Welcome to your November magazine. This month I would like to take the opportunity to reach out to all those who host or who have thought about hosting a rally. It can be so fulfilling to help at one of your Group events, parking up, signing members in or organising a quiz; something that you may think is insignificant could make the difference between a rally going ahead or being cancelled. There would always be a seasoned member who would lend a hand if needed. Everyone has to start somewhere, it’s volunteer members who keep our Club going.
We are still searching for a suitable, affordable venue for our National Rally next year and as soon as we have secured one it will be advertised. It is proving to be a very difficult task.
As always, happy travels.
NWM & NW Group notice
Please note the group AGM has been rearranged for 10.30am on Saturday 23rd November at Brymbo Sports and Social Club, Heritage Way, Brymbo, Wrexham LL11 5TF.
Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18
Publisher/Editor: Mark Shreeve T: 01502 725839
E: mark.shreeve@micropress.co.uk
Advertising: Mark Huggins T: 01502 725866
E: mark.huggins@micropress.co.uk
Sinead Taylor T: 01502 725865
E: sinead.taylor@micropress.co.uk
Please remember to bring your membership cards.
Apology to our Welsh members
A member has been in touch to point out that in our 'Out & About' feature last month we incorrectly referred to Wales as a ‘principality’. Wales is a country in its own right and we apologise to all our Welsh members. Ed
Sue Pilkiw (07562 324325) suep@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
SECRETARIES CONTACT LIST
Jan Wilcox 07833 625740
Publisher/Editor:
Contributors:
Health & Safety Officer:
Keith Poole (07736 544490)
keithp@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
CLUB OFFICIALS
Casual Campsites:
Kate Jones (07747 000587) katejone@googlemail.com
Financial Officer: Paul Maguire (07973 827506)
Junior Leaders: Maria Hill & Gill Crosby juniors@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Festival Rally Site Manager & Head Show Marshal: Mick Pilkiw
Webmaster: Anna Billson
webmaster@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
To email a member of the Council of Management please use first name & first letter of surname followed by @themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk ie jaccid@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Jo Smaje 07528 845553 sussex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Wendy Jefferson 07714 616715 motorcycle@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
All opinions expressed in these pages are those of the Editor and his contributors and do not necessarily represent official Club policy. All Material copyright. The Motor Caravanners’ Club Ltd 2024. All Rights reserved. While every care is taken when accepting advertisements neither the Club nor the Publisher can accept responsibility for unsatisfactory transactions which arise. Printed by Micropress Printers Ltd.
The opinions, advice and information contained in this publication are offered solely to inform members as to matters which will be of assistance to them.
The Motor Caravanners’ Club and Countrywide Publications accepts no responsibility for any opinion, advice or information expressed by any person in any article contained herein and members should seek their own counsel on matters before acting or relying on any opinion, advice or information.
Club News
CLUB TO END F.I.C.C. AFFILIATION
Many of you who use our website may already be aware that the Council of Management has announced that as from 31st December 2024 the Club will no longer be affiliated with the FICC. We apologise that this announcement is being made later for those of you who prefer to read Club News in the magazine.
This has not been an easy decision. CoM have discussed whether the FICC organisation is providing value for money at length over several meetings. The main factors taken into account in reaching this decision were:
Firstly, unfortunately, the FICC has changed the dates of its main annual event to June which has seen a drastic reduction in MCC members attending. The Club has made representations to the FICC, through Les Kendrick, requesting they move the event back to its previous date in late July, but these have been rejected.
Another point was that in the past, a key reason for remaining a member of the FICC was that, as an affiliated member, we have been able to issue CCI cards to our members. As we have seen a
decline in CCI cards being accepted in Europe, this is no longer a strong argument for remaining a member.
After much deliberation, CoM came to the decision that the continued cost of membership to an organisation that no longer provides a service that benefits a significant number of members, was not giving value for money and therefore, regrettably, we should cancel our membership.
As a result, CCI cards issued by our Head Office will not be valid from January 2025 and MCC members will need to make alternative arrangements. Please be aware that, as we have a substantial amount of stationery and membership cards in stock,
until we purchase a new batch of each, your membership cards will still bear the FICC logo – even though we are no longer members.
25 DEC
28/SUN 29 DEC
30 DEC
31 DEC CLOSED WED 1 JAN CLOSED THU 2 JAN 9AM to 5PM OFFICE FESTIVE OPENING
TIMES
The weather forecast wasn’t too bad but unfortunately it went a bit off cue. Friday was cool, windy, with an occasional drop of rain. Sunny Saturday was lovely and saved the weekend, however Sunday was gloomy.
A wander around the show stands seemed reminiscent of the 1980’s with a plethora of panel vans. ‘Note the prices’ I thought!
At the show
On display were many panel van conversions, and a good range of Coachbuilt and A Class ‘vans.
Macmillan Cancer Care –coffee weekend
The Motor Caravanners’ Club have supported this fine charitable event at the Lincoln Show for some years, raising many hundreds of pounds
THE SEASON FINALE
Simon Peters visits the Warner's show in Lincoln
the
with the Contura CT 766 EF.
VAN LIFE IS GROWING, ESPECIALLY AMONGST YOUNGSTERS
The explosion of youngsters embracing van life culture shows no signs of slowing
TikTok and Instagram are awash with people who have decided to document their decision to live life on the road by sleeping in the vehicle they are travelling in. Some, like Simone Stewart, have gone on to become social media influencers and attracted more than 20,000 followers who want to follow her journey and camper renovation tips.
The trend of others following suit is on the increase, with Sterling Insurance confirming the number of 18-34 year olds who have taken out one of its ‘tourist’ policies has increased by 277% in the last year.
“Van life has never been bigger,” said Peter Cook, one of the company’s managers.
“The majority of our policies for those touring has been, and probably always will be, older
people who like to travel in their motorhomes and explore during retirement or as they wind down their working lives.
“But it’s been obvious to us that more and more young people are looking to travel around the UK and Europe in campers they have converted too. It’s not only a cool way of living and seeing the world, it’s often a lot cheaper than living in a house or flat too.”
Ferry Good for Al-ko
The HPC Hydraulic Levelling System is truly a step ahead for motorhome owners. Covering all requirements expected from a levelling system. it is simply and quickly operated using the on-board touch-screen controls or operated remotely from an iPhone 5 and above or an Android phone via a Bluetooth free app. Accompanied by the AS Air Suspension system, all your suspension and levelling needs are catered for. At AS Air Suspension UK Ltd, we seek to continually improve and stay ahead of our competitors. Using innovative materials to reduce the weight of the systems, without any compromise to quality.
BEAT THE THIEVES WITH PHYSICAL SECURITY
Over 100,000 vehicles are stolen in the UK each year and many are taken using electronic means without using a key! It’s time to return to traditional physical security.
The Armaplate Resolute is a new steering wheel lock designed for the Motorhome and CamperVan market, offering the highest levels of security and protection.
It works by disabling both the steering and the braking system!
The product is Police Approved and it won the highly coveted Sold Secure GOLD AWARD!
The Resolute is easy to handle, quick to install and easy to store away.
Unlike other steering wheel locks, the Resolute will not cause damage to the steering wheel.
For more information on this or any of our other vehicle security products, visit our website or call us on 0845 838 0700
Pre-production prototype 2025 McLouis Fusion 360 on Fiat Ducato chassis-cab
Mc LOUIS MAKEOVER
Gentleman Jack reviews a popular model and outlines the differences for the 2025 model year…
Cook’s Tour
By way of introduction…an explanation. The test vehicle was a hybrid; actually a prototype 2025 coachbuilt conversion on a 2024 cab. First impression of the facelifted Fusion was that the exterior looked ‘the same but different’ when compared to the current version. It took far longer than it should have done (doh!) to realise that the principal difference is a colour swap between the cab and residential
part. What was grey is now white, and vice-versa. Production models will have Fiat’s new slotted grille which has divided opinion among the ‘saloon bar sages’…as any change does!
On entering via the 360’s (now wider) glazed entrance door, the lounge-diner is forward, kitchen and washroom are centrally located, and finally bringing-up the rear is a permanent transverse double-bed above the garage.
Layout features a forward lounge with four travel seats, a central kitchen and washroom, all ahead of a (permanent) transverse high-level double-bed
OTR (on-the-road)
Standard drive train on the Fusion is a 2.2-litre 140bhp turbo-diesel
engine mated to a manual six-speed gearbox, driving the front wheels. Fans of a two-pedal drive can opt for the extra-cost torque-converter automatic gearbox coupled to either the 140bhp or 180bhp motor. The very latest auto box is eight-speed rather than the outgoing one’s nine-speed. Fusion fanciers will also
benefit from automatic cab air-con, an electrically-operated parking brake, wireless phone charger and a 9” Pioneer touch-screen infotainment unit boasting Apple Carplay, Android Auto, plus a high definition display for the rear vision camera. The test vehicle performed well down the blacktop, its power unit felt willing and responsive. On this test, the majority of terrain covered was flat lowlands and using dual carriageway. There wasn’t enough time to indulge in ‘mountain pass storming’, but previous experience of doing so with coachbuilts powered by the
Same but different. 2024 model has a grey cab and white body. 2025 models will have a white cab and grey body, plus the new look cab front with a slotted grille
entry-level engine didn’t reveal any weaknesses.
Main salon
The forward lounge-diner makes full use of the swivelling cab seats and was a pleasant place to relax in. The fifth seatbelt on the nearside in the accompanying image is now fitted as standard. It’s not ‘just’ a seatbelt, but part of a package that includes the facilities to make an additional travel seat from the inward-facing bench, plus a fifth sleeping-berth made from the lounge seating. The table moves ‘this way and that way’ but isn’t removable and doesn’t
Ducato’s driving environment gets some incremental upgrades for 2025. Infotainment screen is larger and higher definition than previously
fold. That said, it should be very suitable for socialising around…big enough…but not too big, seating five for dining/drinks/whatever. Cassette blinds surround the cab.
Galley
Located amidships, it has benefitted from considerable development. The previously loftily-placed oven/ grill has been moved to a far more user-friendly location under the hob. The latter has shrunk from a threeburner one to a two-burner, but an advantage of its smaller overall size is that it has facilitated the inclusion of more worktop. The latest 137-litre three-way fridge freezer is raised slightly for easier retrieval of items stored near the bottom. It is claimed to be more energy efficient than the previous incarnation. Detail kitchen upgrades include adding shelving in the overhead cupboard, plus a spice rack/shelf wall-mounted at 90 degrees to the (opening) window. That window will provide plenty of natural task-lighting for daytime culinary creating…a real advantage over some competitors’ rather gloomy kitchens.
Comfort station
Located on the nearside opposite the kitchen, it is well laid-out and consists of two distinct areas. The first is home to the loo, basin, and plenty of storage. This area opens into a self-contained walk-in shower cubicle with shower head on a riser bar, a drying rail and a ‘perch’ for
Top: Forward lounge-diner benefits from plenty of natural light. Table can accommodate up to five for a meal. Nearside rear seatbelt is part of a fifth travelling seat/fifth berth cost-option
Above right: The latest version of the centrally-placed offside kitchen provides a better location for the oven/grill, plus it adds a spice rack
Above left: Nearside washroom plus walk-in shower is well thought-out and easy to use. That said, shorter prospective purchasers should be aware that the loo is mounted on a plinth >>
Are you driving illegally?
When did you last check your motorhome weight? Ministry figures suggest up to 80% of motorhomes may be operating overloaded!
Drive an overloaded motorhome and you not only risk a fine, you also risk your insurance and the safety of you and your passengers!
When looking to buy your next motorhome, insist on an accurate, up -to-date weight ticket! The brochure may state a MIRO or payload allowance, but these f igures can be out by as much as 5% (average 125kg).
This is more likely to be against you than in your favour, so it is always recommended that you visit a weighbridge to check your vehicle’s weight.
Need to uprate to carry more payload?
If you think you might have a payload issue, we can help. SvTech is able to increase/uprate the payload allowance on many makes and models.
Behind the scenes of every SvTech uprate, testing of a vehicle is carried out to create a ministry recognised test report, which is then use to cover subsequent uprates. This report and testing is vital in supporting an uprate, and is a legal requirement. Do not be fooled into thinking it’s just a paperwork exercise, as offered by others.
Reaching 70? Need to consider downrating?
SvTech can downrate your motorhome to 3500kg should you not pass, or wish to take, your medical. You must first weigh the motorhome to find out what payload you will have available at 3500kg . For further guidance on downrating please visit our website at www.svtech.co.uk/motor-home-downrates
To promote road safety, SvTech designed a free -to-use, Load Distribution Analysis (LDA) program which helps the user to know their likely laden weight and how best to position their goods about the vehicle to avoid an axle overload . Please visit our website www.svtech.co.uk/lda to find out how you can stay safely within your vehicle limits.
