Mc july13

Motor caravanner

The members’ magazine of The Motor Caravanners’ Club £1.95

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July 2013

Group News and Diaries Rear View Mirror

Out & About

Majestic Scotland

Accessories What’s new

National Rally 4 page special

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13/05/2013 14:35

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From the driving seat It is with deepest regret that I have to inform you of the untimely death of Sue Haylock so I hope you will forgive me making mention of a little sample of Sue’s hard work for the Club.

Sue Haylock became a close personal friend from the moment we met some 14 years ago so it was a very sad day when her husband Bernie phoned me letting me know Sue had died an hour earlier. Bernie had been at her bedside after being called during the refreshment break between the AGM and the Members’ Meeting at Newark.

Sue was first invited to be the Disabilities Advisor to the Council of Management in 2004. Sue provided simple clear advice on so many issues which were being brought into sharp focus following the enactment of Disability legislation. Ever busy, Sue was always available to answer questions from any source and actively promoted the Club at venues such as the NEC as well as our own Group and National Rallies.

After a break, Sue supported Bernie as our office re-located from Twickenham to Welland, near their home in Malvern. By this time Sue could barely walk around, yet helped no end during the office move and, very soon, offered further help by joining Council of Management in 2011. Sue continued her work advising on disabilities and in addition was very active helping to widen our range of discount offers from many commercial sources including: DFDS for ferry discounts and monitoring the excellent deal Anne Thorne negotiated with Haven Holiday Parks.

Attending Sue’s funeral was an emotional strain on June, myself and equally for many colleagues and friends within the Club; she was such a special friend to so many people. Our sincerest condolences and thoughts are with Bernie and his family.

Great thanks are also due to Lynda Carter for running the office when Bernie needed time to be with Sue and of course to deal with Sue’s affairs.

On a brighter note it was with great pleasure I received so many accolades for a very enjoyable National Rally at Malvern. I do hope that many of you will take the opportunity to support the 2014 event to be held near Lisburn in Northern Ireland.

Meanwhile, please take care and stay safe out there.

Rik Rik Whittaker Chairman

Inside this issue UPFRONT 6 YOUR LETTERS National Rally in Ireland beyond the budget?

Obituary

8 Dirty dancing from Anglia Group

60 years together

Thanks to Severn Valley

CL site closure

Junior’s Club a hit

10 2013 National Rally Report, pics and competition winners from the event Cover photo: ©VisitBritain / Rod Edwards

FEATURES 19 OUTDOOR ACCESSORIES What’s new 26 OUT & ABOUT Majestic Scotland 29 SERVICING DIRECTORY 56

FORECOURT Kavanagh Deville shows us how to buy a 1995-2006 Hymer B544/B544 Classic

REGULARS 18 SHOW REPORTS 32 REAR VIEW MIRROR 38 GROUP NEWS 52 SPECIAL RALLIES 59 CLASSIFIEDS 62 BAZAAR

Club Contacts www.motorcaravanners.eu

MCC Sec & Administrator: Bernie Haylock Wood Farm Estate, Marlbank Road, Welland, Malvern WR13 6NA T: 01684 311677 E: info@motorcaravanners.eu Administrative Assistant: Mrs Lynda Carter

COUNCIL OF MANAGEMENT

CLUB OFFICIALS

Chairman: Rik Whittaker (01942 714750)

Vice Chairman: John Griffin (01908 511670)

Members: Ann Bond (01761 451228) Tina Botterill (01344 844004) Maurice Brooks (020 8641 2283) David Denham (01271 813088) Graham Durkee (07931 527691) Brian Herschell (0161 284 1648)

Kate Jones (01935 863815) Les Kendrick (01942 215375) Margaret Platt (0191 268 3977) Trevor Scantlebury (01179 628968) Anne Taylor (01522 801319) Alma Turvey (01558 822816)

Insignia: Marion Brooks (020 8641 2283) insignia@motorcaravanners.eu Internet: Geoffrey Challacombe webmaster@motorcaravanners.eu Safety: Contact office Financial Officer: Paul Maguire (01923 274681) Junior Leaders: Maria Hill, Gill Crosby Contact via the office

GROUP SECRETARIES CONTACT LIST 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 21 22 23 24 42 43 52 53

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

Secretary Janet Slade Carole Bennett Mandy Beeke Liz Rowland Dellas Ray Derek Clarke Yvonne Biles Colin Stockall Mick Bowyer Pat Kirby Ron Maddox Marie Moran John Young Kim McKelvie Ged Mead Linda Rowberry Katherine Clark Brian George Shirley Murphy Kathleen Daniels Vanessa Sprake Colin Bredin As N. Ireland Group Peter Coles Pam Wright Andrea Barker

Telephone 07542 554980 01293 530197 07880 862192 0208 304 1817 01206 540928 01473 620933 02380 611910 01494 873406 07866 603577 01242 692548 0151 339 3499 01254 201058 01302 730559 01429 292928 01644 420256 07754779356 0117 932 4942 01752 318021 07837 729172 01604 754816 01983 883867 02870 351831

E-Mail janet.slade@tesco.net cargorbennett@sky.com mandy.beeke@gmx.com murray.rowland@talktalk.net Dellas.ray10@virginmedia.com derekandcarol@hotmail.com ybbiles@talktalk.net colin@uknomads.co.uk Mick.g.bowyer@hotmail.co.uk JJK826@blueyonder.co.uk ron@nwmandnw.org.uk jandmmoran@hotmail.com john2younguk@yahoo.co.uk k.mckelvie@ntlworld.com mccscot@gmail.com lindagrowberry@aol.com kthrnclrk@yahoo.co.uk brianstab51@gmail.com shirleyangel@hotmail.co.uk daniels_a2@sky.com. vanjohn@btinternet.com colinbredin.mccni@gmail.com

(0034)966786403 petecoles@fsmail.net 01252 314375 damwrights@ntlworld.com 0191 410 4227 andlesus@yahoo.co.uk

Publisher/Editor: Simon Tooth E-mail: editor@motorcaravanners.eu Tel: 01502 725838

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. Motor Caravannersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Club Ltd 2009. All Rights reserved.

While every care is taken when accepting advertisements neither the Club nor the Publisher can accept responsibility for unsatisfactory transactions which arise. Printed by Micropress Printers Ltd.

