Bumper | 2020
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Get Away To
Meet The Team
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Why we love…York
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Welcome back to our Bumper edition!
It’s been a long time since our last newsletter – we hope you and your families have all kept well and safe during these difficult last months? To welcome you back, we have a special Bumper edition of our Cover4Caravans’ newsletter, jammed full of useful information on caravans and static homes and lots of UK destination inspiration.
So, what’s in store this time?
Why we love York
Get away to … Britain’s natural wonders Britain’s natural wonders offer a glimpse into the country’s awe-inspiring ancient past; one that created cavernous gorges, spectacular limestone amphitheatres and breathtaking chalk cliffs. These spots have fascinated visitors for centuries, so why not get dreaming of a natural wonderinspired adventure? Find out more about these iconic at these spectacular ancient sites, all worthy of a spot on any nature-lover's British bucket-list.
Did you know … you must regularly check your values under new for old cover? At Cover4Caravans, one of the policy benefits that we are very proud of is the fact that we offer new for old cover on your touring caravan or static home for up to 5 years (regardless of the number of previous owners).What you need to be very careful of though, is that the current replacement value of your ‘van (known as the sum insured) is reflected on your policy schedule. This is because the value may have changed. This article looks at what you need to consider when calculating your caravan’s sum insured.
Visit www.cover4caravans.co.uk or please call us on 01702 606301
Here Michael Stammers, Manager at Cover4Caravans, tells us why he and his family love the city of York – and shares some ideas of the best places to visit including the York Walls, Clifford’s Towers and the Railway Museum.
Don’t forget our YouTube channel Finally, if you are planning your next caravan jaunt, then for inspiration and for over 45 caravan site reviews, pop over to our YouTube channel.
Eight of the most haunted castles in the UK
And while you are there, you can watch the latest caravan news plus access useful caravanning videos too. Summer is a thing of the past, the nights have drawn in, fog and mists swirl about – in places it’s all getting pretty spooky. We hope you enjoy this newsletter. And with Halloween approaching, what better time to face your nervousness head-on by visiting one or two of the country’s most haunted castles? Here’s our pick of the top eight creepiest castles in the UK. Richard Burgess, MCIM, ACIEH, Cert CII Director, Cover4Caravans Follow me on Twitter @cover4caravans
Richard
Static corner: Keeping your static home safe in winds and storms
After a much-delayed start to the caravanning season, the number of holidays this year have probably not turned out as you might have wanted – and now it’s already time to start thinking of battening down the hatches of your static caravan for the winter months ahead. Here are some ways of keeping your holiday home safe in winds and storms.
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GET AWAY TO BRITAIN’S NATURAL WONDERS Britain’s natural wonders offer a glimpse into the country’s awe-inspiring ancient past; one that created cavernous gorges, spectacular limestone amphitheatres and breath-taking chalk cliffs. These spots have fascinated visitors for centuries, so why not get dreaming of a natural wonder-inspired adventure? x Britain’s natural wonders offer a glimpse into the country’s awe-inspiring ancient past; one that created cavernous gorges, spectacular limestone amphitheatres and breath-taking chalk cliffs. These spots have fascinated visitors for centuries, so why not get dreaming of a natural wonder-inspired adventure? Find out more about these iconic landscapes (words and images courtesy of VisitBritain. com) at these spectacular ancient sites, all worthy of a spot on any nature-lover's British bucket-list…
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Why we love…York
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The Needles, Isle of Wight, England For those dreaming of tasting bracing sea air whilst looking onto a magical scene of azure blue waters, The Needles is just the place. These three jagged chalk rocks jutting from the western coast of the Isle of Wight once made up part of the headland, but over time erosion has separated them from the coast. They’re best seen from The Needles Old Battery, a Victorian fort built to protect Britain from invasion. On a clear day, the contrast between gleaming bleached rock, blue foaming water and the endless sky above is spectacular. Some of the best vistas can be enjoyed from aboard the airborne chairlift, which provides a bird’s eye view of the Alum Bay cliffs, the rock formation and the site’s impressive lighthouse – just don’t be tempted to look down! Did you know? None of the squat forms are particularly needle-like. The name refers to two earlier members of the group that crashed into the sea after a storm in 1764. Malham Cove, North Yorkshire, England Travellers longing to experience the stunning scenery and rugged charm of northern England can get inspired by Yorkshire’s Malham Cove, Mother Nature’s limestone amphitheatre. The curving crag of the Cove features an 80-metre high cliff that was created at the end of the last Ice Age by meltwater, which left an expansive, breath-taking cliff and plateau above. At the top of the cliff is a limestone pavement, scoured by the retreating glacier, thus creating a strangely regular feature that resembles rough paving slabs. The views from the pavement across Yorkshire are fantastic and the area is excellent for walking. The landscape should also pique the interest of bird lovers, as it is home to both Peregrine Falcons and Tawny Owls. Did you know? Malham Cove appears in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1.
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Jurassic Coast, East Devon and Dorset, England The Dorset and East Devon Coast, also known as the Jurassic Coast, is one of Britain’s outstanding natural gems and was the first ever site to be inscribed as a 'natural' World Heritage Site. It spans 95 miles of sensational coastline all the way from East Devon to Dorset. What makes this coast so special is the way its cliff exposures provide an almost continuous geological 'walk through time' spanning the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods - a time capsule holding 185 million years of the Earth's history. Eager adventurers can lose themselves as they imagine walking along the cliff-top paths to see some of England’s most spectacular geology including Durdle Door, the large limestone arch near Lulworth. There’s also Old Harry Rocks, a mesmerising trio of chalk formations that stand proudly on the Isle of Purbeck, marking the eastern-most point of Dorset’s coastline. Did you know? Scenes from the Oscar Wilde biopic Wilde, starring Stephen Fry and Jude Law, were shot here.
Cheddar Gorge, Somerset, England Britain’s biggest gorge was gouged out of Somerset by meltwater floods more than one million years ago, leaving a spectacular steep-sided ravine that cleaves the countryside in two. A whopping 137-metres deep and three-miles long, Cheddar Gorge provides an expansive look into prehistoric Britain. The gorge is an unforgettable spot for cliff-top walks, rock climbing and discovering the show caves. Home to weird and wonderful rock formations and an underground river, the caves found at Cheddar Gorge are just as much a natural wonder as the cliffs themselves. For those picturing an epic road trip around Britain, Cheddar Gorge is less than an hour from the historic cities of Bath and Bristol. Did you know? Britain’s oldest complete skeleton, known as the Cheddar Man, was found in one of the caves here.