For any questions regarding these matters, please contact 01772 621800 or email, webenquiries@svtech.co.uk
the less mobile. Usefully, there is room for a carer or parent to assist with ablutions.
Berths
Five as standard, including two transverse doubles. The permanent double is at the far rear, above the full-width garage. Its height from the floor can be adjusted via an electrically-operated rise and fall system. At t’other end is the semi-permanent double. This stores adjacent to the ceiling, and once again rises and lowers at the touch of a button. Brownie points were awarded for not having to faff around with the cab seats before deploying it. The bed does narrow a little at the feet end, but should be fine for all but the supersized somnolent. An advantage of having dedicated beds (as opposed to the fifth berth converted from seating) is that the most suitable density of
height adjustable)
*Present
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.
PRODUCTS YOU CAN TRUST
The NEW Wraith 3 is designed to be compact, lightweight and easy to fit whilst ensuring uncompromising security for Motorhomes. Providing a strong visual theft deterrent that offers exceptional, attack resistance.
The Commercial High Security Steering Wheel Lock has a hardened steel construction with a high security locking mechanism. Extremely secure and very easy to fit, in a compact design.
The Milenco BC Lock encases and locks the motorhome brake and clutch pedals, rendering them inoperative. Versions available to fit the majority of motorhomes. Fits in seconds. Now available for VW T5 / T6.
One of the only Motorhome Wheelclamps available that exceeds the Sold Secure Gold standard. Fits steel and alloy wheels. Constructed from the highest quality hardened steel.
Getting aboard was easy thanks to the wide habitation door, internal steps, and a substantial, well-placed, grab-handle just inside the door aperture, on the right
foam and support for sleeping can be chosen. Prospective purchasers sharing one of the 360’s transverse beds should make sure that the ‘inboard’ partner is happy to/ capable of, climbing over the other occupant for nocturnal visits to the loo and/or making the early morning cuppa. Other Fusion variants are available with easier-access permanent beds, but they are longer than the 360 featured here.
Mod cons
Plenty of these. Too many to mention them all here. Instead, here are a few personal ‘faves’: Inside: 9” Pioneer infotainment unit in the cab, internal access steps. Outside: Wide (glazed) habitation door and 120W solar panel. Inside and outside: WPS construction system using GRP interior and exterior cladding, plus thick insulation in the floor, VINchip™ identification.
>>
Knowledge base
Fusion is just that...a fusion! The range is a synergy between two members of the Trigano Group of leisure vehicle manufacturers. Fusion combines Auto-Sleeper practicality and UK management with Italian McLouis style and presence. Tuscany-based McLouis first started making coachbuilt motorcaravans back in 1999. At that time Pierluigi Alinari – the company’s founder – already had decades of experience in motorhome manufacture. Legend has it that he invented the McLouis name whilst waiting for a flight at an airport. It was a combination of the monikers of two eateries located in the departure lounge…McDonalds and Louis.
I would have liked… …a spare wheel and a microwave oven. Both can be easily obtained; thus neither are deal-breakers.
Conclusion
Many decades ago, I tested
money and combined practical multi-berth motorcaravanning with Italian style. Since 2019, the UK imports have been managed by Auto-Sleepers, with the result that McLouis conversions have become more Brit-friendly. This has been achieved by including important upgrades, such as the relocation of the habitation door to the (‘correct’) nearside.
The 2025 models feature more contemporary en-vogue interior finishes, plus lots of attention to detail. The very approachable windscreen price is even more remarkable when one considers the sophistication of the conversion. We also advise choosing a motorcaravan that appeals to the heart as well as to the head. Fusion really ‘floated our boat’…`nuff said?
Base vehicle: Fiat Ducato chassis-cab
Motive power: Standard drive train is a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel (140bhp) engine driving the front wheels via a manual six-speed gearbox
Will it fit? Length: 6.99m/22’ 11.25” Width: 2.33m/7’ 7.75” (+ mirrors) Height: 2.95m/9’ 8.25”
MTPLM: 3,500kg/3,650kg/4,400kg
Payload: 590kg/740kg/1,430kg
Sleeping berths: 5
Travel seats: 5
Kit count: 16” alloy wheels, cruise control, cab air-con, front fog lights. Truma Combi 6E space and water heating, Two-burner hob, tower fridge/freezer,
combined gas grill/oven, solar panel, leisure battery. Full-width garage with doors both sides, tie-down cleats, and a power socket. Wide habitation door with glazing, bin, and flyscreen. Removable boundedge carpets
Warranties: Base: 2 years; conversion: 2 years; coachbuilt body integrity: 5 years
McLouis Fusion 360 kindly offered for evaluation by: McLouis UK www.mclouisfusion.co.uk 01386 853 338 E&OE
Next-Generation Fusion Models
The 2025 McLouis Fusion Motorhome range has been updated with aesthetic enhancements for new season and latest Fiat chassis. Starting at 6.59 meters in length, Fusion offers a selection of thoughtfully designed layouts that are both practical and equipped with a wide array of high-quality features. Each model is constructed with a keen eye for detail. The lineup features four models, all expertly crafted in Italy to meet UK specifications, each offering four berths and at least four travel seats.
Sign Up To Find Out More
Opening time at the Motorhome and Caravan Show
Frances and Michael Howorth, walk the halls of the Motorhome & Caravan Show, seeking out and reviewing their favourites among the new products on display
RARING TO GO
For those already immersed in the motorcaravan lifestyle and looking for an upgrade or those on the hunt for their first campervan or motorhome the 2024 Motorhome & Caravan Show was an unmissable event. Featuring over 350 exhibitors and spanning almost 21 acres of floorspace, the show lived up to its promise of being a one-stopshop for everything needed to get ‘outdoor enthusiasts’ raring to go. Over 700 new motorcaravan models from leading UK and European manufacturers and dealers were on display. Big Boys, the likes of Swift Group, Bailey of Bristol,
Coachman, Elddis, and Xplore were joined by European brands, Adria, Burstner, Carthago, Chausson, Dethleffs, Eriba, Etrusco, Frankia, Hymer, Knaus, Laika, Malibu, Rapido, Pilote, Weinsberg and Westfalia.
Adria introduced their Compact Max, the builders first ever motorhome on a VW base. With a slightly wider body at 2.17m, it has an all-new front hood and panoramic window. Slavica Sterk, Managing Director at Adria, said, "This show has a great energy. It is always full of enthusiastic prospective buyers who share our passion for the great outdoors. The show is the best opportunity for visitors to see all things camping under one roof. It's great for us, as manufacturers,
to showcase all of our ranges."
Auto-Trail also launched a brand-new product. An extension to their Excel range, the Excel 620S is a two-berth narrow-bodied coach-built motorhome featuring a rear end kitchen and shower as well as a large lounge area to the front.
Malibu used the show to launch globally their all-new Malibu Genius range. The company suggests this range gives all the benefits of a camper van, with the feel, technology and space of a motorhome and given that it even comes in a 4x4 model, they may have a winner on their hands. We particularly liked the storage arrangements in the rear of the van. Carthago, Malibu’s parent
Swift stand
Brownhills stand
company, were also showcasing their brand new Carthago C2-tourer, a fully integrated, lightweight construction motorhome. The company’s chic e-line, A Class motorhome was also on display, this time on a MercedesBenz Sprinter chassis.
Bailey of Bristol showcased their new Adamo motorhome. Cristina Dorador, Head of Marketing said: “It’s been a really fantastic show and great to see so many new as well as familiar faces. With it being half-term we’ve had a lot of families as well as some of our most loyal customers coming here to see our new models.”
The show also had on display some other motorcaravans that have, hither to, never been seen by the
public. Project Yonder brought their second ever van to the show along with the first which was seen last year. We liked the way van number 2 utilises an open air kitchen complete with all electric BBQ in the rear. In the coming year the hard working couple who are the driving force behind Project Yonder hope to deliver vans 3,4 and 5, all of which are currently in production.
For Swift, the spotlight shone on their Voyager range with the introduction of two new compact models designed for smaller roads and storage on driveways. We liked the Swift Trekker pop-top campervan. It exudes ruggedness without compromising on style.
“”
Katy Buchan Senior Marketing Manager, Vango
“Drive away awnings are our bestselling product this year, and we have quite a choice on offer. Customers who are heading to warmer, dryer climes are choosing our Kela TC over our 420 Kela Pro Air which is a more robust product. Our TC (technical cotton) range is lighter and made up of fabric that breathes. But our Pro Air range will never fade or rot. With sound or sensory sensitivity being an aggravating factor for autistic people, the TC would be a better product because it is almost soundless in windy conditions.”
Mike Haseler
“We are seeing a high level of interest in the dashboard mounted tablet devices the company is bringing to market. Many customers are noticing these units appearing as standard kit on new vans and are fitting them to their own vans as part of an updating process.”
Laika Kosmo H 1409
Autosleeper Bourton motorhome
Malibu Genius campervan
“”
“This year’s edition of the show was another great one for us at Redline Campers! We’re very happy with the sales achieved and there was a lot of buzz around all of the models in our range. Word must have got around about us now being an NCC Approved Manufacturer, as this was a popular theme for conversations with customers. It filled us with pride to tell each show attendee about our fully tested, quality-built vehicles.”
Clockwise from top left: Adria Compact Max DL motorhome; Ian Knight from AddVenture in his extending campervan & Rapido mototrhome
Lance Bosley Marketing Director. Diamondbrite
“When it comes to exhibiting at the Motorhome & Caravan Show we are repeat offenders. We have been exhibiting at this show every year since 2009. We come because it is good for business, it’s a big investment, but one that pays off year after year. At this show it is our Seal and Shine product that was proving most popular.”
No longer new, but still a head turner, the Hymer Grand Canyon S, the self-sufficient off-road camper. was on display. Built on MercedesBenz Sprinter chassis, it will take explorers wherever they want to go – and beyond. But the vehicle that caught our eye was the all new Hymer ML-T 570 Crossover which is definitely a motorhome desperately trying to disguise itself as a campervan. The same Erwin Hymer group owns the Italian built Laika brand and on their stand we liked the Kosmo H1 409 even though the star of their display was their compact but rather boxy Kosmo L105.
Xplore is not just a new campervan to the market, but the brand itself is new. We think the vans are designed to appeal to the younger outdoors set whose budget may not run to a more rugged and true off-road, off-grid van.
Another new and exclusive launch came from Marquis Leisure who introduced the Panama range
to the UK. The two models include the multi-purpose P12, which seats 7 and sleeps 4 and the versatile P57 with a more spacious kitchen/seating area. Lee Morley, Sales Director at Marquis Leisure said: “Our sales team have enjoyed demonstrating our unique product ranges from Benimar and Mobilvetta. It was great to see customers old and new on our stand.”
Hillside Leisure’s new additions included the debut of its brand-new conversion built on the VW Crafter and MAN TGE. First time exhibitors Sherwood Campers, invited visitors to check out its meticulously crafted campervans, where modern finishes meet custom-tailored interiors, while Redline Campers displayed a model which uses the new Ford Transit Custom as a base vehicle. The Redline GT will also become available on the VW T7 platform once this vehicle is launched next year.
Members of the Trigano Group, the McLouis Fusion range has seen a significant makeover inside and out. >>
It follows a successful collaboration with its sister organisation AutoSleepers and offers motorhomes under 3,500 kg and just over 6.5m. The range features modern upgrades, enhanced security with the addition of VIN Chip, and new conveniences like an extra wide entrance door with mosquito net. Also members of the Trigano Group, Auto-Sleepers enjoyed a good week showcasing their latest motorhomes and campervan. While not having anything new on display,
longer manufactured.
there were lots of smiles on the faces of the salesmen. Spencer Davies, the company’s Sales Director said, “Feedback on our products and service have been great.”
For us, the show’s most unusual and innovative vehicle was, without
doubt, the AddVenture whose design grows on you, quite literally! On the road, it is a standard Fiat Ducato campervan. It is only when it stops, and is parked up, that it grows in size, morphing into a motorhome. A double-bedded bedroom slides backwards from the rear of the van to reveal a full lounge and a proper dining area. This means owners can enjoy the space of a motorhome without the driving and parking headaches associated
With a fast, simple and personal service – Nutt Travel will sort your ferry needs so everything is plain sailing! For competitive quotes for ferry crossings between Ireland, UK, Europe, Isle of Man and Isle of Wight
Email: info@nutttravel.com or log on to www.nutttravel.com and use our Live Chat feature
with those larger vehicles. It is also cheaper when you travel to Europe using a ferry or the shuttle.
Many of those selling motorcaravans were impressed with the number of visitors heading to their stands. Paul and Magdalena Adams, Joint Managing Directors at Kaktus Vans, told us: “Exhibiting at the show again has been extraordinary. We’ve made lots of sales and we have been so proud to show visitors what we have to offer.”