Advertising: Miguel Candeias E-mail: miguel.candeias@micropress.co.uk Tel: 01502 725863

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.

Countrywide Publications, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6DH

4 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

The Motor Caravannersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Club and Countrywide Publications accepts no responsibility for any opinion, advice or information expressed by any person in any article contained herein and members should seek their own counsel on matters before acting or relying on any opinion, advice or information.

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Letters, which may be edited, must be signed and an address given but these will be withheld on request.

National Rally in Ireland beyond the budget?

How the years fly past, it’s now more than ten years ago when Rowena my wife came home from work with the news that her friend was going to sell their motorhome, “are you interested? If so we can go and see it?” That was to be one of those days that enhanced our way of life, a cross-road where you could go left or right or thankfully straight on, to buy the van. With a recommendation we joined the MCC Avon group, it was the start of many enjoyable adventures and friendships.

This year was another for us both, we are now on the Avon committee and it was the first time we have attended a National AGM. With so many different tastes we thought it would be almost impossible to please everyone all the time. Not easy to achieve but I would like to thank both the Council of Management and the many volunteer helpers for their effort making this an enjoyable experience.

If I may make a few suggestions that could be done at no cost but

would have helped. We could not attend until late Friday afternoon due to work, on the night, both ourselves and several other members were walking around trying to find the way into the hall, easy when you know how! Just a few signs to let members know where the entrance was would have helped. This also would apply to Dog Show field. Friday night most members who were going to attend are now on site yet there was no entertainment in the hall?

Monday night many members have to make their way home due to work, but there was entertainment? The Saturday and Sunday nights were excellent, overall a good rally, thank you.

Next year Ireland - fantastic!

But beyond the budget of many members due to fuel costs and overpriced ferry crossings! So are the Council of Management going to relax the no rallies to be held over the period of the AGM rule?

This rally will be in another country.

Roger Moulding Avon Group

Obituaries

SUE HAYLOCK It is with great sadness that the Council of Management informs members of the death of one of its number, Sue Haylock, who passed away on 30th May 2013. Sue was the Club’s Disability Advisor and a member of the Membership Services Committee where she worked tirelessly to get great deals for members with dealers, ferry companies, Haven Holiday sites and much more. For those 6 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

Many thanks for your letter and kind thanks for what was an enjoyable National – the best ever according to some. In particular thanks must go to your group who organised and manned the Tea Bar and which together with money from other events raised a grand total of £1,000 for The Bruce Trust.

We appreciate there were no signs up for the Hall and we will look at this in future year’s although the group hosts are made aware of the location of the hall, the dog walk etc to pass on to their members. The location of the Dog Show Field was put on the notice board in the Severn Hall once the decision had been made about this.

The entertainment on the Friday evening was Bingo followed by the Banner Parade and Opening Ceremony. There is little time left for professional entertainment. We do appreciate that some members have to leave on the Monday but there are a significant number who are able to stay and enjoy the entertainment.

Look forward to seeing everyone in Northern Ireland. While CoM appreciate that this is not mainland there are no plans to lift the restriction to hold other rallies on the AGM weekend.

National Rally Committee

who were honoured to call Sue a friend will remember her sunny disposition, with always a smile and a kind word for everyone. She always had time to listen and would help where possible. Along with her husband Bernie, Sue was a regular at Avon Group rallies and also visited other groups getting around the rally sites and area on her mobility scooter. Sue leaves a hole in the life of many of us that will be difficult to fill; our thoughts are with Bernie and his family at this time.

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LETTERS

Dirty dancing from Anglia Group...

The committee put on another great National. A lot of hard work went into organising it with plenty to do and see. The tables all looked stunning with all the colours and some tables were very elaborate, thumbs up for the tea party.

Entertainment was good and Triple Cream were very entertaining.

The homecraft, not a lot of entries, was it because there was no cakes or wine? Could we not reintroduce them again for next year? I know there was health and safety issues before, but surely if a cake or wine was unfit for human consumption then couldn’t they be put aside with a note explaining why it was deleted

from the competition. I would be disappointed if the homecraft was cancelled because of poor entries, for me it’s all part of the National.

I would like to thank all those who attended me when I had a bit of an accident acting the fool and needed to go to hospital, Carol taking care and getting first aid, Joyce with her good advice, a Smurf first aider, Angela (Chiltern group) for changing my dressing on Monday morning and last but not least Les, who having already travelled to Worcester three times on that Saturday, took me to hospital. You are a star, I promise never to dirty dance again.

Marie Johnston, Anglia Group

60 years together for early members Alwyn and George Alwyn and George Hill of the NW Midlands & N Wales Group celebrated their Diamond Wedding on 4th April, they topped this off with a family get together on Sunday 7th April at Willowmere where they live to mark the occasion.

Alwyn & George were married on Saturday 4th April 1953 in Crewe, just prior to George disappearing off to undertake his National Service in the Far East. On return, George settled down to family life in Crewe prior to buying their first home together in Nantwich.

In 1968 George and Alwyn joined the MCC and spent many happy years with the NW Midlands and N Wales group, holding many positions and were always there to welcome and help members new and old. Alwyn was always cooking for someone, they could regularly be seen on the dance floor where

Thanks to Severn Valley Could we, through the magazine, thank Allen and Gill of Severn Valley group for the superb pre-National rally at Evesham. A lovely location was made even better with their quiz walks to find the things we would not normally have found and they worked hard to make us all feel very welcome. Thank you again.

David and Susan Wright Yorkshire Group

GR

CL SITE CLOSURE

Hollytree House 80 Long street Great Ellingham Norfolk NR17 1LN (CL 94290 - page 41 in the Handbook).

Sadly, due to ill health Chris Price at Hollytree House can no longer manage to run the site.

Junior’s Club at National a hit

they were known for their quick step.

Sadly, this way of life was curtailed in 2009 after George suffered a stroke causing him to lose much of his mobility, although still members, their rallying days are over. They now live in their own apartment within Willowmere Retirement Complex, East Road, Middlewich where they have made many new friends and get involved in much of the activity that this great complex has to offer.

They would love to keep in touch with old friends so drop them an email: thehills19@sky.com

We have just attended our first National at Malvern with two of our grandchildren, Henry and Lydia and would just like to thank all the people involved in organising the event as we all had a terrific time.

