Welcome to October, I was thinking of asking how did the summer months go so quickly, but like most of us I haven’t seen much of the summer this year, here’s hoping the autumn is kind to us.
RANGEFINDER
28 Perfectly proportioned Panama: Gentleman Jack says “Hola” to a freshly imported brace of campervans…
53 This month Frances & Michael Howorth explore the West Midlands & Wales
As we go into the autumn, the time of year when the Groups have their Annual General meetings, it seems appropriate to thank all of those committee members and officers who have given up so much of their time to help run our great Club's Groups.
With committee changes I would like to extend a warm welcome to all newly elected. I am sure that the previous volunteers will be on hand to offer help and advice where needed.
Remember if everyone does a little, we would all get so much in return, it pays forward.
Sue Pilkiw (07562 324325) suep@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
GROUP SECRETARIES CONTACT LIST
Jan Wilcox 07833 625740
Publisher/Editor:
Contributors:
Health & Safety Officer:
Keith Poole (07736 544490)
keithp@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
CLUB OFFICIALS
Casual Campsites:
Kate Jones (07747 000587) katejone@googlemail.com
Financial Officer: Paul Maguire (07973 827506)
Junior Leaders: Maria Hill & Gill Crosby juniors@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
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.
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
GARTON ON THE WOLD MEMBERS' CASUAL CAMPSITE
We would like to thank all that helped to make the Garton on the Wold Members' Casual Campsite such a friendly place. With Fish & Chips delivered to the
site barn on our first Friday and a visit to the fish restaurant on the second Friday we enjoyed it immensely.
Nigel and Julia (Club members)
AVON GROUP CHRISTMAS MEAL
Avon Group have now received confirmation of their Christmas meal at Fromebridge Mill as part of their rally 5-8 December. The cost is £35 for the meal plus £1 rally fee per person. Please note this needs to be paid by 12 October.
Please contact Christine Gautier (christine@gautier.me.uk) for more information and bank details for payment.
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.
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.
Up To Find Out
JOIN US FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURE IN FRANCE
The holiday resort of La Tranchesur-Mer, located on the Atlantic coast in the Southern Vendee, boasts a prime position facing south towards the Isle de Re. Known for its favourable climate, it features 8km of fine sandy beaches, making it one of the most popular destinations in the Vendee.
Camping Base d’Aunis is a highly popular four star site which offers direct access to a sandy beach through a secure pedestrian gate and across a car park. The town centre is just 300m away. The site is shady and level and each pitch is equipped with 10amp electricity. On site amenities include a heated swimming pool as well an an excellent restaurant and bar.
Cost
Prices start from £775 and include 14 nights at Camping Baie d’Aunis including tourist tax and a return ferry crossing with P&O ferries for two people travelling in a motorhome.
KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH THE CLUB
P&O Ferries offer day sailings from Dover to Calais, travelling standard season between 6am and 2pm and Calais to Dover between 2pm and 11.59pm. Alternative sailings are available with Irish Ferries and Le Shuttle.
Three options
• Rally 1: Arriving 30 May 2025, departing 13 June 2025. Please note this rally is almost fully
booked.
• Rally 2: Arriving 13 June 2025, departing 27 June 2025.
• Rally 3: Arriving 31 August 2025, departing 14 September 2025.
Bookings are now open for all rallies and spaces are limited so don’t miss out on this opportunity to rally abroad, email stevew@ themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk for more information or to book.
Beach at La Tranche sur mer
GROUP AGM s
West Country
Sat 12 Oct, 2.30pm
Riverside Caravan Park, South Molton EX36 3HQ
Sussex
Sat 19 Oct, 10:30am
Willingdon Community Sch, Broad Rd, Willingdon, Eastbourne BN20 9QX
Kent
Sat 5 Oct, 11am
Sandwich Junior School, St Bart's Rd, Sandwich CT13 0AS
Essex
Sat 12 Oct, 10am
Mayflower School, Stock Rd, Billericay CM12 0RT
Anglia
Sat 26 Oct, 10:30am
Alderman Peel School, Market Lane, Wells next the Sea NR23 1RB
Fri 11 Oct, 6pm Woodlands Leisure Park, Totnes TQ9 7DQ
S & W Wales
Sat 2 Nov, 12pm
Ysgol Cymraeg, Caerphilly CF83 3HG
Nene Valley
Sat 12 Oct, 2pm
The Bowls Club, Cogenhoe, Northampton NN7 1ND
Isle of Wight
Thu 24 Oct, 6.30pm
Downside Community Centre, Furrlongs, Newport PO30 2AX
IELNAGH MAKE A WELCOME RETURN
t’s been fifteen years since Italian Elnagh motorhomes have been officially imported to Britain. Now, thanks to Marquis Leisure, they’re back for the 2025 season and will be exhibited in Hall 8 at the Motorhome & Caravan Show held at the NEC, Birmingham, 15-20 October 2024.
First to arrive will be the Baron range of coachbuilts – all underpinned by the Peugeot Boxer chassis-cab. Pictured is the 560, with an adjustableheight permanent transverse doublebed above the garage at the far rear. Other models will replace the transverse double-bed with either a longitudinal peninsula double or two singles. Baron will offer Italian style at an approachable price-point. The conversions will be fully handed for the UK (with the entrance door on the correct side) and weigh-in with an MTPLM of 3,500kg. GJB
KNAUS TABBERT LOSES CHEMICALS
German motorcaravan manufacturers, Knaus Tabbert, is the first to announce the option of Cleanflex toilets across their motorcaravan range. These are designed to be a more environmentally-friendly option to the currently widelyfitted cassette toilet system, and is claimed to be much easier to use.
Andreas König, Head of Project and Portfolio Management at Knaus Tabbert explains, “Unlike conventional toilet solutions, Cleanflex uses film-based technology that means there’s no need to use fresh water or toxic chemicals to clean the toilet or neutralise any odours. This saves valuable water resources compared to processes with a conventional water-based toilet. Furthermore, sewage
plants and ground water are both protected as emptying the (toilet) waste tank means drug residues such as penicillin or antibiotics, are recycled back into our ecosystem. On the other hand, Cleanflex seals everything quickly, safely and cleanly into bags. A completely new film is ready inside the toilet after each use. The germfree and odourless bags are recycled back into our everything quickly, safely after each use. The germ-
Cleanflex is a new self-contained independently powered, water and chemical free, toilet system. It will be available across the 2025 Knaus Tabbert motorcaravan range.
are simply disposed of with residual waste and then burned without leaving any residues. It serves as an energy source when used in waste incineration. This state-of-the-art technology reduces the CO2 footprint of campervans.
The Cleanflex toilet can be placed anywhere as it only needs a 12V power supply to recharge the battery. If the toilet is not in use, then it can simply be moved away.
The (internal) battery also means that the toilet can work independently of external power sources”
For more information visit www.knaus.com/ de-de/markenwelt/ neuheiten-2025/cleanflex GJB
RVthere yet?
Frances & Michael Howorth preview the Motorhome & Caravan Show as it drives into the NEC Birmingham this October
Oh, how we remember the cry from the back seat when we were driving our van to the west country all those years ago. ‘Are we there yet?” seemed to be a question asked every 20 minutes or so. How appropriate then, that the press release issued by the Motorhome & Caravan Show is headlined, RV There Yet? The answer is quite soon! Because the UK’s next leisure vehicle showcase opens at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) Birmingham on Tuesday 15th Ocober and runs
until Sunday 20th. For club members already enjoying the lifestyle, the show offers a one-stopshop for everything needed to get travel enthusiasts and anyone with a lust for the great outdoors roadready.
No other UK show offers so much choice! Especially if you’re looking to buy another campervan, or motorhome, replacing an existing unit or simply want to upgrade your current vehicle with the latest tech and accessories, there are many exciting and innovative new
products to explore at the show. Spanning almost 21 acres (11 NEC halls), this display of motorhomes, and campervans is the UK’s largest. Featuring over 350 exhibitors that include UK and European leisure vehicle manufacturers and dealers, trade suppliers, awning manufacturers, leisure vehicle accessory companies, destinations and tourist boards – all under one roof. Hundreds of new models will be on display enabling visitors to compare the latest model layouts, specifications and innovations.
SHOW PREVIEW
TV presenter Matt Baker will be a special guest
Adria Compact Max
MOTORHOMES AND CAMPERVANS
Adria
Adria is set to expand its campervan offerings with the new Twin Supreme and Twin Sports models, both offered on the new Fiat Ducato. These models are a fresh take on the classic Adria Twins, with a new design that enhances the user experience. The company will also introduce the Compact Max, its first ever motorhome on a VW base, featuring three lengths and proven layouts. This premium model features a slightly wider body at 2.17m and features an all-new front hood and panoramic window.
Auto-Sleeper
Auto-Sleeper will be showcasing a selection of their award winning range of campervan, coachbuilt and luxury low profile models on stand 8.25 in Hall 8. Speak to your local dealer on their stand and secure your next motorhome or campervan from one of the UK’s longest standing manufacturers.
Auto-Trail
Motorhome and campervan manufacturer Auto-Trail will unveil a brand-new product for 2025, plus a groundbreaking feature set to revolutionise their motorhome line-up. An unmissable opportunity for a first look, Auto-Trail will also be showcasing its recently launched finance product, Auto-Trail Advance, which has been designed to make owning your dream vehicle easier and more affordable than ever.
An extension to its Excel range, Auto-Trail will unveil its brand-new Excel 620S – a two-berth narrowbodied coachbuilt motorhome featuring a rear end kitchen and shower, and a large lounge area to the front. As well as this, the Excel 620G and 675B models will now feature a pop-top roof, increasing space and enhancing the motorhome experience.
Bailey of Bristol
Bailey of Bristol will unveil their all-new Adamo motorhome range –providing a flexible space, whether it's with two, four, or even six of you. Look out for the new Endeavour
campervan range: A new 3-berth model (similar to the Endeavour B64 but without the pop-top roof) and a new 5-berth model with a transverse bed at the rear and pop-top roof.
Bürstner
Bürstner expands its vehicle range for the 2025 season with two new Skyline special models: Campeo C Skyline and Lyseo Time Skyline. The new Campeo TD motorhome series is based on a Fiat and its compact layouts will be presented to the public for the first time at the show.
Coachman
Coachman has redesigned its range for the 2025 season, offering a modern and contemporary interior. New layouts and modifications can be seen across their Travel Master 545, Travel Master 565 and Sportivo 565 models
Dethleffs
Families and passionate motorhome enthusiasts will enjoy Dethleffs new,
Auto-Trail
Bürstner
Dethleffs
Hymer
Elddis
Fleurette – new exhibitor
This is a big year for Elddis – its 60th Anniversary celebrated with special anniversary editions of all motorhomes and campervans, all of which make their debut. Of interest is their Autoquest CV campervan range with 2, 3 and 4-berth layouts. The range comes in an Anniversary Edition – which you can at the show.
Fleurette is a French motorhome manufacturer. The Mayflower and Discover can be seen in the UK at the show for the first time.
Giottiline – new exhibitor
Eriba
Following their motto 'Start the engine', the ERIBA Car series brings motorised vehicles back onto the market. Based on a VW base vehicle, the 600 layout has a double bed in the rear and a spacious seating group, the 602 layout features an interesting rear seating group.
Etrusco
Etrusco introduces new motorhome models for 2025, including the CV 640 PB and V 6.8 SCF.
Another showtime debutant is the first time Italian motorhome manufacturer, Giottiline. They will offers the Siena, GiottiVan, and Compact series, tailored for both short and extended travels.
Hillside Leisure
Hillside Leisure returns with new additions to its campervans and motorhomes, including a brand-new model on the all-new Ford Transit Custom plus a brand-new conversion built on the VW Crafter and MAN TGE.
Hymer
Hymer build Mercedes Benz-based products. Their new Grand
Eriba
Etrusco V 6.8SCF
Panama
Canyon S CrossOver and the ML-T 570 CrossOver with a gross vehicle weight of 3.5 tons will be o n display.
Kaktus Vans
For those who are looking for an adventure-vehicle, check out Kaktus Vans which are making their October Show debut.
Marquis
Marquis Leisure introduces the Panama Range (see p28), an exclusive UK van tailored for the British climate and lifestyle. With two models in the range to look out for, Panama includes the multi-purpose P12, which seats seven and sleeps four and the versatile P57 with a large kitchen/seating area.