Words and Images courtesy of VisitBritain.com
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Seven Sisters cliffs, Sussex, England For those dreaming of breath-taking coastal walks and windswept views, the South of England’s white chalk cliffs offer an unmissable taste of Britain’s natural beauty. A symbol of Britain’s proud island history, some of the most dramatic white cliffs in the UK are in the Seven Sisters Country Park along the Sussex Heritage Coast. This classic view is best enjoyed from Seaford Head, for sweeping vistas of the snow-white cliffs beyond. Over the centuries, their imposing might has repelled invaders and welcomed weary seafarers home. But the cliffs are gently eroding thanks to the elements, so why not add this historic natural landmark to the must-see list before they change? Did you know? The cliffs appear in Robin Hood Prince of Thieves and Atonement, among a host of other films.
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Brimham Rocks, North Yorkshire, England Like discovering nature’s quirkier side? Imagine a trip to Brimham Rocks in North Yorkshire, lying just eight miles from the historic town of Harrogate. This collection of crazily balanced rocks have fascinated visitors for centuries. Formed by the glaciation and erosion of millstone grit sandstone over thousands of years, the formations have acquired names that (supposedly) reflect their shapes.
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Fingal’s Cave, Isle of Staffa, Scotland Across the Irish Sea from the Giant’s Causeway is Fingal’s Cave, a sea cave on the island of Staffa in the Inner Hebrides that deserves a place on any nature-inspired bucket list. Formed by part of the same ancient lava flow that created the Causeway, it has been an inspiration to artists and writers for hundreds of years. Sir Walter Scott said it ‘baffled all description’ and the composer Felix Mendelssohn composed his Hebrides Overture after hearing the strange echoes caused by water sloshing around the cave.
Look out for The Watchdog, The Sphinx, The Turtle, The Dancing Bear and The Camel. A Site of Special Scientific Interest, its 454-acres are also home to herds of red, roe and sika deer that roam freely across the landscape. Did you know? The name of Fingal’s Cave in Gaelic, Uamh-Binn, means ‘cave of melody’. There are also majestic birds such as kestrels and owls, as well as a range of protected butterflies that live around this natural wonder. Trotternish Peninsula, Isle of Skye, Scotland Did you know? Early observers thought the The most northerly of the Isle of Skye’s peninsulas naturally formed rocks were carved by druids, boasts some spectacular geology and scenes of true members of ancient Celtic culture. otherworldliness. So evocative is the region, it’s easy to imagine taking the easterly coast road to see the bizarre Tolkienesque spikes of the Quiraing landslip and the Old Man of Storr, a monolith of basalt rising 49 metres. It was Giant’s Causeway, Antrim, Northern Ireland Longing to experience nature’s whimsy? Why not envision a in this startling landscape that Bonnie Prince Charlie trip to The Giant's Causeway, an out-of-this-world natural hid from government troops after the Battle of Culloden wonder that lies at the foot of basalt cliffs along the rugged in 1746. The region also has a rich prehistoric story, as fascinating footprint and bone evidence suggests it was Antrim coast of Northern Ireland. This intriguing rock once a dinosaur stomping ground. formation, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is made up of some 40,000 tightly packed black basalt columns Did you know? Trotternish is also home to Kilt sticking out of the sea, some of which reach as high as 39 Rock, a sheer cliff of hexagonal basalt named after feet into the air. The polygonal pillars are strangely regular, the Scottish national dress it resembles. almost as if formed by hand, but were in fact moulded over 50 million years ago by intense volcanic lava that cooled at a rapid speed, breaking into distinctive shapes. Did you know? Legend has it that the causeway was formed by Irish giant Finn McCool who wanted to cross the Irish Sea to fight Scottish rival, Benandonner.
Words and Images courtesy of VisitBritain.com
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Glyder Fach and Glyder Fawr, Snowdonia, North Wales Hikers itching to don their walking boots and explore new terrain might enjoy imagining a trip to North Wales, to conquer Glyder Fach and Glyder Fawr. These two mountains are among the most striking in a region not short on epic, rugged scenery. Glyder Fach (994 metres) is crowned by the famous cantilever rock, a massive precariously balanced slab that’s a favourite spot for climbers. Glyder Fawr (1,001 metres), which translates as ‘big lump’ in Welsh, rewards adventurers with a craggy summit littered with spiky frost-shattered rocks angled like ancient tombstones. For more information contact the Visit Britain Media Team on: pressandpr@visitbritain.org
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Did you know… you must regularly check your values under new for old cover?
At Cover4Caravans, one of the policy benefits that we are very proud of is the fact that we offer new for old cover on your touring caravan or static home for up to 5 years (regardless of the number of previous owners). This means that if you bought a caravan in 2018 and this year it is stolen or damaged so badly that it needs replacement, in the event of a successful claim, you will get your tourer / static home replaced on a new for old basis. What you need to be very careful of though, is that the current replacement value of your ‘van is reflected on your policy schedule. This is because the value may have changed. So, if you bought your touring caravan for £14,000 2 years ago, is it still worth £14,000 - or would it cost more to replace it?
As an example: if you bought a Swift Sprite Alpine 4 in 2018, its current resale value would be around £13,999. to replace your Swift Sprite Alpine 4 as new today however, prices start at around £16,740. So, when considering the sum insured value under the new for old section of your caravan insurance, you need to think about how much it would cost to replace your caravan at today’s prices – not its resale value. Of course, the price to replace your ‘van may have actually gone down, so let your insurer know - you could save money on the cost of your caravan insurance premiums. How to find out the current value of your ‘van If you want to check the current value of your caravan to ensure you have the correct sum insured amount, speak to your caravan dealer – they should be able to help. REMEMBER: In the case of new for old replacement on your caravan, in the event of a successful claim for loss or irreparable damage, you will not receive an amount more than what is stated on your policy schedule.
