEFINDER

18 Magnificent Mobilvetta: Gentleman Jack is our guide to the 2022 Kea P and K-Yacht ranges

REGULARS

29 66 69 70

Group News & Diaries Tea Break Teasers Bazaar Classifieds

ur National Rally is happening this month – I look forward to seeing those of you who are able to attend. Can I remind you to please bring your ‘Blue Book’ with you for the AGM. The results of the questions raised re caravans are reported in this issue (see page 8). CoM’s decision will be announced at the AGM. Don’t forget you can still book for the French Members Casual Campsite at La Cigaline, MontponMenesterol as well as in Devon and Cornwall (see page 16). More information can also be found in your handbook and on the website. Please check availability as they are very popular, booking is direct with the site. Recruiting is going well at the shows, thanks to the team manning the stand. Groups are meeting at their regular rallies, check with the websites or Facebook if booking is required. If it is your first time with a group let your hosts know and I am sure you will be made very welcome.

Kate Jones Club Chairman

Motor Caravanner THE MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF THE MOTOR CARAVANNERS CLUB JUNE 2022

RANGEFINDER MAGNIFICENT MOBILVETTA MOVES ON

CL Sites & s Night Stop

sure Please make sites to pre-book go before you

OUT & ABOUT DOG FRIENDLY SPECIAL

NATIONAL RALLY DIAMOND JUBILEE FINALLY ARRIVES!

PLUS

Get your kicks...

Head to Devon & Cornwall and discover fun-filled activities for all.

for news • group rallies • membership

GROUP NEWS TEA BREAK TEASERS

SCAN HERE TO JOIN THE CLUB

renewals & much more visit

o.uk www.themotorcaravannersclub.c

Countrywide Publications Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6DH Publisher/Editor: Mark Shreeve T: 01502 725839 E: mark.shreeve@micropress.co.uk Advertising: Danny Lewis T: 01502 725862 E: danny.lewis@micropress.co.uk Sinead Taylor T: 01502 725865 E: sinead.taylor@micropress.co.uk Cover photo: Coastline and ocean at Valley of the Rocks in North Devon, England. www.shutterstock.com/SteveHeap

GROUP RALLIES As you organise your rallies for the rest of the year, please remember that you can rally with any MCC Group, not just the Group assigned to you by your postcode. Before planning to attend any rally, please check whether or not the rally is bookable.

£1.95 where sold

June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 5

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

Club Contacts www.themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

COUNCIL OF MANAGEMENT Chairman: Kate Jones (07747 000587 or 01935 863815) Vice Chairman: Jacci Durkee (07931 527691) Members: Carol Biggs (01473 620933) Maurice Brooks (07956 814339) 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)

CoM WITH REPONSIBILITIES Disability Advisor: Maurice Brooks (07956 814339) mauriceb@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Exhibition Team: Jacci & Graham Durkees (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

West Country Sussex Kent Essex Anglia East Wessex Chiltern East Midlands Severn Valley NW Mids & NW Lancashire Yorkshire N. Counties Scotland West Wessex Avon SWP S.& W.Wales Nene Valley Isle of Wight N. Ireland The rest of Europe Ireland SERG Motorcycle

Casual Campsites: Ann Bond (07805 795549) CL & Night Stops: Carol Biggs (01473 620933) 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

GROUP SECRETARIES CONTACT LIST 1 2 4 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 21 22 23 24 40 42 53 54

CLUB OFFICIALS

Please note that Secretary details may have changed due to AGMs.

Secretary

Telephone

E-Mail

Heather Bubb Carole Bennett Janice Wellard Barbara Mossman Derek Clarke Diane Milton Steve Wynn Sue Pilkiw Amanda Windmill Penny Feeney Jeff Gainford Julie Broughton Helen Edwards Aileen Clark Alastair Bartlam Karen James Barbara Noble Pauline Greaves Peter Moore Heather Jennings Irene Hewitt

07817 916904 07769 944009 07831 659951 07727 100456 01473 620933 07971 888492 07399 552452 07562 324325 07896 175860 07518 271742 07707 256287 07544 327193 07794 177410 07771 845199 07754 131893 07971 540909 07722 885018 01873 857542 07790 779024 07875 191797 07880 736307

westcountry@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk sussex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk kent@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk essex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk anglia@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk eastwessex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk chiltern@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk eastmidlands@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk severnvalley@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk nwmidsnwales@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk lancashire@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk yorkshire@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk northerncounties@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk scotland@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk westwessex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk avon@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk swpeninsula@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk swwales@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk nenevalley@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk isleofwight@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk northernireland@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

As N. Ireland Group Andrea Barker 01914 104227 Wendy Jefferson 07714 616715

Publisher/Editor: Mark Shreeve E: mark.shreeve@micropress.co.uk T: 01502 725839 Advertising: Danny Lewis E: danny.lewis@micropress.co.uk T: 01502 725862 Countrywide Publications, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6DH

6 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

serg@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk motorcycle@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

All opinions expressed in these pages are those of the Editor and his contributors and do not necessarily represent official Club policy. All Material copyright. The Motor Caravanners’ Club Ltd 2009. 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.

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CLUB NEWS

Club survey – the results!

e have been asked by some members why the Council of Management has raised the subject whether family members with caravans should be allowed to join our Club yet again. Just for the purpose of clarification, as in previous years, the question was raised by a Group at last year’s AGM on Zoom. The aim of this year’s survey was to give all our members a chance to express their views on this matter. Thank you everyone who took part; every reply has now been read and every vote counted. All that information has been presented to CoM for discussion – the paper that was presented to CoM is included in this magazine so that everyone can see the results. The outcome of CoM’s discussions will be announced at the AGM at Stafford.

joined the MCC because we are a Club catering solely for motorhomes. MCC rally sites are chosen specifically with motorhomes in mind. A number of members stated that they would not renew their membership if we allow caravans to join. Many members also pointed out that The Camping and Caravanning Club and The Caravan Club (now The Caravan and Motorhome Club since 2017) already cater for caravans. Other common objections included the following: • It is increasingly difficult to find

suitable sites for rallies and, due to lack of space, many rallies are now bookable. Allowing caravans would make extra demand on available space. • Safety issues relating to parking up manoeuvres on restricted sites and emergency evacuation. Winter parking using car parks, getting caravans sites would be difficult, especially in the dark. • Motorhomes can simply drive off and while caravans require hitching up to a car. • Caravans, awnings and their cars require considerably more space continued on p10

Many members joined the MCC because the Club catered solely for motorcaravanners

SHOULD CARAVAN OWNERS BE ALLOWED TO JOIN THE MCC? Objections to the proposal The single most common reason for objecting was that members

C.O.M. NEWS

Social media continues to grow The Council of Management had a face to face meeting in May, it was a busy one with lots to get through. I hope that you have all had the Blue Book inside your May magazine and that you have taken the time to read through it. Please bring it with you if you are attending the AGM which is being held at the Stafford Show Ground 9-14 June. You can read 8 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

the minutes of the last AGM online in the members area of the website or in the September 2021 magazine. Don’t forget that the Club shop will be on site for you to purchase your Club insignia. It’s not to late to book to come to the National although you can come un booked if it’s a last minute decision to attend. It’s always good fun with great entertainment.

Scan to visit the Club's Facebook page

Our social media accounts are increasing daily, why not check them out, we have a Facebook Group as well as a Facebook page and we also have an Instagram account, the latter being quite new, take a look. We are always trying to keep you up to date. Jacci Durkee, Vice Chairman

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CLUB NEWS continued from p8 than motorhomes, particularly in view of the 6m rule. • Caravanners tend to make frequent use of their cars and this would generate extra traffic movement on site leading to possible safety and nuisance issues. • Allowing caravans would require rewriting the Constitution for Groups, new branding and new logos (which we have already recently changed). Potentially, this could be a costly exercise. Support for the proposal Supporting comments included the following: • The Caravan Club now allows motorhomes so we should allow caravans • Friends with caravans would like to join them. If MCC member changes to caravan, it allows them to continue to camp and socialise with friends they’ve made. • Our title already containers the word ‘caravanners’ • Caravans more convenient for the disabled. Use of car aids mobility. • A caravan and car take up no more space than a motorhome and trailer or tow car. • It would keep the Club going and generate more income. More volunteers to steward and serve on Committee. • Caravan owners may be younger, and it might lead to livelier meets. SHOULD THERE BE A FAMILY MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY FOR MEMBERS’ CHILDREN WHO OWN A CARAVAN? Objections to the proposal The most common comments were once again that members joined the MCC because we are a Club exclusively for motorhomes and the fact that the Camping and Caravanning Club & The Caravan and Motorhome Club already cater for caravans. Other common objections included the following: 10 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

Would a family membership encourage future motorcaravanners?

RESULT OF VOTES Should caravan owners be allowed to join the MCC? Against

89%

For

11%

Should there be a family membership category for members’ children who own a caravan? Against

76%

For

24%

• Extended family units may lead to several caravans joining the original member at a rally and space restrictions may therefore deny other MCC members a place. • Many of our members are in one or both other clubs (CCC and CMC) as well as MCC and they use these clubs when they want to have a family gathering. If we admit caravans, they wouldn’t need to be in all three clubs and would leave MCC. • Allowing family members in caravans initially may also lead to pressure to further relax the rules regarding caravans and this would potentially make us indistinguishable from the 2 major clubs. Some thought that why stop there… have all campers including tents! • Members mentioned that they enjoy the peace and quiet and relaxed environment of a rally.

Support for the proposal The most common argument in favour of a family membership is that it may encourage younger caravan owning family members to join our Club and perhaps develop an interest in future motorhome ownership. Other supporting comments were: • Younger members are excluded by the cost of motorhomes and caravans are more affordable. • It would encourage those who had attended as Junior members to stay in MCC. • Many of us started with caravans • New category of membership with new fee would generate more funds. • Camping is a wonderful opportunity for family gatherings. • Could mean extra events, larger venues or more use of full facility sites • Groups already accommodate tow cars and trailers. Some members who supported allowing family membership recommended that they should be parked in a separate area from the motor homes. Other interesting comments. 1. There were many comments that MCC members who then convert to a caravan should be allowed to stay in the Club. Some qualified this view stating that: a. They should only be allowed to do so if they have been active members

of the Club for 5 or 10 years prior to changing. They described “an active members” as someone (1-5 years) who had regularly have attended rallies, served on a committee or been stewards/hosts. b. The membership with caravan should only last for as long as their current paid-up membership 2. Most members said that they had joined our Club just because it was solely for owners of motorhomes. With the recent increase in sales of motorhomes, the number of members could best be increased by targeting new motorhome owners rather than including caravans. 3. Our unique selling point was that we are a Club established to cater purely for motorhome owners. As stated earlier, members’ answers indicated that we could potentially lose more members than we gained if caravanners were allowed to join.

CL SITES UPDATE SCOTLAND CROILA CROFT (CL 94479)

c/o Highland Horse Fun, Unit “a" Railway Station Industrial Estate,Ruthven Rd. Kingussie, Nr Aviemore Highland PH21 1AT Mr E. Ruaridh Ormiston 01540 670000 or 07831 338012. Email croilacroft@yahoo.com COST: £10 for site or £5 just to use services. OPEN: All year. ACCESS: Road 4m. Entrance 4m DIRECTIONS: Take Kingussie junc. From A9 drive through village High St. Through traffic lights to Duke of Gordon Hotel on your right & memorial gardens on the left. Take rd. On left sign posted for Insh. Ruthven barracks & railway station. After 100m turn right into station carpark at the stone fountain & the Silverfjord Hotel.

Follow rd. through carpark & 150m to end of industrial estate & continue into High Hores Fun & Croila Croft. HHF is well signposted from High St. FACILITIES: Fresh Water Tap, Rubbish Bins, Hard Standing, Dogs allowed on leads. Chemical Disposal Point, Council Run Toilets & Showers about 400m away (Daytime only) next to doctors’ surgery. PLACES OF INTEREST: 200m from two hotels that serve food & railway station, 400m shops, cafes, restaurants & takeaways. 500m away we have our own beach on the river Spey with fishing rights. Highland Folk Museum & highland Wildlife Park 3 miles away. HAMPSHIRE BURLEY PARK (CL94357)

Amended postcode: Burley, Ringwood BH24 4DJ Amended site fee: £15

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CLUB NEWS | NATIONAL RALLY 2022 OBITUARIES Sadly, the East Midlands Group have lost two of their members who regularly rallied with them.

Countdown to National T

Long-awaited Diamond Jubilee ﬁnally arrives!

he countdown has begun to our Diamond Jubilee at Stafford Showground, from Thursday 9th to Tuesday 14th June, as we are all set to finally celebrate 60 years of The Motor Caravanners’ Club – albeit in our 62nd year! This Jubilee has been longawaited and we cannot wait to welcome you all to this special event. The Hosts from the North-West Midlands and North Wales Group along with the Group Marshals for each Group will be arriving from 2pm Wednesday afternoon onwards to prepare for the arrival of all members the following day. The gates will open at 1pm on Thursday. We will be using the Weston gate entrance, so please do

not enter via the main gate. On all other days, the gates open at 9am. Gates close at 9pm on Thursday and Friday and at 7pm on Saturday – in time to get ready for our Party Night. The gates will close at 6pm on Sunday as we all look forward to enjoying our hog roast. Did you miss the closing date for booking? It is still not too late to come along – just arrive and pay at the unbooked Reception. We may not be able to park you with your Group – but you will be able to join your Group for everything else. We would love to see you there, do come along and join us and help to make this a celebration to remember! The National Rally Team

GILL DULY Gill passed away on Tuesday 10th May 2022 after a long battle with cancer. She was a much-loved friend to many of us and often joined us at rallies. She will have welcomed you to our rallies when she stewarded along with Paul, until illness made it too difficult for her to do so. We send all our thoughts and prayers to her husband Paul and all her family. Her funeral service will take place at Mansfield Crematorium on June 7th at 1:15pm. There will be no flowers, but, if possible, Paul asks that you wear something Cobalt Blue as this was Gill's favourite colour. RODNEY AVISON Rodney passed away after a sudden and critical illness. Since joining the MCC in August 2008, Rodney, along with his wife Sonia, have been regular ralliers. They have enjoyed attending rallies not only with East Midlands, but also loved The Roses rally with Lancashire, many of the Anglia rallies and motorhome shows. Frequently, they were joined by their daughter, Cheryl, and grandchildren Lucas and Annabelle. They have made many friends and this sad news has come as a great shock. We send all our deepest sympathy and love to Sonia and family.

June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 13

Come and Help us Celebrate 60 Years of

THE MOTOR CARAVANNERS’ CLUB Staffordshire Showground Weston Road, ST18 0BD 9th June - 14th June 2022 Entertainment Friday Evening

Triple Cream Musical Comedy

Saturday Evening

Chuckletruck Party Band

Monday Evening

The Replays

Middleport Pottery

Historic Brewery Tours

half day trip

Blists Hill Victorian Town

Peaky Blinders set: Series 5

full day trip

Lymestone Brewery half day trip

Coach Excursions

Hits from the Sixties!

Victorian Town open-air Museum

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CLUB NEWS

Get set for Summer CASUAL CAMPSITES

FRANCE

CORNWALL

24 August - 7 September La Cigaline France 1 Rue De La Paix 24700 Montpon-Menestererol This is postponed from 2021. Prices will be the same as 2021 and again the site would prefer members booking the full two weeks or 1st or 2nd weeks to keep the site full. Bookings close June 20th 2022.

11-25 September Tencreek Holiday park, Looe, Cornwall PL13 2JR This is a full facility site of which we have access to indoor and outdoor areas for get-togethers, there are also many on site activities, shop etc. We have 99 pitches all with electricity. As they are various sizes the site will be taking the bookings and issuing the pitch numbers to accommodate the van sizes, all pitches cost £15pupn which includes hook up & a maximum of two pets. A £30 non-refundable deposit will be taken (unless medical reason) with balance 28 days before arrival. Any weeks or part of can be booked on this site with no problem.

DEVON 27 June - 11 July Topsham Rugby Club, Bonﬁre Field, Exeter Rd, Topsham, Exeter, Devon EX3 0LY Booking will be either the two weeks 27/6-11/7 or one week 27/6-4/7 or 4/7-11/7. This is an excellent site just 15 minutes from the M5 with good approach roads. Toilets and showers available to members all day, every day. Clear water and Elson point, no hook-ups but charging for mobility chairs, phones etc is available. There is also full use of facilities within their buildings for inclement days. Cost is just £8.50 pupn, full payment in cash on arrival to MCC hosts. This is a bookable CCS again with whole weeks as shown. Bookings close 20th May 2022.

The first visit to this site was in June 2019 and was a great place for our visiting members. The site is situated in the Dordogne, Perigord region right on the river which is a perfect place to chill out. The price for a pitch per day is £14 for two people and includes taxes, 10 amp electric and two pets. For one person the price will be £11 inclusive. WIFI is included.

To book or for more details on all these sites email Ann (annbond83@gmail.com) or text 07805 795549.