And more
It was not just the latest in motorcaravans that were on display. Leading awning manufacturers showcased their latest fixed and drive-away awnings – all pitched up and ready to explore. Isabella introduced new accessories for motorhomes, including the Wind Side for extra shelter as well as a new Earth camp-let range, which blends into the natural surroundings adding a further 18m2 of accommodation. Outwell presented its new collection of awnings, which have been designed for enhanced comfort and family trips. These freestanding extensions are easy to pitch and detach, providing even more space for touring families and couples. Other awnings and accessory companies at the show included Dometic, Camptech, Kampa, Quest, Sunncamp, Vango, and Trigano.
For those looking for their next travel destination, tourist boards from across the UK and Europe, including France, Spain, Portugal offered an abundance of options for visitors
“”
Ryan Cornall Director, Brunner
We’ve been pleasantly surprised with this year’s NEC show. After a tough year for many, people’s quest for innovation has shone through on the Brunner stand. Customers have been buying the new range of Sangria ultra-light folding chairs, our Raptor Highback reclining tube chairs and the Levin 2 Fold-away table along with the Dinemic 4 table.
to check out. New exhibitor MandA Tours unveiled its 2025 programme, featuring new three-week tours across Tuscany and Portugal for the September season, as well as trips to Holland and Germany throughout April and July next year. Also new to the show, My Canada began offering personalised travel experiences across Canada.
Trends
Shows such as these, are very good for spotting industry trends and changes. Five years ago, very few motorcaravans were fitted with self-levelling systems. Indeed, when we fitted one to Voyager, four years ago, we were very much among the early adopters of the technology. Today they are becoming commonplace, and the concept is catching on fast. New companies are entering the market and among them is the all British M-Level brand. Phil Newbury, the company’s MD is very proud of the fact that everything the company uses to build and package it system is British made with 90% of the products being made within a 5-mile radius of their own factory.
And if self-levelling has caught on in the last five years, then air suspension is following on quickly behind with new companies coming to market and appearing at shows like this.
Demo campervan from Kaktus
Sherwood campervans
McLouis Fusion 379 motorhome
BBQ extension on Project Yonder
OLD MAN'S HAT Penny in the
Frances and Michael Howorth drive their campervan around the UK seeking out our nation's best in Christmas Markets.
While it is far too early for us to wish readers a 'Happy Christmas' it is certainly not to early to discuss where to take your van for some of the best Christmas markets. All over the UK plans are being finalised by organisers all intent on creating the perfect market for those seeking out presents or looking to enjoy some seasonal foods and drinks.
As the winter chill sets in and you crank up your Webasto or Ebersbacher it’s time to dig out your cashmere scarves, brew up mugs of steaming hot chocolate, and begin planning which Christmas markets are on your must-visit list this year. Some markets are month long fixtures open 7 days a week, some are weekend only affairs and others pop up suddenly and disappear as quickly. Some even extend their openings well into the
first week of January. But if you want to visit one and stay overnight in either your campervan or a hotel, then it is best to begin planning because hotel beds and campsite pitches close by the best markets fill up quickly.
Here we have listed our favourite Christmas markets in alphabetical order, along with our recommendations of where to park your motorcaravan or stay in an hotel as you soak up the festivities.
Bath
BATH
28 Nov - 15 Dec
Bath, said by many to be Britain’s best Christmas market, is perhaps the classic example of the need to plan early. Shopping at this market, sipping a glass of mulled wine, is one of life’s great pleasures.
Where to stay
Park up: Overnight places in the everpopular riverside Bath Waterside & Marina Caravan Park are already rather scarce. It is easy to see why. The town centre is just a walk away along a riverside path that leads directly to the market stalls.
Hotel stay: The Apex City of Bath Hotel is a modern facility with some very fine features. In the basement the wellness centre is reserved for guests only and boasts a sauna, steam room, compact gym and a
swimming pool. On the ground floor a pleasant open aspect bar, coffee shop and restaurant are all located.
BELFAST
16 Nov - 22 Dec
Set against the backdrop of the City Hall this market offers a mix of handcrafted goods, bespoke artisan products and culinary delights, from hot Glühwein to Belgian crêpes. Where to stay
Park up: Fully automatic and unmanned the Jordanstown Loughshore Caravan Park is located in Newtownabbey on the shores of Belfast Lough with panoramic views. Just 5 miles north of Belfast, it is close to bus routes, into town and therefore the Christmas market.
Hotel stay: Try the Bullitt Hotel, right in the middle of Belfast's city
centre. The rooms are modern and comfortable with king sized beds.
BLENHEIM PALACE
15 Nov - 22 Dec
One of the most popular markets in the Cotswolds, the Palace interior will be transformed to retell the classic fairytale of Peter Pan. Outside in The Great Court there are wooden chalets offering gifts and treats.
Where to stay
Park up: The Green Hill Leisure Park at Bletchingdon is a popular family site with excellent links to M40 and A34 and public transport being within walking distance of the site. Hotel stay: Our favourite is The Crown in the village of Woodstock not far from the Palace. We love its country-feel with its mix of modern amenities and original features.
CARDIFF
14 Nov-23 Dec
Each year in Cardiff wooden huts line the streets featuring everything from jewellery and clothing to artwork and homeware. There are plenty of food and drink huts so you can eat, drink and be merry while celebrating the Christmas season –Cardiff style.
Where to stay
Park up: The 24 hour carpark on Cathedral Road allows motorcaravans to stay overnight for a reasonable fee
Hotel stay: Stay at the Leonardo Hotel Cardiff. This rather grand Victorian building offers comfortable rooms and suites.
CHESTER
18 Nov - 21 Dec
With over 70 stalls this year, you can pick up stocking fillers, elaborately wrapped bundles of fudge, and
bottles of local spirits along with handmade arts and crafts. Where to stay
Park up: The Stanley Street car park allows overnight parking and makes motorcaravanners very welcome.
Hotel stay: The Chester Grosvenor Hotel is rather indulgent but jolly nice to stay in.
CHICHESTER
3 - 23 Dec
This market has a craft and design theme with handpicked exhibitors selling artwork and speciality food. Where to stay
Park up: If you want to posh it up for the night choose Concierge Camping a 5-star campsite on the Ratham Estate in West Ashling run by Lord and Lady Hodgkin.
Hotel stay The Goodwood Hotel, on the famous Goodwood Estate, has stylish character rooms, situated in its 18th century structure.
Servicing & Repairs
At Sheriffmill Motor Co Ltd. we understand how much your motorhome means to you. Our team of friendly, experienced technicians are fully trained to use the most modern techniques and equipment to ensure you receive a thorough service, MOT or diagnostic for your vehicle.
SPEEDCOAT EUROPE is offering a great repair service for new and old cracked shower trays using a superior, tough and durable spray liner.
SPEEDLINER EURO HC® is an active anti-bacterial, anti-microbial polymer product to guarantee against mould, mildew and fungi contamination.
EDINBURGH
18 Nov - 6 Jan 25
Ablaze with Christmas lights, Edinburgh’s Christmas market is centred on Princes Street. Shop here for handcrafted gifts from market stalls or anything else you need from Edinburgh's beautifully decorated shops.
Where to stay
Park up: Try the free (after 5.30pm and at weekends) car park on Queens Drive. It’s a 5 minute walk away from Christmas market action. Hotel stay: Some of the best of Scottish hospitality can be found at The Balmoral, conveniently close by the city’s Christmas market.
GLASGOW
25 Nov - 4 Jan 25
George Square and St Enoch Square are transformed into a winter wonderland every year. Festive stalls line the squares and feature local
businesses selling Christmas treats. Where to stay
Park up: Free after 6pm until 8am the next morning, the Collins Street carpark is close by the market.
Hotel stay: The Voco Grand Central adjoins Glasgow Central station, and has, over the years, hosted many celebrities.
HARROGATE
29 No – 15 Dec
School choirs, local performers, an outdoor ice rink, rides and a traditional carousel all add to the joy that is Harrogate's Christmas fayre. You'll also find local, independent retailers selling Christmas gifts. Where to stay
Park up: Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate offers space for 70 motorcaravans.
Hotel stay: The dog friendly West Park Hotel is a period property with modern, comfy interiors. It >>
Winchester
is just a 10-minute stroll from the Christmas market. The boutiquestyle bedrooms are sleek and stylish, some even come with balconies and terraces.
LEEDS
24 Nov - 22 Dec
Different from the offerings of many other cities, Leeds Christmas market is spread out across town and runs for four weeks before Christmas. It enables shoppers to combine visits to the major stores with visits to wooden chalets to buy Christmas gifts. In the late afternoon and early evening, the smell of hot chocolate and mulled wine pervades. There are squeals of delight from children ice skating, riding fun fair rides and toasting marshmallows. Where to stay
from York either, so this campsite does double dibs when it comes to Christmas markets.
Hotel stay: Overnight in the Park Plaza Hotel operated by Radisson. The Queens, a more traditional looking hotel, located across the road offers an alternative.
LIVERPOOL
18 Nov - 24 Dec
Park up: Nestled in the middle of the Yorkshire countryside (but only four miles from the A1M) Gemma at Glenfield Park welcomes all campervans and motorhomes. She recommends you catch the bus to the market from her campsite but catch a taxi back. “It is heady stuff that mulled wine,” she warns! The good news is you are not far
St George's Plateau and William Brown Street are alive with wooden chalets selling Christmas gifts, decorations and festive food. Many bars in the area host local performers throughout the festive season.
Where to stay Liverpool Marina is fully facilitated for yachts but also offers 12 motorcaravan pitches for overnight parking.
Hotel stay Liverpool’s Meliá is just a short walk from the Christmas market. It is a contemporary fourstar hotel within easy reach of the city’s top attractions.
MANCHESTER
11 Nov - 21 Dec
Back better than ever, with over 300 stalls across 10 sites.
Where to stay
Park up: The 24 hour car park on Great Ducie Street offers secure overnight parking with CCTV surveillance. Close to the city centre. Hotel stay: The Dakota is a city centre hotel with tasteful décor and a glitzy bar and grill to dine in.
NEWCASTLE
18 Nov - 23 Dec
This market stands out due to its international appeal. As well as the delicious food and drink, there is live entertainment, abundant with local musicians, supporting independent businesses and trade. The market is held next to the iconic Grey’s Monument which is named after
Leeds
Bath
the 2nd Earl Grey, Charles Grey, who hailed from the North East and was British Prime Minister in the 1830sthe famous Earl Grey tea blend was named after him too!
Where to stay
Park up: The Ellison car park is a safe overnight parking spot and close enough for those visiting the Christmas market. Free after 7pm. Hotel stay: Accommodation such as Grey’s Street Hotel is only a minute away from the action and perfect to soak up the views.
TRURO
22 Nov– 24 Dec
Truro Farmers Market hosts its festive Big Christmas Market in the month
before Christmas. Bespoke wooden cabins feature the wares of local artisans and producers. There's also plenty of arts & crafts and live music to keep you entertained. Where to stay
Park up: Truro Council allow motorcaravans to park free overnight at their Malpas Road car park Hotel stay The Alverton in town is an 18th-century grade II listed hotel full of history and charm.
WINCHESTER
22 Nov - 22 Dec
This beautiful city provides another perfect backdrop to the festive season with the stunning cathedral taking centre stage. The excitement starts mid-November with the Christmas lights switch on. The Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market starts the following day and is open daily until 21 December. It is recognised as one of the best in Europe and includes a UK Makers' Market and local independent retailers and food producers. Take some time out and step inside the cathedral, which is a magical place at Christmas. A general admission ticket lasts a whole year, so you can return as many times as you like.
Where to stay
chalets line Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square. While you are there, make sure to take a walk past York Minster to see the festive lights. Where to stay
Park up: If you are not parked up at Glenfield Park (see above under Leeds) then you should consider Rudding Holiday Park. For golfers, there's a driving range and a six-hole short course a spa, restaurants, private cinema and kitchen garden are all available at Rudding Park Hotel, walking distance through the park
Park up Winchester embraces motorcaravans and offers off road overnight parking at the Worthy Lane Coach Park, the Leisure Centre and within the Cheesefoot Head Car Park.
Hotel stay: The Winchester Royal Hotel is the perfect place to stay whilst exploring England’s ancient capital and enjoying the market. Situated in a prime location in the heart of the city, this 16th century hotel offers a perfect blend of modern and tradition.
YORK
14 Nov - 22 Dec
York’s Christmas Festival is also known as St Nicholas Fair. Alpine
Hotel stay If you are feeling flush and don’t fancy Rudding Park Hotel, you could try The Grand. At this time of year, the lobby is delightfully decorated and its Legacy restaurant, a wonderful place to dine.