McLouis
McLouis will be launching their upgraded Fusion range at the
enhancements including VIN Chip security, an extra wide entrance door with mosquito net and 220v socket in garages. Powered by the all-New Fiat Ducato 140bhp 2.2ltr engine, technology includes an Electric Parking Brake, Automatic Air Conditioning, Wireless Phone Charger and a 9” Pioneer DAB radio with touchscreen Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto. Four models make-up the 2025 range.
MegaMobil UK – new exhibitor Making their debut appearance
at the show MegaMobil UK build, customisable camper vans. The Mega Revolution, Mega Classic and Mega Sport will all be on display.
Pilote
Pilote invites visitors to discover its extensive range of motorhomes. The latest addition is a Profile with a U-shaped rear lounge for seven people, big storage space and wide windows for panoramic views.
Roller Team
Roller Team UK introduces three new motorhomes, including the Kronos Compact 590 on a Ford Transit chassis, the T-Line coachbuilt range will get the brand-new T-Line 740, and the Pegaso A-Class range will get the brand-new Pegaso 750. Redline will show their new Transit Custom Redline Sport Campervan together with their Sport + Signature (2 tone furniture, 2 wood
Kaktus Vans
- Fully-equipped NCC approved workshop.
- Over 40 years experience.
- City & Guilds approved and gas safety trained technicians.
- Caravan servicing consisting of over 60 specific & individual checks.
- Accessory fitting.
- Repairs.
- Complete panel replacement.
• Single Axle Servicing: £250.
• Twin Axle Servicing: £260.
• Motorhome Habitation Service: £210.
MEET US AT THE MOTORHOME AND CARAVAN SHOW AT THE NEC, 15-20 OCTOBER 2024 ON STAND No. 20.10 FOR ADVICE, DEMOS AND SHOP (DELIVERY AVAILABLE) 25MCC FOR £25 OFF ANY ORDER OF £500 OR MORE, PROMOTIONAL ITEMS EXCLUDED. TO REDEEM: WWW.ENERGIAN.CO.UK/DISCOUNT/25MCC (EXPIRES 30 NOVEMBER)
CAMPERVAN CAMPOUT, ARDINGLY, 3-5 MAY, STAND 36 SOUTHERN MOTORHOME & CAMPERVAN SHOW, NEWBURY, 17-19 MAY, STAND 129
Tel: 020 8064 0335 www energian co uk info@energian co uk
finishes) VW T6.1 SWB 4Motion 204 DSG Campervan. The company will also display their Sport XS VW T6.1 LWB Campervan and Trekker Day Van Swift
Swift will be showcasing brand new layouts from their latest ranges, including the Trekker which launched earlier this year and the new Monza which is built on the latest Ford Transit Custom.
Sherwood Campers
– new exhibitor
First-time exhibitor, Sherwood Campers, is a family run business in the heart of Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire. A fully authorised installer for the German company Reimo, they fit Reimo seats and poptop roof systems in all of their builds.
Trek – new exhibitor
Another first-time exhibitor, Trek RV is renowned for its bespoke campervan conversions, primarily using Volkswagen Transporter T6 and Crafter models. It focuses on creating luxurious, custom-built vehicles that cater to adventurous spirits. The company’s latest range includes models such as the Infinity and Grand Tourer, featuring advanced off-grid capabilities.
Xplore
Xplore’s will debut its all-new Xplore campervan range in a choice of
layouts including the new CV X5 and CV X8.
VANTourer – new exhibitor
VANTourer build, city-friendly camper vans designed for both urban environments and outdoor adventures. Their latest models, the 540 D and Urban Vito, are built on platforms such as the Fiat Ducato, Ford Transit, and Mercedes-Benz V-Class. Tis is the first time the company has been on display at this show.
Project Yonder - new exhibitor
Project Yonder is new to the show and specialises in all-wheel-drive campervans built on the MercedesBenz Sprinter platform. Designed for off-grid adventures, their latest offering is the gas free, Freedom 4X.
ACCESSORIES
We are not in the market for a new van. So as always, it’s the stands that offer accessories and services that will get our attention. Among them are:
Cadac
New this year Cadac introduced a selection of regulator and hose accessories, along with a BBQ Cover for the Carri Chef 40 barbecue. They also will have a full range of portable BBQs, on show including 2 Cook 3 Pro Deluxe, Grillo Chef 40, Carri Chef 50 and the Safari Chef 30 range, plus all accessories.
Dometic
Dometic will showcase a new inflatable awnings, mobile power solutions, and energy-efficient rooftop air conditioners.
Duvalay
Duvalay will be unveiling its new look mattress range featuring the lightweight D-Roll and D-Lite Alto mattresses.
Swift Trekker
Duvalay
Dometic
OUT & ABOUT | MOTORHOME AND CARAVAN SHOW PREVIEW
Energian
Energian specialises in renewable energy and energy storage products. Check them out for batteries, solar panels and accessories.
Fiamma
Fiamma are borrowing a new Ford Transit Custom vehicle to display its new F43 awning and a prototype of their new Ford Transit Custom Bike Carrier (due for launch next year).
Hill View Awnings
Hill View Awnings specialise in the supply and installation of Thule awnings, bike carriers and accessories including the Veloswing. The latest range of Thule products will be on display along with some exciting offers and discounts for visitors.
Isabella
Isabella introduces new accessories for motorhomes, including the Wind
Side for shelter which fits directly onto the Fiamma/Thule canopy, as well the Nordic all-season awning, Dove air and the regular faithfuls of the Commodore, Ambassador and Magnum. Their new Earth Camp-let, offering 18m2 of accommodation, will also be on display.
MandA Tours
MandA Tours will use the show to unveil its 2025 programme, featuring brand new tours like the three weeklong “Timeless Tuscany” and “Perfect Portugal.” in September. The tour to Portugal can be combined with the “Spectacular Spanish Northern Coast” tour allowing for five weeks of touring and can be reached easily with the ferry to Santander.
My Canada Trips - new exhibitor
My Canada Trips offers personalised travel experiences across Canada tailored to various interests such
as wildlife tours, road trips, and outdoor adventures. Creating bespoke itineraries that include flights, accommodations, RV hire and guided tours ensures an unforgettable experience.
Outwell
Outwell will showcase its vehicle awnings from a new collection designed for enhanced comfort and convenience. These freestanding extensions are easy to pitch. >>
Isabella
New products for the 2025 season
Park4night
Park4night, the overnight stay locator app for motorhomes and campervans, will show visitors how, in just a few clicks, they can find places to rest worldwide: campsites, motorhome areas, farms, picnic sites, free/paid car parks, places in the heart of nature or search for services/activities nearby. New features see the introduction of a “Book this place” option for over 2500 campsites and a display for Low-Emission Zones in Europe.
Penguin Refrigeration
Penguin Refrigeration, the exclusive importer of Vitrifrigo's 12V/24V compressor-driven fridges and freezers, will be launching the new Vitrifrigo C85 refrigeration model with industry-first Secop nano compressor integration offering significantly increasing efficiency and performance.
Red Equipment
RooDog Electric Bike
Looking for a warm robe to walk to the showers in or use when changing on a beach? Then head over to Red Equipment whose new Evo Pro robe is so secret that they will not even tell us about it before the show.
RooDog Electric Bikes
If you are new to biking, want an eco-friendly form of transport or want to explore new places with the confidence of being able to tackle hills easily – an electric bike
can make all the difference. With a wide range of colours and styles, RooDog electric bikes vary from city use, mountain biking and also offer a selection of foldable options.
Visitors will also be able to “Ask the Experts” any technical and practical questions about leisure vehicle ownership, enjoy free informative talks about destinations to visit across the UK and Europe, and put their questions to a host of special guests at the Inspiration Theatre. Confirmed speakers include TV presenters Matt Baker MBE, Kate Humble, and chef Kwoklyn Wan. Tickets for the show are on sale at mcshow.co.uk for £14 (saving 15% off the door price). Offer ends midnight 14/10/24. Children under 16 years go free but require a ticket which can be selected at point of purchase. Max of two free children per paying adult.
A NEW DESIGN FOR PILOTE IN 2 0 25
AS A LIFESTYLE
Come discover our new vehicles, their new interior design, and our popular special offers. With over 40 models to choose from throughtout the range, you’re sure to find the perfect Pilote for you.
Meet us at the Motorhome & Caravan Show - Hall 10 Stands 10.50 & 10.60
www.pilote-motorhome.uk
Perfectly proportioned
PANAMA
Panama.
Pictured: MWB Panama P12
Below: Both launch models boast twin side sliding doors and a rear one-piece tailgate with wash-wipe and heated window. Rear view camera and parking sensors are standard.
Above and left: Roof bed is sturdy and generously-sized. Zip-opening end panel provides Panama’s panoramic views!
Gentleman Jack says “Hola” to a freshly imported brace of campervans…
In the Club’s early days, elevating-roof (‘pop-top’) motorcaravans were in the ascendant. Over the following decades their popularity among members waned, probably because of the tantalising promise of more comfortable camping available in high-top and coachbuilt variants. During and immediately after Covid there was a huge uptick in demand for pop-top campervans among Brits and sales are still buoyant. Elevating-roof campervans are also starting to re-appear on rally fields. Most appear to be owned by newish members with young families, although the author predicts that
they will also increasingly appeal to members looking to replace an aging lofty motorcaravan and ‘run-around’ car with an LEZ and height barrier friendly campervan, which will double as a car/people carrier. Time flies…and on one hand, it doesn’t seem possible that Ford’s Transit Custom has been with us for around a decade. On the other hand, and in contrast, they seem to be ubiquitous… principally because they are! Strong sales have seen the Custom become market segment leaders in the LCV ‘charts’ and regularly topping the monthly ‘car’ sales league. From memory, the latter hasn’t occurred since the launch of
Above: Latest incarnation of Ford’s Transit Custom is a delight to drive. Automatic gearbox is controlled by a stalk on the right of the steering column.
Top: Panama P12 has a traditional campervan layout. Adjustable position table has dedicated storage behind the rear seat. Above left: Rear pews convert into a flat longitudinal double-bed in a jiffy. Above right: Removable extra seats are available if required. (£950.00 inc VAT each).
TECH SPEC
the original Minivan more than 60 years ago!
Campervan-specialist Panama’s factory is in Peniscola, Spain. It is part of the Trigano Group. Importers are (multi-branch) Marquis Leisure, and the first two models will be the P12 and P57. Ford has just launched the new generation of Custom, thus all Panama purchasers will be able to take advantage of the latest upgrades. Standard motive power for both models will be the EcoBlue 134 bhp turbo-diesel engine mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Custom was ‘right’ from its inception. The latest model makes effortless progress and is equally at home pootling down country lanes, or autobahn storming. Tourneo specification adds comfort and
Panama P57 lounge. Freestanding table with dedicated storage is included.
driver-assist systems. Usefully, both launch Panama models arrive with twin sliding doors immediately behind the cab, plus a one-piece rear tailgate with a heated window and wash/wipe. Standing height is achieved by deploying the canvassided SCA elevating-roof. Unzip panels for a side window or for a panoramic vent at the tall end.
Thoughtfully-designed cabinetwork looked wellconstructed and standard equipment includes diesel-fired blown-air heating, two-burner gas
A CAMPSITE WITH A DIFFERENCE...
LeoBay is quite unique as it is a campsite with fitting facilities, so if there’s that little something you need doing from replacing a bulb to a complete conversion we do it all. Our experience goes back 40 years. Our core experience is in auto electrics and vehicle security as well as vehicle diagnostics, we use factory diagnostic software to solve your problems. Trained in both vehicle and mains voltages we can also inspect and test your mains hook up too! Gas that’s no problem either! Now there’s a service that makes life simple, so next time you need help, come and stay at LeoBay, a nice cuppa on arrival, we will sort your problems while you relax on our 1st class site. There’s even a courtesy vehicle to use during your stay at LeoBay!
LeoBay is a site in a million, completely built by us and independent, so all are welcome whether you’re a club member Highfield, Rushenden, Alsager
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.