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What our customers are saying!
At Cover4Caravans, our aim is not only to find you the most suitable and cost-effective cover for your ‘van, but to provide a first-class service. Following is some genuine feedback via Feefo from some of our customers. As always, we are thrilled to receive such continued positive feedback!
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Relle the Rabbit in the picture above
“Very amiable and professional. Level of cover exactly what I wanted. Explained in detail by the representative and very competitive price acquired.” “It was not a chore to take out caravan insurance. Very good. To the point.” “They provide a very good service. Everything they did for me was done very well and all aspects of my purchase was fully explained, I would definitely buy from them again.” “Excellent service and great value. As a new caravan owner, I contacted
Answer on back page
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Cover4Caravans after receiving extortionate quotes from the more mainstream caravan insurers and the two clubs. The quote and cover were excellent. Michael Stammers was a pleasure to deal with and the cover was sorted in a timely manner. Keep up the good work!” “Great company. Been with the company 3 yrs now very happy with the service. Very friendly and reliable.” “Very good service. The lady who I dealt with was fantastic, if you keep your prices this good, I will be staying. Thanks.”
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Why we love … York Here Michael Stammers, Manager at Cover4Caravans, tells us why he and his family love the city of York – and shares some ideas of the best places to visit. My 10-year-old son Jacob loves trains. I mean loves them, whether it be the history of trains, his books on the subject, his collection of old tube maps, you name it. His expertise is so great that he was invited into the cab of the new Azuma train to discuss train technology. This love stems from his (prelockdown) travel his grandparents in the beautiful city of York on most of his school holidays. When we can we also travel up too when work allows.
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Where to start? Here are our family’s top places to visit in York owntree Park - our family loves R walking, so this park is a perfect destination. Very relaxing place next to a Caravan and Motorhome club site, great for the children. I may or may not have been on the zip wire! One of our first trips was in a freezing February when the lake was frozen. he York Walls - great history, great T exercise, a great way to see the city. he Railway Museum - hours of fun, T including my partner Fliss’s favourite mini railway ride. You can get on the railbus that takes you into the centre of the City. It also gives you the opportunity to sit on some old trains including the Japanese bullet train. onks Cross and York Designer outlet M - both out of town shopping centres are easily accessible via bus routes (Jacob reminds me it’s the number 12 to Monks Cross and number 7 to the Designer Outlet. He knows all the bus routes off by heart). Lots of great stores and food courts to grab a drink and a bite. lifford's Tower - as keen as I am on C heights (erm...not!) this complex was a former prison, courts etc and reeks of history. Fantastic views if you have the
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stomach for it. Which I didn’t, though Jacob did! The Jorvik Centre. Best advised to book in advance as the queues can get very long (though this will inevitably change due to the pandemic) but it’s a fascinating insight into Viking history and the gift shop, whilst small, has some interesting stuff. Betty’s Tea Rooms. The queues tell you how good it is. York Minster - the cathedral in York still retains an aura about it and has that wow factor. Amazing architecture. The Museum Gardens - next to the River Ouse are the fantastic gardens and ruins. Amazing sights and really makes you think of the history. York regimental museum - more recent history now and a regular for me and Jacob and next to Clifford’s Tower. Here’s hoping that this brief guide to a wonderful city might be useful when the country emerges from its current plight. We are looking forward to going back
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Caravan maintenance tips Thank you to Laurence and Michael @ Caravanskids for this article! We are fortunate to be able to store our caravan on our driveway. In fact, at both houses I have lived in, this has been the case. Admittedly it was easier to put our first caravan, an Eriba Troll, on the drive. A few things changed when we bought our Elddis Avante 586 as we had to put it where one of the cars went. We still had the 586 up until November last year when Dad treated us to a Buccaneer Barracuda – go big or go home! This just fits on the drive, which is good because Dad has said if he cannot put it on the drive, we would not have a caravan as we would not get enough use out of it. He keeps saying “It’s not a driveway ornament!”.
Who are Caravanskids? @Caravanskids is the Twitter account set up by Michael and his Dad, Laurence. The intent of the account is to show that kids can have fun in what is perceived to be a hobby enjoyed by older generations. In fact, at most Camping and Caravanning Club DA meets, Michael is the only child on the field, and this is his attempt at promoting the hobby to other young people. While the posts are generally Michael's thoughts and comments, they are moderated by Laurence before being posted as Michael is too young to have his own Twitter account.
As with all things mechanical, caravans like to be used. Failure to do so causes items like pumps to seize, tyres to crack and batteries to fail. My Granddad had a caravan, but he only used it once a year. He had no end of problems. Dad had to change the toilet flush pump, the charger, and it had two new batteries because it was left on charge. The second battery failure was so dramatic that it caused an explosion in the battery box and blew the battery box door off the side of the caravan! So, here are some tips about how we maintain our caravan. Not all caravans are the same, and not all owners do things the same way. I appreciate that, so if we have missed something – apologies. This is the first time we’ve done something like this.
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Tyres
We have been jacking up the caravan with the E&P Hydraulics Level System and spinning the tyres round periodically. A top tip here is to put a chalk mark on the tyre where it touches the ground, and then you'll know how far round you have spun it – you can't always go exactly quarter of a turn as sometimes the Alko locks don’t allow you to.
Battery
Our new caravan has a solar panel on the roof that is permanently connected to the battery. We do not need to have the caravan plugged in unless we are having a staycation. This keeps the battery topped up, but again, a top tip – make sure the solar regulator is programmed to the correct battery type to keep the battery healthy. Ours was not. We have an AGM battery, and the regulator was set for a flooded battery. This would have meant different charge voltages and may have damaged the battery. If you do not have a solar panel, you can wire in an independent, smart charger like one from the fantastic CTEK range. This will look after your battery far better than any built-in charger.
Pumps
When we have a staycation, we put water on the caravan. This allows us to pump it around to check the Aquaroll pump and fill the on-board tank. We can then pump out of the on-board tank to check its pump and the use the toilet flush (ours is pumped straight from the Aquaroll). We are hoping this will stop us having any issues in the future with the pump. Of course, we drain the system down once we
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have finished, so the water doesn't get stagnant in the pipes.