NATIONAL TRUST
Look out for Christmas markets organised at National trust properties. You can find locally handmade ornaments, crafts, jewellery and even a Christmas cake or two at Petworth in Sussex. Visit Tatton Park in Cheshire to shop for gifts you won’t find on the high street while you explore the Tenants Hall, which is not usually open to the public. For something a bit different, craft fairs are also being held at Avebury in Wiltshire, Dinefwr Park in Carmarthenshire and Flatford in Suffolk, where you can warm up with a mince pie and mulled wine.
Camping Los Gallardos R.T.A:
In
•
•
•
•
•
service
park overlooking Port-Eynon Bay. Pitches for motorcaravans, tourers and glamping pods, as well as self-catering bungalows. Within walking-distance of the beach. Clubhouse with licensed bar, serving meals. WiFi. Grocery shop & laundrette. Outdoor heated swimming pool. Children’s play area. Tennis court. Booking advised for bank/school holidays. Open 1st March until New Years Day.
GROUP NEWS & DIARIES
NOVEMBER 2024
ANGLIA
Group news coordinator: Gemma Mathers T: 01502 725813 E: groupnews@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
Post: Motor Caravanner magazine, Countrywide Publications, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6DH
Deadline: 5th of the month for inclusion in the following month's magazine
23 Vans came to our rally at Dereham. This was a new venue for us. It was a short walk into the town and as we were staying at the Hockey club we managed to watch some hockey games over the weekend as well.
Thursday night was a casual night to catch up with friends. Late Friday afternoon Ben & Keith got the barbie out and cooked everyone hamburgers and hotdogs. (Here at Anglia, we do love our food) and then when the evening cooled down a bit we went into the hall for Bingo.
Saturday morning started with Ben & Keith cooking everyone a bacon & egg roll, then some members wandered into town whilst others sat outside enjoying the weather. In the evening, we met up for tea, coffee, a music quiz, Ben’s bonus ball and the raffle.
28 vans came to Narborough for Ben’s 60th Birthday weekend. Thursday the sun was out and it stayed out for most of the weekend. Summer was back.
Thursday night we paid our rally fees and then had one of Paul’s music quizzes. Every Friday night a lot of the locals meet up in the village hall for bingo. They very kindly said that we could join them and they made us feel very welcome although I have never heard anyone call the bingo numbers as quick as that lady did. Boy was she fast! The evening was profitable for quite a few of our members but I am not sure how the local folks felt about that.
Saturday morning Ben & Keith cooked bacon & egg rolls for everyone then some members enjoyed the sunshine around their vans, others went out exploring the area, while others caught the bus to either Swaffham or Kings Lynn
Saturday night was party time. It started with a lovely huge buffet. A big thank you goes out to Teresa, Annette, Ben, Keith and their helpers for getting it all ready for us.
It was wonderful, so much food that we even had cake for breakfast the next day. After the buffet we danced to the Laurie Hayley Duo. They played a great mixture of songs from the 50’s, 60’s & 70’s. A wonderful night was had by all. Sunday morning, we met up for tea, coffee, Ben’s bonus ball and the raffle.
Some members went home on Sunday, others stayed and enjoyed a sing a long and karaoke Sunday evening. A great weekend was had by all.
For those of you that are booked to attend our New Years Eve rally can I remind you that full payment is due by 7th December.
Upcoming Rallies: 8-10 November Fakenham High School, 5pm start. Bookable with Teresa on 0773 463321
AVON
Avon’s return visit to Berkeley, Hamfields Leisure as it is now called, was a success for those that were able to go. Despite being near the river, the grass was firm and the weather good. Members were able to sit out during the day but the nights were decidedly chilly. There was card bingo, a beetle drive, tea and cakes, a football match
Anglia Group
GROUP NEWS
nearby and many walks. The buses were well used and an exhibition of Strictly Come Dancing dresses at Berkeley Castle, well worth visiting. The Canada Geese returning to Slimbridge were a sight to remember.
Our next rally is our Christmas Dinner, 5 to 8 December, Fromebridge Mill, Whitminster, GL2 7PB. £82 for couples and £46 for singles, 3 nights. There will be a disco on Friday. Thursday we have a room to ourselves to get in the party mood and on Saturday we gather in the restaurant again for food or drinks to be entertained by popular singer Irena. Booking had to be completed by 12 October but it may be worth checking for late availability or cancellations. Text Christine on 07976 306116 to enquire.
New Year will be celebrated at Whitstone School, Shepton Mallet. 4 nights at £17pupn (£15 pn singles) plus £1 per adult rally fee. Prices include entertainment, (the ever popular DAZ.), a 2 x course supper, music, quizzes and games. Bookings are not taken, we have plenty of room and all MCC members will be welcome. The theme for fancy dress on New Year’s Eve is “Come Dressed as a Book Title”. I’m looking forward to seeing all the creative ideas. All parking will be on hardstanding and the lovely heated rooms will be open from when we get up, to when we roll into bed. Will we see you there? You will receive a very warm welcome.
Our AGM will have taken place by now and hopefully in the next magazine, I will be able to give you a peek of what is planned for 2025. ACG
New Park Farm, Brockenhurst. We were lucky to be blessed with fantastic weather for the first of two holiday rallies, this one in Brockenhurst. Nineteen vans including one visitor attended the event which, due to issues at Hollands Wood, was moved to another site just across the road; the rally will be forever known as the Not Hollands Wood rally! The field was nice and open so the location was perfect for those of us wanting solar power for the four days and the small toilet block was an added bonus.
During the week some of us made good use of the lovely sunny weather to explore the forest, either on long walks or following some of the cycle paths and venturing further afield. One or two ventured to Lymington, New Milton and Milford on Sea using the excellent transport links from Brockenhurst. Everyone came together on the first evening for a welcome and general catch up with news since the previous rally. On Tuesday night we had a brilliant Bingo Quiz organised by Carole; thankfully the questions weren't too difficult which allowed everyone to participate in the Bingo part of the game.
On Wednesday we had a quieter evening with a theme tune quiz. With the good weather continuing we were
able to spend Thursday afternoon playing outdoor games and enjoying tea and cake in the sunshine. Well done to Paul for winning at Scatter Skittles. One or two members also set up a table top sale to display their handicrafts.
Sharon entertained us all on Thursday evening with one of her renowned 30 minutes, 30 questions, quizzes; I think we all learned a few interesting facts from that one. Congrats to Carole & Roy, Mike & Elaine for almost reaching double figures!
On Friday morning we met up for coffee, biscuits and a few farewells for those not moving on to the follow on rally at Netley. Thankfully the forecast rain held off allowing us to swiftly dismantle the shelters. Many thanks to the committee for hosting another fantastic and well organised holiday rally.
RVCP, Netley. Our second follow on rally was at Royal Victoria Park where we had 16 vans, including first timers
Chiltern Group
Chiltern Group
and visitors. The weather wasn’t too kind to us but we still managed to get together in the shelters. To stretch the legs, a walk around the park and as far as Hamble was made, with many paying a thoughtful visit to the Military cemetery.
The bus stop near the park entrance made visiting Southampton an easy day out. The popular crib school was available to those wishing to play or learn. The view watching the cruise ships leaving Southampton was amazing as was the history of the hospital as it was in WW1 laid out in the Chapel. An amazing place and well worth a visit. Thank you committee.
Upcoming rallies: Dec 30 - 2 Jan 25 New Years Eve Celebration at The Hurst School, RG26 2QR. Booking Required.
EAST MIDLANDS
19 vans attended our annual trip to the ‘Coppice Steam and Vintage Rally’ with 5 first time ralliers, and visitors from Yorkshire, Lancashire and Essex. Friday was a gorgeous, sunny if windy day and although the main event doesn’t start until Saturday, the Beer tent was well attended on the Friday night where they provided us live entertainment during the evening. The food stalls were also open on Friday evening for those that didn’t want to cook their own meals. Following heavy rain during the night, Saturday was something of a grey day, but there was plenty to see, in and around the arena, with displays of traction engines, tractors, vintage cars and motorcycles. Again, live music in the marquee kept members occupied and for those that saw it, there was a spectacular light display after dark by the lorries and heavy goods vehicles
on display. Sunday was a better morning enabling us to get a better look at repeats of the arena displays without the risk of rain.
A big thank you to Kev and Annie Porter on their first rally as stewards, I’m sure they’ll offer their services again.
17 vans attended the rally at Wainfleet, stewarded by Sandra, Rob, Andrew and Julia (their first time stewarding). After all vans were parked up members met around the stewards vans for the Chairman's welcome and a quiz about Lincolnshire, compiled by Sandra and won by Jane, Paul and Bob. Members then either returned to their vans or visited the local hostelries.
Saturday saw some members travelling by bus to Skegness or walking into Wainfleet, most returning in the afternoon for a game of Scattles (won by Bob) and the annual game of Lawn Darts, the trophy being won by Rob Smith. Saturday evening was bingo and a quiz from the Chairman.
Sunday morning was Chairman's chat and the raffle was drawn before everyone departed in the sunshine, the weather having been kind to us all weekend.
Our traditional Dinner Dance at Springfields in December has been replaced by a James Bond themed weekend. There will be an American Supper on the Friday night along with other entertainment and the Saturday night will have the 007 theme so we can still all wear our evening suits and ball gowns! Entertainment will be provided by a live band.
Upcoming Rallies: 8th-10th November, Collingham Cricket Club, NG23 7RF. 22nd-24th November, Skellingthorpe Community Centre, LN6 5UT. 6th-8th December, Springfields Events Centre, PE1
EAST WESSEX
Our late September rally at Winchester Cricket Ground got cancelled owing to a waterlogged site so only one report this month.
The meet up at Ringwood Primary School, over the week end of Sept 13th-15th and was hosted by Heather and Dave. We had a total of 14 vans turned up which was great, these comprised, 10 from East Wessex, 1 Scotland, 1 North West Midlands, 1 from Wessex and 1 from Yorkshire. New faces are always welcome to see as you know, and we were able to welcome Wayne and Tracy to East Wessex as they were not only new to the group but first time at a meet up as well, welcome to you all and thank you for coming along to some amazing sunny days to enjoy.
We had the use of the school hall so Friday evening saw us make good use of it for a meet and greet to the sounds to Pete’s music. There was a lot of chat and laughs to be had and it was good to see like minded people enjoy themselves, a picture quiz was given out to run over the week-end and everybody took part.
On the Saturday the weather was amazing so it saw
East Midlands
GROUP NEWS
most people take the short stroll into town and no doubt sample the various forms of refreshments available! As the weather was so nice on return we had tea and cakes in the sunshine, One of the groups visitors, Ray and Shirley were celebrating their 52nd wedding anniversary during the following week so congratulations to you both from us all. The evening saw us all back in the hall for more chat and laughs, we had the answers to the picture quiz, raffle, and another quiz to keep people on their toes, all to soon the evening came to an end and people went back for a good night’s rest.
Sunday saw another warm sunny day so enabled us to all meet again in the sun for more tea/coffee and the remainder of the cake from yesterday topped up with some biscuits, so with the announcements made etc. it soon became time to say goodbye till the next time.
Thanks to all who attended and helped and hope everyone enjoyed themselves.
Upcoming rallies: 29 Nov - 1-Dec: Easebourne CE Primary School, Wheelbarrow Castle, Easebourne, GU29 9AG. Christmas. Hardstanding and use of heated hall. Saturday: Saxophoney Michael. Quiz and raffle. Town 0.6mls, bus-stop 100yds. 5pm start, £30 fixed price for whole weekend (£26 singles). 30 Dec - 2 Jan: Burnham Copse Primary School, New Church Road, Tadley, RG26 4HN. New Year. Hard Standing, Use of heated hall. Music and party night (31st), fun and games (1st). Quiz, raffle. Pub 700yds, Bus stop / shops 300yds. 5pm start, £28 fixed price for whole weekend (£24 singles).
ESSEX
Pleshey Village Hall 6th-8th September. What a great weekend we all had at this themed rally of Vicars and Tarts fancy dress kindly hosted by Malcolm F, Jackie & Steve. We all had such a laugh and most people made a huge effort dressing up.
Everyone arrived Friday afternoon and we set up tables by our vans for a bring and buy sale. During the evening we had raffle,bingo and music along with plenty of drinks and chats.
Saturday was a lovely sunny relaxing day. Some went for a walk around the village aswell as visiting the local pub The Leather Bottle. Late afternoon we joined together and enjoyed a barbecue then all went into the hall in our outfits for a fun packed evening which included a parade to judge 2 winners for best fancy dress. Then we played a horse racing game, Scattergories, Dingbats & drew the raffle. It was also Malcolm's birthday so he kindly supplied wines and beers along with yummy cakes baked by Jackie, Malcolm's daughter. Late evening a few had a dance before bedtime.