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t was way back in 1996 when I first conducted a full live-in test of a Mobilvetta ‘A’-class [1] and also travelled to Italy to tour their factory. I was impressed then and remain so today. Now they are part of the Trigano empire and are imported by Marquis and sold in England by their retail network, and in Scotland by The Motorhome Company. It’s in the name really, but Mobilvetta Design is design-led and these stylish and contemporary European motorcaravans have been carefully thought-out and then further refined for the UK market, in terms of fitting more equipment, right hand drive and completely handing the conversion for the UK, including 18 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

a nearside habitation door, offside cab door and relocating the windscreen wipers. Other (more expensive) European converters should follow their example. Please be aware that the pictures are of prototypes, production models will all be

automatic transmission and with four travel seats. All - including the baby Yacht - will be built on the 4,400kg chassis, so no worries about payload! That said, all drivers require group C1 on their licence. Younger drivers can achieve this by undertaking a course of instruction

GENTLEMAN JACK'S

RANGEFINDER

MAGNIFICENT MOBILVETTA MOVES ON Gentleman Jack is our guide to their 2022 Kea P and K-Yacht ranges

and passing a test. Drivers 70 years + with ‘grandfather rights’ (historic entitlement) will have to pass a medical.

“

New for 22

A lot, too much to list everything here. The most significant are the latest Ducato cab, heavier chassis, top motor, automatic transmission, upgraded Alde heating and a restyled front-end. Of interest to all, but particularly to those with mobility difficulties, is the new XL entrance door [2] complete with double-glazing, a flyscreen inner door and a waste bin. A new F-O-C ‘Collection Pack’ looks useful, it comprises of a brace of quality logoed gilets, caps, keyrings, and mugs. >>

I was impressed then and remain so today."

2 June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 19

RANGEFINDER

>> Compact integral First in our crosshairs is the ultracompact three-berth A-Class, the K-Yacht 59. It features a forward lounge [4] with an electricallyoperated drop down double-bed above. A centrally-placed kitchen and full-width rear washroom/ changing room with walk-in shower cubicle [5] complete the inventory.

11 Four berths

Next are the rear lounge models. Kea P80 low-profile [6] shares the same internal layout as the K-Yacht 80 [7-10]. Their rear lounges are ‘L’ shaped [11] with a pop-up TV carrier contained within the sideboard on the right of the photograph. Both the Kea [12] and K-Yacht variants feature a forward and rear drop-down double-bed. Our final rear lounge model is the K-Yacht 95 which 13 boasts a huge ‘U’shaped rear lounge, There wasn’t one in stock for me to photograph, so here is a brochure image [13]. >> 20 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

SPEC CHEC All are built on the Fiat Ducato 4,400kg chassis and powered by the 2.2-litre 160bhp turbo-diesel engine mated to a nine-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox. Alde ‘wet’ radiator heating. 120-litre freshwater tank; 110-litre waste water tank, solar panel, alloy wheels, cab air-con + much more

RANGEFINDER

17 16

Models with permanent beds feature strongly this year. Doublebed enthusiasts will appreciate the peninsula one at the far rear of the Kea P90 [14] and K-Yacht 90. Those preferring single-beds should look at the Kea P86 [15] and K-Yacht 86. As always, ‘the devil is in the detail’ and the next three photographs illustrate that. [16] shows a garage with two exterioraccess doors, a lowered threshold, heating, lighting and tie-down cleats. The floor hatch [17] and slide-out kitchen storage drawers [18] are all self-explanatory.

Peace of mind

Something that concerns many motorcaravanners is the possibility of water ingress causing expensive repairs. This is unlikely to occur with these Mobilvettas as the iTech 40 construction is timberfree and uses special glass-fibre and composite sheet materials and resins for strength, insulation and to eliminate thermal bridges. Mobilvetta doesn’t just ‘talk the talk’, but ‘walks the walk’, by offering a F-O-C ten-year water ingress warranty. 22 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

PRICE RANGE Layout Compact Front Lounge Rear Lounge Rear Lounge Rear Lounge Permanent rear double bed Permanent rear double bed Permanent rear single beds Permanent rear single beds

Range/Model K-Yacht 59 Kea P80 K-Yacht 80 K-Yacht 95 Kea P90 K-Yacht 90 Kea P86 K-Yacht 86

Length 5.99m/19’ 8” 7.2m/23’ 7.5” 6.99m/22’ 11.25” 7.5m/24’ 7.5” 7.47m/24’ 6.25” 7.5m/24’ 7.5” 7.47m/24’ 6.25” 7.5m/24’ 7.5”

OTR £91,495 £86,495 £97,495 £98,495 £87,495 £98,495 £87,495 £98,495

‘Just a great place to stay’ Set in a forest clearing surrounded by 300 acres of pine forest on the Blackdown Hills, Forest Glade Holiday Park provides everything you need for a family holiday or a quiet break out of season. Hard standing and fully serviced pitches available. Facilities: a free covered heated swimming pool, sauna, shop with off-licence and take away, children’s play areas, games room, tennis court and forest walks.

• Fully road-legal electric scooter • Up to 30-mile range • Perfect for motorhome owners • 12 months warranty • FREE maintenance plan

www.tubby-tyre-scooter-company.co.uk

Forest Glade Holiday Park, Near Kentisbeare, Cullompton, Devon, EX15 2DT.

www.forest-glade.co.uk • 01404 841381

Pinecones

Caravan & Camping

Open all year • Private bathrooms • Luxury pitches/ camping pods • Shop/launderette/ washing up • Woodland walks/cycling • Children’s play area • Free Wi-Fi

Tel: 01485 544224 www.pineconescc.co.uk E: info@pineconescc.co.uk

The largest motorhome dealership in Ireland, supplying new and used Dethleffs, Carthago, Compass, Hymer & Carado, as well as Knaus Motorhomes and Vans. Located in Donegal - One of the most beautiful counties in Ireland. We invite you to come and visit us!

(00353) 74 9129235

www.donagheymotorhomes.ie info@irishmotorhomes.com

Donaghey Motorhomes, Drumnahoe, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, F92 ETF3

GRASMERE CARAVAN PARK • Hardstanding & grass pitches • Launderette • Toilets/showers including disabled • Wi-Fi available • Sorry no dogs allowed t: 01493 720382 w: www.grasmere-wentworth.co.uk Grasmere Caravan Park, 9 Bultitudes Loke, Caister-On-Sea, Norfolk NR30 5DH June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 23

SHOP WINDOW

Powering up the off-grid life

f you find yourself running low on power, EcoFlow has a range of portable renewable power solutions for off-grid life. All its generators are powered by EcoFlow’s X-Boost technology, which includes lithium-ion batteries. As well as the River range of smaller generators, EcoFlow offers a more powerful Delta range (pictured). Commenting on the new UK product launches, Andrew Williams, Director of Hampshire Generators, EcoFlow’s principle UK importer, said: “EcoFlow is a renowned portable generator manufacturer overseas and we are looking forward to replicating that success here."

THE RIVER RANGE RIVER is the entry-level product for those looking to boost their power while away from home, the River Portable Power Station is a compact, yet powerful (constant 600W/surge 1200W) product to keeps phones, lights and smaller tech running. The RIVER Max offers all of the benefits of the standard model plus an additional battery, while the RIVER Pro is designed for users seeking a a longer run time than the two previous River options. Ecoflow also offers a 110W Solar Panel to recharge the power stations when there is no power supply to connect to. Prices for the River range start at £379 with the solar panel at £319. He added: "Our primary mission is to offer clean, portable power for people on adventures away from home – but if we can help people

further, then we will absolutely aim to do so!” Details from www. hampshiregenerators.co.uk

30 years experience designing, supplying, installing & maintaining complete standby power systems worldwide Make sure you have the power you need on your road trip adventures with an EcoFlow Portable Power Station or leisure generator from Hampshire Generators. More than an online reseller, Hampshire Generators design, maintain and service all sizes of generator for business and pleasure.

Honda EU22i Petrol Inverter Generator - Max power 2200W / Rated Power 1800W - True Sine Wave inverter technology - Just 71dBA at 7 metres - Easy recoil start (pull start)

- Covered by a 5 Year Warranty

EcoFlow Delta Portable Power Station - 1800W (Surge 3300W) Battery capacity 1260Wh - Full UK Spec with UK 3-Pin Sockets - Power & recharge lights, laptops, tablets, phones & USB gadgets - Silent & zero emissions rechargeable lithium-ion battery - Ideal for camping, caravanning emergency backup, & home use - Fast charging via mains, 12v car adapter or solar panel (optional)

£1,299 inc.VAT

01329 722390 • www.hampshiregenerators.co.uk • info@hampshiregenerators.co.uk Unit 4 Swanmore Business Park, Lower Chase Road, Swanmore, SO32 2PB 24 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

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SHOP WINDOW

TomTom launches next gen camper sat nav

omTom is launching the GO Camper Max, claimed to be the most complete and powerful sat nav designed with motorcaravanners and campers very much in mind. TomTom says GO Camper Max is a feature-packed, user-friendly companion for all campers on the move. The camper routing feature takes the size and weight of the vehicle into consideration when calculating the route, ensuring the driver will not be navigated through unpassable places such as narrow streets and roads with low bridges. Another aspect that helps increase driver safety is the clear 7” HD screen. The prominent level of detail of the screen – even with

26 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

direct sunlight – allows the driver to quickly see what is happening on the road. Increasing driving safety is a priority, but GO Camper Max also offers a preinstalled database containing thousands of camper-related points of interest in Europe, providing the driver with additional useful information such as campsites for example.

Scenic routing

A feature that is making its debut in the camper market is 'scenic routing'. Whenever the user prefers "fun over fast", this feature lets them choose the windiness and hilliness of any route. It is for avoiding the boring highways and choosing the more picturesque, winding routes.

This feature is also useful for those who have reached their holiday destination and want to explore their surroundings some more. Another useful feature that the GO Camper Max has is live fuel price information. This feature allows the user to see all the fuel price information in the area, allowing them to compare costs between various stations and decide which stop is the best for them. The TomTom GO Camper Max is priced at £349.99 and comes with a one-year of TomTom Live Services. Drivers can switch to a subscription after the year.

MOTS AND SERVICING TYRES ACCIDENT REPAIR & PAINTWORK DIAGNOSTICS RECOVERY ALLOY WHEEL REFURBS HABITATION CHECKS FREE COURTESY CAR

LeoBay Campsite

Highfield, Rushenden, Alsager Avenue, Queenborough, Kent ME11 5LA

01271 343 343 www.tjhauto.co.uk Unit 3 & 4, Roundswell, Barnstaple, Devon EX31 3TD

C SE OV CU ID RE

A CAMPSITE WITH A DIFFERENCE... 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 June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 27

We want to buy your motorhome Dealer for Elddis, Auto-trail and Bailey motorhomes Top prices paid and UK wide collection service available Please contact one of our following branches Pearman Briggs Caravan Sales 224 Cheltenham Road, Longlevens, Gloucester, Glos GL2 0JW 01452 524700 or 01452 524192

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

Cotswold Edge Leisure Vehicles Ltd

The very best in facilities:

7 hardstanding pitches • Can now take up to 3 RVs • Families welcome • 26 level pitches on 2 acres • Seasonal pitches for £1,730 • Family-run • Quiet and secluded • A sun-trapped valley in the heart of ‘1066’ country • Easy access to beach and historical sites • Residential homes for sale Covid pro fog sterilise machine now installed to keep all our facilities clean and sterilised Meadowview Park, Crazy Lane, Sedlescombe, Battle, East Sussex TN33 0QT T: 01424 870147

28 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

Evesham Road (A46), Beckford, Nr Tewkesbury, Glos GL20 7AS 01386 882866

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

GROUP NEWS & DIARIES JUNE 2022

GROUP NEWS COORDINATOR: Polly Coleman T: 01502 725841 E: groupnews@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk Post: Motor Caravanner Magazine, Countrywide Publications, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk, IP18 6DH. Deadline: 5th of the month for inclusion in the following month's magazine

ANGLIA 46 vans came to Wells-next-the-Sea for our Easter rally with the weather being great for a change. Vans were parked up by Keith, Derek and Rex with Brian assisting by letting us know whether the incoming was English or continental. On Thursday evening after tea, coffee and Chairman's welcome, members had a quiz set by Derek the Diabolical followed by general chat and background music provided by Paul. Friday most went into town which was very busy whilst others sunbathed. Friday evening after tea etc and a plentiful supply of hot cross buns, we had the usual game of bingo at 11:15pm. Teresa had a message that the entertainer booked for Saturday had gone down with Covid and would we choose another. Saturday was a free day and in the evening, we were in the hall for entertainment provided by the replacement artist Mike Shelby who was a new act to us. What an artist! He got us all up with a mix of old and new music and was a first class act. Sunday morning after tea and coffee we had the Easter bonnet, Easter card and decorated egg competition followed by a huge raffle. Many thanks to members who added their donations to this. Sunday evening, Derek and Carol organised a game of “Scattergories” which was great fun. Thanks to the stewards and all others who helped us. 75 vans came to Sheringham for the bank holiday. Including 19 units from the MC Group and 26 from East Mids with 31 from Anglia and a sprinkling from other groups. The parking team did very well in parking all up including the motorcycle vans with their trailers. The weather was fairly kind to us, but the wind was cool Friday evening there was bingo which was very profitable for one lady member. Tony set a table quiz afterwards which was enjoyed.

Saturday most went into town and the MCG went out on a ride along the coast. They all looked great riding down the road from the top of the school and out of the gate. In the evening we were entertained by an old friend Travis Graham who kept us dancing all evening until 11:35pm. Sunday evening, we held a Chinese Raffle. Total mayhem ensued with a stuffed Sloth cuddly moving around the room all evening in steals than a Sloth would ever move. The Hedgehog door stop, Champagne and Brandy also went round and round the room. A very good evening’s entertainment in the true Anglia fashion bringing back memories of times past. There was not one item that was duplicated out of over 30 on the table and they were all good prizes! Many thanks to Keith, Teresa, Tony and Carole, the stewards, also Paul Cook for his help in the hall and anyone else who helped in any way to make this a great rally. Scribe Derek. Upcoming rallies: 31 May-6 June: Hunstanton Community Centre, PE36 5BW, Start 1pm. Platinum Jubilee Celebration. Bookable with Teresa 07739 463321 or teresa.poole@virginmedia.com. 9-13 June: MCC National, Stafford. 22-26 June: Heacham Social Club, PE31 7HG.

AVON Sue, Pete, Marilyn and Allan, welcomed 50 vans over several days, to Stratford Racecourse. The weather was dry, but a cold breeze continued until Friday. On the Friday afternoon, the hosts provided coffee, tea and doughnuts followed by a quiz and bingo. Saturday was a gloriously warm and sunny day when many people visited the car boot sale in the adjacent field, before walking or catching the bus into Stratford. The town held a festival of transport, over the weekend where classic cars were on show and lots of food stalls around. We had use of the large grandstand events room on Saturday and >> June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 29

Tel: 01425 672487

Harrow Wood Farm and Caravan Park www.caravan-sites.co.uk E-mail:

60Hard standings 10 amp electrical supply harrowwood@caravan-sites.co.uk

Harrow. Wood Farm and Caravan Park

Heated shower block Motorcaravan Drain Point Set in 100 acres of farmland 2 miles from the open forest Poplar Lane, Bransgore, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 8JE Open 1st March - 6th January

MOT's. repairs and servicing to all makes of Motorhomes Habitation Inspections carried out

M & D SERVICES (BRISTOL) Harrow Wood Farm and Caravan Park LTD. 60 hard standings • 10 amp Unit 1 Balaclava Road 60 Hard standings . 10 amp electrical supply electrical supply • Heated shower Industrial Estate Heated shower blockpoint . Motorcaravan Drain Point block • Motorcaravan drain • (off Ridgeway Road)

Tel: 01425 672487

www.caravan-sites.co.uk E-mail:

harrowwood@caravan-sites.co.uk

See us on Facebook.com/harrowwood

Poplar Lane, Bransgore, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 8JE

in 100 acres farmland 2 miles from the open forest Set inSet 100 acres ofoffarmland Fishponds, BRISTOL BS16 3LJ Open 1st March - 6th January

See us on01425 Facebook.com/harrowwood Tel: 672487 Tel: 01425 672487

www.caravan-sites.co.uk www.caravan-sites.co.uk

Tel: 0117 9651900 Fax: 0117 9650651 Email: tony@mdservicesltd.co.uk

E: harrowwood@caravan-sites.co.uk E-mail:

Poplar Lane, Bransgore, harrowwood@caravan-sites.co.uk

Christchurch, Dorset BH23 8JE Poplar Lane, Bransgore, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 8JE

WALESWOOD CARAVAN & CAMPING PARK AT ROTHER VALLEY COUNTRY PARK

Open All Year “An excellent campsite with exceptional facilities”

Caravan & Camping

2021

10% discount for bookings online www.waleswood.co.uk for stays between April 2022 and 23rd December 2022 using the code MOCA10 30 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

GROUP NEWS Sunday when we got together for a chat over tea and biscuits. This was followed by an evening of entertainment Play your cards right was hosted by Sue with her assistant, Dolly Dealer, alias Kevin who was a real sport. The evening continued with the superb singing voice of Irena, who had almost everyone up dancing to songs through the decades. During the interval Allan hosted a music quiz, won by the same team as Friday’s quiz. We also had a few jokes when Irena had a second short break. Sunday began with light rain which got heavier until late afternoon. In the evening, we had bingo once again and Mark and Penny took music requests and we listened to lots of old favourites including the goons. Marilyn organised and ran the raffle, thanks to Shirley and John for their kind raffle prize donations. Sue gave out the relevant info and wished all a safe journey home the next day. Take care, Allan. Upcoming rallies: 16-19 June: Strawberry rally at Pethruth Paddocks, Cheddar, BS27 3XW. 22-27 June: Weymouth & Portland RFC, Monmouth Road, Weymouth, DT3 5HZ. Please contact our secretary Karen James to book any rallies on 07971 540909 or by email on: avonmcc@ markandkaren.co.uk. See the Avon MCC website for detailed information regarding all our rallies and possible changes.