The children made new friends and had the time of their lives at the children’s club and cannot wait for the next one in Ireland.

We would also like to thank the South West Peninsula for a great rally at Wadebridge where we feel we did not just meet new people but made some real friends and can’t wait to visit them again.

Derek & Margaret Mills

*Sel

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8 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

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Marvellous Malvern The National Rally 2013 The sight that greeted the working party when they arrived at Three Counties Showground at Malvern was not a good one. One of the prime areas that had been allocated for camping consisted of holes and mounds of earth where the gardening show had taken place!

Add this to the inability to gain access to the hall until Wednesday and the use of the showground for other activities, it meant that the team had their job cut out to meet the deadline for the area to be ready.

But the supermen and wonder women of the working party succeeded.

Thursday, members arrived and settled in before going into the hall for a welcome cuppa and the first time ralliers meeting.

In the evening the hall was again open for people to meet friends and chat. There were table quizzes to occupy the minds of those who wished and background music.

Friday five buses left for a tour of Leominster and Ludlow but there was no rest for the Council of Management and Group representatives with the Groups Conference and Safety Advisor’s meeting. The evening of Friday

10 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

started in the Hall with Bingo followed by the Opening Ceremony and Banner Parade. This was used to announce that the National Rally 2014 would be held in Northern Ireland.

Saturday, the silent auction still ran in the morning but after the church service the afternoon was dedicated to the main business of the weekend and the AGM and Members Meeting. This complete, members were able to relax and enjoy Party Night, a veritable rainbow with the theme having been ‘Colours’. Entertainment was provided by Fuzion who had people up dancing early and the ‘posh lot’ competing in a sing off against the ‘rough lot’. This led to bribes being offered of varying levels from dodgy money to cupcakes and more. This led to the judges (Fuzion) declaring a draw.

Sunday morning and another change, homecraft had been moved to deconflict it from the silent auction. The

fun dog show took place with lots of classes and a large attendance, could this have been the beautiful weather?

Also taking place was the driving skills competition.

In the afternoon the Malvern Garden Fete took place complete with the Hereford Concert Band. Following this the Intergroup Quiz attracted teams from most groups.

Evening entertainment commenced with a ‘Decorated Hat’ competition, followed by an open mic session. This session was so popular that we could have introduced more members but we had the evening entertainment to

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NATIONAL RALLY enjoy so Triple Cream entertained us all for the rest of the night.

Monday dawns and for some the last day of the rally but there are still more events to enjoy starting with the prize giving, Grand Raffle and closing ceremony during which a cheque was presented to The Bruce Trust, who had had a motorhome adapted for the disabled on display over the weekend.

This cheque was from funds raised by Avon Group on the tea bar and donations from the shuttle buses. This was not the end, however, as the afternoon had our Editor joining us for a question and answer session. There was a Floral Art demonstration.

Our final evening we were entertained by All Stars with Take your pick in the interval.

Tuesday morning members made their way either home or to a follow-on rally.

The Juniors also had a full

programme, see page 14.

See you next year in Northern Ireland.

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MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013 13

NATIONAL RALLY

Juniors

The

Friday pm The children took part in the opening ceremony where they followed the junior banner proudly waving their newly made individual flags.

Saturday am In the first session the children were given the task of cutting out and decorating a hexagonal jewellery box and designing an advertising poster for the Garden Fete to be held on Sunday. They were given a choice of materials including pens, pencils, glitter glue, sequins, stickers, etc.

These would be judged along with the adult exhibits in the Homecraft.

As part of the Garden Fete on Sunday afternoon, it was our intention for the children to perform a traditional ‘Maypole’ dance to entertain the crowds. It soon became evident to us that this was going to be ‘no easy task!’ and we wondered whether the children would be able to get it together in the short time we had to rehearse, before the event.

Maria and Gill report

Saturday pm Whilst the adults attended the AGM, the children were having much more fun, finding the names of snails dotted around the site in a treasure hunt. The weather was extremely kind, and it was great to see the children running about, scavenging, with a little help from those of you who were soaking up the sun and enjoying a glass or two!

No sooner had they got their breath back, and quenched their thirst, then they were outside again for more Maypole rehearsing.

Although it wasn’t going as well as we planned, they were enjoying it!

Sunday am Inbetween further Maypole rehearsing the children made bracelets with their own choice of coloured beads. These would be able to go in the jewellery box they made on Saturday.

Sunday pm This saw the last rehearsal before showtime and we were both concerned as to how they were going to perform.

All we could do was cross our fingers.

14 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

Before the performance the children joined in the Garden Fete, with their very own stalls. These included; name the girl teddy, name the boy teddy, guess the number of sweets in the jar and some traditional games to have a go at - Bagatelle, Table Skittles, Quoits, Shuffleboard and Roll-a Ball. Much fun was had by all.

The time had now arrived for the performance of Maypole dancing.

How was it going to go? The children took their places and all eyes were on them. The music began and they started dancing. What were we worried about? It was perfect (maybe this was down to the fact that it was being filmed and it could possibly be shown on TV!) The children did us and themselves extremely proud – well done!

In view of the fact that they had done such a fantastic performance we arranged for a repeat at the closing ceremony the following morning. And again they delivered – it was first class. The reward for us was to see the look on the children’s faces when they heard the rapturous applause and the huge cheer in appreciation.

We would like to thank all the children who attended the juniors for their participation and excellent behaviour. We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did. We are already looking forward to next year’s National Rally and would welcome any suggestions that you may like us to consider.

During the year, look out for the junior page in the club magazine.

We would be grateful for any photos, together with a brief description, of any MCC rallies that you have attended or anything else that you may wish to be included.

MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013 15

NATIONAL RALLY

COMPETITION WINNERS Soft Toy 3rd Margaret Platt, Northern Counties 2nd Kim McKelvie, Northern Counties 1st Carol Greal, East Midlands

Gents Driving Skills James Westerman, Lancashire Ladies Driving Skills Gayle Pickering, NWM&NW

MosaIc 3rd Margaret Platt, Northern Counties 2nd Dot Tomlinson, East Midlands 1st Allan McKelvie, Northern Counties

Quiz Winners Anglia Quiz Runners Up East Midlands ‘A’

Playground Toy 1st Peter Maslin, East Wessex

Fun Dog Show Winner ‘Charlie’ owned by Rita and Bob Hopper of Chiltern

Cross stitch/Embroidery 3rd Richard Wood, West Wessex 2nd Ruth Ross, Northern Ireland 1st Kim Mc Kelvie, Northern Counties Waistcoat 2nd Sheila Williams, Chiltern 1st Kim McKelvie, Northern Counties Knitting 3rd Doreen Jemmet , Northern Counties 2nd Pam Reay, Chiltern 1st Linda Rowberry, West Wessex

Model 1st Barry Mobberley, East Wessex Painting 3rd Maria Johnston, Anglia 2nd Jen Ord, Northern Counties 1st Peter Johnston, Anglia Photograph 3rd David Pain, East Midlands 2nd Dawn Bartram, West Wessex 1st Reg Jones, PIGS Childrens Homecraft (to follow) East Midlands Trophy Linda Rowberry Group Entry Winner Northern Counties Group Entry Runner Up East Midlands Group Overall Winners Trophy Northern Counties

16 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

Founders Trophy Nene Valley Silver Snail NWMNW Recruitment Trophy Severn Valley Retention Trophy Severn Valley Host Trophy – Severn Valley The winners of the First Time Rallier’s draw was Mr and Mrs Udale who received a voucher for one year’s free membership.

Quiz Winners 1. Anglia 2. East Midlands ‘A’ 3. Sussex 4. West Wessex Pirates 5. South and West Wales 6. East Midlands ‘B’ 7. Chiltern 8. Avon ‘A’ 9. Avon ‘B’ 10. Nene Valley 11. Surrey ‘B’ 12. PIGS 13. Northern Counties ‘A’ 14. West Wessex support 15. Severn Valley 16. Surrey ‘A’ 17. Northern Counties ‘B’ 18. Russ

Juniors: Decorated Box: Aged 7 and under 3rd Olivia Wooding, West Wessex 2nd Alexander Hall, Yorkshire 1st Jack Sanders, NWM&NW

Aged 8–11 3rd Jade Kindleyside, Lancashire 2nd Lydia Hall, Yorkshire 1st Henry Bellingham Mills, West Wessex Aged 12 and over 3rd Callum Hill, NWM&NW 2nd Leah Louise Gibbons, NWM&NW 1st Cerys Crosby, NWM&NW Fete Poster: Aged 7 and under 3rd Alexander Hall, Yorkshire 2nd Rhian Hall, Yorkshire 1st Olivia Wooding, West Wessex

Aged 8–11 3rd Will Turner, Severn Valley 2nd Lydia Bellingham Mills, West Wessex 1st Jakob Hill, NWM&NW Aged 12 and over 3rd Callum Hill, NWM&NW 2nd Lily Turner, Severn Valley 1st Cerys Crosby, NWM&NW

Royal Baby Birth Card (as detailed in the magazine) Aged 7 and under 1st Olivia Wooding, West Wessex Aged 8 – 11 1st Jakob Hill, NWM&NW Aged 12 and over 2nd Cerys Crosby, NWM&NW 1st Megan Crosby, NWM&NW

Newbury Showground on Thursday morning, ready and waiting for the arrivals

2013 Show reports Maurice Brooks updates us on the first 3 shows of the year.

Shepton in April made for a very damp start to the Show rallying season with only 34 pre-booked vans. Stone Leisure gave us our usual prime spot for camping with plenty of hard standing and electric hook-ups (at extra cost). We also accommodated those who paid on the gate and they were all offered electric of which quite a lot took up the offer. Thursday and Friday were very wet but come Saturday the skies cleared, and on Sunday the sun came out.

Peterborough the following weekend was a pleasure to attend after last year’s disastrous weather when the show was abandoned.

Members were sitting outside their vans in groups enjoying a small/ large libation and wonderful fare from the numerous BBQ’s that were alight. We were camped on our usual area but nearly 100 vans down on 2012, we didn’t need the extra land usually given to us.

There was only one complaint out of 220 vans which was really good for the marshals. The Council of Management had their bi-monthly meeting on Saturday while the sun shone making us really envious.

Sunday came and those returning home had no trouble exiting their pitches and having a safe journey home.

Newbury on the 16th-19th May was another success because of the excellent weather. We were in our new position for the second year running. 124 vans were pre-booked 18 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

and all but 5 arrived. The area allows us to be generous with the size of the pitches and all except one camper were happy. All in all an excellent turnout and a very friendly rally. A member, Mr Reg Bull took the trouble to come and thank us for our extremely friendly manner and offered Marion a choice of one of his original oil paintings. He seems to mainly concentrate on animals but in his collection he had a Spitfire in flight. Tongue in cheek he first said he was the rear gunner but promoted himself to pilot before we had an amazing evening reminiscing about evacuation of children during WWII. 10.30pm came too quickly when he said he had better go back to his van and see if Maureen was still welcoming him home. A big thank you for that wonderful gesture and also to the many members who make cups of tea/coffee for the marshals out

Late afternoon with nearly one hundred vans sited.

on the field during the day. Mrs B Warnham-Dobson also went one further with apricot jam sponge for us. Another thank you goes to the lady who gave Marion a hand painted mug and bowl and suggested it be given to a raffle.

Well, this is just to keep you updated on the show rallying front and don’t forget to pre-book if you want to park with your Club.

The Club Exhibition Unit has been in attendance at all of the above shows braving the weather and signing up new members and spreading the word about our wonderful Club and its advantages.

To all those members who give a little time over the weekend during staff lunch breaks, filling the hot water for the complimentary refreshments (members only) and keeping things tidy in the refreshment tent, handing out Club carrier bags with a magazine, thank you!

UPCOMING SHOWS: 18-21 July Tabley (Knutsford) (Warners) 16-18 Aug Malvern (Warners) 13-15 Sept Shepton Mallet (Stone Leisure) 20-21 Sept Lincoln (Warners) To book a pitch in the MCC area, contact the show organisers direct.

A guide to accessories Motor Caravanner magazine finds out what’s new.

Your awning is only the beginning…

At Isabella, the Danish awning manufacturer, we believe that your awning is your home from home and for the 2013 season we have 2 options available for motorhomes.