Above left: P57’s double rear seat converts into a ‘cozy’ double-bed or a wide single one. An additional (large) doublebed folds down from roof. Above centre and right: It’s towards the rear of the P57 where the magic happens. Clever designers have found room for a large kitchen with plenty of worktop, plus a walk-in comfort station with cassette loo, basin, shower, and storage. Truly a ‘downsizer’s delight’!
hob, compressor fridge, kitchen sink, plus fresh/waste water tanks and a 230V hook-up. A double-bed hinges down from the roof. Not only is it generously sized, it’s also
sturdy, with a quoted weight limit of 175kg.
Medium wheelbase P12 follows the traditional campervan layout of an offside run of furniture
including the kitchen, wardrobe and dedicated storage for the (supplied) Porta-Potti. The three-person rear seat unfolds to make a longitudinal double-bed. Full-length tracking in
the floor facilitates the addition of one or two extra travel seats and can also secure an occupied wheelchair, plus general cargo. Great to see that all rear seating is brilliantly engineered and has Isofix anchors as standard. Oh…nearly forgot…they are also ergonomically correct and comfy.
Next-up is a ‘downsizer’s
At-a-glance identification made easy. Medium wheelbase P12 has a rear hinged roof, whereas long wheelbase P57 has a front hinged one. Simples!
delight’ – the long wheelbase P57 – which is a triumph of design and build. A double travel seat/ longitudinal double-bed is forward on the nearside, adjacent to the sliding door. The offside sliding
door provides access to the wellequipped living area, which boasts an ‘L’-shaped kitchen and nearside rear corner washroom with loo, sink, storage and shower… wow!
Both models are very sharply-priced and will be at the Motorhome and Caravan Show held at the NEC Birmingham, 15-20 October 2024. E&OE
SPEEDCOAT EUROPE is offering a great repair service for new and old cracked shower trays using a superior, tough and durable spray liner.
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GROUP NEWS & DIARIES
OCTOBER 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
The weather was unpredictable at the start of the Hallowtree rally with pure hot sunshine followed by a rain shower. The stewards did a fine job getting 22 vans from Anglia and 4 Essex parked up. Thursday night was an easy night with background music and the chance to chat with friends. Friday with the weather being so hot we all looked for shelter from the sun. With the rally theme being 70’s some dressed in their 70's clothes for the night. At teatime Ben and Keith P went to pick up the fish & chips order they had arranged for members, then in hall for Bingo with everyone being adventurous by playing four corners and the pyramid games with some winning more than once. Saturday night the Anglia ponies came out of the stables for three races with Ben being our jockey dressed to impress in a jockey outfit.
A great night of fun had by all that attended. Sunday most members went out for lunch and the park was a little empty until the afternoon. In the evening Mal organised the three chairs game with those remaining, then Paul done a great music quiz with plenty of members singing the answers until it was time to pack away the hall chairs and tables and go off to different places on Monday. Parking up at the Hunstanton rally the wind was blowing strong and the rain stayed back at home so it was dry for the men to do the parking up. We had 44 Anglia vans in to total over the weekend. Thursday night Keith B took the rally fees while the girls did the raffle tickets. Tea urns were on and Paul played background music so we could chat. Friday some went into town for the walk or to get their dinner, with a singer for Friday night it was over to Keven Kendal for a night of Country music. Saturday morning Ben & Keith cooked the egg & bacon rolls when it started to
rain, they never stopped and they cooked under the front door canopy. Everyone enjoyed their breakfast rolls, after that the sun came out. Saturday night was bingo night with Benjy and Keith P calling the numbers. Sunday dinner time it was over to the working men’s club for the Sunday roast for some while others sat around relaxing in the park. Sunday night Keith had the karaoke machine out for the singers amongst us with more members coming forward. The three girls did a very good job together, (our very own Three Degrees). Then it was time to draw the raffle as some were going home on Monday. Monday night with 20 vans still here we had a quiz night with Paul C which was fun. Thank you to all the stewards and helpers for another great two rallies. Remember that full payment for our Christmas rally is due by 27th October. Scribe Keith Upcoming Rallies: 4th -6th October Sir Harry Smith Academy at Whittlesey, Start time 5pm. 25th -27th October Alderman Peel School, Wells Next The sea. Our AGM Rally. AGM is Saturday 26th start time 10 am. Both rallies are Bookable. Please contact Teresa on 07739463321
AVON
All was good for our pre-Balloon rally at Walcot RFC. Good numbers, good company, good weather, good hall, good P&R, good walks, good food, games and quizzes. Nothing more to say! Some left for onward travels after Walcot but many made their way, easily avoiding the Clean Air Zones, to the Balloon Fiesta Rally at Bristol, where we had the highest number of attendees for several years. Despite a little inclement weather, the glows and several mass ascents went ahead. Even if you have seen them before it is still a magical experience. Not so magical for Pete, our chairman. His balloon flight was cancelled yet again, fingers
GROUP
crossed for better luck for the next appointment Pete. Our next rally was south of Bath at Rainbow Wood Farm, almost on the Bath Skyline Trail which several members completed. Others took the bus or walked into the city and others explored the many paths and woodlands. Bingo and quizzes, thanks to Jane, ensured a sociable Saturday evening in the nearby hall. Storm Lilian made for some rockin’ & rollin’ in the vans but thankfully we all survived unscathed.
Sharpness was our next venue with walks by the canal or to view the industrial heritage at the docks. The annual challenge for Avon’s Skittle Trophy was won this year by Michelle Ridgeway, and the Killer King was Shane Lovell. Max and Rex deserve a special mention, they did stalwart work as Sticker Uppers. Well done boys.
Then amazingly, it is AGM time. 11-13 October in the grounds of Gartell Light Railway, Yenston, Templecombe, BA8 0NB Open Forum 10.30am on 12 October, followed by the AGM at 11am. As with most groups, nomination forms to join the committee are available and we will be asking for hosts for most 2025 rallies in order that the group can continue. Some of the current committee are willing to stand for re-election on the proviso that new members join them on the committee, and rally hosts are found. A little help from a lot of people is preferable to hard work by a few, please consider the future of the group and how you can assist in Avon’s success. Food will be served on Saturday and fish & chips will be available to order (by 4pm) on Friday. Delivery is anticipated to be 5/5.30pm. On Saturday evening we will be entertained by (Tim) Bassett Allsorts. £18pupn + £1 rally fee
Christmas dinner bookings are now being taken. 5 to 8 December Fromebridge Mill, Whitminster, GL2 7PB. £10 non refundable deposit (to cover all your camping fees) with the balance to cover a three-course carvery (incl veggie option) on the Friday night (£35pp to be confirmed), payable by 12 October. 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. Text Christine on 07976 306116 to book.
New Year will be celebrated At Whitstone School, Shepton Mallet. 4 nights at £17pupn (£15 pn singles) plus £1 per adult rally fee. Prices includes 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.
Upcoming rallies: 11-13 October in the grounds of Gartell Light Railway, Yenston, Templecombe, BA8 0NB. 5 to 8 December Fromebridge Mill, Whitminster, GL2 7PB. 29 December - 2 January Whitstone School, Charlton Road, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5PF
CHILTERN
Fab weekend was had by all at Long Whittingham. We all parked up on Thursday 1st August on a very hot and sticky day. By mid afternoon a storm had us in the vans. Silver lining was a much fresher evening with most of us using the clubhouse. Drinks, chat and cake provided by the club hosts, most welcome.
Friday dawned bright and sunny. The shelters were erected and were used for a mixture of activities, crib lessons provided by Mike, and tea and cake provided by our Stewards Shirley and Pete. Raffle tickets were on sale too. Evening gave us a choice of Bingo in the clubhouse or quizzes and fun in the shelters. Saturday dawned with another perfect sunny day. Lots to see in this beautiful village and lovely walks. Quite a few chose to visit Pendon museum, absolutely fabulous hand made models of life in 1930's. Our club hosts provided a bbq in the evening. Lovely food, including Thai tasters, followed by ice cream. We finished off with quizzes in the shelters.
Sunday as always was coffee morning, raffle was drawn, and sadly time to pack up and say goodbye to all. We hosted 20 vans including 5 visitors. Bourton on the Water. 18 vans, 3 of which were visitors and a first timer with Chiltern. I arrived mid-afternoon on Friday and was welcomed by Carole with the agenda for the weekend. Gary parked me on site and I set up. Met in the shelters in the evening for a who am I quiz
Saturday was a day at leisure and some met to have a game of cribbage in the shelters. In the evening we met up for the answers to Gary’s car rear lights picture quiz which Roy won, and a quiz set by Adele which was about Bourton on the Water.
Sunday morning was coffee and biscuits and the raffle and farewells until the next rally. As this was my first meeting with Chiltern, I was received with a very warm welcome and look forward to attending future meetings. Thanks to Gary and Adele for a relaxing weekend. John Wilkinson
Upcoming rallies. Oct 11-13 Bledlow Cricket Club, HP27 9PF Booking Required. Nov 1-3 AGM Alameda School, MK45 2QR Bkg Rqd for campers. Bookings for either to mccchilternbkgsec@gmail.com text 07974 012757
Avon
EAST MIDLANDS
Bakewell rally was well attended with a total of 72 vans visiting over the weekend with several members from other areas joining us including Anglia, Yorkshire, Chiltern, Lancashire, Nene Valley and Northern Counties. The Chairman welcomed everyone on Friday evening before hosting a bingo session. There was plenty to see and do on Saturday with many walking into Bakewell, some went for walks or cycled or fed the ducks, geese and trout in the river.
Sunday morning with coffee and biscuits the Chairman presented plaques to the first time ralliers, made a few announcements and presented a cheque to John & Pauline Kelly for £2652.40 as the money raised so far this year for their charity Action For Pulmonary Fibrosis, this was followed by the customary raffle.
Monday is market day in Bakewell which is a traditional street market with plenty of stalls selling their wares, quite a few of which ended up back at the campsite! Those who still had any energy left took part in the outdoor games arranged for the afternoon, some just had the energy to sit, relax and watch! Overall a brilliant weekend well organised by the stewards and enjoyed by all.
29 Motorhomes arrived at Retford Rugby Club to be parked up in glorious sunshine by Marshall’s Paul, Bob and Shadow. Friday evening Paul welcomed everyone to the rally including visitors from Anglia and NWM&NW. We filled near and enjoyed a game of bingo followed by a quiz. With background music the rest of the evening was spent talking. Saturday a lot of people ventured into Retford either by foot or catching the bus, others sat outside in the sunshine relaxing. Saturday evening was spent having another quiz and dingbats from Bob. After a game of cards we sat around talking. Sunday morning we had our coffee morning in the bar courtesy of the rugby club who provided the milk, coffee and tea. The chairman gave his chat saying what a great venue it was and we would be visiting again in the future. The raffle was drawn and he wished everyone a safe journey home.
Welbourne Rally was well attended with 37 vans present including a visitor from Northern Counties all welcomed with a smile by Dave, Mandy, Kate and Kev. Friday evening after being welcomed by The Chairman who introduced several new members and the visitors, we played Bingo followed by a quiz. Tea and coffee was available with a table full of cakes for all to try. “Marshall Dave” entertained us with a Hula Hoop competition for the men and game of Snatch for the ladies. Saturday nights entertainment was provided by Sax Jaxs with a brilliant performance keeping everyone dancing from start to finish. Sunday started with a coffee morning and raffle draw followed by a supper in the evening with a choice of curry and rice or sausage bap. The evening was finished with a number of games including hatchet throwing and horse racing. A fantastic weekend, thanks to all those involved.
Upcoming rallies: Oct 18-20 AGM Woolsthorpe NG33 5PG. Nov 8-10 Collingham NG23 5PG.
EAST WESSEX
For the bank holiday at Hayling Island, we had sixteen vans with visitors coming from Sussex, Chiltern, Anglia, West Wessex, SWP and NC. We all braced the stormy weather on the Saturday with brighter weather following, allowing all of us to get out and about.
Upcoming rallies: 18-20 Oct: Weeke Primary School, Stoney Lane, Weeke, Winchester, SO22 6DR. AGM. Hardstanding and use of heated hall. Quiz, raffle. Saturday: Singer Anna Nightingale and buffet. £30 fixed price for whole weekend (£26 singles). Max 25 vans, bookable (Dave 07948 395603). 1-3 Nov: cancelled. 29-No -1-Dec: Easebourne CE Primary School, Wheelbarrow Castle, Easebourne, GU29 9AG. Christmas. Hardstanding and use of heated hall. Saturday: Saxophoney Michael. Quiz and raffle. Cost, see website (eastwessex.uk)
ESSEX
Our latest rally August 9-11 at Battlesbridge Antique Centre was Hawaiian themed and hosted by Anne & Tony and Jacquie & Tony. The weather was kind to us and the great turn out were greeted with a tropical garland in their welcome pack. A sociable afternoon was spent relaxing in the sunshine before we gathered for bingo, a raffle and enjoyed some good dance music kindly provided by Nick.