Gas System
Most weekends, when we are away, we off-grid. It is therefore important to check that the gas system for the heating and the fridge is working. Periodically run the fridge on gas and check the heating and hot water. It doesn’t take long, and it doesn’t use a lot of gas, but it does clear out the exhausts and vents from creepy crawlies that made have made their home there over lockdown.
General maintenance
Once we have finished our staycation, we vent the caravan to get rid of any condensation, give the worktop sides a good clean down and, vacuum the carpet. We clean the waste cassette and Wastemaster so everything will be clean and ready as soon as we are allowed back out. I help Dad clean the caravan with either Fenwick's cleaner or Autoglym products. We find the Fenwicks to be a better cleaner for the caravan than the Autoglym shampoo, but usually, finish it off with Autoglym Rapid Aquawax.
Conclusion
We hope you have enjoyed this article and that it has given you a useful insight into some of our simple maintenance tasks.
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Eight of the most haunted castles in the UK
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Haunted Castles
Summer is a thing of the past, the nights have drawn in, fog and mists swirl about – in places it’s all getting pretty spooky. And with Halloween approaching, what better time to face your nervousness head-on by visiting one or two of the country’s most haunted castles? Here’s our pick of the top eight creepiest castles in the UK … 1. Chillingham Castle, Northumberland It gives you the chills just to say the name – and Chillingham Castle in Northumberland is said to be the most haunted castle in England. Within ‘The Inner Pantry’, you might be unlucky enough to encounter a frail figure dressed in white. The Chillingham Castle website explains that silver was stored in the pantry and a footman employed to sleep there and guard it. One night, when the footman had turned in to sleep, he was accosted by a lady in white. Very pale, she begged him for water. Thinking it was one of the castle guests, he turned to obey. Suddenly he remembered he was locked in and no visitor could have possibly entered! This same pale figure is seen today, and it is thought the longing for water suggests poisoning. 2. Carlisle Castle, Cumbria Still in the North of England, but over in the Northwest, you’ll find Carlisle Castle. If you are brave enough to venture down into the dank darkness of its dungeon, you can discover the famed “licking stones” – reputed to have been worn smooth by the thousands of tongues of prisoners so dying of thirst that they licked the moisture off the walls just to stay alive.
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As you emerge from the darkness, look up to the Captain’s Tower, where in 1819 numerous skeletons were discovered to have been walled up in the masonry. 3. Muncaster Castle, Cumbria Just a little further south, on the very western edge of the Lake District, near Ravenglass, sits Muncaster Castle. Ghost-sightings aplenty have been reported at Muncaster: a woman singing and a child crying in the haunted Tapestry Room; Thomas (Tom Fool) Skelton, who plays tricks on staff and visitors alike; and the Muncaster Boggle or White Lady, who is said to be the ghost of young Mary Bragg who was killed in the 1800s near the castle’s main gate. 4. Glamis Castle, Scotland Our culture is well steeped in the stories of ghosts, so, one of William Shakespeare’s most famous plays, Macbeth, is set at Glamis Castle, where Macbeth himself first appears as the Thane of Glamis. The Grey Lady, a woman with no tongue and awful injuries – and said to be Lady Glamis, who was burned at the stake in 1537 – can be spotted staring from the same barred window year in and year out. The ghost of Earl Beardie still haunts one of the castle’s secret rooms, where he has been holed up gambling with the devil until the end of time. Haunted it may be, but Glamis Castle is also one of the UK’s most beautiful castles and home to the young Elizabeth the Queen Mother and the ancestral seat to the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne since 1372.
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5. Warkworth Castle, Northumbria You might encounter yet another Grey Lady who continues to haunt the towers of Warkworth Castle, near Morpeth, on the coast just north of Newcastle. It’s unclear just when the Grey Lady started her eerie wanderings but Warkworth has a long history stretching right back to the year 1139 when stone buildings first appeared on the present site. Visitors to the castle report a “chilling aura” that affects children and dogs. 6. Dunster Castle, Somerset Once an ancient Norman fortress, Dunster Castle in Somerset these days is home to innumerable sightings of ghosts, inexplicable happenings, sinister and peculiar sensations that might be felt by you – and some that seem only to be felt by dogs! A ‘green man’, for example, continues to haunt what was once the stable block. National Trust staff at the castle have been terrified when confronted by a disembodied human foot appearing from nowhere (and disappearing just as promptly) or hearing loud voices and heavy footsteps within the empty castle at night.
The scariest part of the castle, however – and the one your dog may refuse to enter – is the deep, dark dungeon where the skeletons of a whole group of prisoners, including one estimated to have stood seven feet tall, were found all manacled together in one hideous pile. 7. Portchester Castle, Portsmouth A black monk, a ghostly apparition on horseback and numerous other ghosts continue to haunt the remains of Portchester Castle in Portsmouth. Within the grounds of the castle, there is still a Norman church and, within its graveyard, evidence of satanic witchcraft rituals have been discovered, according to the Ghost Story website.
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One of the saddest – though harmless – ghosts to continue to prowl the castle is the White Lady. She is believed to be Charlotte White who was visiting Portchester Castle during Victorian times when her baby fell into the moat that surrounds it. Charlotte drowned in the attempt and can sometimes be seen in her grief about to throw herself from the top of the Keep. 8. Blickling Hall, Norfolk It may not be a castle, but it’s a grand and historic country estate, haunted by a former Queen of England no less. That Queen is Anne Boleyn who was beheaded by King Henry VIII (when she failed to give him a male heir) but was born in the manor house that stood on the site of what is now Blickling Hall.
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Anne’s headless ghost can be seen returning to the house on the 19th of May every year – the anniversary of her execution. She appears at night, with her head in her lap, in a coach driven by a headless horseman. As the coach approaches the front doors of the Hall, it disappears into the night. Another ghost said to commemorate the anniversary of his death at Blickling Hall is that of Sir John Falstofe – on whom playwright William Shakespeare based his character Falstaff. We hope you have enjoyed this round up of some the UK’s most haunted castles. Are you brave enough to venture in to one?
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THE GREAT BRITISH PICNIC MENU We all love a good picnic and you don’t just have to one in the Summer, Autumn is a great time too – just wrap up warm! Get creative in the kitchen using the recipes, then dig out that picnic blanket, pack some hot chocolate and have a fun, British-themed dining experience to remember. Words and images courtesy of VisitBritain.com.