CHILTERN 27 vans ventured to the coast for five nights over Easter at South Lytchett Manor near Poole and what a great time we had. The weather was very kind, apart from the wind! Ralliers gathered on Friday morning for hot cross buns and a good catch up. On Sunday afternoon, we gathered again for tea and homemade cakes. The children on the rally made Easter bonnets and decorated eggs and were presented with an Easter egg each. This was followed by an Easter quiz. During the days, ralliers walked, cycled and made use of the buses, which stopped right outside the site. There was a lovely pub a short walk away and members enjoyed a drink or two! Some hardened ralliers met in the shelters in the evenings for drinks and conversation but it was a tad chilly! Following on from this meet, 37 vans went to Weymouth Rugby Club where the wind gathered more strength but it was also dry and sunny. This site is ideally placed for walking or cycling into the town through a lovely country park. Several cyclists made use of the disused railway track to Portland. There was also bus stops nearby offering routes to several destinations. In the evenings, our stewards Shirley and Pete, kept us entertained with general knowledge quizzes, scattergories and a TV theme tune music quiz. Thanks go to West Wessex for letting us run these two holiday meets in their area. Thank you to Sharon and Paul for hosting the next very enjoyable rally over the May Bank Holiday at Hoar Park Farm. We had four Chiltern vans, three visitors and one first timer to Chiltern. Games of Molkky, bacon sandwiches thanks to Shirley and Vanessa, two-day car boot sale, farm shop, craft shops, restaurant, games and socialising with

lots of fun and laughter in the shelters and an impromptu cheese and wine party thanks to Gordon, all helped to make this a very enjoyable and friendly long weekend looking forward to going there again. Upcoming rallies: 2-5 June: Hurst Community College, Baughurst, RG26 5NL (fully booked). 24-27 June: Padworth Village Hall, Padworth, RG7 4HY. 1-3 July: Friars Court, Radcot, OX18 2SX. 8-10 July: Cheney Manor House, Banbury, OX15 0UA. 14-18 July: Bagmere Barn, Charney Bassett, OX12 0HD. 29-31 July: Bridge Meadow, Cropredy, OX17 1PQ.

EAST MIDLANDS To book a rally, contact Anne Taylor via email: anneeastmidlands@gmail.com or phone: 07414 852497. Our Jubilee Rally at Arena UK, 22-25 July 2022 is bookable, and the booking form is available at our rallies and on our website under the ‘Gallery’ tab. The dates for our Wainfleet rally have changed. It will now be held earlier in the year from 2-5 June 2022 and NOT 8-10 July as listed in our rally booklet. Due to the space available to us, this rally in June was made bookable and is now full. A waiting list has been started. Sue. The Springfield's Easter Rally had glorious sunny weather throughout the Easter weekend. 62 motorhomes arrived (50 East Midlands, two Anglia, one Essex, one NWMNW, two Lancashire, two Yorkshire, three Severn Valley and one Sussex). On arrival Thursday afternoon, we were given a van quiz on pub signs to challenge us through the weekend. In the evening we had bingo and catch up with old and new friends. On Friday evening, a lot of thought had gone into a team quiz, which everyone enjoyed. The winning team, the Deers, were headed by Robin. The booby prize went to the Grizzly Bears, headed by Pauline. This followed was followed by Karaoke, with the usual good and bad singers! Dave B and Mandy were the entertainers of the night, giving us lots of laughs. Saturday was another sunny day for relaxing and retail therapy. In the evening we were entertained by The Wilkinson brothers with songs from the 60s. They filled the dance floor and kept us dancing the night the away. It was a very good night. Sunday, we went in the hall for coffee morning and we had a Easter bonnet competition, the raffle and the answers to the pub quiz, which was won by Larayne Harris. During the Easter bonnet competition, some very good and creative hats were modelled. Lynda Hidderley, who had a rabbit coming out of her head, won the ladies competition. The winner of the men’s section was Bill Tomlinson, whilst a special prize for best effort went to Dave Brant for just parading round with rabbit ears on his head! The children’s winner was Lucas, with Annabelle, Charlotte, Evie, Emily as runners up. Thank you to our two new members Kate and Ann for judging. Entertainment on Sunday evening was the ever popular ‘Angie’ who was her usual energetic self who had us dancing and laughing the night away. >> June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 31

RV’s join in the fun

Large or small, we welcome all A social activity club dedicated exclusively to all motorhome owners for over 60 years

R SC

IPTIO N

£36.75 NT

BE R IN

No joining fee

Camper Van Conversion

U AL SU

A-Class

500+ social meets annually Many social meets in your local area Cost-effective holiday meets in the UK and abroad F.I.C.C rallies world-wide Regional groups across the UK and Ireland Preferential parking at motorhome shows Webpage and social media presence Free monthly magazine home posted and online Yearly Handbook packed with information Member discounts at many specialist suppliers Night stops, CLs and Safe Knights schemes

Coach built

• • • • • • • • • • •

IV E

£10

Club voucher for every new member introduced

✁ No.

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FULL MEMBER valid for 12 months Title:

Surname:

First Names:

Initials:

Address: Postcode: Home tel:

Mobile tel:

Email:

JOINT FAMILY MEMBER over 18 years – Members’ children under 18 years of age are covered within the membership Title:

Surname:

First Names:

Initials:

Full Member Signature:

Date:

Joint Member Signature:

Date:

DECLARATION I declare that I am the current owner/user of a motorcaravan and that the information given above is correct. I hereby undertake to pay annual subscriptions and adhere to the Articles of Association and regulations made by the Council. I understand the Club is Limited by Guarantee which means I may be asked for a maximum of £2 should the Club cease during my membership and for a year following the end of my membership.

PLEASE CONTACT THE OFFICE WITH YOUR FIRST YEARS PAYMENT OR VISIT WWW.THEMOTORCARAVANNERSCLUB.CO.UK Where did you hear about the Club? Advert

Dealer

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Introducing Member

Membership No. to receive £10 voucher

Other Please post your completed application form to the address at the bottom of the page and the Club office will contact you by phone for payment once they receive your application form.

The road to enjoyment starts here! The Motor Caravanners’ Club, Wood Farm Estate, Marlbank Road, Welland, Malvern WR13 6NA T: 01684 311677 E: Info@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk W: www.themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

GROUP NEWS Monday morning saw us saying goodbye to members who had to leave. In the evening, we held a very entertaining Mr and Mrs competition followed by Mick, Dave, Terry, and Ian trying to get a knitting needle hung from a string round their waist into a bottle… hilarious! Then, Rob and Eddie played their guitars and sang for us... A lovely end to the Easter celebrations. Lynn and John. Upcoming rallies: 9-14 June: National Rally, Stafford Showground, Weston Road, Stafford, ST18 0BD. 24-28 June: Cromford RFU, Cromford Meadows, Derbyshire, DE4 3RQ. 8-11 July: Grange Farm Camp Site, Wainfleet St. Mary, PE24 4EU. 7-11 July: Rempstone Steam Rally, Turn Post Farm, East Road, Wymeswold, LE12 6ST. 22-25 July: Arena UK, Allington Lane, Allington, Grantham, NG32 2EF.

EAST WESSEX Some good news to start with: John and Lynn have joined our committee. Welcome both of you! 15 vans, three visiting from NW Midlands and N Wales, Severn and Kent groups joined the Easter rally in Tadley, enjoying baking hot weather. So hot that at one point, chairs started to sink into the newly resurfaced playground! Some went into Basingstoke, others visited National Trust properties, museums, a nearby hostelry or sat chatting in the shade and watching the red kites. We had hot cross buns with afternoon tea and Saturday evening's buffet included very tasty hot sausage rolls made by Larry's sister. Our singer fell ill at the eleventh hour but luckily, a replacement saved the day. Other activities included quizzes, a raffle, Pete's music, boules, deck shuffle, card bingo and even an ice cream van paid a visit. Janet's magnificent entry won the Easter Bonnet competition and of course we all ate too much chocolate. 19 vans, including new EW members Dave and Heather and five visitors from Sussex, Kent and Chiltern came to Winchester Rugby Club for the May bank holiday rally, our first field rally this year. The weather was mixed, chilly evenings, even a ground frost one night, some rain but also warm sunshine. Still, we seasoned campers are ready for anything aren't we, so shorts and sandals as well as blankets, hats and gloves, all made an appearance. From the site, it's a level walk into Winchester, which most did. The city was busy with a vegan market full of interesting foods, alongside the usual market. Some visited the cathedral, others the military museum or walked through the nature reserve. On Saturday, we were treated to an unexpected evening of live entertainment in the pods provided by first time

East Wessex group: Easter bonnet parade 34 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

visitors Alan and Mary, formerly professional singers. They played guitar and drum and sang Irish folk songs and got everyone to join in. This was the highlight of the rally, so thanks to Alan and Mary, and hope you'll come back again. We woke on Monday to a stream of cars and competitors pouring into the fields as unbeknown to us the club grounds were the start and finish of a marathon, so there was lots happening all around us. Curiously, the final yards went right over our elsan point which meant emptying had to be timed to avoid losing a runner down the manhole. Many thanks to everyone who helped make these rallies successful. Hope to see you all soon. Diane. Upcoming TCs: Summer field rallies are not bookable (except Hayling Island) and now there’s no need to contact the host in advance. Please check our website www. eastwessex.uk for any late changes. 16-21 June: Bamptons Farm, Lisle Court Road, Lymington, SO41 5SH. Five-night field rally on the edge of the New Forest town of Lymington with its picturesque harbour, cafes and restaurants, ferries to the Isle of Wight, and a railway station for visiting further afield. Cost £10.50 pupn, £9.50 pupn singles. Arrivals after 1pm. 14-18 July: Basingstoke Canal Centre, Mytchett Place, Mytchett, Surrey, GU16 6DD. Four-night field rally. Cost £15 pupn, £14 pupn singles. Arrivals after 1pm.

ESSEX Pleshey Village Hall meet: This was a last minute replacement venue. As a change, we decided to have a social barn dance, John Graham recommended a caller he had seen before. It seemed to go down very well for those who attended, getting us to loop the loop and crossing our arms dosey dosing. Unfortunately, my wife couldn’t do all the spinning and turning the ladies had to do and most of us certainly found how unfit we were. We will certainly try this again at a larger venue. The weekend weather was very kind to us, walks and joining friends at the local in the village. Robert the landlord always gives a warm welcome and a bottle of wine for our raffle. The second report this month is for Brightlingsea. We returned after a few years away. This was hosted by Jim, Sandy and friends. As this was a bank holiday, we had three nights entertainment. Friday was the usual bingo. On Saturday, Jim had given us clues to answer questions on a nice walk around Brightlingsea, of course you have to have the fish and chips and a glass or two. The locals soon found out we were doing a walk around quiz. One of the clues was to find the name of a certain boat in the yard. Unfortunately on the day of the quiz, the said boat had been moved. but our entrepid members made enquiries and found the answer. I understand ex Com's members, John and Melanie, now live in the area. (Sorry I missed you John!). The weather was kind to us again so was able to sit outside for a while. We had further quizzes over the weekend to win a box of Maltesers which was highly competitive. We left on Monday after a good weekend. We had a laugh on clearing the site down, when the outside toilet door didn’t have a handle and we had to use a tent

GROUP NEWS peg to ease closed to lock (ex boy scout trick!) Bob. Upcoming rallies: 2-6 June: Homestead Weeley, CO16 9JN, Queens Jubilee. 9-13 June: National Staffs, ST18 0BD. 24-27 June: Grange Farm, CO16 OHG.

Essex group

KENT Overshore Rally, 22-24 April: CANCELLED. Broadstairs, Dane Court School, 25-29 August: CANCELLED. Regrettably, both these rallies have been cancelled due to no hosts. The Committee work very hard behind the scenes and are prepared to cover the main rallies AGM, Christmas, New Year etc. But we need help. Please consider and offer help by stepping up and hosting a rally. The Rally Officer is working incredibly hard to find venues and they are becoming increasing difficult to secure. It is really disappointing then to have to cancel them. 5-8 May: Bridge Farm, Appledore. Sixteen vans from Kent, Sussex and Essex enjoyed a lovely weekend at this popular site with amazing weather. First-time hosts David and Antoinette did a great job with a rather challenging puzzle and Raffle. They also prepared walks from the site around the local beautiful countryside. Thank you both, great weekend. Upcoming rallies: 27 May-1 June: *Palm Bay, Cliftonville. RESTRICTED TO 20 VANS, Bookable and close to capacity. 1-5 June: *Rye Rugby Club, Rye. Bookable, as we need to confirm numbers with the site. Please let the Secretary know if you wish to join us for one or more days. Please check on Facebook for more details nearer the time but we’d like you all to participate in the events suggested. Prizes for best decorated vans with lights and bunting etc. For those with dogs, a best dressed dog competition. Please be prepared to join in by wearing red, white and blue. We will have our own street party but please provide your own food. We will also have a ‘create a table centre piece challenge’ but please NO naked flames. There will be horse racing of sorts, royal quiz and ‘make your own crown or tiara’ competition. More details to follow. 16-19 June: Sissinghurst Cricket Club. 15-18 July: **Matunda, Chartham. 21-25 July: Sandwich Lakes. 5-7 August: Bredgar and Wormshill Light Railway. 25-29 August: CANCELLED, Dane Court School, Broadstairs. 9-11 September: Bridge Farm, Appledore. 23-25 September: Hole Park, Rolvenden. 14-16 October: Oasis Academy, Sheerness AGM. 9-11 December: Greatstone Primary School, Greatstone. 30 December-2 January 2023: St.

Richard’s School, Bexhill-on-Sea (with kind permission of the Sussex Group). ** Matunda: If you wish to stay until the 21 July, this can be arranged by booking directly with the site. We are pleased to welcome new members Jean and Paul and Gillian and Peter, we look forward to meeting you soon. COMMITTEE: A number of Committee members have decided to step down this year after serving this group for several years. It is therefore essential a new committee is found. If you’d like to find out more about what is involved, please feel free to speak to a Committee member. Please remember to visit our Facebook page, Kent Group of the Motor Caravanners’ Club or kentgroupmcc.weebly.com for the latest updates and further information. If you are aware of someone who does not have internet access, please consider calling them to keep them updated. Please be aware that the Kent Group Committee have decided to cancel the Danecourt rally scheduled for the August BH. Unfortunately, we did not have any hosts. We also became aware that our Sussex neighbours were planning on holding their 60th Anniversary celebrations over the same weekend. We therefore felt it appropriate to cancel our rally as we are confident that our members will wish to support the Sussex Group. Kind regards, Jan Wellard.

LANCASHIRE The Easter TC was at Warton, where we enjoyed lovely weather, except for a shower on the last night. Mel (our former chairman) was asked to help as there were only three committee members in attendance. He opened with a warm welcome to all, 24 units, but especially to new members Janet and Steven and Ann and David. Allan presented the bingo with his usual enthusiasm, but our table had no luck. Afterwards, Dean played music for line dances and Working Man, and it was good to see some of our newer members joining in. Bill then gave us a quiz. Friday started with a hot drink and Lisa and Sandra toasting Hot Cross Buns, enough to sink a battleship! After lunch, there was a Kurling knockout competition won by Beattie and Jimmy. Then time to relax. In the evening, we were treated by two of our members who were celebrating recent landmark birthdays to an artist, Chris Britten, who had us in stitches for half the night and after Take Your Pick, singing for the remainder. Saturday was a day to do as you pleased but some had shopping to do for our Big Buffet and then many hands to the grindstone to help with preparation. Others practised for the evening entertainment. The evening starts early with the excellent food. A few males disappear but on comes a new character, Peregrine, who says he is Ada’s son. Well, he is very rude and personal, but everyone laughs. The ladies are ready, dressed in swimwear. Audience collapses with laughter as they are interviewed and parade in a most unladylike way! This is followed by evening wear. Magnificent! They all are so good! I want those shoes! Glad I was not a judge. They were all winners but eventually the one who won the MISS WARTON title, and The Sash was >> June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 35

GROUP NEWS ‘No Nova…’! (Rob, I think). Sunday was a lovely sunny day, a few went to church. In the afternoon, some played boules then either played or watched Kubb. The evening started quietly with The Easter Bonnet Parade, a lot of entrants! Again, hard to judge but my favourite was chosen, Anne with the little watering can on top! Then a little dancing and Play Your Cards Right. Followed by, The Mersey Yookers, who entertained admirably with the youngest member, Jade, joining them for the first time. There was also an appearance of the famous conductor Heir Grossfarter and a new orchestra for him to get into shape. He did well and we all joined in Land of Hope and Glory to finish. But it didn’t end there we finished with Best of Friends. But many stayed just a little longer for some karaoke. It was so good to hear Bill sing again. Monday there was a Coffee Morning to wind down and enjoy the remaining Hot Cross Buns. Mel thanked the committee and all who had helped to run the TC and those who entertained us. He wished us a safe journey home. Upcoming TCs: 2-5 June: Lancashire, 2pm start St Cuthbert’s School, Halsall, L39 8RR, own drinks & 9-14 June: National Rally & AGM.