Saturday bought another lovely day and most wandered around Battlesbridge Antique Centre and enjoyed the pubs and cafes in the area. At 3pm we all gathered and enjoyed a chilled glass of Hawaiian punch, which went down well in the sunshine.
Everyone was keen to try their hand on the coconut shy and won a coconut each for their efforts. This was followed by some brave and unusual (by Rex!) attempts at hula hooping. Only the brave attempted the limbo but everyone had a go at the horse shoe pitching, with a prize for the winner.
The afternoon flew by and soon it was time to don our Hawaiian outfits and prepare a barbeque for a very sociable dinner together. We had a general knowledge quiz set by Tony A. and relaxed surrounded by colourful lights and pleasant background music.
Great turn out for this rally of 20 units spread over the 5 days. We had 3 new members to Essex and 4 vans from Anglia group which was lovely. The weather wasn't the kindest but we all got together for drinks, group barbecues, raffle and background music. We also had a great quiz kindly organised by John. Thursday and Friday Clacton airshow was on so quite a few ventured off to watch the planes that managed to fly despite the bad winds. On site the cafe was kept busy by lots of us as was the local pub, The Black Boy.
Sunday, after chairman's chat tea coffee and biscuits, ended a great weekend, made so by everyone participating in the fun and games. This was a relaxing
GROUP NEWS
few days with some great company. Hope to see you all soon.
Upcoming rallies: 11-13 October Bookable AGM: Mayflower School Stock Rd, Billericay, CM12 ORT. Start time 5pm.
ISLE OF WIGHT
Our Rally at Rodgbrook farm was an enjoyable meet. There were coffee meets in the mornings and afternoons and as usual too much cake consumed. The evenings were spent in the event shelter with drinks, nibbles and quizzes. Teresa and Martin were our hosts and Teresa introduced mandela dot painting to the group and an enjoyable craft session was enjoyed. A meeting was held with the members and some good ideas were raised for possible venues for rally sites next year
The rally at Thorncross Farm was poorly attended but the members that attended enjoyed it. Hosts were Ann and Phil.
A rally was held at Whippance Farm which is the rally by the beach. The weather was good and members enjoyed walks along the beach. Petanque was won by the men again. Evenings were spent in the event shelter enjoying conversation and quizzes.
The rally at South Thorness Farm was a lively affair . Games were played, golf, boules and pétanque. In the evening the group met and dined together and also had some quizzes. Blackberries were prolific so blackberry picking was a must.
Upcoming rallies: The Orchards at Newcurch. 4th - 6th October. Our AGM is being held on 24th October at 6pm at Downside Community Centre.
KENT
Friday 2nd to Sunday 4th August found a small contingent of vans at Hole Park, Rolvenden where they enjoyed each other’s company relaxing around the campfire toasting marshmallows!
Our August Bank Holiday rally found us at the picturesque town of Rye and its annual jazz festival. Due to it being rather windy on Thursday it was decided to postpone putting up the marquee until Friday when a few hardy souls braved the weather and up it went. Friday night we had a team quiz comprising of some awkward questions especially those around music, food and drink which rather caught out those who had played their joker! All in all, the scores were tight but the ‘Newts’ won the day by one point! Saturday the rain came, and it kept on all day but a few of us hardy mortals took a walk into Rye and ended up in the pub. A sausage sizzle was enjoyed on Saturday evening followed by our very own Summer Vibes Party Night with Daphne and Paul showing off their breakdancing moves and Dave doing just what Dave does on the dance floor! It was a great night with much fun and laughter. Sunday afternoon was all about the Kent MCC
Sports Day with Kubbspel, Cornhole, Archery and a game of Bat and Trap, (thanks go to Dave for engineering the bit of kit) which was a new game to many. The afternoon was all about participation with Paul a worthy winner of that! Participation carried on into Sunday evening with a couple of games of Card Bingo followed by a few rounds of Who Dares Wins with Mandy’s team being victorious. All in all, it was a great weekend, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves, despite the weather!
Our AGM will take place at Sandwich on Saturday 5th October at 11am and we are looking for new people to come forward as committee members. It would be great to have new members on the committee to bring fresh ideas and to reenergise those that have been doing it for a while! The group is financially viable, the 2025 rallies have been booked, entertainment is being sought and so any new committee members will benefit from an easy introductory year in 2025 as they find their feet! If you are willing to stand then please do let any committee member know.
Upcoming rallies: Friday 4th- Sunday 6th October – Sandwich Junior School, St. Bart’s Road, Sandwich, CT13 0AS. School is a short walk from the historic town of Sandwich. The city of Canterbury is a short bus ride away. There will be professional entertainment on Saturday night. This is a bookable rally. Start time 5pm. 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 PHs in neighbouring New Romney. There will be professional entertainment on Saturday evening. This is a bookable rally. Start time 5pm. Please contact Sharon on kent@ motorcaravannersclub.co.uk for any bookable rallies.
LANCASHIRE
In August we held two rallies our first, a 3 night outdoor event at Pinfold Camping. There was a great turnout of 26 vans. Thursday was a free and easy chit chat among friends. Friday we gathered in events tent for bingo and a quiz from Mel; well done to the winners. Music was provided by Dean. On Saturday we gathered around Mel’s van for hot dogs and birthday cake celebrating Mel and Sandra’s birthday. Later members went around the car boot sale. Saturday night Take Your Pick and a TV quiz by Eric, some members did line dancing enjoying the music from Dean. At Sunday’s coffee morning our Chair person Lisa won the bonus ball and she thanked all members for supporting the group, wishing them a safe journey home.
Our Second rally at Lytham St Annes was run as the Red Rose T.H.S. an eleven day outdoor event using the event tents. Unfortunately, these had to be taken down after a couple of days due to the extremely strong winds and rain, which continued on and off for the duration of the rally. We all ended up in the school canteen, which was better for all members. Entertainment by Trevor and Gillian had us all singing along while they played their ukuleles. Lisa came round with a port drink for everyone. Dean’s music
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entertained us, line dancing, five members dressed in costumes dancing to the Y.M.C.A. In the morning Stephen and Janet lead Tai-Chi and later some members went to the Lytham 1940’s weekend events, while others had a stroll around Fairhaven Lake or St Annes. Howard and Kath entertained us with a sing-a-long. While he played the guitar, Cheese and wine was provided by the committee and we had lots of quizzes and games; Take Your Pick, Music, Play Your Cards Right, Bingo, plus a different version of Bingo by Hilary, and the Horse Racing Game. We had 2 coffee mornings, Lisa our Chairperson congratulated all winners of the games and raffles, and Bonus Balls. She thanked the Rally Marshals, Dean for the music, committee members, the working party and everyone else who helped in making the rally a success, and most of all members who supported the club. Mel and Sandra worked hard selling raffle tickets and donated items to raise £703 for our adopted charity- Southport Independent Lifeboat.
Over the rally we saw 103 vans with vans from all over the country. Lisa thanked all attendees and wished everyone a safe journey home. Scribe Beattie
Upcoming Rallies: Warton Cricket Club (LA5 9QJ) 27th -29th September- limited space (bookable), AGM at Warren Farm (L37 0AN) 11th - 13th October, and Whittingham/Goosnargh Halloween Fancy Dress (PR3 2JE) 25th - 27th October.
MOTORCYCLE
The Salisbury Rugby Club. 22 -27 August/ Our largest turnout this year for a rally, 30 vans in all. What a wonderful site with the Spitfire at the top of hill. The club manager, Vince was very accommodating too. We had use of our own room on three nights for our club meets, money off drinks at the bar, allocated showers and toilets just for MCG and he even gave us prizes for our quizzes.
On our first night, the Rugby Club put on a Pork Roll and chips, coleslaw and a drink for £7.50. We chatted together inside the bar and out on the patio, catching up with old and new friends.
On Friday morning everyone gathered with their bikes under the Spitfire for a group photo. It was decided that as we would be too large for our normal ride outs and good access to the cafes for lunch, the ride outs were to be split in half. 12 went with Adrian to the Compton Abbas Airfield and 11 went with Martin to Choppers cafe, near Marlborough. On Martin’s ride we went via Stonehenge, riding through beautiful villages with lovely thatched roofs and nice windy lanes. We had a small break at Woodhenge. Then lunched in the garden at Choppers cafe in the sunshine. That evening we gathered in the hall and celebrated two wedding anniversaries. We were treated to drinks and nibbles from Adrian/Cathy and Simon/Jackie. Then our hosts let us choose a raffle ticket each and these numbers put us into teams of five for a quiz. It didn’t take long to get to know each other as the noise soon rose. It was a hard quiz!! The top 2 winning
teams received drink tokens. Saturday was a free day for us to explore the area and there was plenty to see. Salisbury town with its museums and cathedral, walks along the river Avon, old Sarum Castle and ride outs to nearby seaside locations. On Sunday we swapped the group ride outs with half going to the airfield with Martin and the other half to Choppers cafe with Adrian. Martin’s ride went through the quaint villages of Wilton, Bowerchalke and Sixpenny Handley ending up at the Compton Abbas Airfield for lunch on the benches overlooking the landing strip. We returned to the hall that night for more team games and card bingo. Monday was another free day to explore the area and Adrian led a small group of bikers to Fordingbridge in the New Forest. In the evening we gathered in the bar again to celebrate Mel's Birthday and Pearl laid on a lovely spread of food and drinks. A great end to the week!
NENE VALLEY
Two successful rallies took place in September: The first at Stoke Bruerne went well in the sunshine, and a mention that we were able to sit out in the evenings, something sadly lacking this year. A highlight was that we were able to arrange to go on the narrowboat cruise through the Canal tunnel, with a constant temperature of 56 degrees summer and winter, it was a relief from the heat. We were able to fill The Indian Chief, the narrowboat based at the Boat pub, a suitable return destination !!
This was followed by a new destination for the Group at Delapre Abbey in Northampton. After the water point was sorted at the little stone Gate Lodge, and the maintenance man brought two crowbars and a lump hammer so he could lift a drain cover for the elsan, it was on to better things. Members were able to roam about the extensive grounds and the lakeside. The flowers in the Walled Garden were a pleasure to see, followed by a coffee and refreshments in the Orangery.
The House wasn't open until Sunday morning, but some booked to go on the tour. Once they were set up, life-size dinosaurs could be heard and seen moving, very good models for the children to enjoy, in a display that is now on until the beginning of September. Members said that they thought it was a pleasant site to find in the town, and
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GROUP NEWS
we hope to visit again in the future, especially if the Model Engineers Club keep their promise to open their site again. A lot of grown gentlemen rediscovered their younger selves on Sunday morning, having rides behind the steam engines for a donation to a good cause, a great ending to the weekend
Upcoming Rallies: 11 – 13 October AGM weekend
Cogenhoe Bowls Club, Brafield Road, Cogenhoe NN7 1ND , Cost £13pupn, Start 1pm, bookable. Visitors may be limited in number, as Nene Valley members will take precedence for AGM. 8 – 10 November Geddington Youth Club, Grafton Road, Geddington NN14 1AJ, Cost £12pupn, Start 1pm, bookable limited numbers. Booking details can be found on the Nene Valley website www.nenevalleymcc.co.uk
NORTHERN COUNTIES
Hello everyone. We’ve had a very busy August! Firstly 9 - 12 August we were at Redcar Rugby Club with 23 Northern Counties vans, 1 Anglia, 3 Yorks and 1 Lancs, hosted by Janet and Drew Naylor. Lovely weather and lots of members ended up in O’Gradys pub for a nice Parmo!
Next was 16 - 19 August at Crimdon House Farm, Hartlepool, with 10 Northern Counties vans and 1 from Yorkshire, hosted by Jean and Alan Hope. Great site, within walking distance of the beach and buses to Hartlepool Marina. Thanks to Jean and Alan for the quizzes.
Then 23 - 27 at Thirsk Racecourse where we had 23 Northern Counties vans, 3 Yorks, 1 Scottish, 2 East Mids, 1 Anglia and 1 West Wessex, hosted by Wendy and Stuart Pratt. Weather a bit windy but didn’t stop many from walking down to the town.