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Scotch Eggs
There are a number of theories as to the origin of the Scotch egg, from its creation at London’s luxury department store Fortnum & Mason in the 18th century, to more humble beginnings in the coastal city of Whitby in Yorkshire in the late 19th century. Wherever these savoury snacks hail from, one thing is certain: this British classic makes for an utterly sumptuous picnic treat… Made by wrapping breaded meat around a boiled egg, Scotch eggs can be enjoyed hot, cold or with a touch of mustard. Ingredients (makes 6): 6 eggs (large if possible) 2 beaten eggs 20g (7/8 cup) thyme 20g (7/8 cup) parsley 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 300g (1 ½ cups) minced meat 400g (1 ¾ cups) skinned sausages Pinch of salt and ground pepper 1 teaspoon English mustard powder Flour (for coating the eggs) 100g (1 cup) dried breadcrumbs Oil for cooking
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Pour oil into a high-edged frying pan until five centimetres deep, and heat. Place each of the eggs into the hot oil using a utensil and being mindful of splashes/spitting. Rotate onto each side once golden, until completely cooked. This should take around seven minutes, depending on the temperature of the oil. Top tip: Use cling film to help wrap the meat mix around the egg.
Sausage Rolls
Loved by city-dwellers and village folk alike, the sausage roll first became popular in the capital during the Napoleonic Wars in the early 1800s. Little is known about the snack during the Victorian era, although a criminal case in 1894 uncovered an incident of an apprentice soaking brown bread in red ochre, salt and pepper to give the appearance of a meaty filling and save money! This is far from the case with modern versions of this pastry-based treat, which can contain meat or vegan fillings, helping to make the sausage roll a staple of British picnics…
Preparation: To prevent cracking, carefully pierce the eggs with a needle and place in a saucepan to boil for five minutes. Once cooked, run under a cold tap and gently peel from their shells.
Ingredients (makes 8 rolls): 8 skinned sausages 2 teaspoons dried sage Pinch of salt and ground black pepper 2 crushed garlic cloves (optional) 375g pre-made puff pastry 1 beaten egg
Preparation: Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F, Gas Mark 7), roll out the Next, mix the sausage meat with the minced meat in a large bowl, along with the Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, pastry, cut into eight squares and leave to one side. Next, prepare the filling by mixing the meat, garlic, sage, salt and and the herbs. Season with salt and pepper and mix until combined. Spread the contents of the bowl evenly on baking pepper in a large bowl. Once combined, divide into eight equal sized cylinders and place one on one side of each paper and cut into six squares. Coat each of the eggs with pastry square. Brush with the beaten egg and cover the flour and then place one on each of the meat sections, filling with the other side of the pastry, using fingers to seal wrapping around the egg entirely. The encased eggs then need to be coated with the flour, followed by the beaten egg together. Place onto a greased baking tray and brush the top with egg before cooking for 25-30 minutes, until golden and finally the breadcrumbs. in colour and piping hot throughout.
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Coronation Chicken
Created by Le Cordon Bleu chef Rosemary Hume to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation lunch in 1953, this dish is enjoyed by royals and street party-throwing Brits alike! A quintessential British classic to add to any picnic, it can spice up a simple salad or work as a delicious sandwich filling. Ingredients (serves 4-6): 6 tablespoons of mayonnaise 3 teaspoons of mild curry powder ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 tablespoons of mango chutney 2 tablespoons of sultanas 500g (4 cups) cooked, shredded chicken Method: Mix all the ingredients, except the shredded chicken, together in a large mixing bowl to make a thick sauce. Once combined, mix with the chicken. Add to a simple bed of salad leaves or spread between two slices of bread to create a delicious picnic sandwich.
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Potato Salad
Although hailing from Germany, potato salad is a popular addition to any British picnic. There are many delicious variations to this traditional recipe, but here is a simple way to produce a potato salad that is regularly gobbled up across Britain. Ingredients (serves 4): 400g (2 2/3 cups) white potatoes (peeled or with skins left on, as preferred) 2-3 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 teaspoon chopped dill or chives 1 tablespoon of chopped spring onion 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 boiled egg 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley 1 teaspoon mustard (preferably Dijon) Pinch of salt
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Cake mix 110g (1/2 cup) butter 110g (1/2 cup) caster sugar 110g self-raising flour (1 cup) - this can also work with plain flour by adding a teaspoon of baking soda 2 eggs 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract Pinch of salt
Preparation: Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F, Gas Mark 4), and place 12 paper cupcake cases on a baking tray. Grab a large mixing bowl and use a hand whisk or electric mixer to combine the butter and sugar until fluffy. Next, slowly add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing for a few minutes more. Add the salt and continue to gradually add the flour into the mix, stirring continuously. Once the ingredients are fully mixed, carefully spoon into the cases and place into the oven. They will only take 15 minutes to turn golden brown, but use the skewer test Preparation: to make sure they are fully baked through – a clear skewer Start by chopping the potatoes into bite-size chunks and boil in poked in the middle of a cake means they are done. a saucepan of seasoned water. Once soft, drain and put back While the cakes bake, make a start on the buttercream frosting. into the saucepan to steam for a few minutes. Slice the boiled Start by mixing the room temperature butter with a hand egg into small pieces and add to the steaming potatoes. Next mixer or wooden spoon until fluffy. Sieve the icing sugar into add the mayonnaise, chopped fresh herbs, mustard and salt. the butter and add the vanilla extract. Once mixed, add the Carefully stir until combined. milk and continue to beat for a few more minutes. Separate Transfer the potato salad into a bowl and leave to chill in the mix into three and stir in the food colouring to create the the fridge for 30 minutes – after this the salad is ready for the red, white and blue colour scheme. picnic basket!