The Freestander, a driveaway porch awning in lightweight coated polyester, with a choice of either IXL fibreglass or Prenox steel frame and 2 height options, the panels can be folded down or removed and for extra ventilation there is a mosquito net window in the one side. An Annex 220 can be added as an optional extra to provide extra space. The lightweight Explorer, in 2 height options made in ripstop polyester with Aluminium frame.

The front and side panels can be removed, providing the option to use as a sun canopy and for

additional ventilation on warm days there are mosquito net windows.

We also offer an extensive range of other accessories. From Bolon we have breathable lightweight carpets for use with your awning. They are easy to clean and cut without fraying to suit the size of your awning.

New for 2013, Isabella furniture, for this season we have introduced a wide selection of stable but lightweight camping furniture which can be folded to take up the minimum of space.

Where to buy: www.isabella.net www.ventura-camping.com.

TravelVision R6 – the fully automatic tripod mounted satellite dish A unique approach to the age old problem of getting good TV pictures while camping. The R6 has all the advantages of a fully automatic system combined with the flexibility of a portable tripod system.

These high quality dishes are robust and provide an excellent signal quality to your chosen satellite receiver.

Simply setup the tripod and dish, connect the RF cable to the receiver and power inserter and press the start button.

The satellite acquisition is GPS assisted; setting the search height and reporting the optimal skew for the LNB, which is set by hand. The system confirms the satellite is correct and fine-tunes for optimal signal performance, once complete simply remove continued on page 20...

Annual Habitation Checks

Motorhome Look after your Pride & Joy Covers various aspects: Gas Safety Damp Testing Satellite Domes / Dishes Electrical Safety 12v Solar Systems Specialists Electrical Safety 230v Habitation Report Convenient Service

Go Live Camper & Caravan 20,000+ Built in POIs (Campsites / Aires / Stopovers)

Routes based on Weight & Dimensions includes FREE Lifetime Maps 12 Months LIVE Services Included (Traffic / Weather) RRP £329.99 Our Price £299.99

SOG Toilet UK Distributor Eco-Friendly / Zero Chemicals

Refillable Gas Bottles Gaslow Fitting Complete Kits Save Money !

Convenient

Kobran Handbrake Extenders Safe / Secure Hill Starts Fits the following: Peugeot Boxer Fiat Ducato Citroen Relay No Fuss 1 Minute Install

www.outdoorbits.com

Fiamma Specialists Spares / Fitting

0845 8698940 or 01395 830230

Outdoor Bits, 7 Thorntree Business Units, Liverton Business Park, Exmouth, Devon, EX8 2NX

MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013 19

ACCESSORIES ...continued from page 19 the control module place safely and securely within your van.

The system is future-proof with DVB-S2 tracking capability meaning it can use any current transponder from 14 European satellites installed, and should the satellite operator change parameters then this can be updated via USB file which can

T sa de pe

be emailed to clients for delay-free update. A twin LNB kit is available for both models for Sky+ / Freesat+ or 2 receivers. Prices: £999 (55cm) and £1,099 (65cm).

Where to buy: CA Clase (UK) Limited Tel: 02392 247920 Email: mcc@caclase.co.uk www.caclase.co.uk/travelvision

A co sl al au yo

Mobile Auto Electrical Service continued on page 20...

We also supply and fit...

Gaslow Bottles

Televisions & Monitors

Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Satellite TV

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• Cruise Controls • Alarm Systems • Trackers • Chip Tuning • Remapping • Satellite Systems • TV’s • Chargers • Batteries • Plus much more!

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w

SATELLITE SYSTEM The Snipe is a small and portable fully automatic satellite TV system that’s been specifically designed for outdoor use to provide the best performance possible.

A state-of-the-art dish design, provides excellent coverage, similar to that of a 60cm dish, but in a sleek and compact unit. To ensure accurate alignment with the satellite, the Snipe automatically skews the dish so that, wherever you are, no manual adjustment is required.

Nine pre-programmed satellites can be selected and the system also allows you to programme in up to three additional satellites. The easy to use remote control allows you to select any of them at the push of a button.

The Snipe is designed to be portable and comes in a rugged carrying case. Setting up takes just a few minutes; use it on any flat surface either outside or even inside an awning. It can be used with most satellite receivers and any Avtex TV with a built-in satellite receiver. With an optional mounting kit, (not supplied) the Snipe can also be mounted on a vehicle’s roof. See below for further information.

Specifications:

• Current Draw @ 12v Less than 2 Amps during search (zero consumption whilst stationary) • Single LNB • Picks up HD signal when used with an HD receiver • Remote control can be mounted on a wall • Hard carry case for easy storage included • Weight: 10.3 Kgs (16.7 Kgs total including carry case) • Height when in parked position: 195mm

The controller is neat and simple to use

Installation of the Snipe:

Avtex - the U.K. distributor - have appointed RoadPro as their exclusive official installer of the Snipe satellite system.

You can have a Snipe installed on your motorhome or caravan for as little as £979.00.

Installation can only be carried out at our Daventry premises.

Snipe comes in a rugged carrying case

For more information on Snipe, to arrange installation or to purchase, ‘phone us or visit our website.

RoadPro Ltd, Stephenson Close, Drayton Fields, Daventry, NN11 8RF Tel: 01327 312233 Fax: 01327 301198 E-mail: sales@roadpro.co.uk

www.roadpro.co.uk

MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013 21

Something for everyone

Ventura Freestander

Camping furniture

Windscreens

Camping carpets

Isabella International Camping Limited For more details, 2013 brochure and news all our accessories, & your nearest stockist: info@isabella.co.uk or tel. 01844 202099 路 www.isabella.net

ACCESSORIES

Unique Snipe satellite system Satellite is a great way to get TV in your motorhome but choosing a system can be confusing. Should you go for a big dish, a small one, a sat-dome or a dish on a tripod?

Automatic or manual, one that’s fixed to your roof or a portable unit that can be put wherever you like? The fully automatic Snipe satellite system is unique. It can be used either as a stand-alone portable unit or, with a special mounting kit, it can be mounted on a vehicle’s roof: the choice is yours.