Finally 30 August - 3 September, one of our favourites –Bents Park, South Shields, right on the sea front with world famous Fish and Chips and many wonderful curry houses. This rally was hosted by our wonderful Committee and we had 81 vans in total with 50 Northern Counties, 5 Yorks, 5 Lancs, 10 East Mids, 3 Scottish, 3 Anglia, 1 West Wessex, 2 Severn Valley, 1 NW Mids & W Wales and finally 1 Sussex. We had two new members: Kenneth and Elizabeth Dobson, and Paul and Kerry Reed – welcome to Northern Counties, we also had first time visitors Ian and Ann Swanson
from East Mids. A very enjoyable and busy five day rally. Saturday night we were entertained by the lovely Roxy, and other nights were filled with entertainment and quizzes by the members, with a newly formed Ukelele band made up of members entertaining us on Sunday night. Neil and Jo Huggon organised an electric bike ride which took them through the Tyne Tunnel and back on the Shields Ferry. On Sunday morning after coffee and raffle, there was a table top sale and Annette Sargeant collected £67 from this towards Marie Curie Cancer Care.
Don’t forget our AGM is coming up at the end of October and as you will be aware, we need new Committee members. If you think you can help but aren’t sure what this involves, please speak to a current Committee member as soon as possible. Remember, if we cannot get a new Committee, we cannot carry on as a Group. Paula Edwards
Upcoming rallies: 18 - 21 October – Brunton Tractor Rally – this is a free rally but a working weekend. 25 - 27 October – Prior Pursglove College, Guisborough – this is both our AGM and Halloween rally 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
Portrush 5 day Holiday Report. 13th - 18th August 2024
The five day Rally held in Portrush Primary School was really enjoyable , this was down to the efforts of the Committee, their partners and friends. Plenty of outdoor activities in the day time–horse shoe throwing (Thelma won a one night voucher)bean bag throwing, ring throwing at pegs , sea swimming (those swimmers really need a medal, the sea must have been absolutely freezing)and skittles , won by Robbie Hewitt - a one night voucher for his hard work. After a busy day the evening activities were unusual, exciting and fun.
Tuesday was Play Your Cards Right, hosted by Sam, Andy and Audrey The winner of the first game was Ruth, whose prize was £50, the second game was won by Olivia, a large box of Celebrations was her prize. Wednesday was Quiz Night with Quiz Master Bob McEwan. The Handsome man team along with the Amp Friends team won with equal highest scores and won a bottle of wine. With the I Don’t Knows team as runners up getting a box of sweets. Thursday, David Davidson asked us to “Open the Box” and Kevin Murray was the one to find the key and win £35 of which he donated some of his winnings to the Chairman’s Charity.
Friday evening a chip van visited the site and each van was given a £10 voucher to buy chips and burgers, they were delicious. The entertainment for the evening was provided by Sam who not only asked the questions but very kindly gave us the answers. On Saturday evening we danced the night away to the lovely music of Wee Tom. There were plenty of prizes to be won in the ballot and Davy Davidson won the Aran cardigan raffled by Agnes Adair to raise money for the Chairman’s Charity.
Nene Valley
The rally ended with the Sunday Coffee Morning. The Chairman David thanked all who had hosted. He also informed us that we had Sixty one vans attending over the five days. All we had to do now was say goodbye to friends until the next rally which again will be in Portrush for the Air Show. Sammy and Ruth
Upcoming rallies: 6th - 8th September - Portrush Air Show 20th - 22nd September - Country Comes to Town (Portadown) 27th - 29th September - Cookstown Primary School- A.G.M.
NWM&NW
The Bank Holiday rally at Llangollen Pavilion had a good attendance with 63 vans with visitors from 10 other groups. Jon and Elaine were kept quite busy bookingin and parking members around the area. Friday evening was bingo time, thank you Shirley for your help. Congratulations to all the winners.
On Saturday the weather mostly dry during the day so everyone was able to go out and about enjoying the various attractions from steam train rides to horse drawn canal boat journeys or just visiting the shops, pubs and cafes. In the evening many enjoyed a meal (and in Geoff's case a jug of gravy) before the entertainment when Georgia Rae K kept everybody singing and dancing. Sunday evening Geoff assisted by Brenda as the Dolly Dealer entertained with "play your cards right". Losers won a sweet but the winners, Geoff Pearce and Geoff Balshaw had a play off for the wine. As Geoff Balshaw had been the host for the game Jon and Elaine took over as hosts to ensure there was no fixing. Geoff Balshaw won and donated the wine to the Group. The raffle was drawn with Kay Mathews carrying away many prizes. At coffee morning on Monday Linda thanked everyone for coming and all those who worked to make the rally run smoothly.
Some travelled on from Llangollen to Salford Children's Holiday Camp at Prestatyn for our follow-on rally where we had a total of 38 vans (including visitors from 7 other groups) over the 5 days. Our hosts were Linda, Mike, Pam and Bob. It was bingo on Tuesday with another chance for those who came for the weekend to win on Friday. The weather was glorious sunshine so many took advantage of the handy buses and trains to visit Rhyl, Llandudno and other places along the coast whilst others relaxed soaking up the warmth.
There was a quiz evening on Wednesday won by Pauline, Bob, Liz, Dave and Shirley and Darren. Thursday was our fish and chip night thanks to Doug from the Children's Camp who did two trips to fetch supplies. Phil and Debbie finally won the boules competition after a seagull swooped in and stole the jack bringing things to a halt until an alternative was found. A collection was held for the charity which runs the holiday camp raising more than £83 partly from donations for showers (everyone was super clean). Doug and Jo were very grateful for the cash on behalf of the charity. Linda thanked everyone for their generosity
and for making it an enjoyable rally. Unfortunately due to changes in the parking arrangements the rally at Stone Cricket Club now has to be booked, so please ring Eileen to book and, also, give her the length of your van to help with parking. For details on booking rallies please ring Eileen 07932651196. Upcoming Rallies: October 4th - 6th Stone Cricket Club, Lichfield Road, Stone ST15 8QH. Farmers' Market, easy walk into town. Limited space so booking is essential. Ring Eileen 07932651196. £15 pupn. Start 12pm. October 18th - 20th Cockshutt Millennium Village Hall, AGM. Shrewsbury Road, Cockshutt, Ellesmere, SY12 0JE. Catering and entertainment. Please book with Eileen. Grass and hard standing. November 1st - 3rd Wistanstow Village Hall, Wistanstow, Craven Arms, SY7 8DQ. Halloween Hard standing. Buses to Ludlow and Shrewsbury. Book with Eileen 07932651196.
SCOTTISH
A disappointing Seven Scottish 'vans were at Brodie Castle Scout Field near Forres from 19th till 23rd August. Despite the low numbers the ralliers were kept entertained by hosts Simon and Valerie Morris.
The next rally was held at the Black Isle Showground at Muir of Ord between 23rd and 26th August with again seven 'vans attending thanks again to Simon and Valerie for hosting. The AGM will be held at Lathalmond Bus Museum on Sunday 20th October at 1100 hours. A large turnout of Members is requested. Eric G
Upcoming Rallies: 4th - 7th September Drum Estate Edinburgh EH17 8RX 2.00pm start booking required. 7th - 10th September The Hirsel Estate Coldstream TD12 4LW 2.00pm start. 18th - 20th October Lathalmond Bus Museum includes AGM 2.00pm start. 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
We only had 2 full rallies in August the first being at Orleton Village Hall. We only had 13 vans attend all Severn Valley and we had a fun packed weekend. The games evening on the Saturday Night with Ply your Cards right, Bingo and the Banana game ensured plenty of laughs and good humour. Our next Rally was at Halfpeny Green Vineyard and was attended by 12 Severn Valley vans. We had a cocktails evening on the Friday Night and a BBQ on the Saturday evening. Our Western Motorhome Show Pre-Rally was well attended with 2 vans using the venue over the 4 days prior to show. Sadly we mourn the passing of Andy Mawdesley, the Committee member with responsibly for the Rally Booklet and Website. Andy will be greatly missed for his cheeky humour and friendly attitude, we send our heartfelt
condolences to Andy’s wife Hayley.
Upcoming Rallies: Monster Ball at Norton Village Hall Norton GL2 9LJ on 25th October 24. Victorian Markets & Xmas dinner at Christopher Whitehead School WR2 4AF 29th November 24. New Year Rally at Christopher Whitehead School WR2 4AF 29th December 24
S&W WALES
Hi everyone, it is raining, yet again, very heavily as I write this report. We have enjoyed short glimpses of summer and I hope you made the best of them. I think that autumn and winter trips are great in our motorhome so we are looking forward to them.
8th-12th August – Brecon Sports Club. The weather forecast had not been looking too good for Brecon and its famous Jazz Festival, but apart from Thursday the 8th when there was a lot of intermittent light rain the rest of the time was very good. Members turning up were saying that they had driven through torrential rain to get to Brecon so we were lucky on the whole. Hosts Betty, Muriel, Dave & Glyn welcomed 66 vans with visitors from Avon group, Severn Valley and Northern Ireland and at least four first timers. We had the best area of the sports ground for the rally with plenty of space and an excellent general rubbish and recycling scheme. The festival was in full swing when we got there with not only jazz but a wide range of music to choose from, something for everyone and the majority of the venues free. It's just a short pleasant walk along the canal path into town, with a convenient stop off point halfway at the theatre for a coffee or an ice cream.
The weather was so lovely on Sunday, and the evening so balmy, that we were able to sit out long into the evening, midnight to be precise looking up at the stars. During coffee morning our chair Betty announced that she was standing down at the AGM also Glyn the treasurer and Pauline the secretary. The timing of this is to give members an opportunity to think about filling these vacancies. It is imperative that these posts are filled as the club cannot carry on without them. Betty and Glyn have done more than their fair share for the club and we thank them for all they have done. The lucky van was won by Sue and Derek, a big thank you to all who donated to the raffle as it was one of the best prizewise. A big thank you to everybody who participated in the auction and in any way contributed to Wales Air Ambulance as we have collected a whopping £160 during the last two rallies.
Thank you, Heather & Philip Cardwell of the Northern Ireland group, for their very kind message. Thank you to Muriel for this report.
22nd-27th August – Brownhills Holiday Park, Nr. Newquay. This rally was hosted by the very brave Betty and Gyn with John and Sandra. I say ‘brave’ because this rally qualified for inclusion in the ‘Winter Rally’ programme. Nineteen vans braved the weather forecast; luckily there was enough hard standing for them all. The visitors were the Clarks from East Wessex and the Arthurs from Severn
Valley. The Thursday and Friday were wet, windy and cold although there was the indoor swimming pool and welcoming clubhouse for those venturing out.
Saturday dawned a sunny day and many took the busy bus to Newquay or beyond. Our brave hosts had arranged a quiz with cheese, wine and biscuits at ‘teatime’; unfortunately, by then, the sun had gone and the wind was cold. However, everyone enjoyed John and Sandra’s quiz and Glyn and Betty’s free raffle – all well wrapped up of course. On Sunday Moira celebrated her birthday in her cosy van.
The Bank Holiday Monday dawned with good weather and some went dolphin watching at Newquay or attended the carnival at Aberaeron. The rally ended on Tuesday and everyone agreed that we had seen all the four seasons in one weekend.
Upcoming Rallies: 11th-13th October – Sennybridge Primary School LD3 8RS – starts 5pm. 1st-3rd November
– Ysgol Gymraeg Caerffili, CF83 3HG – AGM, hall, food & entertainment – starts 12noon – BOOKABLE WITH RALLY OFFICER – KEITH HOWARD. 29th Nov.-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 – deposit of £10 per person to the Treasurer, Glyn Evans. FOR ALL BOOKABLE RALLIES PLEASE CONTACT OUR RALLY OFFICER on 07791524227 or keithjhoward17@gmail.com
SUSSEX
It’s that time of the year, folks, get ready for our AGM, have your say and hopefully become more involved by joining our merry band on the committee. Further details later on in this text.
We have had a busy and successful year so far, not long now before you will be planning for the festive season and the rallies for 2025. August saw 2 rallies, the first near Hurst Green and the second at South Harting.