Lancashire group: All the Miss Warton entrants

MOTORCYCLE 29 April-2 May: Sheringham with Anglia group. 18 members from MCG arrived on Friday evening. We had plenty of room to park up together with our trailers at the end of the field. There were a lot of happy smiles and chatting as we met old friends again. We gathered in the hall later that evening. MCG members won some ‘big money’ on the bingo and two bottles of wine in the quiz. On Saturday, 16 bikers went on our first ride out of the year to Hunstanton. We parked our bikes on the seafront alongside a load of other motorbikes. We had blue skies and sunshine too enabling us to relax with picnics on the grassy area. In the evening, we enjoyed a great singer who kept the dance floor full all evening. On Sunday, many of us walked into Sheringham and along the seafront. We finished the weekend in the hall for a Chinese Raffle where so many people wanted other people’s prizes including a 36 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

hedgehog doorstop, a cuddly sloth, a bottle of champagne and a bottle of brandy. We had a really enjoyable weekend. Thanks to the Anglia Group from the MCG. Upcoming rallies: 9-13 June: The National at Stafford. We are going as hippies/flower power for the party night. Don’t forget to mention you are with the motorbike group when booking, if you want to park with us. 13-18 June: The Hollies, Nantwich. Find all details of our rallies on the ‘Events’ tab on our Facebook group or our website.

NENE VALLEY 13 motorhomes came to our Barnstones rally in Great Bourton, bringing with them 24 members. It was good to see three vans from the Chiltern Group. As the Saturday of this four-night rally was St. George’s Day, we adopted the theme of ‘England and the English’. On arrival, members were handed an anagram quiz comprising English celebrities from the worlds of sport, film, theatre, television, politics and more. On Friday morning, we braved the biting cold wind and met for coffee and biscuits on the field. In the evening, we all met in the Community Centre across the road where we had a fish and chip supper delivered. This was followed by an ‘England and the English’ quiz. Despite the initial groans on the first reading of the questions, members found that, by working together, coming up with the answers was a lot easier. St. George’s Day morning saw an exodus from the site of about half the members who headed for Banbury either by the one and only bus of the day or by taxi. In the evening, wearing red and white for St. George, we all headed for the Community Centre again. Denis, our Rally Officer, appeared in chain mail over which he wore a white tabard with the red cross emblazoned on it. Martin then led us in singing songs from across the ages starting with ‘Greensleeves’ and ending at full volume with ‘Land of Hope and Glory’. Then we all mingled and chatted. Peter then joined Martin in an un-rehearsed medley of songs until it was time to return to our motorhomes. Upcoming rallies: 27-29 May: Cherry Tree Farm, Woodford Hill, Woodford Halse, nr. Daventry, NN11 3SB. Cost £12 pupn. 9-14 June: National Rally. 1-9 July: Reydon Sports & Community Centre, Wangford Road, Reydon, Southwold, Suffolk, IP18 6PA. Cost £12 pupn.

NORTHERN COUNTIES Hi everyone. We had a great rally at Stokesley Show Field, another new venue for Northern Counties. The show field is a short stroll to the town centre and there is a large garden centre within walking distance. The picturesque town of Stokesley has lovely shops and cafés. It’s a venue that we will definitely be revisiting. We start our first follow on rallies at the stunning Lake District of Ambleside from 29 April-4 May, Braithwait 4-8 May and Kendal 8-13 May. Everyone is welcome. Upcoming rallies: 20-23 May: Kay’s Barn, Dunnington, York. This is a joint rally with the Yorkshire group. At this rally,

GROUP NEWS there will be a singing duo, hog roast, disco, line dancing and dress up in your favourite cowboy outfit. Please come and join us. 2-6 June: Stanhope Showground for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. For this celebration, we have live entertainment, disco, raffles and bingo. We still have availability for both these rallies on our web page. This will be my last newsletter as I am handing it over to our Chairman Dave Hird so I can help my husband George who is the Rally Officer for Northern Counties to find new venues for the coming year. Thanks, Nora.

NORTHERN IRELAND The rally at Londonderry (29 April-1 May): Having been cancelled, was replaced with a meet. Thanks to Selma for arranging the weekend with Julie and the deal of buying two nights and getting third and fourth nights on-site at Antrim Steam Fair was very much appreciated. Unfortunately, a few club members turned up without booking and they did not get in with their motorhomes/ vans. There was a waiting list for cancellations, such was the interest. Perhaps members could speak with Selma regarding arranging a meet for next year. It turned out to be a mixed bag weather-wise for Antrim Steam Rally. On Friday the sun shone and was hot and some did BBQ cooking! Saturday was a motorhome “duvet day” as it rained all day! Some brave souls did go out walking or took their motorhomes away to shop elsewhere and some, like me, watched TV or read a book. The steam fair rally did not start until the Sunday, and although cloudy, the sun came out from lunchtime, and some went to see all it had to offer. Monday was much the same and visits to show continued. As can be seen from photos that some members have already put on the Facebook page, activities included getting steam engine rides, falconry experiences, music shows, stalls and a craft marquee small animal farm, classic cars and tractors and lorries. Indeed, something for all ages. On the Monday, the BBC ran a few shows from the main stage and Hugo Duncan was well received. On Saturday night, Paul Kelly‘s band encouraged dancing and singing as did other artists before. I witnessed MCCNI members doing this but will only name them for a small fee! Only joking! The dates for next year’s Steam Fair have been confirmed as 30 April and 1 May 2023 for those wishing to put this in their next year’s diary. Adeline McClenaghan. Model Primary School, Enniskillen. From Friday 22 April-Sunday 24 April, 2022: Our hosts for this weekend were Robert, Joy and Lindsey Coalter, along with Noeleen and Alan Fluke. It was all go from the beginning as a vast amount of vans arrived at the same time (before the official start time) and the poor hosts were run off their feet trying to get vans in off the road and parked up. But it all came together! On Friday evening, there was a ‘Beetle Drive’ in the hall (which was relatively packed) and it was great to see so many support this activity. It used to be an old time favourite, however a number of people had never actually heard of it before! Joy and Lindsey oversaw this to ensure all

went to plan and no cheating took place. They even got an independent person to choose two random numbers: One for the closest or highest to that number which was 299 and this prize was won by Evie Pirie and then the second number of 178, was the closest lowest to it and this prize was won by Gerald Clydesdale. Amelia won the children’s prize! On Saturday, there were numerous games, arts and crafts over in the hall for anyone to come along, I believe a relaxing and fun time was had by making teddy bears! A good number of people took advantage of the fantastic sunshine and headed up the town to have a nose around the local shops and eateries etc, while others soaked up the sun by sitting outside their vans. On Saturday night, we were completely spoilt by the live entertainment by local man Paul Ralph. He was a joy and pleasure to listen to and had the crowd up on the floor from the get-go! There was a tremendous amount of raffle prizes of all descriptions, and this was well supported. Paul then recommenced playing until shortly after midnight when it was time to go to bed. He really was exceptional! On Sunday morning, we had our usual coffee morning and after the vice chair’s welcome and pleasantries, the floor was handed over to Lindsey to thank everyone again for attending the rally and to announce the quiz winners. Jim Gordon won the adult quiz and Amelia won the children’s quiz. We were informed that this rally (outside of NW200 rally) was the largest rally to date, 64 vans in total in total! There were three number plate draws as the size of the rally was so big and each of the winners received a box of chocolates. Well done to all the winners! A huge welcome was given to new members: Elizabeth and Keith Mc Cusker, Ken and Linda Ferguson and Winnie. Elaine McClure. Norman and Ruth Williamson. Walter Johnston and Margaret Lowey. The Herons who joined at rally. Welcome back returning members from Sligo! Michael and Marie Harte and from Wicklow! Alfie and Dorothy Taylor. Hugh and Moira Harvey and also second time visits whilst in Ireland Brian and Jenny Kinsella. Hopefully no one left out. Welcome one and all. Thanks, once again to our brilliant hosts Robert, Joy, Lindsey, Alan and Noeleen who went over and above with entertaining and the various activities throughout the course of the weekend! A thoroughly enjoyable time was had by all that attended! Hope to see you at future rallies. Ida Elliott. Newtownards Rally 8-10 April, 2022: Unfortunately, the assigned host for this weekend was unable to attend due to health issues. We all wish you a speedy recovery John. Effortlessly, their co-hosts Robert and Rubena stepped up to the plate and did a sterling job with a helpful hand from the committee. 55 vans parked up and if like me, couldn’t wait to tuck into the treat of mini eggs whilst doing the quiz; I know a lot about Newtownards now! Later, lots of people gathered in the hall for big money bingo and reacquainting with friends. Saturday weather was glorious, and most members made their way to the market and lots of shopping was done. The evening entertainment was provided by Dave Glover and Norman, they proved very popular with dancing of all styles catered for. Sunday morning coffee and >> June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 37

GROUP NEWS chairman’s address saw everyone gathered again. The quiz was won by Martin McClintock, number plate draws saw Mr and Mrs Hanna, Mr and Mrs Murphy and Mr and Mrs Baird claim the prizes. A warm welcome was given to Mr and Mrs Kinsella - visiting from England I hope they enjoyed their time with us. Congratulations from all the group to Elmer and Selma McMullan on their 51st wedding anniversary. Arlene Campbell.

NWM&NW The rally at Stone was blessed by the sun god, though the evenings were rather on the cold side. A total of 22 vans attended including visitors from Severn Valley, East Midlands and Lancashire. There were two sets of new members to welcome; Brian and Jean Bettan and Rob and Carol Elwell. The bar was well supported on both evenings and the local hostelries and shops in town no doubted benefited from our visit. Many thanks go to Dave Hall with his dog Ellie, Peter and Pam and Bob for supporting Eileen at this quiet but enjoyable rally. For our Easter rally, we returned to Shrewsbury now called Greenhous West Midlands Showground. There were 42 vans during the long weekend all booked-in and parked up by Ken and Ineke Green who never seemed to stop running up and down. Visitors came from S&W Wales, East Midlands, Avon, Anglia, Lancashire, Yorkshire and the West Country. Once again, the weather was very favourable enabling many to sit out and enjoy the sunshine. The lovely walk into town along the river was wonderful but the walk back after a trip round town was a little taxing for some (clutching purchases). Saturday evening's bingo had an added unusual experience (shock!) as unfortunately, some of the seats in the room were still a little damp following a clean-up after the recent flood, some had a wet derrière! All was taken in good humour. The winnings were quite well distributed, and thanks go to the two Sues for stepping in as callers. The car boot sale on Sunday morning had us up early scouting the field for bargains. In the evening, armed with plastic bags (for the seats) and decorated hats we had an Easter hat parade. A fabulous array of head gear paraded in front of the judge, Katrina, who had the difficult task of deciding on the winners. Joy, from S&W Wales, took the prize for the ladies and Len Evans for the men. Well done to both and a big thank you to all who took the time and entered into the spirit of the event. Geoff Balshaw then took to the floor with his take on "Play Your Cards Right" assisted by Dolly Dealer, Sue Clarke. This went well with everyone having a go and collecting a sweet for their effort. Steve won the wine with runners up Lee, Chris and Elaine receiving Easter Eggs. Thank you, Geoff and Sue. The raffle was drawn at the BYO coffee morning on Monday when Shirley and Darren seemed to be on a lucky streak carrying away a good collection of prizes though there were other winners. Many thanks to everyone who came making it an enjoyable rally. Upcoming rallies: 9-14 June: National Rally, Stafford Showground, ST18 0BD. 16-21 July: Porthmadog Football 38 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

Club, Y Traeth, Porthmadog, LL49 9PP. This rally needs to be booked. 21-25 July: Bala Rugby Club, Tegid Street, off Station Road, LL23 7DZ. Space is limited. Please book.

SCOTTISH Hello fellow members. By the time you read this, the season will be in full flow. Our treasurer Michael and his wife Margaret were our hosts at Aberlady. On arrival, they were warmly welcomed by the site owner Andrew. Michael erected his Quest Screenhouse in beautiful sunny weather. Due to late call offs including yours truly, only five Scottish members and visitors from Yorkshire attended this meet. Gordon and Maureen Crosby from Yorkshire and others from all parts of Scotland. On the first evening, they had drinks, nibbles with cheese and oatcakes. On the next day, members went on their travels into Edinburgh, leaving the rest to drink tea, coffee and a bit of dog walking. Two Scottish members set off to the follow-on meet at Foresterseat near Forfar. This meet was hosted by Peter and Ann Lidster and had eight members attending. We were greeted onsite by our hosts and given a quiz, theme being a word to link up with three other words. Michael and a band of helpers erected the screenhouse and windbreaks to make the area larger. This set up was used for coffee get togethers arranged by our hosts. In the evening, the screenhouse was used for drinks and a chat, the other nights it was too cold. Peter arranged a Sunday lunch at Sinclair’s on the edge of the site. This was attended by twelve of us very enjoyable as always. Malcolm and Josie Cormack new members attended their first meet with us Haste Ye Back. Ken and Rosemarie Swan our hosts at our meet at Auchtermuchty in June are going to arrange a silent auction. Bring things camping related for sale, when on display, any member can place a bid on the said item silently of course. Should any offer suit the seller then a sale is done, this is a new one on me, should be fun. In the past I gained a reputation at group auctions I tended to overbid. That’s all for now stay safe. Regards Squeezebox.

SEVERN VALLEY 28 vans attended the rally at Ledbury Rugby Club. One from NWM and NW, three from Avon, one from West Sussex and 23 from Severn Valley. Thanks to all who attended. Special thanks to Barry and Linda Mayner and Keith and Liz Penn (our hosts) who made the bank holiday weekend so enjoyable. Friday night started with a meet and greet in the clubhouse followed by a quiz organised by Keith. Members were also offered the choice to book Sunday lunch and many did and it was well worth it. On Saturday, the sun was shining. Many members set off on the 15 minute walk into Ledbury shopping or visiting the local food and ale houses. Later on in the evening, we met back at the clubhouse for live music from Them Two, who had everyone up dancing. Keith also hosted a game of card bingo which was a bit like snap with playing cards, with

GROUP NEWS members paying 25p to take part. On Sunday, the weather changed, and it was dull and rainy. The club house closed at six after serving the lunches but lent us a BBQ to use under the side canopy. So, we had a gin festival and BBQ. Due to the change in weather, the raffle was drawn on the same evening, so there was no coffee morning the next day. Upcoming rallies: 27-29 May: Holding Stables, Wilmcote, CV37 9XX, £10 pupn. 9-14 June: MCC National Stafford Showground, book via the MCC website. Change in date: 14-20: Bookable post National Rally Bourton Football Club, GL54 2EH, start time 2pm, £14 pupn. 1-3 July: Raphael’s Evesham, WR11 4BP, £10 pupn. 15-17 July: Upton Blues Festival, WR8 0EN, £13 pupn. 29 July-1 August: Welland Steam Fair, WR13 6LN, £55 for the weekend. For more rally information check out the Seven Valley website, hope to see you soon Severn Valley committee.

SW PENINSULA The April rally at Trevornick Holiday Park was hosted by firsttimers Linda and Graham Morris. They welcomed a total of 11 vans (10 SWPG and one West Wessex). Unfortunately, some folk had caught Covid and had to cancel. Wishing them and everyone a full recovery. Our water pump stopped working on the first evening and we decided to return home. Also, the huge price rise in fuel has made us all think carefully about our travels. True to the season, there was a variety of weather including bracing winds, April showers, including a thunderstorm and lovely sunshine, warm enough to air those deck chairs and start an early tan for the summer ahead. This site offers great local cycling and walking, with a special holiday park discount for their golf course. There’s a shop, takeaway and bar and free use of their lounge, where everyone met on the Saturday evening to buy raffle tickets and have a go at the ‘50/50 Bucket’. Everyone enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and hopefully, after this taster, Linda and Graham will host again. A query has been received as to whether there have been any additions/deletions to the 2022 rally programme. At the time of writing (last few days of April), the rallies listed in the programme sent out on 26 January remain unchanged. However, there are a couple of updates, one being further information regarding Stithians Steam Fair, as detailed below, and the other that the Padstow Vintage Rally and Country Fair has been cancelled and therefore will not coincide with Higher Harlyn rally (1-4 July). 18-22nd (four nights), Sithians Showground, The Showground, Stithians, TR3 7HL. £11 pupn, no EHU. Steam Fair: Friday, Saturday and Sunday, entry at a special price of £5 per person each day. Directions: A393 Redruth/Falmouth for five miles. Right at s/p Stithians/Stithians Showground onto Tubbon Hill. Entrance: one mile. Hosts: Mel and Pete Maddox. Upcoming rallies: 21-27 June: Lady’s Mile Holiday Park, EX7 0LX. £15 pupn inc ehu, bookings start 21 May. 1-4 July: Higher Harlyn Park, PL28 8SG. £19 pupn inc ehu,

bookings start 1 June. 15-18 July: Stithian’s Lake, TR16 6NW. £17 pupn, no EHU, bookings start 15 June. 5-8 August: Mount Edgcombe, PL10 1HZ. £13 pupn, no EHU, bookings start 5th July.