Sunday morning we got together for chair chat, teas/ coffees, biscuits and more delicious cakes. Great weekend. Thank you to all involved.
Grange Farm Campsite 20th-23rd September. Good turn out and most arrived Friday afternoon for a lovely
sunny relaxing weekend. Early evening quite a lot of us walked to Thorpe Social Club for drinks and pizza from the Pizza Box Van. Very tasty as always .Then we strolled back to the campsite to have drinks and music supplied by Nick.
Saturday was another warm sunny day. Some went off to Walton on the Naze on the train, nice lazy day for the rest of us. Late afternoon we all sat together on picnic benches and had our meals, drew the raffle, Tony A read out a few short quizzes and Peter supplied a good playlist for the evening.
Sunday morning Nick & Sue made bacon rolls for everyone and Nick done his chair chat as quite a few people had to go home.
The day ended with a few of us walking to the local village pub The Crown for a few drinks before bedtime.
Monday morning we all said our goodbyes after such a lovely weekend. Thankyou to everyone involved.
Upcoming Rallies: November 1st-3rd Mayflower School, Stock Road, Billericay, CM12 0RT Start time 5pm December 6th-8th (CHRISTMAS PARTY) Mayflower School, Stock Road, Billericay CM12 0RT. Start time 5pm. Please note this is a bookable rally. For more information please contact our group secretary Liz Dyer on 07899848074
KENT
On a sunny weekend in October the Kent group were found to be at Sandwich Junior School for their AGM Rally.
32 members attended the AGM on the Saturday morning where we had a chance to say thank you to Digger (Brian) Graves who after several years on the committee stood down for a well-earned rest.
The AGM went very smoothly and the new Kent Committee for 2025 are as follows: Chairman – Mark Bassant, Vice Chairman – Lorna Carey, Treasurer - David Missions, Rally Officer - Dave Thorpe, Assistant Rally Officer - Angie Thorpe, Safety Officer - Steven Jarvis, Communications Officer – Gill Smith and SecretarySharon Jarvis. Please do all that you can to support them all throughout 2025.
Once the AGM had finished some members went into town for a stroll whilst others went to the pub for some great food! A splendid Duo entertained us superbly on the Saturday night with a full and varied programme of songs that got us up dancing the night away.
Upcoming Rallies: Christmas Party rally - Friday 6th to Sunday 8th December - Greatstone Primary School, Baldwin Rd, Greatstone, TN28 8SY. Short level walk to seafront. Plenty of restaurants and public houses in neighbouring New Romney. Christmas jumpers are a must as we join in with the silly games on Friday night. Saturday afternoon we will enjoy some mulled wine and mince pies as we decorate our tables for the Saturday party night at which we will have professional entertainment and a buffet for all to enjoy! This is a bookable rally. Start time 5pm. >>
Our first rally for 2025 will be 14th to 16th February 2025 at Sandwich Junior School, St Barts Road, CT13 0AS. Come along and join in some fun and games, hosted by Tony and Marilynne Hill, as we try and take away our winter blues! School is a short walk from the historic town of Sandwich. City of Canterbury is a short bus ride away. This is a bookable rally. Start time 5pm. Please contact Sharon on kent@motorcaravannersclub.co.uk for any bookable rallies.
ISLE OF WIGHT
Our Rally season is sadly coming to an end. Unfortunately sites that accept groups are not open during the winter season. We have had a good rally season and for the most part have been able to dodge the bad weather.
A good rally was held at The Fighting Cocks with members enjoying a meal together in the pub. The weather was fine and coffee and tea sessions were held outside in the sunshine. A brain stretching quiz required lateral thinking was provided by Teresa and Elaine who were excellent hosts. The boules was won by the boys again.
The rally at Comforts Farm was also successful and we welcomed John & Christine Lewis from NW Mids & NW. The weather was kind. Quizzes were played and an ample supply of cake. The boys won the Fred Print Boules Trophy this year but the girls put up a good fight.
Upcoming Rallies: Group Christmas dinner at The Fighting Cocks Saturday 7th December. Overnight parking for motorhomes is available.
LANCASHIRE
Chipping Showground Rally 13/15th Sept cancelled due to weather. Warton 27/29th Sept Friday in the room Bingo by Allan, music quiz by Rob, sale of various raffle tickets, music by Dean, line dancing and catch up with friends.
Saturday morning Tai Chi with Stephen, 1pm in the room for a MacMillan Charity LUNCH IN AID OF Breast cancer sponsored by Hilary/Barbara lovely spread of sandwiches, cakes and bucks fizz raised £150 well done for the work put into it, some members played dominoes. 6.30pm in the room for corned beef stew and cakes which was enjoyed by all. Thank you to committee members and all who helped for both events.
Later on we had a quiz by Barbara, Take your pick with Brian/Allan fantastic music by Dean who sorted all music for karaoke lots of members participated giving a night full of entertainment along with line dancing, great day had by all.
Sunday coffee morning David thanked all who attended the rally 20 vans, winners received there raffle prizes, he wished everyone a safe journey home. Thanking the hosts Lisa/Dean/Mel and Sandra.
Upcoming Rallies: 8th-10th November – Hoghton Village Hall PR5 0SG. 22th-24th November – Park High School BB8 7DP
MOTORCYCLE
AGM at Brailes Village Hall, 12-16 September. We arrived on site and unloaded the bikes for our last rally this year. We gathered in the hall that evening meeting up and chatting with everyone again.
Friday was a sunny dry day, just right for our annual Treasure Hunt. Martin explained the course and how extra points could be won, then cars and bikes collected their trail sheets and instructions and set off. The circular trail was 34 miles all round and extra points were awarded for completing in that mileage.
There was plenty to see in this lovely countryside as well as looking out for the clues, including a National Trust house, the Hook Norton Brewery, the Rollright Stones, the Four Shire Stone and numerous attractive villages. It was tiring getting on and off the bike to collect clues but we had a very enjoyable day.
That evening we gathered in the hall for a Faith Supper and plenty of food there was too. We listened to the singer Dominic Niven, who got us up dancing and singing along. Saturday was the AGM followed by the Members Meeting. It was decided to pull the raffle after the members meeting so the day visitors could take part and then we gathered out on the field for a group photo. Then time to relax in the sunshine. That evening the committee laid out a cheese and wine buffet with a disco. Prizes were awarded to the winners of the treasure hunt, Val & Phil and Adrian & Cathy.
On Sunday morning we had a tabletop sale outside our vans and in the afternoon some of us went back to the
Lancashire Group
Hook Norton Brewery for a Classic Car Show. That evening we had Jane's Silly Bingo, causing lots of laughter and Noreen's Quiz.
Monday we had the traditional bacon butties followed by a ride out to the Super Sausage Cafe, near Towcester. This is a popular meeting place for motorbikes and a great food menu. Martin led 14 bikes through the countryside via Silverstone Race Course. After refreshments and a group photo we headed back via Buckingham, Aynho and Deddington.
That evening we gathered in the hall again for another quiz and to celebrate Ian’s birthday with a slice of his birthday cake. We all left site on the Tuesday saying our goodbyes and looking forward to next year’s rallies.
NENE VALLEY
There were visitors from 4 other Groups to the Bubble Car Museum in early September. Although situated in the middle of nowhere, there was plenty to see at the museum, and the weather was even good enough for members to sit out, and play some outdoor games.
Some were able to visit East Kirby airfield to see the Lancaster, Mosquito and Liberator, also a 'flying' visit to Coningsby, home of the Battle of Britain flight. Altogether the rally went well.
We had visitors from 7 Groups to the Cranford Steam Rally, it was a well attended show, with plenty of exhibits to see, plus the usual food vans, stalls selling goods and the Beer tent, where there is always a Steam Engine with a birthday to be celebrated!
Fortunately everyone was able to safely leave the Rally at Cranford Steam, despite the heaviest and longest thunderstorms that we have had for a long while.
Upcoming Rallies: 8-10 November Geddington Youth Club, Grafton Road, Geddington NN14 1AJ Cost £12 pupn Limited numbers, Booking essential. Start time 1.00 pm. DO NOT enter Geddington by Queen Street, as there is a Ford and narrow bridge, Use West Street at traffic lights, or Queen Eleanor Road. 13 -15 December Pattishall Parish Hall, School Road, Astcote, Northants NN12 8NN. Christmas Dinner Weekend. Cost tba limited numbers. Booking essential. Booking details are given on the Nene Valley website www.nenevalleymcc.co.uk
NORTHERN COUNTIES
Hello everyone. Just a couple of rallies to report on this month. 4 to 9 September saw us at a brand new venue at Backworth Hall. An excellent venue with restaurant on site, which even served breakfast, and live entertainment including The Rock & Roll Preachers. Hosted by George Jobson, Bill & Ellen Hanby and Dave and Jan Hird with 39 Vans – 24 Northern Counties, 7 East Mids, 3 Yorkshire, 2 Lancs and 1 each from Anglia, Severn Valley and SW Wales. Everyone said it was such a good new site found by George and they would definitely return.
Next, from 20 to 23 September we were at Annstead Farm, Beadnell, a popular location right across the road from the beach. This was hosted by Lynne & Peter Dickinson with 22 vans – 17 Northern Counties, 4 Yorkshire and 1 Essex. George Jobson arranged a
Motorcycle Group
walk along the beaches to Embleton with a quick pint in Grays whilst waiting for the bus back, followed by another walk on Sunday. Saturday night was spent in the Craster Arms in the Garden Bar and a good time was had by all.
By the time you are reading this, our AGM will have taken place and we wish our new Committee all the very best for the coming year. My next newsletter will report on the AGM but after that I am standing down as newsletter writer.
Upcoming Rallies: 6 to 8 December – Darlington –Christmas Party – Bookable (costs and booking procedure to be announced at the AGM). 29 Dec to 2 Jan – Redcar Racecourse – New Year Rally – Bookable (costs and booking procedure to be announced at the AGM) We hope to see you at a rally soon.
Don’t forget to check our website for rally information and important updates: www.mccnortherncounties.co.uk.
N. IRELAND
Cookstown Rally & AGM 27th -29th September 2024. Friday 27th at 5:00pm saw the start of the MCC NI rally and AGM at Cookstown Primary School. Rally Hosts Robbie & Irene Hewitt and Victor and Eleanor McFadden ably assisted by Andy Clarke welcomed 33 vans for the weekend.
On Friday night we all enjoyed a sociable evening of bingo called by Victor and it was a profitable evening for some lucky winners. This was followed by a pleasant social hour or two catching up with friends and preparing the hall for the AGM on Saturday morning.
An unfortunate tripping incident for one lady committee member resulted in an overnight stay at Antrim Area Hospital and highlighted the importance of carrying, and using, a good torch, as the nights draw in and parking areas may be quite dark.
On Saturday morning the AGM was held, the Chairman made his speech and reports were given before the existing committee stood down and were replaced by the new committee for the next year 24/25, Sam Arlow being the Chairperson for the incoming year. The AGM was closed and welcome refreshments were organised by Selma McMullan helped by her team of lady assistants. The scones, cream and jam were delicious. This was followed by the Members Meeting where no questions were raised and the meeting was closed.
The rest of Saturday morning and afternoon was taken up by shopping trips, dining and the odd visit to some local hostelries. Later on, Saturday evening we danced until the wee hours to the superb music of Malcolm Coulter who provided music to suit all tastes. Sandra Dunn celebrated her birthday, Tom and Julie Lowry celebrated 52 years of marriage, and our Robbie’s birthday was noted as being upcoming this week. All wished well.
The coffee morning on Sunday had refreshments again organised by Selma & helpers. The new Chairman
Sam Arlow gave details from the weekend and reminded members of the change of venue for our next rally (details below) The number plate draws were won by Sandra Dunn and Iris McEwan.
Over the weekend we had visitors from MCC Head Office – Jacci Durkee, MCC Chair and husband Graham along with Les and Joyce McKendrick, who were made very welcome by both outgoing and incoming Chairmen. Members had the useful opportunity to meet and talk with them over the three days they were with us.
Rally was closed at 1:00pm and we all left looking forward to the next one. Robert & Iris McEwan.
NWM&NW
The rally in the moat at Eccleshall castle started quite fine and dry. Linda, Mike, Pam and Bob were our hosts for the long weekend. 10 vans arrived the first day and took the chance to explore the grounds and wander round the town. Numbers increased well on Friday bringing the total of 26 vans with visitors from Severn Valley and East Midlands coming to join us. We had bingo under the awning by torchlight, very atmospheric. Fortunately no one won a large fortune.
Many stayed on till after 10pm, braving the chill, chatting and generally socialising. Saturday morning saw Mike dispatched with a shopping list for an afternoon tea. This was planned for approximately 4.30pm. All was set under the awning and small gazebo. Sandwiches and cakes were displayed. Some people came well prepared in waterproofs and carrying umbrellas.