Once removed from its box, set-up of the Snipe is very easy. If you’re using it as a portable unit, simply place it on a level surface, outside or even inside an awning. Use its remote controller to select a satellite and, within minutes, you’ll be watching TV. Any satellite receiver can be used as well as an Avtex TV with a built-in satellite receiver and connecting everything together is very simple indeed.

Performance of a Snipe is similar to that of a standard satellite dish with a diameter of approximately 60cm.

When fitted permanently to a vehicle, it’s essential that the job is done properly to avoid problems, both with the vehicle and the satellite system. Avtex, the U.K. distributor of the Snipe, have appointed RoadPro as their exclusive, official installer of the Snipe system.

Where to buy: For more information on the Snipe system and installation, contact RoadPro: www.roadpro.co.uk

Sat TV made Simple SEE OUR DEALERS AT THE 2013 OUTDOOR SHOWS

Travel Vision

driven by simplicity

From

£9in99.00 c. VAT

FULLY AUTOMATIC • Travel Vision R6 is a fully automatic tripod satellite dish • 2 sizes: 55 for compact storage, 65 for extended range • Security: Control module is removable once satellite locked • GPS assisted acquisition & skew indication • 14 satellite library & last satellite memory

Touring TV & Wi-Fi CA Clase UK Limited Telephone: 0845 269 2553 Email: mcc@caclase.co.uk

www.caclase.co.uk/travelvision MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013 23

Bonterra Park Rally 1st December 2013 to 26th January 2014 (8 weeks totalling 56 nights)

DEPOSITS IN BY: Saturday 31st August

Spend this Christmas in the sun The Motor Caravaners’ Club is organising a rally over the Christmas period 2013 to 2014.

Exact dates are 1st December 2013 till 26th January 2014 (8 weeks totalling 56 nights).

Units numbers minimum 30 (including 1 steward pitch) all pitches must be booked for the full duration before this rally goes ahead.

Confirmation of unit numbers and deposits must be with Les Kendrick by Saturday 31st August.

The deposit is £95 to accompany your booking and there will not be any refund after the booking date closes. If The Motor Caravannners’ Club cancel the rally before the end of the booking period members will be refunded in full.

Unit price: 1-14 nights £14 per night, 15-29 nights £13 per night, 30 nights+ £12 per night for a pitch with maximum 2 persons + 1 dog free (max 2 dogs per pitch, second dog at current park rate). All breeds of dogs are allowed and must be well behaved or the member will 24 24 MOTOR MOTOR CARAVANNER CARAVANNER July July 2013 2013

be asked to leave the site without refund.

Electricity is to be paid directly to the camp site. Meters will be read on occupation of your pitch.

Price 0.40 € / KWhr (6 or 10 amp according to client request).

Readings will be done at the end of December and at departure. Partial payments will be done at each reading and at departure.

Additional persons will be paid for at the campsite on arrival at Bonterra at the official list price of 2.65 € per night.

Cars can be parked on the pitch if room and will be free of charge, if not there is a charge of 0.85€ per day payable to campsite on arrival.

Trailer parking is available at 0.85€ per day payable to campsite on arrival.

There have been Christmas rallies at this particular site and many members use the site over the winter period and have nothing but praise for it.

The area is in one of the most beautiful and historic parts of the

Spanish Costas and the park is maintained to a very high standard.

The allocated pitches are described as the Gold pitches (pictured above) with water and drainage connections plus of course electricity.

On a full take up of the allocation the park has allocated one pitch free of charge which will accommodate the rally marshal/steward who must be in attendance for the whole period of the rally. This pitch will have the same facilities but the electricity will not be free but on the same contract rate as previously said. If you take this position and you are already camping at the park then you will be required to move to the rally area’s allocated pitches.

Your role will be to liaise between the owners and the ralliers and be able to resolve issues, answer questions and solve problems that may arise.

The stewards must also arrange Christmas and New Year programme in conjunction with the restaurant.

Coach trips can be arranged through the marshal/steward and the campsite.

56 nights free camping for this commitment is a good deal and no doubt will be hotly contested so make your requirements known early to perhaps secure this deal.

Please contact me with your dates and all who do will receive more details on an information sheet which will be emailed to you.

Les Kendrick Email: kendricklesjoyce@ blueyonder.co.uk

Enjoy the warmer climate in Spain at...

BENICASSIM, SPAIN

1st December 2013 to 26th January 2014 Yes! It’s back for the above dates for our club members provided it is well supported.

Unit price per night with maximum 2 persons plus 1dog free (max 2 dogs per pitch).

Site fees payable to MCC: 1-14 nights £14.00 per night* 15-29 nights £13.00 per night* 30+ nights £12.00 per night*

Additional fees payable to campsite on arrival: Extra adult 2.65€ per night Electricity 0.40€/KWhr

(*Based on April exchange rate which could alter)

• First Class Camping Site downtown Benicassim, Spain • 4.5 miles of safe sandy beaches with warm water at 300 metres from site • Large sunny camping pitches with water, waste water & electricity connections • Wi-Fi • Two swimming pools (1 heated in winter) • Gym, Massage & Physiotherapist • Festive celebrations will be arranged over Christmas and New Year (not included in price) • Weekly activities and animation all year round for all ages.

• Benicassim cycling trail passing at campsite (30 miles secured cycling trails).

• Plenty of celebrations in the town the second week of January.

• Large Supermarket less than 50 yards from campsite • Excursions to; Valencia, Morella,Vall d´Uixo,Vinaroz or Peniscola (not included in price) We would like to know your dates of camping if you are interested ASAP, we have a deadline for numbers for these dates. Payments must be in by 31st August 2013.

If interested in hosting any part of the rally please let me know. For more information please contact Les Kendrick. Email: kendricklesjoyce@blueyonder.co.uk or via club office.

MOTOR MOTOR CARAVANNER CARAVANNER July July 2013 2013 25 25

Scotland Balmoral Castle The grounds, gardens and exhibitions are open daily from 29th March until 31st July only, from 10am until 5pm.

The gardens include a large kitchen garden, formal gardens, covering some three acres, containing a range of Victorian glasshouses and the conservatory, which displays flowering pot plants throughout the year, a water

garden, and Garden Cottage where (1904-1980).

Queen Victoria sometimes used There is an audio tour available to take breakfast. The highlight as well as gift shop, coffee shop and for every visit to Balmoral is the visitor information centre. All parts of Castle Ballroom, the largest room the Castle are disabled friendly and there is a discount for groups of 10 in the Castle. To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Coronation of Her or more (please ook in advance).

Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Balmoral Tel: 013397 42534 is holding an exhibition of portraits www.balmoralcastle.com of Her Majesty by renowned photographer 01593 731441 www.inver-caravan-park.co.uk Cecil Beaton

Inver Caravan Park Houstry Road, Dunbeath, Caithness KW6 6EH

• 15 pitches, 9 hard standings • Surrounding trees for shelter • 14 electric hook-ups • Mains water & grey water and chemical toilet disposal • Recently refurbished facilities block, underfloor heating, disabled shower room • Laundry area, washing machine

• Wifi • SPAR shop and Bay Owl Restaurant/pub 5 mins walk from site • Beach, children’s play park and tennis court also nearby • Lovely walks up the Dunbeath Strath, and a good vantage point from which to view puffins.

Torvaig Caravan and Campsite Set overlooking Machrihanish golf course, with stunning views of Islay and Jura.

Local pub, restaurant and beach 5 mins walk away. Regular buses to local towns.

Level pitches from £6.50 per night, free hot showers.

Call 01586 810366

at Portree on the Isle of Skye

• 90 pitches, spread over 3 acres • 25 pitches (hard stand and grass) have 230 volt,16 amp electric hook-up points.

Open • Two toilet blocks, both with free showers 1st April to • Chemical disposal point also available 21st Oct • Laundry area • WiFi available from all 90 pitches (extra cost)

www.campkintyre.co.uk E: mail@campkintyre.co.uk Machrihanish, Campbeltown, Argyll PA28 6PT

Tel: 01478 611849 | www.portreecampsite.co.uk

Feughside Caravan Park

Findochty Caravan Park

Strachan, By Banchory, Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire AB31 6NT

A small family run park in the beautiful valley of the Feugh, in the heart of Royal Deeside.

Awarded David Bellamy Gold.

Jubilee Terrace, Findochty, Buckie, Banffshire AB56 4QA

• 25 spacious touring pitches • Disabled friendly • Calor Gas • Hard standing available • Wi-fi available Email: info@feughsidecaravanpark.co.uk Phone: 01330 850669 Web: www.feughsidecaravanpark.co.uk

26 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

Photo credit: P. Tomkins/Visit Scotland/Scottish Viewpoint

Majestic

Findochty Caravan Park is a small, family run site located on the shores of the Moray Firth with wonderful views over the sea.

Tel 01542 835303 Email Moiramain@aol.com

Photo credit: P. Tomkins/Visit Scotland/Scottish Viewpoint

Summer Holidays from ÂŁ32 per pitch, per night

24

award-winning UK Coastal Holiday Parks

BEGAN WHEN THE ADVENTURE FOR TOM & AMY

GREAT choice of pitches and touring facilities FREE daytime and evening entertainment, swimming pools, cool kids clubs and attractions discount booklet

88% of customers would book again with Park Resorts*

Check out our website for more pitch prices Book online at www.park-resorts.com/mc13 or call us on 0845 1637 665

Creating Amazing Memories

Lead price is based on a hard-standing pitch on selected Parks between 19 July â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 29 August, subject to availability. Applies to new bookings only and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discounts. Prices and facilities vary by Park. Calls charged at 5p a minute from a landline, mobile charges may vary. *Survey response based on 3,227 touring respondents for the 2012 season, as at October 2012.

Park 3213.3 Motorhome Advert July AW.indd 1

17/06/2013 12:58

OUT & ABOUT

North Ledaig CARAVAN PARK

The Malt Whisky Trail Follow the world-famous Malt Whisky Trail through Speyside to seven working distilleries, including a fascinating cooperage and a historic distillery. On the trail you’ll find more than half of Scotland’s malt whisky distilleries, each with its own warm welcome and an invitation to see, smell, taste and absorb the magic of whisky.

Each whisky distillery follows its own traditions, lore and recipes for everything from malting the barley to the height and size of its stills. The unique characteristics of each Speyside whisky distillery result in delightful, hand-crafted whisky from each one. All offer visitors a sample of the finished product and some include an informative nosing and tasting while others give an insight into the complex art of blending whisky and malt. www.maltwhiskytrail.com

Connel Argyll PA37 1RU

Our 30 acre park has a spectacular sea-shore location with breathtaking views towards the distant islands and is conveniently located near to the picturesque town of Oban with ferry connections to the islands.

Special level pitches with hard run-ins for all types of motorcaravans including large RV’s. Two drive on service points. Two toilet blocks with showers, W.H.B and modesty cubicles. Information room, Laundry, Dishwash & Veg preparation area, dog walk along the old railway and childrens play park.

Nestled alongside two miles of private, west-facing sand and shingle beach. Bus stop to Oban located just across the road. Lots to see & do in the local area from fine dining, walking and sailing to visiting historic castles, ancient standing stones and lovely gardens.

Telephone: 01631 710291

www.northledaigcaravanpark.co.uk Wester Bonnyton Farm, Gamrie, Banff AB45 3EP Tel: 01261 832470 Mob: 07871 081147 www.westerbonnyton.co.uk

On site: Panoramic views of the Moray Firth, shop/kiosk, toilet/shower block, washing/ drying facilities, gas sales, playground, play barn, WiFi, Country farm, dog friendly.

Nearby: Golfing, river & sea fishing, walking, Marine Aquarium, daily Puffin Cruise boat trips including dolphin & whale spotting, sandy beaches, famous Whisky Trail within driving distance.

CROSSBURN Caravan Park, Peebles

Tel: 01721 720501

www.crossburn-carvans.com

Email: info@crossburncaravans.co.uk

World renowned beauty...

GRuINARD B Ay caravan park WEsTER Ross, sCoTLAND

www.gruinardbay.co.uk A beach-front site extending to about 3.5 acres of level grassland in one of the most outstanding areas of natural beauty on Scotland's west coast.

Pitches for touring caravans, motorhomes and tents. Free hot showers. £2/night for awnings.

Village stores 200m, Pub 400m serving food all day.

Allow yourself plenty of time to visit our 4 star family run Park.

We cater for motorhomes, touring caravans and tents.

The Park is 10 mins walk into the lovely Border town of Peebles.