S&W WALES Hello again! I am delighted to confirm that, as I write, the weather is warm and sunny and just perfect for our rallies, although it was not warm for our rally at Buttyland, Manorbier from April 14-19. Our hosts Pam and Dave Couldrick with Andrew Milward welcomed 38 vans for this long Easter weekend. The visitors were Jan Hamilton (Avon) and Phil and Val Pragnell (Severn Valley). The convenient position of the site allowed many to catch the train to Tenby or use their bus passes to travel east to Tenby and Saundersfoot or west to Pembroke and Haverfordwest. We went to Pembroke and thoroughly enjoyed the free excellent guided tour of the impressive castle with its incredible history. Our hosts had arranged egg decorating, easter eggs, bingo and a coffee morning which were well attended despite the chilly wind. 28 April-2 May saw us at Sully Sports and Social Club where Elizabeth and Colin much appreciated the help of Eifion as ‘honorary host’ to park up 40 vans as Kath and Peter (Mepham) were not able to attend until the next day. The site overlooks Sully Island and the Bristol Channel and was very pleasant on a sunny and warm afternoon. We were pleased to welcome visitors from Avon, John and Lindsay Parker and Severn Valley, Vic and Hazel Lancaster together with new members, Marianne and Phillip Elmore and Roy, Michelle Hughes and Doreen. As the bus passed the site, many took the opportunity to travel to Cardiff, Penarth and Barry on Friday and Saturday. The sunny days encouraged many to walk the short distance to the coastal path at Lavernock and, if they were careful, to walk across to Sully Island when the tide was out. The bingo on Saturday was well attended with the lucky Yandells, Gail and especially Keith, doing very well. Gail and Kath (Thomas) also won the quiz. Sunday was wet and cold and many enjoyed lunch at the clubhouse or a meal at the Captain’s Wife. At the Monday Coffee Morning, everyone was very happy that Sabie won several raffle prizes and, then her mum Phillipa was asked to select the lucky van number, she picked her own much to everyone’s delight. Thanks again to Eifion for assisting with the ‘slippery grass’ departure of some of the vans. Upcoming rallies: 1-6 June: Aberystwyth Rugby Football Club, SY23 1HL. Starts 2pm. 9-14 June: National Rally and AGM at Stafford Showground, ST18 0BD. 24-27 June: Carew Airfield, Nr. Tenby, SA70 8SX. Starts 2pm. Large boot sale on Sunday morning and Airfield Museum now open. July (date to be confirmed): Ysgol Gymraeg, Pontygwindy Rd, Caerphilly, CF83 3HG. Food festival. 12-14 August: Brecon Sports Association Fields, LD3 7EL. Starts 2pm. Brecon Jazz Festival which suits all musical tastes. 23-26 August: Greenhill School, Tenby, SA70 8BN. Starts 2pm in the heart of Tenby. >> June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 39

GROUP NEWS SUSSEX Well, we are now well into a fantastic season of motorhoming. I hope you are all well and enjoying a resurgence of attending rallies and travels, getting back into the driving and passenger sets with renewed enthusiasm. Our Easter rally in Bexhill-on-Sea was very successful, with participants from Avon, Chiltern, Essex, Kent, both East and West Wessex joining with many Sussex members to have a fabulous time. Even the sun came out to join us, with clear, dry days and evenings. We had two evenings of lively music from Keith Ryder and Goldilux, firm Sussex favourites, with lots of dancing and singing along. The Grand Quiz on Saturday evening featured many different facets, including pictures of waxwork images from the worst waxwork museum in the world, logos, film/ tv/music questions as well as general knowledge. The competition was fierce, with Essex members just edging into the lead. Well done everyone, especially the ICT component which was overseen by Martin Remnant and Ian Stoner. The Easter Bonnet competition was also closely contested, with over 20 participants. A difficult decision on the winners, by me and ably assisted by the Easter Bunny (AKA Chris Johnson from Sussex group) resulted in Vicky Willis from Sussex winning for the ladies and John Scotchner from Essex for the boys. Another excellent activity. Along with the Bonus Ball, Raffle, tabletop sale and Bingo, there was something for everyone to join in with over the weekend, and they did! Enthusiasm was at an all-time high! The side show of classic cars on Bexhill seafront was the icing on the Simnel cake! Next year is the turn of Kent to host the Easter rally. Good luck with that as the bar has been set very high! But I’m sure you will match this year’s festivities. Thanks to our secretary Carole Bennett for filling in as scribe for the last 2 months, much appreciated. Jo Smaje. June sees the welcome return of the National Rally at Stafford Showground 9-14 June, after a two-year wait, the Diamond Jubilee is taking place. Also happening is our rally at SRB Moorings at Henley, 30 June-4 July, book direct with the site, check our website for additional details on this one. Hope to see many of you soon. Don’t forget to volunteer your help with rallying, whether as hosts or in general as it’s the members who make the club a success. Think about joining your committee to add your ideas and input. Any amount of participation is welcome and needed. Remember, it’s YOUR club. Thanks, Jo.

WEST COUNTRY Great three-night meet at BUDU Caravan park. We had a wonderful turn out where we had the maximum vans we were allocated. We 16 vans from West Country, one Avon and one West Wessex. The weather was great, and everyone took advantage to catch a bus to either Oakhampton or Tavistock. Some even took a walk or cycled 40 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

along the cycle path to Oakhampton. In the afternoon, a lot just chilled out and did a bit of sunbathing. We also had motorhome racing and a numbers game which everyone enjoyed and took part in. The Pump & Pedal next door were very accommodating where we had food drinks and allowed us to hold a great music quiz and a sing along and they also extended their hours for us. All in all, it was fantastic meet that we have been able to book it again for next year. This was all thanks to the hosts Chas and Jayne, also Ken for the games. Chas did an anagram quiz and Chas and Ken did a music quiz with a sing-along. Our next meeting is at Warcombe Farm Caravan Park from Morthoe Woolacombe, N Devon, EX34 7RJ on the 19-22 May. This is a full facility site with a bus stop outside the entrance. This is a bookable site and please check for space before turning up. Please note a £10 deposit is payable with your booking form. National Rally and AGM from 9-13 June at Staffordshire Showground and Tiverton Rugby Club, Tiverton, EX16 6SG from 21-26 June. Good facilities. Bus stop outside but town is a short walk from the Rugby Club.

WEST WESSEX A lovely venue, lots of sunshine, great company, good food and some enjoyable entertainment made our Easter TCS at Colehill a huge success. Over £1,000 was raised for our charity ‘Tylers’ Friends’ through the auction and raffle. Dave and Ali made a good team and managed to persuade us to part with our money for lots of items including saucepans, jigsaws and a priceless ‘Lladro’ statuette! Dave even sold the suit he was wearing after fierce bidding. The Lladro reappeared in the Chinese raffle, and again in the charity raffle, and was rumoured to be on eBay the following week! The Sunday lunch was enjoyed by everyone and most followed this with a snooze in the sun. There were some spectacular creations in the Easter Bonnet competition and even after a cream tea, some found the energy to complete the Easter egg hunt. Thank you to the Committee and helpers for their hard work, and thank you to everyone who attended, for their generosity and for the laughter and fun that made this such a brilliant meet. The May Bank Holiday TCS at Wareham was also blessed with good weather for the most part. We began with ‘Happy Hour’ and lots of nibbles on Thursday evening, but the evenings were chilly, so we gathered in the Club on Sunday evening for bingo, an impossible quiz and the raffle. During the weekend, many walked into town to look around the shops, browse the market stalls or sit with a drink or ice cream on the Quay. Many found a good pub for lunch. Some ventured further afield on the bus or in their cars. There were 35 motorhomes staying over the weekend, with members from West Wessex, Yorkshire, Sussex, East Wessex, Chiltern and West Country. The Platinum Jubilee Holiday meet (1-6 June) is at

Weymouth RFC, DT3 5HZ and is £12 per night. There will be celebrations and events in the town, which is a pleasant flat walk from the site. There will be activities in the Club, including a BBQ and we will have our own street party picnic. Please ring/text your details to Maria on: 07887 393137. The National at Stafford Showground is 9-14 June: See the MCC Handbook for details. Our 7-night TCS at Britt Valley Camp Ground, West Bay, DT6 4EH runs from 25 June-2 July and is £12.50 per night. This is a basic facilities site on the edge of this popular seaside resort. There is a convenience shop by the site entrance and there is a regular bus service. Please book with Terry and Irene on: 07905 704223. The Holiday TCS is at Lady Mile Holiday Park, Dawlish, EX7 0LX, is £18 per night and runs from 9-16 July. This is a full facilities site with a swimming pool, bar and restaurant. Book with Mike and Angie Toogood on: 07745 904639 or after 1 July, book with Judy on: 07831 420815. Last minute bookings are always accepted where there are spaces. There is a £1 per person rally fee at each TCS and all rallies start at 12pm. We hope to see you soon.

YORKSHIRE We had over 50 vans join us at our rally at Eskdale School Whitby, thanks to the host and helpers for keeping everything moving, thanks to Frank, Flo, Will and Sue. The rain held off for most of the Easter breaks, most of our members enjoyed walks into Whitby taking in the pubs, restaurants, cafes and shops. The location is good for transport, easy access to the town and going into Goatland, Scarborough, Robin Hoods Bay and many places in between. Cycling and walking to Robin Hoods Bay. There is some lovely walks the Cinder Trail, the Monks Walk, the Heritage Trail and other paths around the venue. In the evenings, we were subjected to Julie’s quiz, (even Mensa members would find it hard), but proved to be very entertaining, bingo, music, games and a singer on Saturday night. This year we also had a number of children attending with their grandparents. It was great to see them enjoying themselves. Let’s see more coming in the future. On Sunday there was a dog show. There was a good turnout from the members who enjoyed a couple of hours of entertaining antics from their dogs and their owners. In the gym on Sunday night, we had a race night with ferrets (stuffed ferrets) which was a good laugh and enjoyed by all our members. Thanks for all the members who joined in. Would like to thank Dave Wright for hosting Monday night. We had 53 vans, 44 Yorkshire, 5 Northern Counties, one Chiltern, one Seven Valley and two West Counties. Thanks to all the committee and helpers for a great weekend. Upcoming rallies: 15-17 July: Thornesians RUFC, DN8 5BU. 4-8 August: Whitby RUFC, YO21 3PB. 18-21 August: Derwent Arms, YO10 3NP. 26-30 August: Kay's Barn, YO19 5QJ.

CONTACTS FOR RALLY ENQUIRIES 1 West Country James Ten-Bokkel 01271 346577 westcountry.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 2 Sussex Marilyn Harris 07886 531696 sussex.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 4 Kent Fil Wellard 07831 659951 kent.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 6 Essex Carole Thorne 07702 423845 essex.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 7 Anglia Teresa Poole 01473 424330 anglia.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 8 East Wessex Tony Wickham 01962 865522 or 07802 321304 eastwessex.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 9 Chiltern Sharon Heritage 07786 397092 chiltern.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 10 East Midlands Brian Burridge 01623 467094 eastmidlands.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 11 Severn Valley Allen Warren 07724 654719 severnvalley.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 12 NW Mids & NW Michael Hastilow 07756 074777 nwmidsnwales.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 13 Lancashire Brian Proctor 07725 254814 lancashire.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 14 Yorkshire TBC yorkshire.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 15 N. Counties George Davie 07914 922128 northerncounties.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 16 Scotland William Christie 07494 442538 scotland.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 17 West Wessex Andrew Mundy 07746 058602 westwessex.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 18 Avon Roger & Rowena Moulding 07966 398518 avon.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 20 SWP Barbara Noble 07722 885018 swpeninsula.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 21 S&W Wales Keith Howard 07791 524227 swwales.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 22 Nene Valley Denis Rappitt 07484 314514 nene.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 23 Isle of Wight Andrew Clapp 07449 028225 isleofwight.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 24 N. Ireland TBC northernireland.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 40 The rest of Europe 42 Ireland As N. Ireland Group 24 53 SERG Andrea Barker 01914 104227 serg@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 54 Motorcycle group Tina Botterill 07946 596059 motorcycle.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk If any of the above information needs to be changed, please email:

polly.coleman@micropress.co.uk June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 41

tel. 01271 882647 www.millpark.com Mill Park is a sheltered caravan and camping site set around a sparkling 1.5 acre lake. Located in an attractive wooded valley on the north Devon coast, it is perfectly situated for coastal walks, fun seaside activities and the breathtaking beauty of Exmoor. Mill Park offers good sized level grassed and hardstanding pitches with electric hook-ups, fully serviced pitches, a motorhome service point, modern shower blocks, laundry room and camping supplies. There is an on-site family room and pub plus a well-stocked shop. The nearest village, Berrynarbor, is just a five minute walk and offers a country pub, village store and post office.

42 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

OU T & A B OU T THIS MONTH WE VISIT...

DEVON & CORNWALL

Family fun

fantasias

Frances and Michael Howorth head to the West Country and discover Devon and Cornwall are full of fun filled activities for all the family.

f the afternoon sun is in your eyes as you drive to your destination in the south-west of England, chances are you’re bound for Devon and Cornwall. Famous for clotted cream teas, beautiful beaches, and spectacular coastlines, these two counties are on the bucket list of most motorcaravan owners not lucky enough to already live there. Driving to the West Country; the most common routes taken are, the A303 or the M4 then M5 motorways.

From Exeter, you can drive across the neck of Devon on the A377 to the old harbour town of Barnstaple on the Bristol Channel and from there into North Cornwall. Or you can do as we did, take the Devon Expressway towards Plymouth, and then use the Tamar Bridge to enter the wannabe free state of Cornwall. On this expedition we were not going that far and had family fun firmly fixed to our agenda. We were intent on exploring all that South Devon has to offer.

Devon has the most roads of any county in the UK and if that claim to fame were not enough, it also hosts the nation’s slowest roads which in our book, means it’s perfect campervan country. Out of season, they can be very peaceful, given that just 2% of the UKs population lives inside Devon’s 2600 square mile area. It is a county of national parks and wide-open accessible spaces. When it comes to parks, forests and moorlands Dartmoor immediately springs to mind, but that would >> June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 43

The Tamar Bridge links Devon and Cornwall do an injustice to country parks at Stover, Decoy, Cockington and our base for this expedition, the River Dart Country Park. Set in 90 acres of parkland within the Dartmoor National Park, the River Dart Country Park is both a family tourist attraction and a campsite. The park, through which the River Dart flows, is itself packed with things to do, and when camping, guests have free entry to all park activities. With generously sized motor caravan pitches and excellent facilities, it made the perfect stopover base for us, from where we were able to visit all that we wanted to. Many of the places we wanted to see where in fact within easy cycling distance from the park and even though Devon is not the flattest of counties we have visited, it was nevertheless easy to get around by bike.

In nearby Buckfastleigh, for example, Buckfast Abbey is home to a community of Roman Catholic Benedictine Monks, who live their lives of prayer, work, and study according to the ancient rule of St Benedict. It was he who told his followers that they should welcome travellers to their home, and that is why today this peaceful and beautiful sanctuary, with its glorious gardens, is a free-to-enter attraction. Even the large open carpark is free to users and many motor caravan drivers stop there when driving past on the Devon Expressway. “Think of it as a service station without the fuel pumps,” we were told! From the abbey it is not very far to cycle to Buckfastleigh station. Home of the South Devon Steam Railway – and not to be confused with the equally fabulous Paington to Kingsway line – the South Devon Railway runs for 7 miles from Buckfastleigh to Totnes via Staverton. It’s a journey back in time, full of whoo-whoo and clickety-clack and one that evokes wonderful memories of burning coal and engineer’s oil. We loaded our bikes into the guard’s van and chuffchuffed our way to Totnes where we disembarked and cycled back to Buckfastleigh, stopping at Dean Court Farm shop for some excellent >>

DON'T MISS...

Tintagel Castle

St Ives

Perched precariously in the mists of history on the Cornish clifftop lies the legendary Tintagel Castle. Cross the spectacular new bridge to take in unforgettable views of the coastline and explore the historyrich headland.

A mid-afternoon arrival in the artists’ colony of St. Ives gives plenty of time to explore this picturesque town. By day wander the narrow cobbled streets and in the evening enjoy the many classy cafes, eateries and pubs on offer.