Nature played a wondrous part as entertainment with a fantastic light show accompanied by some faint rumblings building to deafening booms and bangs. The sky darkened and, then, the heavy rain poured down dancing on the roofs. There was plenty of food for all. The cakes were a particular favourite. Some members sheltered safely in town in the various pubs and cafes returning some time later rather wet.
The rain continued throughout the night, leading to an early departure on Sunday. All safely left the field with no dramas. Let's hope the next rally is much drier!
Our Christmas Party is at Bickerton Village Hall 13th to 15th December. Tickets are on sale from Eileen price £36 per person for the weekend including parking for two nights, a three course meal, wine and entertainment. Donations for the tombola should be wrapped if possible, thank you. Priority is to be given to NWM and NW members until 22nd November when it will be open to all Club members until 27th November. To book, pay and choose your menu ring Eileen. Limited places. For details on booking rallies please ring Eileen 07932651196.
Upcoming Rallies: November 15th to 18th Chester Race Course, Chester CH1 2LY. Hard standing, short walk to the city centre. Christmas market along with pubs, restaurants and shops. November 22nd to 24th Brymbo Sports and Social Club, Heritage Way, Brymbo,
GROUP NEWS
Wrexham LL11 5TF. AGM to be held on Saturday 23rd at 10am. December 13th to 15th Bickerton Village Hall, Bickerton SY14 8AU. Christmas Party. Hard standing, entertainment, dinner, wine. Book with Eileen.
SCOTTISH
September 4th till 7th saw a disappointing 3 units at the Drum Estate near Edinburgh. Despite the low numbers and indifferent weather members enjoyed the rally. Between 7th till 10th of September there were four units including from from Northern Counties and one from Northern Ireland. We were delighted to welcome the visitors who really enjoyed the location and the Scottish hospitality. A small tent was erected so we could all sit in and be warm and chat in the evening which was done over 2 nights, which I thought was lovely as no motorhome could comfortably fit 7 people and dogs! Now there is a challenge!
On the Thursday a few got the bus into Edinburgh for retail therapy and some members had family visiting. Some enjoyed the peace and quiet of Drum estate and relaxed in their van. As the 2024 season draws to a close your committee are working on the rally programme for 2025. The AGM was held on Sunday 20th October 2024 at Lathalmond Bus Museum, Dunfermline. Eric G
Forthcoming Rallies: 21st-25th November Cairnsmill Caravan Park St Andrews KY16 8 NN 2.00pm start. Booking required for catering purposes
Please do not arrive before the start time of 2.00pm for any rally. Please also note that payment must be cash as we have no facilities for card payments.
SEVERN VALLEY
Hereford Rowing Club Rally. We held a joint rally with the Motorcycle group at Hereford Rowing Club from the 17th to 22nd September. We had 23 Vans attend with 2 from W Wessex, 3 from Avon, 2 from Chiltern, 3 from Wales, 2 from NWMNW, 1 from Lancs, Essex and Yorks with 8 from Severn Valley.
We started off with good weather and beautiful sunshine until Friday afternoon when we were treated to a 5-hour thunderstorm and heaving rain. The heavy rain persisted through the weekend causing a number of vans to depart early. Luckily everyone was able to drive off the field with no one getting stuck or requiring a tow.
Alveley Sports and Social Club Rally and AGM 6th-8th September 2024. The rally opened at midday on Friday the 6th September, overcast initially but the sun soon came out to warm everyone up.
We had meet and greet on Friday evening with a Bingo session. Saturday was our AGM and registration opened for members to sign in.
Last year’s AGM was printed for members to acquaint themselves before the meeting and packs were available with information regarding this year’s meeting.
Doors closed and the AGM commenced at 11am with 30 members from Severn Valley attending. Two members from Lancashire one of whom who were also CoMs, four members from North Counties. This was followed by a Severn Valley Members Meeting, after refreshments.
The weather was rather wet on and off Saturday with rain in the evening but this didn’t dampen anyone’s spirit, some members caught the local bus in to the nearby town of Bridgenorth. Others went for lunch at the local pub and another Bingo session in the afternoon with chocolates for prizes.
In the evening it was time for everyone to enjoy a relaxing evening with a Disco playing music from all eras, a buffet with a variety of foods from kebabs, sandwiches, mini-stuffed jacket potatoes, there were also vegan and vegetarian options available. A raffle was drawn in the middle of the evening instead of at the usual Sunday coffee morning in case of bad weather and people needing to go home.
11am on Sunday despite the weather, we did manage to have a coffee morning before setting off for home whilst some members stayed on for Sunday lunch at the local pub.
Upcoming Rallies: 29th November-1st December Victorian Christmas Market and Xmas meal, Christopher Whitehead school, Worcs WR2 4AF. Only 2 spaces left, bookable through Andrea as on Website.
S&W WALES
Hi everyone, I hope you are all enjoying autumn; the dry, crisp days are perfect for motorhoming so, ideally, we will not see much more rain.
27th-30th September – Pembrey Country Park.
This popular rally was hosted by Barrie, Carol, Charles, John ‘the pipe’ and May. They parked up 34 vans including visitors from Avon, Lancashire and NW & NWM. We were delighted to welcome first-timers Jeff & Sian Knight, Yvonne & David Hughes, Mark & May Clayton, Jan & Mark Rigby, Andrew & Diane Jerwood and Kerry & Pauline Ellis.
We were lucky to have dry weather to visit the Pembrey Park Annual Steam Fair and Classic Car Show with the many stalls selling crafts and many delicious homemade goodies. The vintage double decker bus was a much appreciated help in travelling around the large park.
The coffee morning was a Saturday ‘coffee afternoon’ to avoid the rain forecast for Sunday, with Barrie and his team efficiently managing the raffle; the lucky van was won by a first timer. Sue thanked the hosts and welcomed the first-timers and visitors. Keith, our rally officer, apologised for the rally changes in this year’s programme which were usually due to venue issues. He reminded everyone that the Christmas Party would involve a buffet and a four- piece group; a deposit needed when booking. The New Year Party’s entertainment is a Tribute Act; booking needed due to limited parking places >>
Upcoming Rallies: 29th November -1st December – Llandovery Mart, SA20 0AP – Christmas lights & Fayre – starts 12noon. 13th-15th December – Tycroes RFC, SA18 3NY – Christmas Party rally – starts 12noon – Buffet and entertainment, BOOKABLE with the Rally Officer– deposit of £10 per person to the Treasurer. 29th Dec – 2nd January – Princess Gwenllian Centre, Kidwelly SA17 4UL – starts 12noon – New Year Celebration –entertainment is a Tribute Act – bookable with the Rally Officer due to limited space.
FOR ALL BOOKABLE RALLIES PLEASE CONTACT OUR RALLY OFFICER on 07791524227 or keithjhoward17@ gmail.com
SUSSEX
I hope you have all had a successful year so far, touring and attending meets with Sussex as well as other MCC areas and those further afield.
Hopefully, the AGM has taken place and you are eager to continue joining in with our future plans, looking forward to another year with friends old and new. Thank you everyone for your continued support.
Our October rally at Horam Manor Country Park enjoyed mostly warm, sunny days, with visitors from Kent and SWP groups adding to our Sussex members. Four well behaved dogs also enjoyed their visit, especially the doggie treats on hand throughout the weekend.
Daily get togethers included a cream tea, servings of ‘Reading’s Ready Rough’ and other alcoholic beverages, with excellent quizzes from Jeanne and Mick. The very rustic but delightful cafe/bar near the fishing lakes on the site served up a fantastic Sunday roast. Well done to the hosts, Linda and Michael Reading, Jeanne and Mick Boyce for making this a successful meet. Much appreciated!
Upcoming Rallies: November 1-3, Pound Hill Junior School, School Lane, Crawley, RH10 7EB, start time 6pm, featuring Halloween and the Vintage Car Weekend, hosts Carole and Gordon Bennett. No booking required. December 13-15, Willingdon Community School, Broad Rd, Eastbourne, BN20 9QX, start time 6pm, hosts Sussex MCC committee. Xmas Party! Everything you would expect and maybe a bit more! Cost £35 for the weekend, singles £30. December 30th - January 2nd, St Richard’s Catholic College, Ashdown Rd, Bexhill on Sea, TN40 1SF, start time TBC. Professional entertainment Monday 30th, Disco Tuesday 31st. Sussex will be hosting this rally as Kent have decided not to. Booking and deposits will be required, £20 to our Treasurer Mary Campbell (07717 790271), she’s already got some names! Again, everything you would expect and more! Let’s make sure this is one to remember!
Please check our website SussexMCC.weebly.com and Facebook page Sussex group of the Motorcaravanners Club for updates and details.
STOP PRESS…We have managed to book the
ever popular, Pocket Rocket, Mel, as our professional entertainment for the New Year Rally! Truly exceptional!
SWP
SWP September 26 to October 1 2024 Porth Rally report from our amazing Hosts Bob & Margaret Way in the future when SWP members gather around the rally shelter, drinks in hand some will boast that they were at the SWP Porth September 2024 rally and recall with pride how they survived the weekend and enjoyed it.
Why? Well, it all started well enough with a gathering of 20 units 13 SWP, 5 West Country 1 Avon and 1 Severn Valley from the start of the rally on Thursday.
The weather on Friday was windy and showery but that did not stop many from taking walks along the coastal path to Newquay and the bus to Padstow.
Friday afternoon we had a meet and greet but because of the strong winds it was agreed putting up the club shelter was not a good idea, so Mike and Linda got out their Quest 3 X 3 Screen House. We pegged it down well and tethered it to anything solid around it to put the drinks and nibbles table inside. The fun started with the first of several very heavy bursts of rain, but we managed to get 18 of us in to the Quest House to shelter from the rain, with drinks in hand and not a drop was wasted.
Saturday the weather improved and we had blue skies and sunshine so people took advantage of the lovely Porth beach. In the afternoon the rally was reintroduced to the Viking Kubb game following its success at our Bossiney rally. All went well until some of the crew adopted their version of the rules that was quickly sorted with help of our secretary! We made up 7 teams of 3 and had a very entertaining and enjoyable afternoon.
We had a severe weather warnings for Saturday night and Sunday, and we certainly got it, the vans were rocking (in the wind!) like ships at sea and the rain lashed down. With the storm continuing to persist most of us staggered over to the pub just across the road from the site for a long leisurely Sunday lunch. By Monday morning the storm had passed and the remaining survivors started to make their way home.
Our thanks to everyone who came and despite the weather we all enjoyed the weekend and the company of MCC members.
Upcoming Rallies: November 7-11 = 4 nights. Wooda Farm Holiday Park, Bude 30th Anniversary Rally November 29-2 = 3 nights DECEMBER Christmas Party Weekend. Tencreek Holiday Park, Polperro Road, Looe, Cornwall PL13 2JR. Bookings for SWP members will commence on Monday 30th September and Monday 14th October for all MCC members.
This year the party is at Tencreek Holiday Park, Polperro Road, Looe, Cornwall PL13 2JR. £22.50 pupn. Meal £16 pp - Payment for Number of nights and Meal per person is required when booking.
SPECIAL DOMETIC/THETFORD
•
•
• 90-degree flexibility •
TOILETS & SPARES
Motorhome caravan camper toilet kem KAMPA
Motorhome/Caravan Wallboard
WHITE PLASTER SCRAP
SCRAP BOARDS 3mm Far Eastern
Ply Vinyl Faced Wallboard.
Available sizes: 6ft x 4ft Colour rendition is an approximation and cannot be guaranteed. PRICE PER BOARD. PICK UP ONLY
• Scratch-resistant, very easy to clean ceramic inlay
• Insens Touch Control Display
• Ergonomically shaped, comfortable seat
• Bowl can be adjusted up to 90° in both directions
• Built-in breather tube on the cassette helps to remove odours
WEST COUNTRY
When you get this report, our AGM will be over for another year and hopefully the new committee will be in place. Many thanks to those who did make the effort to attend
Our rally at Leadstone, a new site for us saw 36 vans attend and despite the unsettled weather at the start changed to sun. Many thanks to Jim and Jenny to standing in as co-hosts at the last minute to help Kate. We enjoyed Kate’s quiz which certainly kept everyone talking right up until the end of the rally.
We enjoyed some social evenings along with a cheese and wine evening. Many people enjoyed catching the bus to visit Dawlish, Paignton and Torquay. The Fungi farm next door proved popular for breakfast and coffee breaks.
Our second rally in September was to Kings Down trail, yet again as has seemed the story of this year the weather certainly put us through our paces, with torrential rain and winds one day and the sun kindly shining at other times. We had 15 west country, 1 East Midlands, 1 Scottish, 2 Severn Valley, 3 West Wessex, 1 Sussex, 1 South West Wales, 2 Soth West Peninsular, 1 Chiltern and 2 Avon.