The weather at the first one was glorious (apart from a brief spell of rain stopping us getting together on the first evening) with everyone basking in the sunshine throughout most of the 4 day meet. It was on a field by a country road, opposite a spectacular garden and garden centre (the cafe proved very popular and the shop was well stocked with plants and garden accessories. The field had recently been mown and was reasonably flat, apart from a few potholes (but we’re all used to them in the roads anyway). Although mostly consisting of Sussex members, we had visitors from nearby Kent and not so near NWM&NW who were on their way to foreign shores. Hope the second part of their holidays was as much fun as the first! We had delicious hot dogs one day then scrumptious Pimm’s O’clock and cakes the next. Several members played field games in the afternoon but most were content to sit, chat, drink and relax. A fantastic time, well done to hosts and attendees.
The second rally of the month incorporated South
Harting Memorial Field Horticultural Show, a firm favourite with our group. Penny won 3rd place in the Craft competition and newcomer Phil and his daughter Rachel entertained everyone in the Pavilion with music and songs. It was their first rally with Sussex and they made a huge contribution to everyone’s enjoyment. Well done Maureen, Chas and Chaos for your hosting and big thanks to all who made it such a good weekend. The lovely weather was a plus.
Upcoming Rallies: 18-20 October, Willingdon Community School, Broad Rd, Willingdon, Eastbourne, BN20 9QX, start time Friday 6pm. AGM 10.30 am Saturday, later on will be a Ploughman’s meal at 5.30pm, followed by professional singer Malc de Reding in the evening. Cost £28 pu for the weekend. Come along and have your say or just enjoy a fabulous rally with friends old and new. Anyone thinking of joining our enthusiastic committee will be very welcome, any queries to the existing committee, either in advance or before the AGM.
1-3 November, Pound Hill Junior School, School Lane, Crawley, RH10 7EB, start time 6pm, Halloween and nearby Vintage Car London to Brighton on Sunday morning. The rally will be hosted by the ever popular and indefatigable Carole and Gordon. STOP PRESS! As Kent MCC are not running the New Year rally, Sussex committee will be hosting it, at St Richard’s College, Bexhill! The dates this time will be much better than last year, Monday 30th December 2024 to Thursday 2nd January 2025, 3 nights. More details to follow, keep your diary free!
SWP
I cannot believe we are into September as I write this newsletter and I’m not looking forward to the nights drawing in or the colder weather. We had two rallies in August, below are the reports from our wonderful hosts. Our next rally is at the end of September so too late for this publication. We do have our AGM at Woodlands Leisure Park TQ9 7DQ on the Friday 11th October and it would be great to have a good turnout. This is when we will be voting on our Committee to take the club forward into the next year, I cannot emphasize enough, if we do not have enough people to vote we have no club.
Report on Rally at Mount Edgecumbe from Host Cathy (August 2-5). We had 16 vans in total and everyone enjoyed a welcome drink on Friday before dinner. The weather was very kind to us and we had visitors from Severn Valley, Kent and of course our West Country neighbours. Most people made the most of the weather on Saturday and either walked the coastal path to Cawsand or went across to Plymouth on the foot ferry from Cremyl. Some even adventured to Plymouth on the Cawsand Ferry. Sunday after coffee morning was spent looking at the classic cars and around the many stalls in the hot sunshine. An amazing weekend, had by all.
Report on Rally at Anchor Barrow, Perranporth from Host Mel (August 28-1Sept). Thank you to everyone that
attended Anchor Barrow, this was a new site for the club, we had 13 SWP and 2 Avon. We had a Cheese and Pimm’s meet and greet on the Friday, where we all caught up with familiar and new faces. It was lovely sitting in the early evening sun on a site with fantastic rural views. The general consensus is that it’s a great venue, with onsite food and evening entertainment. Many of us enjoyed the mixed grill, while listening to a very talented guitarist. This was followed by a silent disco, we had such fun and laughter dancing the night away. During the daytime the weather was generally good, dry but windy. So, most took advantage of the weather and caught the bus from outside the site travelling to Falmouth, Truro, Newquay, St Agnes or just into Perranporth. There was also good walking trails from the site.
Upcoming Rallies: OCTOBER 10-11-12-13-14-15 = 5 nights. Woodlands Leisure Park, TQ9 7DQ. SWP AGM, will be on Friday 11 October 6pm. NOVEMBER 7-8-9-10-11 = 4 nights. Wooda Farm Holiday Park, Bude.
WEST COUNTRY
Hopefully you have all managed to get out and about in your vans and enjoy some summer sun!
Can all members please cancel bookings if you are not going to attend, we had over 20 vans who did not attend our Bude event, unfortunately this is making running rallies harder for the hosts as well as the group when we have pitch or site fees to be met. Please in future if you are booking make a note in your diary, on your calendar and if you really cannot attend contact the rally officer to cancel. Can we also please remind everyone cash in an envelope with your name, amount, membership number and van registration for you to hand to the hosts on arrival, along with your membership card for us to check.
Our Newton Abbott rally saw 21 vans from all over the country, people caught the bus from outside the site to visit the local area. Access to the club house was available for 3 nights and card bingo along with a quiz as well as the raffle we undertaken. Many thanks to Lorraine and Trevor for hosting for the first time and the help given by Bob and Helena.
Bude saw 83 vans turn up for our rally over Lifeboat weekend. There were lots of things going on in the town with music events as well as the celebration of 200 years of the RNLI on the bank holiday Monday. This saw activities on the canal as well as the pasty auction and the lifeboat singers in the local pub who were joined by one of our members to entertain the public over the lunch time. We had use of the club house every evening and enjoyed bingo as well as Pasties one evening with burgers another. Ken kept us entertained and we all enjoyed his musical extravaganza which had many up singing and dancing until midnight.
As a committee we would like to thank Ken for all his entertainment throughout the last couple of years and I am sure I am not the only one in saying you will be a hard
act to follow.
Our AGM is being held on Saturday 12 October at 2.30pm. If you cannot attend for the rally which runs from 10-14 October you are welcome to join us for the meeting, just bring your membership card. We do need committee members as Jim and Jenny along with Ken are standing down. It is your group please come and have your say as it is no good moaning if you can’t be bothered to attend and put your point of view across.
The rally at Salisbury Rugby Club attracted 47 vans, 1 Chiltern, 1 West Country, 1 SWP, 5 Avon, 8 East Wessex and 31 from West Wessex. We planned to have meet and greet with some cheese and wine on the Thursday but the weather was unkind to us.
On Friday afternoon our Chairlady made a welcome visit to the rally after recovering from a hip operation and presented a cheque to Shirley Tucker on behalf of last year’s charity, Parkinsons, Swindon. On Friday evening the weather was much kinder and we all enjoyed cheese and wine on the patio before going into the bar area for the charity auction. This year the auction lots, which included an adult’s electric tricycle, raised £829.50. Add to this the proceeds of the raffle, and money raised from a hamper kindly donated by Anne Hartley, approximately £1000 will start this year’s fund raising for the Dorset Blind Association, thanks to the generosity of MCC members.
On Saturday evening we all enjoyed a lovely BBQ and then there was music in the bar area from a live band. On Sunday we were entertained by the Enigma Road show disco on the patio. A big thank to Gill, Dean, Sandra for helping me and to Chum, Sue, Ali, Dawn, Robert and Anne for all they did to make rally a big success.
12 units attended the August bank holiday rally at
Wareham Rugby Club. 8 West Wessex, 2 Chiltern, 1 West Country, and 1 East Wessex . Entertainment on Friday night was provided by 2 games of rugby, which were played on the pitches next to our motorhomes!! The weather on Saturday was bad until lunch time and then there were odd showers for the rest of the day.
On Sunday afternoon a family fun day took place at the Club. During the weekend Campers took the opportunity to visit Wareham and some went to Swanage by bus. Thank you to Lynne and John who enjoyed their first experience as hosts, ably supported by old hands, Keith and Stephen.
Upcoming rallies: 10-14 October (4 nights ) South Lytchett Manor, BH16 6JB. Full facility site, some hard standing. Bus stop outside entrance, to Poole and Wareham. Tearooms and craft centre a few minutes walk away. Cost £25.50 inclusive EHU, TV aerial. Hosts, Sue and Chum Randall. Book with Sue (07706 402880) See website for directions. 24-28 October (4nights) - ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING WEEKEND at Devizes FC, SN10 3DX . Basic water and Elsan and use of Club house with food and entertainment at various times during the weekend. Booking required with hosts Dawn and Ali (07889998080) membership cards required to attend AGM on Sunday morning. Cost £12 pupn. 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 included. Food is available at lunchtimes and third night and 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 Limited spaces available. All rallies start at 12 noon. Please do not arrive too early. See WW website for full details and directions to all rallies.
West Wessex
West Country: Ken
YORKSHIRE
Our rally at Bedale where we had 32 vans in attendance including 28 from Yorkshire 3 Northern Counties and 1 East Midlands. Bedale is a very pretty Market town, with lots of great local shops and pubs, the majority being dog friendly, and most people took the 15 minutes or so walk into the town to enjoy this. There was also a car boot sale, with quite a few coming back with a pile of things they didn’t realise they needed.
The rain held off so allowed us to do quite a lot of outside activities. As we were in the period between the Olympics and the Paralympics, we based all the activities on the ability to win Gold, Silver and Bronze medals, concluding in a medal count and overall winners. We were blessed with having 3 Juniors with us who worked tirelessly in assisting the older ones of us achieve the activities. The Bedale Olympic events included Welly Throwing, Bolas Tossing, Driving Theory test, Rebus, Football anagrams and Towns & Cities. Lots of laughs all weekend.
Following this we next attended the rally at Pickering where we welcomed 25 Yorkshire, 3 Northern Counties, 2 East Midlands and 1 from both Lancs and Essex. The venue is just a short walk from the Town Centre, where there is a great mix of shops and pubs, a lot being dog
friendly. Some of our members went on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, which has steam trains through Goathland (Heartbeat TV) to Whitby.
There were quite a number of activities throughout our stay organised by the Rec club, including Football FA Vase cup game against Newcastle Benfield on the Friday, Cricket against Pocklington on the Saturday, then the Keith Sales Open Memorial Day on the Sunday, which included lots of stalls, North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue, Circus lessons, 5 local Live Music bands, and fund raising for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Our own activities were organised each evening plus Monday afternoon, including Bingo, Quizzes, Karaoke & Bolas Tossing. A great time was had by all.
Upcoming Rallies: Our next rallies are: October 11-13 Wetherby Racecourse (AGM). November 8-10 Skipton Auction Mart.
RALLY AMENDS
EAST WESSEX: 1-3 Nov cancelled, no suitable venue S&W WALES: 11th-14th October – Tycroes Rugby Club. – Cancelled.. IMPORTANT – 14th-17th November –Cardiff Harlequins RFC CF14 7JN - CANCELLED. 6th-9thDecember – Hi Tide,Porthcawl – Cancelled.
* MOTOR CARAVAN INSURANCE COVER
OUT &
MIDLANDS
WARWICKSHIRE MONARCH’S WAY AND THE
Frances and Michael Howorth explore the West Midland section of the escape route used by King Charles II as he fled to France following his defeat by Oliver Cromwell
Defeated in Britain’s only Civil War by Oliver Cromwell, at the Battle of Worcester in 1651, King Charles II fled for France. He did so along a route through Warwickshire known today as the Monarch’s Way. As a walking route, it starts in Worcester, heads north to Boscobel and then south to Stratford upon Avon. It then continues south passing through Stow on the Wold, Cirencester and Bristol. Finally, it turns south eastwards to Shoreham on Sea in West Sussex. We chose to drive our campervan on the short section through Warwickshire as we explored the West Midlands and, because we can, we chose to go in the opposite direction.
On our way to the start at Alcester, we stopped to take in a prebooked guided tour of Ragley Hall, the ancestral seat of The Marquess of Hertford. The Hall,
designed by Robert Hooke in 1680, sits at the centre of an estate spanning approximately 5,600 acres overlooking the unspoilt Warwickshire countryside and includes 26 acres of formal gardens designed by famous Victorian landscape designer Robert Marnock. Today the hall is one of Warwickshire’s most sought after exclusive private venues and has been used as the set for large-scale film and tv productions.