44 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

GET YOUR KICKS ... ON SOUTH WEST 66 We’ve all heard of driving Route 66 or the Amalfi Coast Road… now the UK has launched another world-class road trip: the South West 66

ike South Africa’s Garden Route, California’s Highway One and Australia’s Great Ocean Road, adventurous drivers can tackle a brand new spectacular driving route around one of the world’s

OUT & ABOUT | SOUTH WEST

greatest coastlines. The 660-mile route runs from Poole in Dorset around Devon and Cornwall to Watchet in Somerset. It can be done in one amazing motoring marathon holiday or split into short sections for short breaks. It includes some of Britain’s most acclaimed scenery, including two World Heritage Coastal Sites, with the vast majority of the roads within Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The South West 660 is broken down into 12 expertly curated 50mile routes, designed to encourage drivers to take their time and explore this beautiful corner of the UK. Driving off-peak tourism, it is packed with secret beaches, hidden attractions and little-known views. Featuring smaller coastal roads, South West 660 is the perfect way to discover quiet waterside hamlets, beach cafes and pubs with sea views that only locals know about. Signing up to the South West 660 allows adventurous visitors to unlock specially curated routes and exclusive membership offers

along the way. The AA has called it “a great initiative” and to top off the amazing drive, the scheme is already partnered with a variety of great places to stay, eat and drink, including the likes of River Cottage

Among the many highlights of the South West 66 are Portland Bill (above) and the stunning Valley of Rocks (main picture)

and St Austell Brewery – giving you a real West Country flavour of the local hospitality. The route has been designed to be as sustainable as possible and encourage low season tourism. Visitors are inspired to enjoy ‘slow travel’, with many of the 12 route sections devised to deflect traffic from busy trunk roads and congested resorts. The South West 660 is dedicated to supporting local suppliers and hospitality providers. Mark Godfrey, a joint-founder of the South West 660, says: “We are extremely excited by the reaction to the South West 660 so far. Our aim is to promote the coastal attractions of the South West, inspiring people to discover the beauty of these four counties. Each of the 12 sections is around 50 miles long, allowing visitors to take their time and experience the diversity and splendour of our beautiful corner of the UK. “We believe our coastline down here should also be recognised as an iconic drive for all to enjoy.” www.southwest660.com

June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 45

OUT & ABOUT | SOUTH WEST lunchtime sandwiches made with organic sourdough bread, baked at the nearby Hylsten Bakery, who use flour from the traditional miller’s stone grinding mills at the Fresh Flour Company, conveniently located next door. One of Devon’s many claims to fame is that the Jack Russell dog was first bred in the county during the early 1800s. The breed became well established by the Devon and Somerset Badger Club whose aims were to promote badger digging, rather than fox hunting. It is not the only breed to have originated in the county; in more recent times, micro-pigs have been bred at Pennywell Farm in Buckfastleigh. Breeding these little piggies as pets since 1992, Pennywell minipigs have gained a reputation for being the UK's most trusted breed. We cycled up the steep hill to spend a few moments cuddling them and were

River Dart Country Park (left) and Pennywell Farm (right)

captivated by the sweet snub-nosed piglets. We were stunned by the sheer number of fun-filled activities this attraction has to offer. Take the whole family and be prepared for a good half a day of entertainment. Downhill all the way back to the van at the River Dart Country Park, we cycled past fields filled with herds of rusty brown cattle lazily chewing the cud. Devon cattle, often called Red Rubies, are one of the oldest breeds in existence today and can even be traced to prehistoric times.

Explore East Devon

Enjoy the peace and quiet of the Devon countryside as well as the stunning Jurassic Coast at Lyme Regis just 20 minutes drive away. Free heated swimming pool. Dogs welcome. Award-winning park open until 1st November.

Book now 01404 831 225

46 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

They have the thickest hides of any cattle in the world and that gives them better resistance to external parasites. The next day we chose to load our bikes onto our van and drive to Torquay. We parked up and explored some of Devon’s Top Attractions at Babbacombe, Odicombe and of course Torquay. In Babbacombe the model village, started in 1963, is now in the hands of the family’s second generation. It is an absolute must to visit. A team of 10 people >>

11 RANGES, 42 MODELS UNLIMITED POSSIBILITIES This season we have developed the most extensive collection of UK manufactured motorhomes and campervans to date, allowing you to select the layout, specification and price that suits you and your travel plans. You can choose from a selection of coloured cabs, additional media equipment, alternative sleeping and seating configurations, making Auto-Trail’s motorhomes as individual as you.

Want to know more? Visit: www.auto-trail.co.uk TOGETHER WE’RE GOING PLACES

ok e Bo lin on

“The most picturesque caravan park in Cornwall”

Welcoming atmosphere • Set in 12 acres of Cornish countryside • 2 miles from the beautiful sandy beaches of Praa Sands • Open all year • Seasonal pitches available Please note: Tourers only as no shower/toilet facilities

TEL 01736 762231 www.caravanparkcornwall.com Boscrege, Ashton, Cornwall TR13 9TG Camp amidst beautiful countryside close to the sea

Widdicombe Farm In the English Riviera

beaconcottagefarmholidays.co.uk | 01872 552347 Beacon Drive, St Agnes, Cornwall TR5 0NU

Looe Country Park A quiet, peaceful caravan and camping park with spacious pitches and 5-star facilities

Bucklawren Road, Nomansland, Looe, Cornwall, PL13 1QS e: info@looecountrypark.co.uk t: 01503 240265

Easy access • Adults only • On-Site Mini Bus • Bar with entertainment • Restaurant & Takeaway • Fully serviced pitches available

T: 01803 558325 W: www.widdicombefarm.co.uk Caravan and Camping Park

Caravans Tents Motorhomes Ensuite pitches Lodges Pets welcome at Smytham. A rural retreat ideal as a base to enjoy all that North Devon has to offer. Walks and dog friendly beaches nearby. Direct access to Tarka Trail. Dog Exercise field.

www.smytham.co.uk | info@smytham.co.uk Torrington, EX38 8PU | 01805 622110 48 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

• 33 bookable, electric hook-up pitches • Grassed and levelled • Two separate toilet blocks • Free showers • Baby change/disabled toilet • Well behaved pets are allowed • Coastal footpath adjoins the camp site

01837 659 767 www.appledorepark.co.uk

Okehampton Devon EX20 2SR

Bude, Cornwall EX23 0LP

01288 352 017

5 star amenity block Less abled facilities Electric hook-ups Free Wi-Fi Laundry facilities Fenced dog walk Countryside views EV Charging Station Coarse fishing

OUT & ABOUT | SOUTH WEST

Old Walls Vineyard (top); Kents Cavern (middle left); South Devon Steam Railway (centre); Coldharbour Mill (middle right); Buckfast Abbey (bottom left) and Powderham Castle (bottom right).

spend their working lives keeping this 4-acre visitor attraction, fresh – with a touch of wittiness. It’s not just the humour, or the animation; 1000s of miniature buildings, people and vehicles capture the essence of England’s past, present and future, where everything from their Cider Cup golf tournament to their fire breathing dragon in the Game of Thrones, seems to have a life of their own. In Torquay, Kents Cavern is an extensive labyrinth of caves with

spectacular natural formations, widely used by prehistoric people. Human prehistoric remains discovered in the caves are the most ancient found in Britain, some over 500,000 years old. The most significant artefact is a 41,000-year-old human jawbone, Europe’s oldest human fossil. Tours of the cavern are best booked online and are led by entertaining guides who offer a rare, invaluable opportunity to understand an ancient and fascinating part of

our human history. What would you do if your significant other purchased a 27-ton steam railway engine and brought it home? At Bygones, an independent attraction, created and run by three generations of the Cuming family, Patricia told us that her husband Ken did just that! And so, the concept for this home of memorabilia magic was born. Today, in a former cinema, you can wander back in time, enjoying pure nostalgia from a bygone age that will fascinate all the family. >> June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 49

OUT & ABOUT | SOUTH WEST walled gardens and don’t miss the opportunity to join a guided tour of the castle or take a walk to the Belvidere tower and look across the Exe estuary to Topsham. This 630-year-old medieval manor house has been in the Courtney family since 1391 and the 19th Earl, currently the latest in the long line of Earls, has no intention of moving out. Our next stop was at Forest Fungi, a business that has literally mushroomed since it began nine years ago. Stop here and join a tour to see how yellow oyster, great oyster and magic mushrooms grow. Pick your own mushrooms and cook them up in your own van or join a ‘Taste and Dine ‘tour to learn how and then eat! Chelsea, the very knowledgeable tour guide, is hugely entertaining. So much so, we are tempted to use that age old pun and suggest Chelsea is a fun-gi! We>>

DON'T MISS... www.shutterstock.com/Valery Egorov

Check out the authentic life-size Victorian streets including a smithy’s forge, a sweetshop and even a dentist. Don’t miss the 1950s and 60s shopping arcade filled with postwar packaging and household items. It is simply fantastic. The next day, we set off for Howden Forest Park. Made up of 3500 acres of woodland not far from Exeter and open 364 days a year, it is a great place to immerse yourself in nature. Overnight parking is not permitted, but it is worth a visit for its miles of trails fit for walkers, bikers, and horse riders. From there we drove to Powderham Castle, just outside the pretty village of Kenton. Seat of the Duke of Devon, Powderham Castle is still very much a family home, even though open to the public. Given its large open car park, it is easily accessible to motor caravan drivers. Be sure to visit the animal petting area in the

ST MICHAEL’S MOUNT Located on a tidal island in Mount's Bay, St Michal’s Mounts is linked to the town of Marazion by a causeway of granite setts, passable on foot between mid-tide and low water. In 1954, Francis St Aubyn, 3rd Lord St Levan, gave a large part of the island and a significant endowment fund for its upkeep to the National Trust. The St Aubyn family retain a 999 year lease to live in the castle and run the visitor business inviting everyone to discover their extraordinary family home.

The pawfect Cornish holiday for you and your pooch Fancy a getaway on the gorgeous Cornish coast in a place where your dog will be just as welcome as you are? At St Agnes Holiday Park, we have unbeatable on-site facilities for both you and your furry pal to enjoy. So you can stay with us and explore everything this beautiful corner of England has to offer. Doggy shower Dog exercise park Dog-friendly beaches On-site gym, sauna, and steam room 10 fully-serviced pitches and 2 non-serviced pitches

01872 560667

*T&Cs apply

www.stagnesholidaypark.com info@stagnesholidaypark.com Blackwater, Truro, Cornwall TR4 8HS

50 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

For a £5 discount on your booking, call today and quote the word

“POOCH” *T&Cs apply

www.littlebodieve.co.uk Tel: 01208 815547

Bodieve Road, Award winning park close to Newquay, Padstow & Watergate Bay beach (with free mini-bus transport to beach) • In a stunning area of outstanding natural beauty • Touring pitches • Static caravans • Camping pods • Family facilities (swimming pool, tennis court & more) • Electric as well as nonelectric pitches ranging from 9mx9m to 12mx12m • Mains water/drainage • Grass & hard-standing options •

Wadebridge, Cornwall PL27 6EG

Static Caravans • Motorhomes Tents • Tourers A family site within a short walking distance of Wadebridge town.

01637 860387

www.watergatebaytouringpark.co.uk email@watergatebaytouringpark.co.uk Tregurrian, Newquay, Cornwall, TR8 4AD

Come and explore beautiful Poldark country, only 10 mins drive from the fishing village Port Isaac, of Doc Martin fame, Rock and Padstow with many restaurants, including the famous Rick Stein. We are only a few minutes cycle ride down into town where you can join the Camel trail either along the estuary to Padstow or inland towards Bodmin moor – both are very scenic.

Buckfastleigh • Staverton • Totnes Riverside

South devon railway

just the ticket for a great day out When in Devon, come and visit the South Devon Railway for a steam train ride on a 14-mile round trip along the beautiful valley of the River Dart. We’d love to see you! Ask us about...

www.southdevonrailway.co.uk 01364 644370 June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 51

OUT & ABOUT | SOUTH WEST certainly enjoyed our stop over here. Not far away, we stopped again. This time to visit Boo Chi Kombucha, where company founder, Eaoifa Forward explained how all the benefits of fermented green tea, with its acetic acids, work together to support a healthy gut and active

DON'T MISS...

CASTLE DROGO Pay a visit to eccentric Castle Drogo, the strange fantasy castle built by the renowned 20th-century architect Sir Edward Lutyens. This 20th century castle was the last castle to have ever been built in Britain.

digestion. Using only organic and locally sourced ingredients, Boo Chi Kombucha create a delicious tasting functional drink, taking you on a journey to feel great. The company offers courses in kombucha brewing and sells organic kombucha starter kits. They provide everything needed to make delicious kombucha from the comfort of your own home. Boo Chi is super passionate about what they make and create, they produce real, live, authentic kombucha, meaning their products are never pasteurised (killing the good bacteria), they never sterile filtrate (remove the good bacteria) and don't force carbonate (add CO2 to make it fizzy). We were hooked! We tasted, liked, and loved it. Now, weeks later, we drink and enjoy our own home brewed kombucha. If you like the idea of tutored tastings and tours, then head for Old Walls Vineyard. Justin Head bought

Proud to be local (clockwide from top left: Justin Head at Old Walls Vineyard; memorabilia magic at Bygones; Chelsea at Forest Fungi and Eaoifa Forward at Boo Chi Kombucha.

the established vineyard seven years ago and offers a 31/2 hour tutored tour which includes lunch

ENJOY YOUR AUTUMN & WINTER TOURING STAYCATION WITH OUR

Over 50's discount FROM £12* PER NIGHT

CALL US TO BOOK ON 01626 863411 *SUBJECT TO STANDARD TERMS & CONDITIONS

52 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

and wines created on site. Grapes have been grown here off and on since Roman times. Justin has 16 acres of farmland here, 10 of which are in vine now. Old Walls Vineyard is perhaps the steepest vineyard in the UK, and this means grapes must be picked by hand. The vineyard is famous for its still wines but is

EDEN PROJECT Located in a reclaimed china-clay pit, not far from St Austell, the Eden Project is now a living theatre of plants and people. This great visitor destination is a cultural venue and global garden, showcasing mankind’s dependence on plants.

now beginning to make sparkling White and Rosé wine, but you must go there to buy the product. Tour booking is essential, on Friday nights they offer Twilight tours with Tapas. Our final family stopover was at Coldharbour Mill, still a working

www.shutterstock.com/David Pimborough

DON'T MISS...

woollen mill. Here, on one day a week, the looms and other ancillary machinery clatter away to give a wonderfully educational insight into what life at the mill was really like. Sold off in 1981 to become a working museum, Coldharbour began as a mill in 1798 using a watermill for power and turned to steam as progress allowed. Once a month, the museum fires up those same steam engines which then run all the machinery. Allow 11/2 hours for a fascinating self-guided tour that comes with an audio guide. You will be surprised by how much you enjoy it. Freelance travel journalists Frances and Michael Howorth and club members since 2020, tour in their own custom-built campervan. Converted from a LWB Fiat Ductao Maxi, Voyager is their pride and joy, come mobile office and home from home.

Please note - Dare Devil activities and Dartmoor Bike Park available at additional cost

June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 53

www.suffolkcamping.webs.com millhillfarmcamping@live.co.uk Quiet, friendly touring site near Dunwich Camping pods available Fishing / Bird watching / Dog friendly Close to RSPB Minsmere, Southwold and the Suffolk Coast

Westleton Road, Darsham, Suffolk IP17 3BS | Tel: 01728 668555

Rutland Caravan and Camping

In have the beautiful of Rutland... K9gates beencounty specially designed to easily fit into your motorhome, caravan, RV or any UPVC doorframe without the needLUXURY LODGES Dolbryn Caravan and Campsite is a peaceful & INDOOR SWIMMING family run and family friendly campsite, in for any permanent fixings, screws or holes.

01572 813520

POOL

AVAILABLE the heart of the Teifi Valley in beautiful West info@rutlandcaravanandcamping.co.uk K9gates have an innovative folding action which does not Wales. We offer fully serviced pitches, grass pitches, charming facilities, dog walking areas, mark or damage your doorway. an on-site bar and fishing lake, and we’re just a 20 minute drive from the coast.

www.dolbryn.co.uk 01239 710683 Need something different? K9gates have been specially designed to

Bespoke K9gates our easily fit into your motorhome, caravan, RV or any UPVC tes have been specially designed to doorframe K9gates have without been the need https://www.k9gates.co.uk forcaravan, any permanent fixings, screws y fit into your motorhome, RV specially designed to or holes.

easily fit into your y UPVC doorframe without the need K9gates have an innovative folding action which does motorhome or any UPVC Whynotnot give us a call on: ny permanent fixings, screws or holes. doorframe mark or damage your doorway.without the

need innovative folding action which doesfor not any permanent fixings, screws or holes your doorway.

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Need something different? Bespoke K9gates our

01691 THE772034 FINCHES CARAVAN & CAMPING SITE SALES ⁞ HIRE ⁞ STORAGE ⁞ PARK

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https://www.k9gates.co.uk K9gates have been specially designed to

ps://www.k9gates.co.uk Why not give us a call easily fiton: into your motorhome, caravan, RV

hy not give us a call on: 691 772034

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or any UPVC doorframe without the need for any permanent fixings, screws or holes.

E: thefinchescaravanandcampingsite@yahoo.com Web: www.kingswood-caravans.co.uk

K9gates have an innovative folding action which does not ...for mark or damage your doorway.