Flapjacks
Fairy Cakes
Those who have visited the perpetually pink Peggy Porschen in west London know how seriously cupcakes are taken in Britain. Although originating in America, fairy cakes (as they are often called) are a dainty and delicious addition to any outdoor feast. Why not go full Anglophile and add blue and red food colouring to your frosting mix to create a Union Jack themed sweet treat? Ingredients (makes 12): Buttercream 150g (2/3 cup) butter 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract 300g (3 cups) icing sugar 2-3 tablespoons of milk 1 or 2 drops of food colouring, depending on the desired effect
Golden brown and brimming with golden syrup, the oat flapjack is a picnic pudding loved throughout the nation. The word flapjack has been used in Britain since the 16th century, with Shakespeare himself mentioning ‘flap-jacks’ in Pericles, Prince of Tyre, as reference to a common English pudding. However, the dish we know and love today was not created until 1935. Ingredients (serves 6): 600g (6 cups) porridge oats 300g (1 1/3 cups) butter or margarine 250g (just under 3/4 of a cup) Golden Syrup 200g (1 cup) caster sugar Handful of sultanas (optional) 2 teaspoons of cinnamon
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Preparation: Line a baking tray with butter or greaseproof paper and pre-heat the oven to 180°C (356°F, Gas Mark 4). Pour the sugar, syrup and butter into a saucepan and heat slowly, stirring until they are melted and combined. Take the pan off the heat and add the oats, cinnamon and sultanas, mixing until the ingredients have bound together. Spread onto the baking tray and pat down. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and cut into equal pieces while hot, leaving to cool before enjoying.
Pimm’s
Royal warrant holder and drinks maker, Pimm’s is a British liqueur that sparks fond memories of summer fun for many Brits. Made from a secret gin recipe infused with caramelised orange, warming spices and herbal botanicals, this drink is best served with a refreshing mixer, a selection of sliced fruits, ice and mint leaves. It is particularly popular as a refreshment at Wimbledon tournaments, summer parties, and of course, British picnics! Ingredients (all to taste): Pimm’s No. 1. (similar drinks are also available, such as Austin’s, Jeeves and Pitchers) Ginger ale or lemonade Cucumber slices Lemon slices Orange slices Strawberries (halved) Sprig of mint Preparation: Place a few ice cubes in a glass and pour one part Pimm’s to two or three parts ginger ale/lemonade, depending on the desired strength. Add a slice of cucumber, lemon, orange and strawberries, as well as mint leaves. Gently stir the cocktail and enjoy! This recipe can also be used in bigger portions to create a sharing pitcher.
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Pork Pies
Pork pies have been eaten in Britain since medieval times, when their thick pastry crusts were simply used as a way to preserve their meaty fillings. The confection itself has seen many variations over the centuries, from meat and fruit combinations to adding half a pint of white wine into the mix. Today, it takes the form of a classic high crusted pie, with the meat surrounded by a layer of jelly to help it retain its moisture. Having used the same traditional pork pie recipe since 1851, Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe in Molton Mowbray, Leicestershire, is the home of the pork pie, a taste that foodies can attempt to replicate for their very own British picnic… Ingredients (makes 4 pies) For the pastry 3 tablespoons milk 40g (2/5 cup) lard 40g (2/5 cup) butter 340g (1 cup) plain flour 1/2 teaspoon salt For the filling 500g (just over 2 cups) pork shoulder, cut into 1cm cubes 120g (1/2 cup) pork sausage meat 180g (3/4 cup) chopped bacon Pinch of nutmeg Pinch of salt 1/2 tablespoon finely chopped fresh or dried sage 1/2 tsp ground black pepper 1 beaten egg 150ml (2/3 cup) chicken stock 3 sheets of gelatine Preparation: Start by creating the pastry. Put 110ml (1/2 cup) water in a small saucepan, add the milk, lard and butter and slowly heat until the hard ingredients have melted, then turn up the heat and bring to a boil. Using a sieve, mix the flour and salt together in a large mixing bowl and carefully add the just-boiled wet ingredients. Mix until it forms a dough, kneading lightly with your hands until the dough is smooth. Wrap tightly in cling film and set aside to rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.
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Thoroughly combine the meat, nutmeg, sage, and black pepper in a mixing bowl with a large pinch of salt. Next, cut away 1/3 of the dough and separately wrap it in cling film, before dividing what is left into equal pieces. Grab four average sized jars and wrap the bases in cling film. Divide the remaining pastry into four even pieces, mould each one carefully around the base of the jar, until it reaches about nine centimetres from the base. Cover each of the jars evenly, mindful to not to make the base too heavy. Once all four are covered place upside in the fridge for one hour. Whilst waiting for the four pie bases to chill and turn hard, divide the remaining pastry into four equal parts. Roll each of them to create a circle around eight centimetres in diameter, these can then be covered with cling film and left at room temperate until needed. Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F, Gas Mark 4) and carefully remove the now chilled pastry bases from their refrigerated jar moulds by pouring boiling water into each jar. Once loosened they can then be gently pulled off and placed on a baking tray. Spoon the pork filling into each of the cases. Now add the pastry circles on top of the filled pies and secure them by pinching the edges together by hand. Brush the pies with beaten egg and use a skewer or thin knife to make a small hole in the top of each. Cook for 50 minutes, until completely golden brown. Heat the stock until almost boiling before removing from the heat. Soak the gelatine sheets in cold water for five minutes to soften. Squeeze the sheets to remove any extra water then add the gelatine to the hot stock, stirring occasionally. To add the distinctive jelly to these savoury creations, carefully funnel the stock through the holes at the top. This can be done with a small funnel or piping nozzle, making sure to allow time for the mixture to fill the gaps between the filling and the pastry without flooding. Once full, leave to cool and then chill the pies for a minimum of four hours so that the jelly has time to set. For more information contact the Visit Britain Media Team on: pressandpr@visitbritain.org
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Keeping your static home safe in winds and storms In the early 1900s, the gentry could have a horse-drawn caravan built that was transported by train to a summer plot where it remained static. By 1947, the first static caravans (as we know them) started to appear. Stats from the National Caravan Council reveal that in the UK, it is estimated that 43% there are a whopping of people said 365,000 caravan they’d pay more holiday homes in to stay in a caravan use! holiday home with underfloor heating or a hot tub.