People still managed to get out and about, buses to Sidmouth and Seaton. People visited the local donkey sanctuary. We were fortunate in having the use of a room next door to the onsite pool for the evenings and were treated to wine and cheese, a quiz evening, card bingo and thanks to Derek our usual Bingo.
A number of the ralliers took advantage of the fried breakfast provided by the site on Saturday morning. Many thanks to Pat and Jan Browncey for hosting with Jan and Derek.
Upcoming Rallies: Our last remaining rally for this season is bookable details are on our website, and is our Christmas Dinner and Dance. Meals are payable in full on booking. Riverside Caravan Park EX36 3HQ 5th – 9th December.
WEST WESSEX
Sue and Chum welcomed 18 motorhomes to the rally at Brassknocker Basin on one of the very wet weekends that have blighted this month. Despite the frequent downpours, everyone enjoyed the game’s afternoon, socialising with friends, walking the canal paths and venturing out to Bath. Our other rally, this month, was cancelled.
Upcoming rallies: 28 Nov - 1Dec (3 nights) pre CHRISTMAS PARTY at Hamworthy Club, Canford Magna, BH21 3AP. Hard standing, water and Elsan. Sports Club and bar open each day. 2 course meal, and disco on party night and food provided on second night also included. There will be games, quizzes and music in the private function room to keep you entertained. Food is available in the Club bar at lunchtimes and on the third night, with a carvery available on Sunday. Chocks required. For more information and to book please contact
Maria on 07887393137. Cost £110 to include food and entertainment on 2 nights. There are a few spaces available at the time of writing.
New year Celebrations will be at St Michael’s Middle School, Colehill , Wimborne BH21 7AB on 29th December - 2nd January. Hosts Andy and Gill. There will be excellent food included on 30th, New Year’s Eve and New Years Day, as usual. There will be quizzes, bingo, dancing, fun and games all weekend and of course, music provided by the ENIGMA ROAD SHOW. Cost £80 per couple/£65 single. Bookable with Gill on 07746058606. All rallies start at 12 noon. Please do not arrive too early. See WW website for full details and directions to all rallies.
YORKSHIRE
The only rally held in September was also our last rally before our AGM in October, which was held at the Bridlington Yacht Club. A great few days weather wise - it spoilt itself for only one hour over the weekend. We were blessed with some beautiful sunsets.
The attendance for the Rally was 49 vans in total, comprising 26 Yorkshire, 9 East Midlands 4 Lancs, 3 Anglians and one each from Essex, West Wessex and Scotland.
The rally venue was a superb location by the beach, quite a few had taken dogs which was ideal for walking them. many went onto the beach with them, there was also a couple of horses being exercised there. One pair, Val Sawczyn and Brian Cross took the opportunity to do a bit of metal detecting. With the weather being favourable most took the opportunity to walk into Bridlington town itself. There was also an ice cream van that turned up in the evening.
Upcoming Rallies: 8-10 November – Skipton Auction Mart; 29 November – 1 December DRAX Social Club.
Yorkshire Group
• Rallies welcome
• Award-winning amenities block
• Disabled facilities
• Wi-Fi • Shop
• Elec hook-up
• Hardstanding & grass
• Nearby attractions
• Close to pubs and walks
• Motorhome service point
• Children’s park
• Self-catered chalet
• Barn to hire
• Wood-fired pizzas on Fridays (inhighseason)
Safe nights Ireland (SNI) is a club for people who love life on the open road but long for the security of their home. We provide overnight parking for RV Motorhomes throughout the country.
We now have over 350 locations all over Ireland in every County and we now have over 1700 members from Ireland, the UK and all across Europe.
SNI work on an annual membership subscription. Each member receives a card which must be presented at all SNI sites.
01829 760544 • booking@elmcottage.co.uk Little Budworth, Cheshire, CW7 2QJ
www.elmcottage.co.uk
Broadhembury Caravan & Camping Park
Broadhembury Caravan & Camping Park
Broadhembury Caravan
& Camping Park
5 star family park and adults meadows
• Generous hardstandings
5 star graded separate family park and adults meadows
• Fully serviced pitches
A peaceful and picturesque 5 star, award-winning caravan and camping park set in the glorious Kent countryside. Surrounded by woodland, farmland and apple orchards, with many beautiful countryside walks, woodland walks and wonderful dog walks direct from the park. 120 spaciously-set pitches within 36 acres, large enough for caravans, awnings, motorhomes and all modern style tents. Many visitors return year after year creating a friendly, family atmosphere. We also have lodges available for sale/rent.
Marden, Kent,TN12 9ND
• Warm, spacious fully accessible facilities
• Generous hardstandings
• Generous hardstandings • Fully serviced pitches
5 star graded separate family park and adults meadows
• Family & Babies’ bathroom
5 star graded separate family park and adults meadows • Generous hardstandings • Fully serviced pitches
• Park security
• Fully serviced pitches
5 star graded separate family park and adults meadows • Generous hardstandings
• Dog friendly
• Many local foopaths
• Warm, spacious showers & toilets • Family bathroom
• Warm, spacious showers & toilets • Family bathroom
• Fully serviced pitches
• Babies room
• Warm, spacious showers & toilets • Family bathroom
• Babies room
• Babies room
• Warm, spacious showers & toilets
• Fully accessible facilities
• Excellent location for exploring Kent
• Fully accessible facilities
• Campers Kitchen
• Campers Kitchen
• Campers Kitchen
• Babies room
• Fully accessible facilities
• Laundry room
• Laundry room
• Laundry room • Park security
• Campers Kitchen
• Park security
• Park security
• Family bathroom
• Fully accessible facilities
• Excellent location for exploring Kent
• Very convenient campervan & motorhome parking in Ashford for shops, fast trains to London, Canterbury and elsewhere in Kent.
• Laundry room
• Excellent location for exploring Kent
• Excellent location for exploring Kent
• Park security
• Excellent location for exploring Kent
T: 01233 620859 | www.broadhembury.co.uk
T: 01233 620859 | www.broadhembury.co.uk
T: 01233 620859 | www.broadhembury.co.uk
Email: holidaypark@broadhembury.co.uk
Email: holidaypark@broadhembury.co.uk
T: 01233 620859 | www.broadhembury.co.uk
Email: holidaypark@broadhembury.co.uk
Steeds Lane, Kingsnorth, Ashford, Kent TN26 1NQ
Email: holidaypark@broadhembury.co.uk
Steeds Lane, Kingsnorth, Ashford, Kent TN26 1NQ
Steeds Lane, Kingsnorth, Ashford, Kent TN26 1NQ
Steeds Lane, Kingsnorth, Ashford, Kent TN26 1NQ
REIGN IN THE SPAIN winter touring special
Frances and Michael Howorth ship across the Bay of Biscay with Brittany Ferries to Discover Northern Spain
If you think of the Kingdom of Spain as a country of Flamenco dancers, bullfights, Sangria and gypsy folklore, you have fallen for a stereotype image of southern Spain. The northern part, hugging the coastline of the Bay of Biscay, offers a very different landscape and culture.
The autonomous regions of the north are noticeably cooler and wetter than those in the south but nevertheless, they offer some great opportunities for touring motorcaravanners. We spent two glorious weeks travelling the Basque Country, La Rioja and Cantabria and in this, and next month's edition,
we will describe our adventures and hopefully inspire you to follow in our foot steps.
One of the best parts of touring northern Spain is that you can leave the getting there to someone else. All you have to do is drive your van to either Portsmouth or Plymouth and leave Brittany Ferries to do the
La Rioja is both a province and an autonomous region located in the North of Spain
recent
rest. True, you can cross the channel into France and drive all the way to Bilbao but you will be paying for fuel, motorway tolls and adding milage to the clock. We chose to drive to Portsmouth and drive onto the car deck of the ferry Galicia and enjoy the crossing. Given it is a two-night passage, Brittany Ferries offer a service that is a cross between a ferry and a cruise ship. Comfortable cabins, good food and onboard entertainment are all available. We chose to avail ourselves of the C - Club lounge (free for those staying in Commodore Suite and 2-berth Club cabins). This comfortable space was available throughout the day and included complimentary food and drink. The ship also has pet-friendly cabins
and are close to an outside exercise area exclusively for the use of pet owners. But a word of advice, you will need to book early as these sell out fast. So fast, that despite us booking one year in advance, Tuvok, our campervan cat had to stay home!
Our second piece of advice, when it comes to planning, is to try and arrive at your departure port with an almost empty fuel tank. Fuel prices are much cheaper in Spain than the UK, and unlike Great Britain, diesel is cheaper than petrol. On one occasion, we fuelled up at 97 pence per litre at a time when the price back home was £1.42.
Sailing from Portsmouth late in the evening of day one saw us spend two nights and one full day on >>
In
years Bilbao has become an artistic and cultural centre
board. We arrived in Bilbao early in the morning of day three, and that gave us a full day to explore the city.
Bilbao is Spain’s fourth largest city and has, over the last 30 years or so, transformed itself from a grimy industrial manufacturing centre into a high-tech, business hub that supports the country’s finance and insurance sectors. This dramatic cleanup has seen it cultivate artistic and cultural attractions and it is a very pleasant city in which to spend a day or two. Among the visits a first timer should make is a trip to the Frank Gehry designed, Guggenheim
Museum which has become a 21st century symbol of Bilbao’s rebirth. Art inside the museum is somewhat Marmite. You either love it or hate it! Certainly there are works from many talented artists but we cannot help wonder if some of it was put up on the walls as a joke! If you have been to the Guggenheim before, and do not want to repeat the experience, try the Museum of Sacred Heart or the Maritime Museum, they both offer extremely different subjects, but each is well presented and well worth visiting.
The north regions are noticeably cooler and wetter than those in the south but they offer some great opportunities for touring motorcaravanners.
We spent our first night parked in a Motorhome Service spot in the pretty, but not startling so, fishing village of Geteria. Had it been a Monday, we would have certainly made the detour inland to the town of Guernica where the market draws in crowds of locals and their locally grown produce. Guernica Lumol, as it is correctly called, became famous when Pablo Picasso created a dramatic piece of art depicting the devastation of the village when it was bombed by Nazi Germany in
Sculpture in The Guggenheim
Our overnight spot in Getaria
The harbour in Getaria
Voyager parked in a street in Bilbao
Willowcro Caravan Park
Willowcro is a small, family run two acre site set in peaceful, unspoilt surroundings. Only a two minute walk from the river, where you can sh, sail, row, or simply walk along the river bank into Po er Heigham village. The site o ers showers, toilets, electric hook-ups, welcomes dogs and is a haven for bird watchers, cyclists and walkers. Close to great sandy beaches and the hustle and bustle of Great Yarmouth and Norwich.
8 all weather, fully serviced, hard standing pitches
Carvynick Holiday Park, nestled in the heart of the Cornish countryside, offers the perfect base for exploring Newquay’s worldfamous beaches and beyond. Our well presented hardstanding pitches are ideal for motorhomes, caravans and campervans and come fully serviced with water, electric and waste outlets. Guests can also enjoy use of our on-site shower facilities as well as on-site pub. Pets and families very welcome.
1937. The artwork itself has been moved to Madrid.
Save for the market there is little else of real interest in the town so we moved on, in search of a wine made locally called Txakoli (pronounce the tx as the ch in chocolate and you will understand why we call it Chocoli!). This tart, young wine is made from white grapes grown on the hills that face the north. That means they are exposed to the elements that are created by the Bay of Biscay. Perhaps it is the wind driven salt and the way it is made in small batches, that gives the wine a slightly zingy, but not sparkling aftertaste. As luck would have it, we arrived in time to witness harvest. The bad part about that
was that most of the wineries were not prepared to give us a tour or a tasting. The good news was that one did know of our impending arrival and was prepared to take time to show us how and where Txakoli is made and allow us a tasting.
The Talai Berri winery is run and operated by the same family who have over the last five generations farmed this land. Over 12 hectares of land is devoted to growing grapes and here, unlike many wineries, everything to do with producing the finished product is done on site with much of it done by hand. Onditz Beristan, the daughter who looks after the sales and marketing, greeted us on arrival and showed
how it is done. Then, in the sunshine, sitting on the balcony, overlooking the workers picking next year's wine, we tasted this year’s vintage. And very nice it was too. So nice in fact,
Michael (above) with a container of picked grapes and Onditz Eizagirre Beristain (top), one of the family, pouring wine for a tasting at Talai Berri Txakoli winery (main image).