Email: Innovative folding actionNeeddoesn’t something different? Bespoke K9gates our k9gates@btinternet.com mark or damage your doorway!

the 2021 UK Enterprise Awards K9gates has been awarded: Most Innovative Safety Gates Caravan Park & Campsite Manufacturer 2021

Halse Farm

mail: https://www.k9gates.co.uk gates@btinternet.com Call 01691 772034Why not give us a call on: Spectacular views & walks • WiFi Clean, heated toilet block • 10 amp 01691 772034Design is IPO registered K9gates www.k9gates.co.uk electric hook-ups • Chemical disposal Email: Copying our design or any part thereof infringes our registration and may result in prosecution point • Disabled facilities k9gates@btinternet.com k9gates@btinternet.com Laundrette • Children’s play area Gas exchange • Dogs welcome

K9gates has been awarded Most Innovative Safety Gates Manufacturer 2021

...for the 2021 UK Enterprise Awards ...for the 2021 UK Enterprise Awards

K9gates has been awarded: K9gates has been awarded: or the 2021 UK Enterprisethereof Awardsinfringes our Innovative Safety Gates registration and may result inMost prosecution Most Innovative Safety Gates Manufacturer 2021 gates has been awarded: Design is IPO registered Manufacturer 2021K9gates ost Innovative Safety Gates Copying our design or any part thereof infringes our registration and may result in prosecution 54 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022 anufacturer 2021 K9gates Design is IPO registered. Copying our design or any part

K9gates Design is IPO registered

T: 01643 851259 mcc@halsefarm.co.uk

www.halsefarm.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT | DOG FRIENDLY

It can be a

Wuff Life being a dog Frances and Michael Howorth investigate travelling with dogs, keeping them healthy and safe inside the motor caravan when driving at home and abroad

he expression “leading a dog’s life”, seems to have been first coined in the 16th century when it was recorded as alluding to the miserable, subservient existence of dogs, that were forced to endure during the era. Oh, how things have changed since then! No longer a wuff life, being a dog in today’s modern world, is

something to be envied. Now, as owners of motor caravans we are, as a group, among an increasing number of pet owners who are making the health, safety, and welfare of their dogs a priority as we go about enjoying our recreation. Humans have interacted with animals for many hundreds of years, but pet-keeping as such, did not

become socially acceptable in Great Britain until the 18th century. Before that time dogs were mostly seen as an elite extravagance, frequently appearing alongside aristocratic ladies in satirical drawings; suggesting frivolity and indulgence. Gradually things began to change. Dogs, for example, were held to have virtuous characteristics, >> June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 55

OUT & ABOUT | DOG FRIENDLY that echoed the values of the Victorian human world. They were seen as steadfast, loyal, courageous and above all faithful. If today you were a dog, the chances are you would still be able to enjoy using your motor caravan as much as you currently do as a human. Travelling with a dog, both driving at home and abroad, obviously involves keeping animals safe, but it also includes other important aspects such as food, insurance and, where necessary, pet passports. If your dog has a liking for one particular brand of dog food, then it is wise to perhaps stock up with enough of the chosen product for the entire trip. Animal feeds vary region by region and are not always available in different parts of the country. Insurance might only cover domestic travel, so it pays to check a policy for overseas cover if travel abroad is being considered. Recent changes to pet passport regulations might mean you might not be as familiar with them as you were before. So, make sure you check well in advance of your trip, that you have jumped through all the regulatory hoops, and that you do not get caught out by red tape at the border. Some regulations are breed specific. In recent years, certain breeds of dogs have been banned from entering foreign countries and owners of breeds such as Pitbulls, German Shepherds and certain terriers have found themselves turned away at border crossings for not having the correct import licenses. Most of us who frequently travel with pets, have already made our campervans and motorhomes pet friendly, allocating areas in which they eat sleep and drink. But, we should never become complacent. Travelling to different destinations can however bring new sets of criteria, that without forethought, might become problematic. Think for example, of having a van set up for warm dry summers and >> 56 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

Nestled in the Eden Valley surrounded by rolling countryside, Pennine View Park is perfectly placed for walking, cycling and simply relaxing. We are a family-run caravan and camp site on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, a mile from the historic market town of Kirkby Stephen. We have a small playground, FREE WiFi, a relaxed and friendly on-site bar, a small essentials shop, covered washing-up area, launderette and washrooms with FREE hot showers and disabled facilities.

t: 017683 71717 e: hello@pennineviewpark.co.uk w: www.pennineviewpark.co.uk Station Road, Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria, CA17 4SZ

Heathfield Farm Camping Park

10% off

when quoting

‘MCC’

Relaxed, unspoilt countryside atmosphere • Level, easy access • 60 electric hook-up pitches • Non electric pitches • Premier View pitches • Wild flower meadow • Playing field • Public BBQ area • Disabled facilities • Fishing, golf, horse riding, sailing and water sports nearby • Bus links from site entrance • WiFi T: 01983 407822 www.heathfieldcamping.co.uk E: web@heathfieldcamping.co.uk Heathfield Road, Freshwater, Isle of Wight PO40 9SH

Motorhome service stop off now open

Located in the countryside of Clackmannanshire. Based next to the Clackmannanshire bridge allowing excellent travel links to the rest of Scotland.

www.highlandgatewayglamping.co.uk info@highlandgatewayglamping.co.uk

Broadcarse Farm, Clackmannan, Scotland, FK10 4BW

Bodnant Caravan Park enjoys a picturesque location on the outskirts of the historic market town of Llanrwst in the beautiful Conwy Valley. We have been “Wales in Bloom” winners for 26 years with our displays of flowers and old farm implements. Come and explore and enjoy our lovely country with your dog!

01492 640248 | www.bodnant-caravan-park.co.uk Nebo Road, Llanrwst, Conwy Valley, LL26 0SD

Newnes

Ellesmere mere

Touring & Caravan Park *Six acre lawned & level dry site *Elevated & sheltered setting *New 4 Star toilets & showers with under-floor heating *Grass pitches *Electric & water hook-ups on every pitch *Grey Waste Water disposal *Chemical Disposal point

A peaceful & tranquil site *New fishing ponds & hot water dog shower *People over the age of 18 only

Ellesmere, Shropshire, SY12 9HH www.thenewnes.co.uk Tel: 01691 624464 Email: info@thenewnes.co.uk

Inver Caravan Park

01593 731441 www.inver-caravan-park.co.uk Houstry Road, Dunbeath, Caithness KW6 6EH

• Open all year (10 hardstandings Nov-March) + 9 grass pitches in summer, pitches must be booked online on our website • Mains water, grey water and chemical toilet disposal • 3 private shower rooms and 1 bathroom, underfloor heating, disabled shower room

• Laundry area, washing machine, free drying • Free fast fibre-optic WiFi • SPAR shop and The Bay, Dunbeath (Inn, pub & eatery) 5 mins walk • Excellent position for North Coast 500 & John o’ Groats Trail • Lovely local walks and beautiful views

June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 57

Award winning park close to Newquay, Padstow & Watergate Bay beach (with free mini-bus transport to beach) • In a stunning area of outstanding natural beauty • Touring pitches • Static caravans • Camping pods • Family facilities (swimming pool, tennis court & more) • Electric as well as nonelectric pitches ranging from 9mx9m to 12mx12m • Mains water/drainage • Grass & hard-standing options •

We are dog friendly!

01637 860387

www.watergatebaytouringpark.co.uk email@watergatebaytouringpark.co.uk Tregurrian, Newquay, Cornwall, TR8 4AD

Broadhembury Caravan Broadhembury Caravan oadhembury Caravan Caravan Broadhembury Broadhembury Caravan & Camping Park &Camping Camping Park & Camping Park & Park & Camping Park

• Dog friendly – great location for walking and exploring with your dog 5 star graded separate family park and adults •55star stargraded family park and adults separate family parkmeadows and adults r graded separate family parkseparate and adults meadows • Generous hardstandings •adults Fully serviced 5 graded family park and adults starstar graded separate family and •5meadows Generous •park Fully serviced •hardstandings Generous hardstandings • Fullypitches serviced s • Generous hardstandings • Fully serviced pitches • Warm, spacious showers & toilets • Family meadows • Generous hardstandings • Fully serviced meadows • Generous hardstandings • Fully serviced • Warm, spacious fully accessible facilities pitches • Warm, spacious showers & toilets • Family Warm, spacious showers & toilets • Family bathroom •&Babies room • Fully accessible facilities pitches • Warm, spacious showers &Park toilets • Family pitches • Warm, showers & toilets • Family • Family Babies’ bathroom •accessible security bathroom •spacious Babies room • Fully facilities m • Babies room • •Fully accessible facilities •bathroom Campers • Laundry room • Park security •Kitchen Babies room • for Fully accessible facilities bathroom Babies room • Fully accessible facilities • Excellent location exploring Kent •Laundry Campersroom Kitchen • Laundry room • Park security ers Kitchen • • Park security • Excellent location exploring Kent •• Campers Kitchen • Laundry room • Park security • Campers Kitchen • Laundry room • Park security Motorhome parking in for Ashford for shops, • Excellent location for exploring Kent fast Excellent location exploring Kent • for Excellent location for exploring Kent • Excellent location for exploring Kent trains to London, Canterbury and elsewhere.

T: 01233 620859 | www.broadhembury.co.uk 01233 620859 www.broadhembury.co.uk 33 620859 |T: www.broadhembury.co.uk T: T: 01233 620859 | www.broadhembury.co.uk 01233 620859 | |www.broadhembury.co.uk Email: holidaypark@broadhembury.co.uk Email: holidaypark@broadhembury.co.uk l: holidaypark@broadhembury.co.uk Email: holidaypark@broadhembury.co.uk Email: holidaypark@broadhembury.co.uk Steeds Lane, Kingsnorth, Ashford, Kent TN26 1NQ

Steeds Lane, Kingsnorth, Ashford, Kent TN26 1NQ ane, Kingsnorth, Ashford, Kent TN26 1NQ Steeds Lane, Kingsnorth, Ashford, KentKent TN26 1NQ1NQ Steeds Lane, Kingsnorth, Ashford, TN26

58 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

Silvercraigs Caravan Park

3 Heated showers/toilets 3 Disposal point 3 16 amp hook-ups 3 Dog friendly 3 Free WiFi 3 Playpark, shops, & 3 Laundry facilities attractions nearby

www.silvercraigs.net Reception: 01557 337068 E: silvercraigscaravanpark@gmail.com Silvercraigs Road, Kirkcudbright DG6 4BH

To advertise in Motor Caravanner magazine contact Danny Lewis T: 01502 725862 E; danny.lewis@micropress.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT | DOG FRIENDLY then suddenly you find yourself confronted by a torrential downpouring of rain. Are you equipped to handle muddy paws and very damp dogs for example? What happens if, for example, you park up overnight for a spot of fishing beside a lake, on the banks of a river, or the towpath of a canal and your dog falls or even jumps, in a bid to cool off? Are you able to recover “Pouche” from the water easily? If you can, how do you protect yourself and your van, when dear waterlogged doggie does that shakey thing to dry itself off? Of the thousands of campsites around the world, there are quite a few that claim to be adult only. Far more call themselves family friendly but an even greater number claim to be dog friendly. But what does that mean? Often, nothing more than it will tolerate you and your motorhome if you have a dog

on board. When you get to the campsite you then learn that by dog friendly, they mean they insist on all dogs being on short leads and exercised in a six foot by six foot square of animal-faeces strewn grass. It pays to check how your chosen site defines the advertising cliché ‘Dogs Welcome’. Many sites

will go out of their way to please dog owners with some we know having doggy day care centres and pooch pamper parlours! While we do not ourselves travel with a dog, we are always accompanied by Sterling, our Maine Coon campervan cat who, at this point in the proceedings, would like to point out, that he has >>

CAMPING & TOURING PARK IN THE GARDEN OF ENGLAND

DOG FRIENDLY

FROM JUST

£22.50

PER PITCH/ NIGHT

Oﬀering a range of wonderful accommodation, set in one of the most gorgeous parts of the Moray Coast, Findhorn Bay Holiday Park is a short walk from the Moray Firth, is ideal for an unforgettable holiday and the perfect place to escape from the pressures of modern life.

Relaxing • Attractions nearby • Walking & cycling trails • Dog friendly • Tent & Touring Pitches • Great location • Accommodation to suit all tastes & budgets Based at the world 01309 690203 famous Findhorn reception@ﬁndhornbayhp.com Foundation and www.ﬁndhornbayholidaypark.com Park Eco Village

Our superb touring and campsite is delightfully set in over 500 acres of beautiful open fields and woodland. We have 300 pitches that include hardstandings, electric hook-ups and water points. Facilities include toilets, showers and washrooms with electric points and of course the Family Park, complete with cafes, bars and restaurants, on your doorstep. Dogs are welcome in the touring park (kept on a lead).

01622 870838 www.hopfarm.co.uk June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 59

OUT & ABOUT | DOG FRIENDLY yet to find a campsite that openly advertises that it welcomes cats. We do however, on occasions, raise a few eyebrows when we take him for a walk on his lead or set off on a hike with him tucked safely inside with his head poking out of our cat backpack. We are firm believers that walking the countryside is best enjoyed in the company of a dog. Somehow they make the walk that bit more enjoyable, if only because they do something in a daft dog-like fashion that makes you laugh! But more often or not, it is because having your own dog helps introduce you to others who also walk with dogs. The same is true on campsites. Nothing seems to break the ice quicker than starting a conversation with a campsite neighbour than a friendly comment about his of her dog. Unless of course it is you needing to make a reference to the size of their awning that has encroached onto your pitch! Parking your van somewhere in the countryside and then walking, helps keep both you and your dog in good physical shape, shed unwanted weight,

60 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

increasing your limberness and flexibility, and walking often aids digestive problems. Giving your dog a chance to see the wider world, outside the confines of the motorhome, provides a mental health boost too. Rather like we enjoy parking somewhere new, covering fresh ground on a walk lets dogs investigate new and interesting sights, smells, and sounds. When out and about do not forget the golden rule – if your dog poops, then pick it up, bag it and bin it. Do not leave it hanging around for others to find. Many campervan owners take dogs with them, both for social reasons and as a motivating factor to make sure they are getting the exercise they need. Dogs love to walk. Somehow, they know instinctively that it's good for them. Walking with your dog helps both

‘‘

If your dog has a liking for one particular brand of dog food, then it is wise to stock up with enough for the entire trip.

dog and owner stay healthy. Most dogs benefit from a 30-minute walk away from the van each day, depending on breed, past activity level, age, and any health problems, as well as on weather conditions. Bear in mind the weather. Exercise caution to keep your dog safe while away from the van. On cold days, short-haired dogs can get cold when the temperature drops, so, limit the length of your walks when the temperature falls below freezing. On hot days, bring water along on long walks and avoid walking for long periods when the weather is very warm. Dogs cannot cool themselves off as efficiently as we humans can, and dogs with short muzzles frequently struggle even more with the heat. Please also remember that if you do leave your motorhome with the dog inside, open up the roof skylights and side windows to let the hot air out.

STAY FROM JUST

AS SEEN ON CHANNEL 5’s HAPPY CAMPERS

£12.50 PER NIGHT

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Situated on the edge of the North York Moors National Park, St Helens is an attractive, established park offering a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere set in wonderful surroundings with first-class facilities. New for 2022 3x family bathrooms, a Jacuzzi suite, professional dog wash and bike wash facilities. The popular is only a short drive away. With four fresh water lakes, it is an ideal place for trout fishing and a variety of course fishing. The Lakes are home to one of the largest pike in England. Activities include wake boarding, an inflatable AquaPark, SUP, sailing, wind surfing and kayaking.

www.sthelenscaravanpark.co.uk

01723 862771 | caravans@wykeham.co.uk

North Yorkshire, YO13 9QD

June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 61

OUT & ABOUT | DOG FRIENDLY

he South West Coast Path is dog friendly all year round and many beaches that have seasonal restrictions where you can take your dog, are still open till the end of May. Here’s a selection of the top dog walks in Cornwall courtesy of www.visitcornwall.com

Padstow

low tide there are acres of sand for them to play on. This is one big sand pit playground for pooches! King Arthur and the Slate coast 5 miles This is a great dog walk that starts right next to the main car parks in Tintagel. It takes you past the Tintagel Old Post Office, which is one of Cornwall’s most interesting buildings dating back to the 15th Century. The route follows part of an old donkey track from the village of Treknow to the cove at Trebarwith Strand, both of which are great for Trebarwith Strand

dog friendly walks in Cornwall

dogs to run around and enjoy the sea breeze. Trebarwith Strand is dogfriendly throughout the year. A twirl of the cape 4.8 miles Take in parts of Cornish Mining World Heritage Site and great views of the coastline out towards The Brisons and the Longships Lighthouse. The route is dotted with some of the iconic coastal mines

Padstow to Harlyn Bay 6.9 miles This walk takes you around the harbour and out to the headland at Stepper Point before reaching Harlyn Bay. Dogs are allowed on the beaches at Harbour Cove and Hawker's Cove all year round, and at

Devon’s multi-award winning holiday park

CARAVAN & CAMPING

Situated on the the beautiful beautifulWest Westcoast coastofofthe the Situated on Highlands with unsurpassed unsurpassed Highlands of Scotland Scotland with views of Skye Skyeand andOuter Outer views of the Isle of Hebrides. ideal location locationfor forthe theholiday holiday Hebrides. The ideal of of your your choice. choice. Bring your own caravan, Bring caravan,motor-caravan motor-caravanoror tent and set up tent up wherever whereveryou youwish wishininthe the designated areas, designated areas,whether whetheryou youchoose choosea a sheltered spot sheltered spot among among the thesand sanddunes dunesorora a raised pitch pitch with raised with unrivalled unrivalledviews, views,our ourlarge large spacious site site has spacious has something somethingfor foreveryone. everyone.