The town of Alcester itself is one of the most investigated Roman small towns in the country, with over 100 archaeological digs in the last 80 years. The town’s Roman Museum, which sits right on the Monarch’s Way route, is free to visit and is, we think, one of the hidden jewels of the Midlands. Housed inside a former magistrate’s court, it showcases what life was like in Alcester during Roman times.
When we drive our campervan around the UK, one of us is behind
the wheel, and the other sits in the passenger seat whiling away the journey, knitting, crocheting and creating embroidery (we will leave it to you to work out which one does what!). It is unusual that we both get the chance to create something together, so, we were delighted when the Makers’ Space suggested a little de-tour away from the Monarch’s Way to learn a new skill. This new vibrant craft community showcases the best of local talent, and their workshops teach new skills. It is located inside a fabulous old farm courtyard, with Tudor barns that have been transformed into rustic studio spaces. The complex includes The Maker’s Emporium, a small shop selling a growing array of art, ceramics, glassware, crafts, cards and kits along with a coffee shop that serves tasty treats. But we were not there to indulge our tummies! We were there to throw a pot! Our tutor Jonathan Selby is an accomplished
potter and an excellent teacher. In a three-hour course he taught us the art of making coil pottery and then let us loose on one of several potter's wheels. Educational and entertaining, Jonathan did a grand job. We had great fun getting mucky and learning the first steps of pottery making.
In Wootton Wawen, we stopped off to take a look inside St. Peter's Church. It is of Saxon origin and the oldest Church in Warwickshire, dating back as far as the 900s. The church is a one-stop encyclopaedia of English history, a fascinating place to visit for anyone of any age. In the barnroofed Lady Chapel an acclaimed exhibition explores Wootton Wawen’s mysterious past, including how it got its very odd name.
After visiting Wootton Wawen, we took yet another slight de-tour as we just had to see nearby Henleyin-Arden’s famous mile-long high street packed full of medieval, Tudor, Georgian and Victorian architecture.
High Street in Henley in Arden
We loved the Heritage centre. It is a unique facility made possible by the generosity of an American named Joseph Hardy. He purchased the old Lord of the Manor title and then fell in love with the village. In 1992 when an exhibition of Henley’s past attracted great interest it created a desire in him to put money into the
set up to preserve and display this information. The trust was formed in 1995, purchasing and renovating a timber-framed building property on the High Street, during which an architectural survey revealed that the earliest phase of the building dated to 1345. That makes it the oldest known vernacular building in Henley. Somewhat less ancient but still quite delicious, is the Henley Ice Cream parlour, a family run firm which started in the 1930s selling
SHROPSHIRE
Shropshire’s varied landscapes are a magnet for motorcaravanners. Besides some of the best walking and hiking the country can offer, it offers other enticing activities to get stuck into, on rivers canals and up in the hills. What Shropshire won’t be offering are city breaks, because it has no cities! But Shrewsbury, the history-rich county town, is well worth a visit as is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ironbridge Gorge, the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution and home to the world’s oldest working cast-iron bridge.
Ironbridge Gorge
Jonathan Selby at Makers’ Space introduces Michael to the art of coil pottery
St. Peter's Church, Wootton Wawen
Or ramble through the Shropshire hills, enjoying the V-shaped valleys and countryside as you go.
There are no less than three Club CLs listed in Shropshire meaning staying in the county while touring is a lot easier. The Grindley Brook Wharf Mill House site is a well sheltered and very secluded site tucked away beside the famous Staircase Locks on the pretty Llangollen Canal. Not far away the Club CL at Whitchurch Marina offers another waterside campsite. Bill Rushton runs the Club CL called Ivy House Farm in Cheswardine, about 15 minutes from Market Drayton.
to Henley in Arden since the early 1900s. Harry and Arthur Fathers took over in 1934 and quickly established a reputation for quality ice cream making. Since the last change of hands in 1990, Henley Ice Cream has, under the guidance of Emily Adams, become the Heart of England’s favourite once more.
Nearby the Welcombe Hills and Clopton Park are a perfect reserve for walking and taking in the views across the landscape with flower-rich grassland, woods and ponds. Keep an eye out for the Obelisk monument which can be seen from miles away. It was erected in 1876 by Robert Needham Philips to commemorate his brother, Mark Philips, and their father, Robert Philips who made his fortune in the cotton industry. He was also a successful politician and served as the first Member of Parliament for Manchester from 1832 to 1847. About half a mile away, as the crow flies, is the Clopton Tower. It is a folly dating back to 1850 and was designed as a belvedere for Clopton House and has been described as either “the smallest castle or grandest cottage in England”.
Throughout our time in the West Midlands we stayed at Stratford Parks one of several campsites run by
Avon Estates. We loved the fact that we could leave our van safely here and catch their exclusive water taxi from the site right into the centre of Stratford. It is the perfect way to get into town without the van and allows you the chance to have a drink!
The Coach House is one of Stratford’s award-winning pubs owned by the historic brewing house Davenports. When we expressed uncertainty about which beer to drink they offered us a tasting that allowed us to select a glass of each of three beers. Such a great way to taste what the locals enjoy! After that we walked further into town for dinner.
If you do nothing else in Stratford, you must treat yourself to some authentic Greek food at El Greco, a family-run restaurant, overlooking the Market Square. Their famous signature menu allows you to experience the true taste of Greece by eating your way through an amazing 22 dish banquet.
There is so much more to Stratford upon Avon than the bearded playwright although he seems to have an all-encompassing presence throughout the town. Judith’s, for example can be found at 1 High Street. It is located at the former home of William Shakespeare’s daughter, Judith. Here you can try your hand at making your own rum at the Midlands’ only rum school.
Henley Street is home to the UK’s only mechanical art venue, offering a >>
Emily Adams at Henley Ice Cream
Stratford Parks campsite operate a water taxi from the site into the centre of Stratford
HEREFORDSHIRE
Tucked against the Welsh border, hugged by the Malvern Hills and the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons), Herefordshire is brimming with countryside and culture. Charge your cameras and explore Hereford’s areas of outstanding natural beauty through lush Wye valleys and remote Malvern hills bursting with spring water. Walk through history from Norman castle ruins to Tudor manors and pause in cathedrals to gape at the Mappa Mundi, one of the world's unique medieval treasures.
Herefordshire is a hotspot
for film and TV location scouts.
Renowned for its towering cliffs, heavily wooded gorge and allround fantastic natural scenery, Symonds Yat famously features in the hit Netflix show, Sex Education Coppett Hill, in the Forest of Dean, featured in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part One And while not a filming location, sci-fi fans can’t miss a visit to The Time Machine Museum of Science Fiction. Then there are the county’s eclectic festivals which are famed far and wide for their range of ciders, beers, and country music. Though you’ll have to bring your head for amber Wye Valley Brewery ales.
plethora of mind-boggling creations not to be missed. Opened by local entrepreneur Richard Simmons in 2012 with the help of his son and nephew, the MAD Museum (which stands for The Mechanical Art and Design) is full of motorised machines. It now exhibits around 60 interactive pieces of motorised art, specifically called Kinetic Art and Automata. All are made by inventors, technicians and artists from all around the world.
Having spent a whole day in Stratford it was time to move on. Venturing northwards, we reached Warwick. We wanted to visit the recently restored multi-million-pound medieval visitor attraction. No, it’s not Warwick Castle! The Lord Leycester is Warwick’s answer to the Royal Chelsea Hospital, and it has recently re-opened following a £4.5
Relax and recharge in beautiful Worcestershire
Our tranquil, dog-friendly site is a haven for couples and families
Amenity block • Reception sells essentials 15 electric hook-ups • Playing field
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Brecon Beacons
The Lord Leycester
million investment. We enjoyed a tour of the facility with one of the Brethren, who explained how the medieval masterpiece survives to this day. We would have stayed longer but lunch was waiting for us at the Warwick Arms Hotel, a little further along the High Street. It is the oldest hotel in Warwickshire and was first established as a coaching inn in 1591. Since then, it has hosted Frank Sinatra and Admiral Nelson although not necessarily in that order!
Rugby School and the football game that bears its name have all helped put the West Midlands on the map and we had an urge to visit the town of Rugby and explore where its sporting namesake was formed 200 >>
For the thrill seekers Staffordshire is home to the Alton Towers theme park, but for those who like things a little bit calmer, the county has generous portions of Peak District and Pennine national parks.
Looking for something inbetween? Why not go trekking with a llama, or go bananas for Trentham Monkey Forest it is the only place in Britain where you can walk among 140 Barbary macaques roaming free.
Discover the historical sites that inspired author Arnold Bennett on a visit to Stoke-onTrent. Explore award-winning
including the outstanding World of Wedgwood and the mesmerising Middleport Pottery. Go on a factory tour and learn about the skills and craftsmanship that go into producing this iconic pottery.
Try a stint on the water as Master and Commander of your own boat. A brand-new Heritage Canoe Trail leads to the edge of the Peak District, and features special markers to guide canoeists as the paddle along a 20-mile canal-based route.
Stay at the Canal Side Park in Shebdon, a members only Club CL run by Phillip Evans.
Bodnant Caravan Park enjoys a picturesque location on the outskirts of the historic market town of Llanrwst in the beautiful Conwy Valley. We can accommodate motorcaravans, touring caravans, tents and we also have 2 holiday caravans for hire. All our caravan pitches are on hardstanding. We have been “Wales in Bloom” winners for 26 years with our displays of flowers and old farm implements. Come to explore and enjoy our lovely country.
A tiny Barbary macaque exploring the canopy of a tree at Trentham Monkey Forest
An exhibit on display at the Mechanical Art and Design Museum
years ago. Guided tours are provided allowing visitors to see its chapels and museum, and of course, you get to see the 'The Close', the hallowed turf where William Webb Ellis first picked up the ball and ran with it.
If you are still in academia mood, then be sure to visit Astley Book Farm, the Midlands’ largest second hand bookshop. It is tucked away in the north Warwickshire countryside near Nuneaton. We spent far too long browsing and got wonderfully wrapped up in the experience.
About a half hour drive away from here, near Atherstone, is Ettie’s Field a real find of a campsite. Wonderfully bohemian, it is full of wildflowers and birds singing. From an eco-friendly, sustainability point of view, it also has by far the very best bathroom facilities we have ever encountered. Use Ettie’s Field as a base to discover
Heritage, a volunteer run local museum telling the story of the Atherstone area from the Romans to the present day. A rolling programme of special exhibitions goes into more detail about the Atherstone hat manufacturing industry, mining and quarrying and the overcrowded yards in which the workers lived. We loved Middleton Hall and Gardens in Tamworth. It is one of the oldest surviving domestic buildings in the county. It houses the Sir Robert Peel
Drayton Manor, the Peel Family and a potted history of policing in the UK.
Snead, Powys, Wales SY15 6EB 01588 620471 www.daisy-bank.co.uk enquiries@daisy-bank.co.uk
Fifteen minutes away from Ettie’s Field and close by the M42 is Abbey Church in Polesworth. From here you can explore the Polesworth poetry trail between Pooley Visitors Centre through to Abbey Church. The poems are displayed as street sculptures and plaques. In Elizabethan times, Polesworth was considered the most important centre of literary activity
Dolbryn Caravan and Campsite is a peaceful family run and family friendly campsite, in the heart of the Teifi Valley in beautiful West Wales. We offer fully serviced pitches, grass pitches, charming facilities, dog walking areas, an on-site bar and fishing lake, and we’re just a 20 minute drive from the coast.
www.dolbryn.co.uk 01239 710683
Ettie's Field campsite
WORCESTERSHIRE
Here we are talking the county rather than the condiment, but both are rather yummy!
Its wild countryside, cute Cotswold villages and its important role in English history all add up to make it a cool place to visit. Worcester’s ornate cathedral has a big presence, being adorned
in every architectural style from Norman to Gothic, while keen ramblers should head for beacons dotted with unusual towers and follies in the Malvern Hills.
Enjoy a great day out at Witley Court and Gardens or step back in time on the Severn Valley Railway enjoying rolling countryside views and hints of a bygone era of steam-hauled splendour. Learn why
Worcestershire really is the 'Land of Hope and Glory' delving into the music and talent of Sir Edward Elgar whose life and loves are engrained in the county's heritage.
There are seven Club CLs in this western part of the West Midlands all listed under Worcestershire in the Club Handbook and Sites Guide. Check these sites out first and plan your trip around them.
Worcester Cathedral
Witley Court and Gardens
WALES, WYE NOT?