After a much-delayed start to the caravanning season, the number of holidays this year have probably not turned out as you might have wanted – and now it’s already time to start thinking of battening down the hatches of your static caravan for the winter months ahead. One of your main concerns now, therefore, may be ways of keeping your holiday home safe in winds and storms. What can go wrong? The relatively lightweight construction of your static caravan and the often open and exposed campsites on which they are pitched, leaves these holiday homes especially vulnerable to high winds and storms. For a sense of perspective on the amount of damage that might be caused the ITV reported on flooding caused by Storm Ciara earlier this year where guests had to be evacuated. You can also watch a short video broadcast by the BBC showing a static caravan being swept downstream as a result of the same storm. It is frightening stuff!
best practice is set out in guidelines on the “transportation, siting and commissioning of caravan holiday homes”.
c heck the fixings of all rainwater goods such as gutters and downpipes, re-securing them where necessary; and
Although you should not alter the way in which your caravan is sited, you can do more to give it greater stability in high winds and storms by anchoring it to the ground. Indeed, some sites insist that you anchor the caravan to the base or hard standing on which it is situated. Anchor points are typically found roughly one meter from the front and rear of your holiday home on the main lengthways chassis members.
c heck the fastenings of any aerials – or even consider removing them during the winter months, when you are unlikely to be using your static caravan anyway.
Battening down the hatches As winter – along with its wind and storms – approaches, it is worth spending some time making sure that your holiday home is as prepared as possible for any onslaught:
Siting and anchoring your static caravan The National Association of Caravan Owners (NACO) explains that the precise siting and orientation of your static caravan is the responsibility of the site owners. For that purpose,
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m ake sure to take down and put into storage any awnings, of course – they are likely to be the first to be ripped from their fastenings and blown away in a high wind; m ake sure any skylights are firmly closed to make a good seal; s ecure all doors and windows, so that if the wind comes a-rattling, they are not damaged by the excessive movement;
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Don’t also forget to make sure that garden furniture, gas bottles etc. are all safely locked away to avoid them being picked up by the wind and damaging someone else’s static home. A thorough check now may help to ensure that neither your caravan nor anything attached to it gets blown away during the autumn and winter’s strong winds and storms.
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TAKE A ROAD TRIP THROUGH BRITAIN Escape Britain's motorways and visitors are often amazed at what they discover. From mountain passes to scenic coastal drives, Britain has plenty of stunning driving routes that are ideal to build a driving holiday around. Words and images courtesy of VisitBritain.com.
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1. A82 - Loch Lomond to Loch Ness This scenic route is widely regarded as one of the most iconic in Britain. Starting in Glasgow, the A82 stretches north into the Scottish Highlands, passing Loch Lomond before heading into arguably the highlight of the route – Glencoe. This stunning area has been called the most spectacular location in Britain, and one look makes it easy to see why. Film buffs will also recognise the area from the James Bond film, Skyfall. After Glencoe, the A82 rounds Loch Leven before passing through Fort William. On this stretch of road, drivers are able to spot Britain’s tallest mountain Ben Nevis towering above them. Those feeling particularly adventurous often stop in Fort William and attempt to climb the mountain’s peak. Continue north on the A82, and encounter another iconic British location – Loch Ness. Drive alongside the Loch and try to spot the legendary Loch Ness Monster, or stop off and take a relaxing walk around the area to finish the road trip in style. The ruins of Urquhart Castle date back to the medieval period and stand proudly overlooking Loch Ness too. Trace 1,000 years of history while taking in the remarkable nature that surrounds this majestic landmark. The 140-mile route can be completed in around threeand-a-half hours, but it’s worth stopping off at numerous locations along the way to take in the sights!
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The A3055 dates backs to the mid-18th century when it formed a key part of the island’s military infrastructure. Linking St Catherine’s Point, near Chale, with Freshwater Bay to the west, the 11-mile route may be short, but it offers a wealth of sweeping ocean views and memorable country landscapes. No stopping is allowed on the section of road between Brook and Freshwater Bay as it is a designated Clearway, but there are a number of official car parking areas where travellers can stop to enjoy the views.
3. B3135 - Cheddar to Ashwick Cutting a route through the Mendip Hills, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the B3135 twists its way through cliffs and a gorge in central Somerset. Primarily known for its cheese, the village of Cheddar is also surrounded by lush, scenic country routes. Adventurous drivers can look forward to navigating the tight, winding bends through the spectacular Cheddar Gorge, before sweeping turns lead to the quiet village of Ashwick. Despite not being the longest drive - around 14 miles - the stunning surroundings make for an unforgettable trip to England’s West Country. There’s plenty of other attractions in the area too, but none offer a sense of adventure quite like a drive through Cheddar Gorge. Set aside around 30 minutes to complete the route.
2. A3055 - Military Road (Isle of Wight) Running parallel with the west coast of the Isle, the A3055 (aka Military Road) is a road trip that should be taken sooner rather than later, as erosion along the coast could see parts of the road disappear! Landslides have reduced some sections of the road to single file traffic and marker boards along the route will illuminate to shut it immediately in the event of another landslide.
Images courtesy of VisitBritain.com
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4. Wrynose and Hardknott Pass For those dreaming of a road-trip challenge, Wrynose and Hardknott Pass is ready and waiting. Featuring some of the steepest roads in Britain (Hardknott Pass has a 33% gradient at one point), this route is not for the faint-hearted. However, those who do brave the route one day will be treated with spectacular views across the Lake District, along with one hell of a story to tell when they head home. The single track route has plenty of twists and turns between the picturesque village of Eskdale and the town of Ambleside. It also passes the Hard Knott Fort, once one of the loneliest outposts of the Roman Empire. Built between 120 and 138AD, the archaeological site overlooks the pass which forms part of the Roman road linking Ravenglass to Ambleside, and Brougham to Penrith.
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5. Evo Triangle Named after Evo magazine which often uses this route to test or review new cars, the Evo Triangle combines three roads in North Wales. Starting on the A5 near Cerrigydrudion, head west towards the quiet village of Pentrefoelas, before taking a right turn onto the A543, where the Evo Triangle really starts to shine. Tight bends and sweeping vistas make the uphill climb a joy, with the road veering off ahead almost endlessly. Eventually, the route will pass the Sportsman’s Arms, before taking a right onto the B4501. This is arguably the finest stretch of the route, featuring panoramic views across the Alwen Reservoir and a twisting, turning road that supplies plenty of thrills. At just over 20 miles, the route takes around 30 minutes to complete, and drivers might even see the latest sports cars being tested!