Visit our Clean Paws Dog Wash to pamper your pet

Guests are warmly welcomed to our family-run holiday park. Our spacious pitches offer privacy, parking and space to relax. Choose from fully serviced or non-serviced options. Facilities include: On-site cafe and shop, play areas, Wi-Fi, pitch & putt and more.

www.oakdown.co.uk For bookings & enquiries call 01297 680387 Gatedown Lane, Weston, Sidmouth, Devon EX10 0PT

62 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

For something something aabit why notnot trytry For bitdifferent different, why our camping wigwam cabins, fun alternative alternative and our pods, aa fun and unique holiday experience, camping outunique holiday experience. Alternatively, doors with all the comfort of your heated, you can spend your holiday in one of the wooden wigwam. Alternatively you can Park’s five-star static caravans. spend your holiday in one of the Park’s five

starsite static caravans. On facilities: •OnLicensed shop • Café on site site facilities: •• Licensed Dog walking Playonarea shoparea • •Café site •• Dog Launching Laundrette walkingslip area • •Play area •• Launching Picnic tables Picturesque beach slip • •Laundrette •• Picnic Nearbytables walks • Games/TV room •• Nearby WiFi on-site walks • Picturesque beach •• Highland Covered WiFi indoor cooking andand eating area • Bikes Kayaks •forLoch hire and river fishing on the Estate • Covered indoor cooking and eating area • Loch and River fishing on the Estate

Sands Caravan & Camping, Gairloch, Wester Ross. IV21 2DL Tel: 01445 712152

Email: info@sandscaravanandcamping.co.uk

www.sandscaravanandcamping.co.uk

formation in the cliffs. A diversity of wild plants line the cliff tops.

Cornish Mining World Heritage Site

Poldhu

perched precariously on the cliff face; these are the remains of the much-photographed Crowns mines. A walk onto the Cape is highly recommended. A cape is generally defined as a headland dividing two seas, and Cape Cornwall was thought to mark the division between St George’s Channel and the Irish Sea on the one side and the English Channel leading to the

North Sea on the other. Past the Cape, you reach Priest’s Cove (dog friendly all year round) where there is a natural swimming pool revealed at low tide, a safe area for wave-shy doggy paddlers.

Cawsand to Whitsand Bay 5.2 miles This route takes in the Rame Peninsula and Rame Head, which offers plenty of wide open spaces for dogs to run around, leading to the sandy sweep of Whitsand Bay, a dog friendly beach, all year round. For more ideas about where to go and what to do in Cornwall visit www.visitcornwall.com and www.southwestcoastpath.com

Poldhu to Mullion Cove 4 miles Enjoy a walk along the Lizard peninsula, part of Cornwall's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it truly is spectacular, with amazing geology to look out for along the way. At Mullion Cove, a sandy beach, which is dog friendly throughout the year, you can see the serpentine rock

Cawsand

PRODUCTS YOU CAN TRUST NORTH NORFOLK’S UNIQUE COASTAL HOLIDAY PARK

The NEW Commercial High Security Steering Wheel Lock has been specially designed for use with motorhomes. It features a hardened steel construction with a pick proof ultra high security locking mechanism. It has been engineered to be extremely secure and very easy to fit, all in a compact design. It is a highly visible and powerful theft deterrent which exceeds the Gold Secure Standard.

www.milenco.com

Touring Pitches • Beach Huts • Stunning Surroundings Just a leisurely stroll from the hustle and bustle of Wells town, our 5 star holiday park is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with golden sandy beaches and the Holkham National Nature Reserve right on the doorstep.

pinewoods.co.uk

June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 63

Campsite Directory CAMPING & TOURING PARK IN THE GARDEN

OF ENGLAND

• Outstanding facilities • Hardstanding pitches for motorhomes and caravans • Riverside fishing (seasonal) • Grass and electric pitches • Family park/ childrens entertainment • Restaurants, cafes and pubs on site FROM JUST

£22.50 PER PITCH/ NIGHT

Camping Los Gallardos

R.T.A: AL- 4-04-0017

On-site mini bus available

In sunny Almería, Spain - It’s Europe’s sunniest spot! • Family run, category 2 peaceful, community campsite in the south of Spain - near Mojácar • Bowling greens • Busy bar, restaurant & shop • Full services (Inc: UK TV hookup & much more) • Full service pitches available

+ (34) 950 528 324

01622 872068 www.hopfarm.co.uk

www.campinglosgallardos.com

Glen Nevis Caravan Park

BEN NEVIS

YOUR PITCH?

glen-nevis.co.uk

holidays@glen-nevis.co.uk

01397 702191

Ashbourne | Derbyshire

camping | touring | self catering Just 2 mins drive from the lovely market town of Ashbourne. Ideal base for exploring the Peak District. Coarse fishing lake. Direct access to the Tissington Trail cycle route

www.callowtop.co.uk 01335 344020

Family-run park overlooking Port-Eynon Bay. We have pitches for motorcaravans, tourers and Glamping Pods as well as self-catering bungalows. Within walking distance of the beach. Clubhouse with licensed bar serving meals. Wi-Fi. Grocery shop and laundrette. Outdoor heated swimming pool. Children’s play area. Tennis court. Booking is advised for Bank/school holidays.

www.bankfarmleisure.co.uk enquiries@bankfarmleisure.co.uk Tel: 01792 687205 Bank Farm Leisure Park, Horton, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LL

Highfield Farm Touring Park

Discover the Landscape Treasure the Memories Camping in Every Season

Tel 01305 782575

www.bagwellfarm.co.uk Chickerell, Weymouth, Dorset DT3 4EA

A quiet, beautiful touring park located just five miles from Cambridge. Set in attractive undulating countryside, the area boasts a variety of attractions, from ancient buildings to wildlife parks.

Tel/Fax: 01223 262308 www.highfieldfarmtouringpark.co.uk Long Road, Comberton,Cambs, CB23 7DG

7 DAY SPECIALS FOR OVER 50S

“Possibly the friendliest adult only caravan site in Suffolk” Riverside is a quiet, secluded countryside park. Convenient for easy access to the beautiful South Hams’ beaches, Dartmoor National Park, Cornwall and Brittany Ferries port. T: 01752 344 122 E: oﬃce@riversidecaravanpark.com www.riversidecaravanpark.co.uk

64 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

www.runcottage.co.uk Call 01394 411 309 info@runcottage.co.uk

• Site open all year • A large family run touring park • A collection of self catering cottages and static caravans • Seasonal, heated enclosed outdoor/indoor swimming pool • Children’s play area • State of the art over 18s health club with gym, adult indoor pool, steam room and sauna • Coffee house serving refreshments • Bar and takeaway with entertainment Charmouth, Dorset DT6 6QL | 01297 560226 www.manorfarmholidaycentre.co.uk

Woodlands Park

Perfectly placed in the heart of the beautiful Kent countryside, Woodlands offers a quiet and tranquil environment to enjoy your stay. On offer now is a brand new development, so why not be one of the first to enjoy all we have to offer.

01580 291216

www.woodlandparks.co.uk sales@woodlandparks.co.uk Biddenden, Ashford, Kent, TN27 8BT

Stunning 27-acre residential park and campsite steeped in history • Unrivaled peace & tranquility • Located by the River Nene in the heart of Cambridgeshire with idyllic views & walks • Secure, gated development • Secluded outdoor space • Over 45 moorings • 5-acre lake stocked with an abundance of fish • Camping and touring pitches also available with both electric and non-electric pitches

01780 782344 www.yarwellmill.co.uk Yarwell Mill, Mill Road, Yarwell, Peterborough, PE8 6PS

Senlac Wood

Looe Country Park

Catsfield Road, Battle, East Sussex TN33 9LN

Bucklawren Road, Nomansland Looe, Cornwall, PL13 1QS

01503 240265 info@looecountrypark.co.uk www.looecountryparkcaravancampsite.co.uk

Senlac Wood is a small woodland campsite set in 1066 country. Ideal for relaxing or visiting the local attractions and historical places of interest.

Tel: 01424 773969 www.senlacwood.co.uk

Peaceful and spacious 5 pitch site conveniently located for NC500 route stopover

07796 662 256 info@kessockcaravanpark.co.uk

June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 65

Tea break teasers See page 69 for solutions

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

Sudoku

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

Medium

66 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

Hard

Quick Crossword Across

1 Egg-shaped (4) 4 Occurring after one's death (10) 9 Kind of engineer (10) 10 First son of Adam and Eve (4) 11 Six (4-5) 13 Also-ran (5) 16 Garment of ancient Rome (4) 17 Nobles (5) 21 Accustom (5) 22 Sailor (7) 23 Caterpillar (5) 24 Paces (5) 27 Harmonize (4) 30 Plot of ground (5) 33 Monarch (9) 35 Old Peruvian (4) 36 Immeasurably deep (10) 37 Overstate (10) 38 Indifferent (2-2)

Down

2 Small community (7) 3 Satan (7) 4 Portion of time (6) 5 Small bag (6) 6 Consecrated (4) 7 Former Portuguese territory in S China (5) 8 Join (5)

12 Name of a thing (5) 13 Dens (5) 14 Gravy (5) 15 Staggers (5) 17 Coral builder (5) 18 White heron (5) 19 Shatter (5) 20 Golf clubs (5)

25 Lattice (7) 26 Winged horse (7) 28 Against (6) 29 Previously (6) 31 Addition (5) 32 Loud, resonant sound (5) 34 Showing unusual talent (4)

Anagram Crossword Just like normal crosswords – except that each clue is an anagram of answer.

Across

6 Shouters (4,4) 8 Auto (4) 9 Ents (4) 10 Resinous (8) 11 Siphons (7) 14 Writs (5) 15 Riper (5) 17 Trap Len (7) 21 Littoral (8) 22 Fine (2-2) 23 Leet (4) 24 Latrines (8)

Down

1 Jousts (4,2) 2 Rent (4) 3 Trust (5) 4 Ruin loco (6,2) 5 Saints (6) 7 Rhine (5) 12 The Ashes (8) 13 App (3) 16 Editor (6) 18 Steal (5) 19 Fondle (6) 20 US elf (5) 22 Pane (4)

June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 67

FANTASTIC

LL O R ’ N ‘ K C RO

Weekender

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT INCLUDED IN YOUR PITCH

four nights camping for £75.00

OR UPGRADE TO ELECTRIC HOOK-UP PITCH FOR £115.00

an extensive exhibition area for all your motorhome & campervan needs

50’s hair & makeup tuition | Jive Lessons / Boston Jive

THURSDAY Blast Off The Cat Fish Kings FRIDAY The Jets The Firebirds Glenn Darren & the Krew Katz The Shakin Stevens Rock N Roll Tribute Andy Harlow (daytime) SATURDAY included The Jerry Lee Lewis Story Jive Lessons / Boston Jive 50’s hair & makeup tuition Vine Hughes (daytime)

MOTORHOMES

CONVERSIONS

CAMPERVANS

SATURDAY headline acts Mark Summer as Elvis Presley & Band PHIL HALEY & HIS COMMENTS MARK ROBINSON & THE COUNTERFEIT CRICKETS

FIFTH WHEELS

AWNINGS

ACCESSORIES

SUNDAY The Revolutionaires The Roosters Pagan (daytime)

CLOTHING DAY VISITORS In advance - Adult: £5.00 On arrival - Adult: £8.00

ESSENTIALS Children: FREE

HEADLINE ACTS Advance tickets Adults: £10.00 Child: £5.00

ELECTRICALS Friday-Saturday 9:30am - 5:00pm

Sunday 9:30am - 4:00pm

NORFOLK SHOWGROUND, DEREHAM ROAD, COSTESSEY, NORWICH, NR5 0TT

SAVE £2 WHEN RALLYING WITH THE MCC

WWW.SHOWGOER.CO.UK

Bazaar

Tea Break Teasers (from p66/67)

Codeword

Private sale advertisements ACCESSORIES BULLDOG CA200 ADJUSTABLE WHEEL CLAMP, £100. ATE SECURITY PEDAL LOCK TRANSIT Sept 2007, £30.00. VAN COCOMFORT INTERIOR SILVERSCREEN TRANSIT Sept 2007 £45.00. LEVELLING BLOCKS BAG SLIDE PADS, £28.00. Tel: 07919 863958 (Kent).

SCOOTER/MOTORCYCLE RACK, Hydra Trail (easy lifter) with single 360 degree turn wheel, takes 70-80% of weight. Complete with lighting board & spare wheel. £300 ono. Tel: 07544 553915 (Malvern, Worc.) Sudoku - Medium

Members'private sale advertisements 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:

FREE ADVERT

FOR SALE

Sudoku - Hard

WANTED

ADVERT WITH PHOTOGRAPH (£12 inc. VAT)

I enclose my cheque payable to Countrywide Publications (please write name and address on back of cheque)

_________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________

Quick Crossword 1

I E

A G

L 18

R E T

N I

I D O D

V 32

Y 34

G G

C E

T A 12

U S

O T A

E 29

C A

I 28

U M O U

O G

N T

E F

O M

R T

U E

R R

I T

N 15

R E

R 26

E L S

E I

G N

N A

R R

H O

N O

H Z

M A

F R

E X

G A

L U

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

U O

Anagram Crossword

Name: Address:

Postcode:

Telephone: Club membership number: June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 69

Classifieds

& SERVICING 6/01/2014 REPAIRS 12:48 Page 1

TYRESAVE .co.uk Tel: 07831 365 412 www.tyresave.co.uk We are based in Deeside, North Wales, close to Chester, Cheshire and the Wirral.

07984 528881 / 07415 244426

Enhance and smarten your Motorhome with Alloy Wheels. 15” and 16” heavy duty wheels to fit most vans from £440 for 4. We can supply by Mail Order or fit in our tyre depot near Chester. See our website for more choice.

Accident Repair Specialists

ialists

Insurance approved specialist motorhome repairers and re-finishers since 1987 motorhome nce 1987 ACCIDENTAL DAMAGE REPAIRS INSURANCE CLAIMS PAIRS HABITATION SERVICING All makes & models catered for NG

Make this space work for you Call Danny on 01502 725862

d for 170 Stafford Road, Cannock, Staffs, WS11 4AH

Tel: Tel: 01543 01543 572686 572686 www.motorhomerepairs.co.uk www.motorhomerepairs.co.uk WS11 4AH erepairs.co.uk

RUBBER SEALS

NEW CATALOGUE ISSUE 16

SOLVE YOUR SEALING PROBLEMS MARINEINDUSTRIALCARAVANAUTOMOTIVE

Rubber seals and trims for caravans & motorhomes FREE, fully illustrated catalogue Please visit our website or call

01425 617722

Seals+Direct Ltd, Unit 6, Milton Business Centre Wick Drive, New Milton, Hampshire BH25 6RH Email: sales@sealsplusdirect.co.uk

MARINEINDUSTRIALCARAVANAUTOMOTIVE

www.sealsdirect.co.uk 70 MOTOR CARAVANNER June 2022

REPAIRS & SERVICING

Motorhome insurance

£295 +

01422 396 742

Please mention ‘Motor Caravanner’

www.caravanguard.co.uk/mc

Caravan Guard Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

WANTED

nc Es e t. 19 77

MERIDIAN MOTORHOMES

Quality Motorhomes & Freedom Caravans Bought and Sold

SELLING YOUR MOTORHOME OR CARAVAN?

Tel: 02380 405122 Top prices paid • Professional, family-run dealership “We BUY motorhomes & caravans that are up to 15 years old”

www.viscountleisure.co.uk • Southampton SO31 8BN

HOYLES

DENHOLME

MOTORHOMES, MOTORHOMES, CAMPERS & 4X4S CAMPERS & 4X4S TOP PRICES PAID TOP PRICES PAID

We can come to you Cash, Bankers We canDraft comeortoBank you Transfer Cash,Contact BankersTim Draft or Bank Transfer Hoyle Anytime

Call 01502 725862 to advertise

01274 832836 07786 735544

WILKINS

MOTORCARAVANS

Established in the Cotswolds (Glos.) since 1970.

MOTORHOME HIRE www.meridianhire.com

01243 572672

Unit 7 Church Farm, Old Park Lane, Bosham, Chichester, PO18 8EX

info@meridianmotorhomes.com www.meridianmotorhomes.com

ALL MAKES AND MODELS CONSIDERED

UK’S BEST BUYER • INSTANT NO RISK BANK TRANSFER PRIOR TO COLLECTION • IMMEDIATE VALUATION COURTEOUS EFFICIENT SERVICE • FREE NATIONWIDE COLLECTION • OUTSTANDING FINANCE SETTLED Motorhome Sellers Advice Line Members.

01274 832836 •07786 735544 Contact Tim Hoyle Anytime

Newly appointed Adria Action (lightweight caravans) and Freedom Caravans Dealer for Southern England

As a national leading multi branch retailer we appreciate the opportunity of buying your motorhome. If you choose to sell outright we will ensure you achieve the top price for your vehicle with recognition for extras fitted and careful ownership. Call Rob Kirk or Andy Spencer NOW!

FREEPHONE 0800 652 4026 Check out our customer testimonials on the website:

www.m-d-g.co.uk

Open 7 days a week.

SELLING YOUR MOTORHOME? You could be £1,000s better off.

For details and advice about our highly successful brokerage service. Call us, it will be worth it!

01285 821216

See us at: www.wilkinsmotorcaravans.co.uk Email: sales@wilkinsmotorcaravans.co.uk

Cornwall Commercials

For the recovery and transport of motorhomes and RV’s (by Low-Loader) Towing Service for Caravans and Boats on Trailers

UK and Europe 01579 340790 For more information please refer to our website www.cornwallcommercials.co.uk June 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 71

MOTORHOME INSURANCE WE GET IT

Go online or call us today to find out why thousands of customers make Staveley Head their number 1 choice for motorhome insurance • • • • •

Prices from as little as £175.00 Flexible payment options 2 months free breakdown cover available Instant cover available online or via the phone Cover provided by A rated insurers

0800 0815039 Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm www.staveleyhead.co.uk