Gran Camping Zarautz
Camping, Touring & Holiday Accommodation Visitors Welcome to BASECAMP, our Café, Bar and Restaurant
CLIPPESBY HALL, HALL ROAD, CLIPPESBY, NR29 3BL
we bought a case of it to take home. Tradition has it that this wine is poured from a height. The reason, we learned, is to aerate it and so enhance its flavour and aromas. This is especially beneficial for young and slightly effervescent wines. Txakoli is an interesting and unusual wine and not one you are likely to find in Sainsbury’s, so be sure to book a tour and tasting online. Rather conveniently the winery is opposite the entrance to Gran Camping Zarautz, the largest, year-round campsite in the Basque Country.
Far more famous, and quite a bit more expensive, is the other wine of northern Spain. Rioja is
and whilst the opportunities to photograph harvest workers in the field and plump juicy grapes on the vine were wonderfully numerous, it was a time when most tours and tastings had been temporarily discontinued. The fact is, however, the wine is so famous you can buy it in the many local bodegas or even find it on the shelves of local supermarkets. Logrono is the capital of the region but we chose to stay overnight in Haro a town very much associated with the storage and distribution of the wine. The Municipality of Haro clearly recognise the buying power of the motorcaravan dollar and have taken great pains to welcome vans into Locals and tourists eating and drinking on the
the product of La Rioja, Spain’s smallest region. It is a land famous for its trout streams and dinosaur footprints, but those features often become overlooked by those seeking out some of the finest red wines in the world. Once again, our arrival in the area coincided with harvest
famous Laurel Street, Logrono
Peace Square in medieval village of Haro
Lakeside Touring Park – Stretton, Oakham, Rutland
town. A completely free to use Aire, big enough for 15 units, has been created by the council and it is secure behind electrically operated gates. This means you can simply and safely park while touring the town and buying wine. And, if you sample a glass or three over dinner in one of the many excellent restaurants, you can sleep it off in your van, secure in the knowledge that you are safe until you have to leave the following morning.
There is a lot to see and do in this part of the country, our message here is take your time and enjoy the region for what it offers as well as the scenery. Four miles away from Haro, the town of Briones is worth a visit. This walled village is full of beautifully maintained 15th and 16th century mansions and a delightful gothic church. If you do stop there, consider visiting the well-presented museum dedicated to the culture of the vine. Other places of interest along the Haro to Longoro road, include San Vincente de la Sonsierra, San Asensio and Fuenmayor.
that by making it easy and safe to park overnight, campervans and motorhomes will flock there to do just that. Completely free to use and just a short walk away from the centre of town the municipality provides space for 10 or so vehicles offering waste disposal and water tank top-ups without charge. Tolosa is a brilliant destination for food lovers and each Saturday hosts not just one, but three produce markets. The markets have been held here every Saturday for centuries and is one of the most well-known in the Basque Country. But if you can be certain of the market in Tolosa being open on a Saturday you can be
Voyager in the Spanish aire in Tolosa
Mushrooms in market in Tolosa
The walled town of Briones
Church at San Vincente de la Sonsierra
Tolosa village and Oria river
equally certain that nothing much anywhere is open on a Sunday. In fact, we have only really discovered two things you can successfully consider doing anywhere in northern Spain on a Sunday. The first is to go to church, the second is to go for Sunday lunch. Not being God fearing folk, we opted for the second! We drove to Asador Jose Mari in the village of Rivas del Tereso, just 7 miles northeast of Haro. In 1974 Jose Mari and his wife Conchi set up this little restaurant in the hills. Forty years on, it is Jose Mari’s grandson who looks after those that come here to eat, even though Jose Mari himself can still be found propping up the bar. Ever since the restaurant was first inaugurated, the emphasis has been on simple food, cooked well, using the finest of ingredients. Sunday lunch is not something to rush, and here it seems to be an >>
all-afternoon affair. Indeed, we thought we might have been allocated a second sitting when we were told the earliest table we could have, was at 1:30pm. But no, we were among the first to arrive, and we did not leave our table under the trees on the restaurant’s patio until just before 4pm! Families and groups of friends seemed to drift in throughout the afternoon with one party finally turning up for lunch at just after 3pm. We both enjoyed a filling, delicious and very unhurried four course, fixed price meal with a bottle of Rioja (of course) for just under €50. Sitting in the afternoon sun, sipping wine and smelling our lamb being cooked on the wood burning BBQ, known locally as a parillada, was one of the most memorable moments of our time in La Rioja.
Sunday lunch is a pleasure that can be found in many parts of the world but there is one food practice found nowhere else except in the
Sunday lunch is not something to rush, and here, it seems to be an all-afternoon affair.
Lunch
Basque Country. Pintxos are a quintessentially Basque tradition. The word pintxo comes from the verb pinchar, or skewer, because these delicacies were historically, skewered with a toothpick and served on top of a slice of bread. Pintxos began in bars out of necessity. They were served to go with the wines that people came to the bars to sample. Slowly but surely, these snacks became indispensable and over time the tradition of "going out for pintxos" ("ir de pintxos") caught on, and going out for pintxos is one experience you should not miss out on while you are here.
Another experience not to be missed is the town of Labastida (shown on some maps as Bastida which is the Basque name for it). Just east of Haro between the River Ebro and the Sierra de Toloño mountain range, this medieval town is famous for its wall art. All along the main street (Calle Mayor) are houses built in the 16th century for the rich and noble. Back then, it was the
fashion to decorate the front of your palace with the family coat of arms. Wonderfully preserved they can still clearly been seen today and they are a wonder to behold.
Having enjoyed ourselves in La Rioja and the Basque Country it was time to move onto our next region, Cantabria. Our first stop was to be the Parque de Cabárceno, a two hour drive away on fast motorways. We, however, chose to take the scenic route using roads that are much more rural. Country roads are, generally speaking, good in Spain and are certainly better maintained than in the UK. Sometimes they can be narrow but since they are, by British standards, almost empty that is seldom a problem.
We arrived at our destination refreshed (having lunched locally on the way) and on the outskirts of a stunning park, finalised our plans for the next few days in this region. You however, dear reader, will have to wait until next month to find out what we found in Cantabria...
The wine city of Labastida (above). Pintxos (left), is a traditional Basque Country tradition.
Labastida is full of wonderfully preserved 16th century buildings
Grape vines near Labastida ready to havest
at Asador Jose Mari
IESCAPE CLOSER TO
HOME
As sumertime comes to an end there are still plenty of reasons to jump in your van and explore the UK this winter
f travelling further afield for some winter sun is not your thing there is still plenty to enjoy closer to home. As the nights close in and the summer crowds disappear it can be a great time of year to find some peace and solitude and marvel at the changing seasons. Before hitting the road there are two essential things to remember – keep warm and stay safe. Staying
safe starts with your 'van; before leaving check the pressure of your tyres and if needed change to winter tyres. Top up your windscreen wash solution making sure you use a winter strength solution and stock up with de-icer. Check gas bottles and test your car battery, ensuring you have a leisure battery in case of emergencies.
If your motorhome is prone
SIX AMAZING PLACES TO VISIT THIS WINTER
THE LAKE DISTRICT
A mecca for wildlife lovers all year round, winter brings a peaceful atmosphere and a great chance to experience a white Christmas!
NORFOLK BROADS
Enjoy cosy fires in local pubs, heritage railway trips, museum visits, and seal watching at the coast.
NEW FOREST
Winter in the New Forest is a magical time. Enjoy long walks, bird watching and long pub lunches.
CORNWALL
Perfect for walking, cycling or even cold water swimming, Yes, it can be wet and windy but Cornwall is transformed into a peaceful haven in winter. And, when the weather turns you can always enjoy a pint and a cornish pasty!
to condensation, then you should ensure you wipe your windows frequently. Also, move your bedding and seating away from the walls and raise them as this lets warm air circulate beneath them.
Ensure that your mobile phone is fully charged at all times and keep your emergency numbers handy. Since you will be spending lots of time in your camper, take
SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
The likelihood of snow makes the Scottish Highlands perfect for skiers or snowboarders in the winter months. But the spectacular scenery and stunning winter colours also makes it a haven for nature lovers and photograhers alike.
SNOWDONIA if you want to get away from it all and avoid the crowds, the winter months are the perfect time to visit Snowdonia National Park. Enjoy the amazing snow capped mountains and crystal clear lakes as you take on one of the many hiking trails.
Scottish Highlands Norfolk Broads
Cornwall
Snowdonia National Park
along a car charger with you.
Once on the road drive carefully, especially when in snow. Monitor your speed and accelerate and decelerate slowly to prevent skids. Allow extra time for the journey; cold conditions call for slower speeds. In poor weather try to keep to main roads as these are more likely to be gritted than minor ones.
Once parked up at your campsite keep your motorhome warm by following some of these tips from Oaktree Motorhomes:
• Get an oil-filled radiator to keep you warm and cosy at night.
• Leave your drain tap open and empty the waste water inside a bucket.
• Utilise RV skirting.
• Install proper insulation in different areas of your vehicle including the
windows, doors, and floors.
• Separate the cab area from the rest of the living space with curtains.
• Make use of solar panels to help convert the light from the sun into usable electricity for your camper.
• Opt for a propane heater with advanced features like a fire-resistant casing, an auto shut-off feature, and an oxygen depletion sensor. Finally check your winter wardrobe, in these colder months more is definitely more! Pack a good quality winter coat, rain coats, scarves, gloves, hats and thermal underwear.
Remember layers. layers and more layers! When it comes to bedding keep additional blankets in your van and consider flannel or fleece sheets, heated blankets, mattress pads and down comforters.
Keep your vehicle moving safely on snowy or icy roads with AutoSock. AutoSock are reusable textile socks, sold in pairs, that are pulled over the driving wheels when extra grip is needed, For more details visit www.autosockdirect.co.uk
Over 30 years experience in providing restful holidays for families, cyclists, fishermen and wildfowlers
Our 4 star AA approved flagship site offers:
Electric hook-ups • Car charger points • Elsan points • Showers (coin operated) • Toilets • Laundry facilities (coin operated) • Washing up area • WiFi • Kid’s play area • Storage available • Onsite shop selling essentials, caravan accessories, Fishing tackle and bait • Five lakes and private riverbank fishing
WELCOME we can cater for up to 100 motorhomes
Peaceful village location with pubs, golf course and transport links nearby
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.
Crossword Puzzle
Can you find the education themed words listed below?
Co-ed
Pupil
Scout
Seminar
Swot
Term
Test
Tuition
Across 9 Inverted slow-mover (5)
10 Hyped too high (9)
11 Carton containing other cartons (5)
12 Exciting experience (9)
13 Tee total (3)
14 Once the subject of a financial bubble (5)
15 House of worship (9)
17 Explode (5)
19 It's white for a new pope (5)
22 Construction sites with slipways (9)
24 Informal greeting (3,2)
26 Temporary home for many serious cases (1-1,1)
27 Most employees think this of themselves (9)
29 Goes for gold (5)
30 Lofty (9)
31 Military subdivisions (5) Down
1 Dates (7)
2 Backpackers' stopover (6)
3 Neither you nor me, but the other guy (5,5)
4 Sudden attacks (6)
5 Portions (8)
6 Left behind after a cat vanishes (4)
7 Conflict (8)
8 Stuck redhead goes crazy (7)
16 Pleasant mood (4,6)
17 Benificiary of a Biblical miracle (5,3)
18 Corrida Star (8)
20 Soften minced sausage (7)
21 Hold (7)
23 The "Ice Age" (6)
25 Advantageous to both sides (3-3)
28 Harassed persistently (4)
Tea Break Teasers
(from page 66-67)
Private sale advertisements
MOTORHOMES
FORD TRANSIT M.W.B. Diesel 2004, good parking. 95,970 miles V.G.C, 2 berth. M.O.T Feb 2025. New - glowplugs, battery, clutch. Lots of cupboards, awning, microwave, toilet room and kitchen. £6,000. Tel: 07561 557609
Redditch
VEHICLES/BIKES
BANTAM SMART CAR TRAILER,
Alloy ramps, spare wheel, tie down straps, fitted with powertouch motor mover. £950 ONO. Te|: 077308 27665 (Essex)
TRECK ELECTRIC CYCLE.
Front telescopk forks. Sprung seat, as new. Done 53 miles, £700, ONO. New £1400. Tel: N Lincs 07719 921975
ACCESSORIES
CHERISHED NUMBER PLATE: E2 BED
Currently held on retention - ready to transfer. £1000. Tel: 07415 533535
DOMETIC AWNING RALLYAIR
PRO 3305. Electric pump. Height 235-265. £480 ONO. New £1250. Tel: 07719 921975
QUEST SCREEN HOUSE PRO SHELTER only used twice. £200. FIAMMA MOTORHOME DOOR LOCKS X2. Both with the same key. £30. Tel: 07940 817854. Bristol
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.
Name:
Address:
Postcode:
Telephone:
Club membership number:
Please indicate whether your item is: FOR SALE WANTED
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