Frances and Michael Howorth venture across
the border into southern Wales seeking out the treasures the principality has to offer touring motorcaravans.
If you ask the question, should we visit Wales in a motorcaravan then the answer must be why not? Or, to play on words in the geographical sense, Wye not? The Wye Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and an internationally important, protected landscape area, straddles the historic border between Wales and England. It is renowned as one of the most dramatic and scenic landscapes in southern Britain and the perfect touring ground. The valley has a claim to be the birthplace of British Tourism. Commercial trips down the river Wye in boats started in 1760 (the English were denied access to their favourite European resorts on the continent due to an inconvenient war with France). So, they had to look closer to home for trips. Famous figures such as Wordsworth, Turner and Admiral Nelson made the tour which soon became a must for English high society.
Black Mountains. It was the priory's remoteness in the Welsh hills which was its undoing, making it vulnerable to Welsh attack. Giraldus Cambrensis, a medieval monk, described it in the late 12th century, as “being 'fixed’ amongst a barbarous people”. Today it is one of the most beautiful of all British ruins retaining a sense of peacefulness and spirituality. Hidden in the northern edge of Monmouthshire, the village may well be in the middle of nowhere, but it is well worth the effort.
Stay at Llanthony Campsite set peacefully away from the main roads, there is a medieval abbey on your doorstep, and two pubs an easy walk away from the campsite, you don’t have to go far for food and refreshment.
Hay-on-Wye
Nestled below Hay Bluff is the tiny town of Hay-on-Wye. It is famous for
town of Hay-on-Wye. It is famous for
For us, a Valley highlight is Llanthony Priory. Llanthony was one of the earliest houses of Augustinian canons to be founded in Britain and is one of only a handful in Wales. Today it is chiefly famous for its amazing setting, far up the Vale of Ewyas in the mysterious
Photo credit: Peter Rhys Williams / shutterstock.com
Photo credit: Drew McArthur / shutterstock.com
seriously silly street entertainment. The festival attracts topnotch producers and create what is truly one of the best artisan food festivals in the UK. Outside the festival, the town has several sights worth seeing including the turreted Gothic Market Hall which hosts produce markets on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays with a flea market on Wednesdays. When looking for campsite ideas consider either Blossom Touring Caravan Park in Tedillion, or Pyscodlyn Farm located between Crickhowell, and Abergavenny.
Go below
one thing – books! There are millions of them, and they are everywhere. The castle's a book shop, the cinema's a book shop, the fire station's a book shop, the alleyways are book shops. If buying books isn’t your thing, don’t worry, there’s a library on Chancery Lane. If you can, visit Hay during the annual literary festival (end of May and beginning of June). The American President, Bill Clinton called it “the Woodstock of the mind”. It is during those ten days that the English language’s most famous writers and thinkers head to town and the population expands from a tiny 2,000 people to over 100,000! It’s a truly wonderful time to make a visit.
However, if you can’t make the festival or prefer a Kindle to books, Hay is great any time of the year. In amongst the book shops there are plenty of antique and craft shops plus some great delicatessens selling local produce. It’s a lovely place to shop for the unusual and quirky. Nearby, Radnors End campsite offers great views over the town while Ashbrook Caravan and Camping is a little closer to town but lacks
Abergavenny
Flanking the Brecon Beacons National Park, Abergavenny (Y Fenni) is a busy and breezy market town which people flock to –primarily for its outstanding cuisine – this reaches its zenith during the September Food Festival.
Quirky and edgy and with a few surprises thrown in, there’s a great atmosphere at the Food Festival because it all happens in the centre of this lovely historic town. Two days of fun and feasting guaranteed! Everyone who participates is passionate about what they do and keen to share knowledge: top chefs, producers, makers, writers and
On top of that there’s some
For something completely different consider visiting the National Coal Museum’s Big Pit, near Pontypool. It was a working coalmine until it closed in 1980. Then in 1983 it became a museum of the South Wales mining industry and later became incorporated into the National Museum and Galleries of Wales as the National Mining Museum of Wales. Now it stands high on the bracken-clad moors of north Gwent importing visitors instead of exporting coal.
The highlight of this astounding museum is undoubtedly the hourlong underground tour, led by ex-miners, which takes you 300ft down in the pit cage to walk through underground roadways, air doors, stables and engine houses built by generations of mineworkers. On the surface you can explore the colliery buildings – the winding enginehouse, the blacksmiths' workshop and the fantastic pithead baths.
The Gower Peninsular
The Gower Peninsular (Welsh: Gŵyr) has often been described as the Holy Grail of Motorcaravan adventures. Located on the south coast of Wales, it was the first area in the United Kingdom to be designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, in 1956. The area is home to 10 nature reserves, 24 Wildlife Trust >>
Oxwich Bay
Photocredit: Cliff Day / shutterstockcom
Gower Peninsular
Photo credit: Graham King / shutterstock.com
reserves, 32 Sites of Special Scientific Interest and five Special Areas of Conservation. Gower has become a haven for some of the richest wildlife and varied habitats in the UK and the beaches are fantastic!
On the peninsula itself, the population lives mainly in small villages. The southern coast of the peninsula consists of a series of beautiful, small, rocky or sandy bays like Langland and Three Cliffs Bay. There are also some spectacular beaches like Port Eynon, Rhossili and Oxwich Bay which are slightly larger. On the north side of the peninsula there are fewer beaches, where this section of the coast includes the famous cockle-beds and the Salt Marsh Lamb of Penclawdd.
Take a five mile walk from Rhossili to Mewslade Bay (via Worms Head if the tide is right).
It is a truly picturesque walk at the western edge of the Peninsula, and
chosen by the Ramblers' Association as one of their 'Top 10 Coastal Walking Routes' in the UK. Rhossili is named after a truly stunning beach, regularly on 'best in the world' lists. Sunsets here are amazing! This classic walk out to the Worm's Head is one of the most famous circular walks in Wales. Worm's Head (owned by the National Trust) takes its name from the old English word for dragon, and with a bit of imagination it looks just like a giant one has landed on the edge of the peninsula. Or if the tide is not right the second option is a gentle cliff walk around Rhossili Head (with stunning views of the beach), continuing past Worm's Head, around to Mewslade Bay.
National Botanic Gardens of Wales
The beautiful national Botanic garden of Wales, near llanrthne in Camarthenshire is fabulous. The
Garden's centrepiece is the Great Glasshouse designed by architects Norman Foster and Partners. Inside the amazing, tilted glass dome is a mediterranean landscape dominated by a six-metre deep ravine. Rock terraces and sheer faces are cut by streams and waterfalls. A lake provides a humid habitat at the foot of the chasm. Visitors can experience the aftermath of an Australian bush
National Botanic Gardens of Wales Photo credit: jax10289
fire, pause in a Spanish olive grove or wander through collections of fuschias from Chile.
Llandeilo
There are fewer towns in Wales more attractive than Llandeilo, sitting proudly on a hill above the river Tywi, the quiet, quaint town is rich in heritage and history. Lots of pastel houses line the streets
of this picturesque town which is fast gaining a reputation for chic shopping in its tiny streets. The Welsh language is still very strong around here, so you get to hear it spoken in the town's shops and cafés.
Your first stop has to be Heavenly, a cosy shop on the High Street famous for its handmade chocolates and ice creams made from local organic milk and cream. The flavours
range from the classics to peanut butter and Mississippi Mud Pie. The shop uses local milk, cream and handpicked fruit whenever possible. They even cater for your pets when they recently launched a doggy friendly soya based, low in sugar, ice cream.
Situated just outside the town, Brynhyfryd Farm is a Club CL surrounded by rolling hills and miles of verdant fields. The campsite is only a stone's throw away from the 12thcentury castle, Dinefwr and the town centre and a great base for exploring the surrounding area.
Southfields Enterprise Park, Unit 1, Jordans Rd, Ilminster, Somerset, TA19 9FF
T: 01460 57524
E: service@southwestmotorhomes.co.uk
W: www.southwestmotorhomes.co.uk
STOCKPORT
PINNACLE MOTOR ENGINEERING
Gordon Street, Stockport, SK4 1RS
T: 0161 480 0397
E: info@pinnaclemotors.net
W: www.pinnacle-motors.co.uk
SUFFOLK
SHARMAN CARAVANS
Habitation services to all motorhomes and campervans – AWS approved workshops. Colchester Rd, Ipswich, IP4 4RU
T: 01473 713284
E: sales@sharmancaravans.co.uk
W: www.sharmancaravans.co.uk
SURREY
ELMWOOD VEHICLES LTD
Motorhome Servicing & MOTs
278 Kingston Rd (rear of petrol station), Epsom, Surrey, KT19 0SH
T: 0208 394 2847
E: info@elmwoodvehicles.co.uk
W: www.elmwoodvehicles.co.uk
GREENFIELDS CARAVAN & MOTORHOME SERVICING LTD
Servicing and repairs for all makes
AWS Approved workshop.
The Maultway, Camberley, GU15 1QA
T: 01344 231153
E: help@caravan-service.co.uk
W: www.caravan-service.co.uk
SUSSEX
CARAVAN TECH SERVICES LTD
(Bailey, Swift and Adria) London Rd, Hurst Green, East Sussex, TN19 7PN T: 01580 860260
E: shop@caravantech.co.uk
W: www.caravantech.co.uk
JC LEISURE
Lifestyle Park, Harbour Rd, Rye, TN31 7TE
T: 01797 227337
E: service@jcleisure.co.uk
W: www.jcleisure.co.uk
PREMIER MOTORHOMES
Premier Business Park, Main Rd, Birdham, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 7BU. T: 01243 511189
E: service@premiermotorhomes.com
W: www.premiermotorhomes.uk
RELIANCE
CARAVAN & MOTORHOME SERVICES
Units D1-D3, New Barn Offices, Funtington, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 9DA. T: 01243 940050
E: enquiries@reliancecms.uk
W: www.reliancecms.uk
Tea break teasers
See page 68 for solutions
Codeword
Crack the code and fill in the grid. Each letter of the alphabet is represented by a number from 1-26. Two letters are given as a starter, can you decipher the rest of the code to discover all the words?
Sudoku
The objective is to fill a 9x9 grid so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 3x3 boxes contains the digits from 1 to 9. A cell is the smallest block in the game. A row, column and region consists of 9 cells and the whole game consists of 81 cells.
Wordsearch
Crossword Puzzle
Can
Anise Basil
Across
1Disreputable (6)
5 Fraught with danger (8)
9 Like most lunch breaks (4-4)
10 Longtime
Zimbabwean leader (6)
11 Sticky Snares (4)
12 Sparsely distributed amount (10)
13 She saw deserts ranged below (10)
17 Imperial field measure (4)
18 In the proper manner (4)
19 Group who stick it to the ball (6,4)
20 Grandstanders (10)
24 Eliot's were practical (4)
26 Landing places (6)
27 Develops & utilizes (8)
28 Character sketches (8)
29 Raised the roof (6)
Lettuce Mace Mint
Myrrh
Senna
Sesame
Sorrel
Tansy
Thyme
Woad
2 Residence (5)
3 Sheers off (5,4)
4 Often bought with emulsion (5)
5 Communicator before texts and smartphones (5)
6 Recall past experiences (9)
7 Within the rules (5)
8 Inner city, perhaps (5,4)
15 Dry run (9)
16 And so on (3)
17 Scholar to sort out where to learn to paint (3,6)
21 Bluff (5)
22 Bakers? (5)
23 Mawkish (5)
25 Rights of ownership (5)
Tea Break Teasers
(from page 66-67)
Bazaar
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
VMOTO SUPERSOCO TCMAX electric bike plus transporting rack. Very good condition 2020 reg. 1,100 miles. The bike weighs 80kg without the removable battery. For more info, call 07597 344516. £2,000 ONO.
ACCESSORIES
CHERISHED NUMBER PLATE: E2 BED. Currently held on retentionready to transfer. £1,000. Tel: 07415 533535
DOMETIC AWNING RALLYAIR PRO 3305. Electric pump. Height 235-265. £480 ONO. New £1,250. 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
PARA-GON (FOLDABLE) SCREEN CORNER by Silver Screens. Fits T5 2003-2016. Lets daylight in without removing. £160. Tel: 01278 793957 - Somerset
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
Codeword
Sudoku - Medium
Sudoku - Hard Crossword Puzzle
We are based in Deeside,
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