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The winding single-track road dates back to 1822 and was engineered in a similar vein to the great mountain routes in Alpine Europe. There’s no complex directions to follow on this one; just follow the road south of Tornapress towards Applecross, before ascending across the Bealach na Ba. There’s plenty of stopping points along the 11-mile route, so make sure to get out and take time to enjoy the view!
8. A470 - Brecon Beacons to Snowdonia The A470 runs across most of Wales, linking Cardiff in the south with Llandudno in the north, and if drivers venture northwards on the road, they’ll be able to see some of the best views that the country has to offer. North of Merthyr Tydfil, the A470 enters the Brecon Beacons National Park, with its rolling hills and near endless horizon.
Continue onwards and the A470 heads into the Welsh countryside, passing through numerous tiny villages and 6. Alnmouth to Lindisfarne communities. There’s plenty of opportunity to break off Driving through the countryside can sometimes be a chore, but and explore the surroundings, but stick with the A470 to not on the Northumberland Coast. This route from Alnmouth eventually arrive in Snowdonia. Along the way, drivers will find themselves surrounded by mountains in the distance and to Lindisfarne Nature Reserve follows the coast, offering spectacular views across the North Sea. The Northumberland views that just keep getting better. Coast is also littered with castles, towering above the roads A mix of single carriageway roads and sweeping dual on hillsides; Bamburgh Castle is a particular highlight on this carriageways, the 178-mile route can be completed in around route. Originally the site of a Celtic fort, the imposing stone four-and-a-half hours. The Cambrian Way, a journey across castle was built in the 12th century and its walls have witnessed the mountainous spine of Wales, follows much of the A470, dark tales of rebellion and bloodshed. with additional detours to sites including Welsh Royal Crystal at Rhayader and Adventure Parc Snowdonia. At the end of the journey lies Lindisfarne, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a historic gem in northern 9. Snake Pass England. The sight of the first Viking invasion in 793AD, Holy Island and Lindisfarne Castle are both picturesque from afar. Located in the Peak District, Snake Pass provides a route Those who intend to get closer, beware; the causeway leading across the Pennines between the market town of Glossop and to Holy Island becomes unusable at certain points because of Sheffield. As one might expect from the name, Snake Pass is tidal shifts! Expect to spend around an hour driving the route, full of curves and bends, with each one offering a glorious although there are numerous opportunities to stop and admire view of its own. In the late summer, heather blooms across the scenery along the way. the surrounding hills, bathing the area in a gorgeous purple colour – it’s a spectacular sight.
7. Bealach na Ba Historically used to drive livestock across the mountains, Bealach na Ba (aka Pass of the Cattle in English) has been transformed into one of the most scenic drives in Britain. It’s a little intimidating at first, but any worries will all melt away near the midpoint, thanks to glorious views across the Scottish Highlands.
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Once the main route linking Sheffield to Manchester when it opened in 1821, Snake Pass experiences regular snowfall in the winter months and is often closed during these periods. It’s popular with bikers and cyclists during the rest of the year, with a leisurely drive along the 20-mile route taking in the region of 30 minutes.
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10. B3306 - St Ives to St Just The B3306 might not be the quickest route between St Ives and St Just, but it’s definitely the most exciting. A 13-mile stretch of coastal road, the B3306 twists and turns between quaint villages and hills sloping down to the ocean. The B3306 follows the ‘Tin Coast’ of the Penwith peninsula and near Trewellard is the Levant Mine and Beam Engine, part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site, which is home to numerous surviving mine buildings and a restored 1840s engine. Or venture to Pendeen, to see the Geevor Tin Mine, a well-preserved museum that stands as it was left by the miners in 1990. For more information contact the Visit Britain Media Team on: pressandpr@visitbritain.org
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What’s on? It’s been a challenging time with lockdown and all of the annual and seasonal motorhome and caravanning events being postponed or cancelled. At the time of writing, however, here are some events coming up in the next few months that you may be interested in. All details are correct at time of going to press - but obviously do check that an event is still running before you leave as things can change very quickly! 25 – 27 September 2020 - The Lincolnshire Showground, Lincoln, LN2 2NA
The Motorhome Show Season Finale 2020 At this event there will be over 200 outdoor exhibitors displaying new and used motorhomes; accessories; craft stalls; gifts and new motorhome and camping gadgets. There will also be a sneak preview of some of the industry’s newest models from a range of different manufacturers. There will also be a broad range of both evening and daytime entertainment from Thursday evening through to Sunday evening. Acts include Nigel Boy Syer, Darren Busy, Moondogs, State of Quo, Josh Doyle, Ray Peters, Jay McGee, The Hollies and The Manfreds.
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2 - 4 October 2020 - Three Counties Showground, Malvern, Worcestershire, WR13 6NW The Malvern Caravan Show
Stay-on-site and enjoy a weekend away with four nights of live entertainment or visit for the day. Browse more than 200 new and used caravans and motorhomes for sale from over 15 national and local dealers. Take your pick from thousands of accessories with over 90 exhibitors on site. Daytime entertainment including a charity coffee morning, bingo and a fun dog show.
22 - 24 January 2021 - East of England Arena and Events Centre, Oundle Rd, Alwalton, Peterborough PE2 6XE January Motorhome & Campervan Sale
Launched in January 2020, over 40 vehicles were sold at the three-day event. We look forward to returning to Peterborough in January 2021 and therefore registration will open later this year.
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The Cover4 Team
Baxter Building 80 Baxter Avenue Southend on Sea Essex SS2 6HZ
Michael Stammers Manager
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Lisa Byott Senior Account Handler Natalie Hill Account Handler Catherine Wright Account Handler Tyler Allen Account Handler
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Make the most of your budget with hundreds of new and used models available to view in our vehicle supermarket. This will be one of the UK's largest pop-up multidealer showrooms, with exclusive offers to kick start the new year. Entry is free, as is parking.
Connor Warman Account Handler Christian Oliver Account Handler Ann Thompson PA to Directors Richard Burgess Director
Answer from page 5 Where’s Relle the Rabbit Location of 2E
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