Regular bus service to Edinburgh and Galashiels passes the Park gate. From historic homes, mountain biking, hiking, golf etc Peebles is the place to be.

28 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

Contact: Tony & Ann Davis Tel/Fax: 01445 731225 Email: gruinard@ecosse.net Gruinard Bay Caravan Park, Laide, Wester Ross, IV22 2ND

SERVICING DIRECTORY

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

NATIONWIDE

MARQUIS MOTORHOMES T: 01489 860666 E: service@marquis motorhomes.co.uk W: www.marquismotorhomes.co.uk

AVON

CHESHIRE

NORTH WESTERN CARAVANS LTD Earl Road, Stanley Green Retail Park, Cheadle Hulme SK8 6QE T: 0161 4866055 E: info@northwesterncaravans.co.uk W: www.northwesterncaravans.co.uk

Auto-Sleepers

MOTORHOMES OF EXCELLENCE

IRELAND

DONAGHEY MOTORHOMES Drumnahoe, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, Ireland T: 00353 7491 29235 E: info@irishmotorhomes.com

KENT

M&D SERVICES LTD Unit 1 Balaclava Road Ind Est, Bristol BS16 3LJ T: 01179 651900 F: 01179 650651 E: tony@mdservicesltd.co.uk

CORNWALL

BERKSHIRE

ESSEX

PRO-TUNE MOT and servicing Invicta House, Armstrong Road, Maidstone ME15 6TX T: 01622 697030 E: bartlett.darren@sky.com

HAMPSHIRE

TOMSETT KENT Church Farm, Church Lane, Stockbury, Sittingbourne ME9 7RD T: 01795 841007 E: info@tomsettkent.com W: www.tomsettkent.com

UNIVERSAL COMMERCIAL VEHICLES LTD 5 Deacon Way, Tilehurst, Reading RG30 6AZ T: 01189 426666 W: www.ucv.co.uk WOKINGHAM CARAVAN SERVICES Treetops, Heath Ride, Finchampstead RG40 3QL E: info@wokingham caravanservices.co.uk W: www.wokingham caravanservices.co.uk

CAMBRIDGESHIRE

M&W AUTOS The Workshop, Spring Cottage, Lords Lane, Wisbech PE13 4TU T: 01945 410746

HALLS MOTORHOME CENTRE Penzance Road, Helston TR13 8HN T: 01326 561924 E: sales@hallsmotorhomes.co.uk W: www.hallsmotorhomes.co.uk

D SALMON CARS LTD Colchester Road, Weeley CO16 9JT T: 01255 831000 E: clactonfiat@btopenworld.com W: www.dsalmoncars-weeley.co.uk

BADMINSTON GARAGE Fawley, Southampton SO45 1BX T: 023 8001 0029 E: motgarage@hotmail.com

HEREFORDSHIRE

STATION MOTORS 1-4 Station Yard Ind Est, Worcester Road, Leominster HR6 8TN T: 01568 616324 E: stationmotors@aol.com W: www.station-motors-leominster.co.uk

MOTORHOMES REPAIRED Unit 26, Lamberhurst Farm, Dargate, Nr Faversham ME13 9EP T: 01227 751300 E: info@motorhomesrepaired.com W: www.motorhomesrepaired.com

MERSEYSIDE

C&C DIESELS STC House, Speke Hall Road, Speke, Liverpool, L24 9HD T: 01514 481718

• Servicing for any make, model or age Motorhome or Caravan • No job too big or small • Mechanical & Habitation Servicing • Accident & Insurance Repairs • Fully Qualified mechanics

Telephone 01386 853511 www.auto-sleepers.com/servicing

Auto-Sleepers

MOTORHOMES OF EXCELLENCE

SERVICING DI MERSEYSIDE

SPENCER & GILBERT 3 St Lukes Road, Southport, Merseyside PR9 0SH T: 01704 531398 E: spencerandgilbert@gmail.com

NORFOLK

CROWN GARAGE Newton St Faith, Norwich NR10 3LG T: 01603 898253 E: crown.garage@hotmail.co.uk W: www.thecrowngarage.com

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

ROCKINGHAM CARS FIAT Cockerell Road, Phoenix Parkway, Corby NN17 5DU T: 01536 268991 E: gxb@rockinghamcars.co.uk W: www.rockinghamcars.co.uk

SCOTLAND

DONALD MACKENZIE 62 Sleafield Road, Inverness, Inverness-shire IV1 1SG T: 01463 235777 E: fiatservices@gmail.com

DAVID HAY MOTOR ENGINEERING 77 Mauchline Street, Glasgow G5 8HQ T: 01414 296524 W: www.davidhaymotors.com FLEETPOINT LTD 17 Brown Street, Newmilns, Ayrshire KA16 9AD T: 01560 322820 E: fleetpoint@aol.com W: www.fleetpoint.co.uk NEWTON GARAGE LTD 14 The Wisp, Edinburgh EH16 4SQ T: 0131 669 6336 NORTH ROAD GARAGE Great North Road, Kelty, Fife KY4 0HW T: 01383 830404 SHERIFFMILL MOTOR CO LTD Sheriffmill Road, Elgin, Moray IV30 6UH T: 01343 547121 W: www.sheriffmill-garage services.co.uk

SHROPSHIRE

DAVE NEWELL LEISURE VEHICLE SERVICES Unit P Court Works Ind Est, Bridgnorth Road, Telford TF7 4JB T: 01952 587702 M: 07891441883 E: dave@davenewell.co.uk W: www.davenewell.co.uk

SOMERSET

CHELSTON MOTORHOMES Chelston Business Park, Weelington TA21 9JE T: 01823 662075 www.chelstononline.co.uk SOUTH WEST MOTORHOMES Emerald Farm, Higher Horton, Nr Ilminster TA19 9LJ T: 01460 234848 E: mail@southwest motorhomes.co.uk W: www.southwest motorhomes.co.uk

STOCKPORT

PINNACLE MOTOR ENGINEERING Gordon Street, Stockport SK4 1RS T: 0161 480 0397

• No job too big or small • Mechanical & Habitation • Servicing for any make, model or age Motorhome

Telephone 01386 853511 30 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

www.aut

DIRECTORY

Auto-Sleepers

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SUFFOLK

FLEETLINE ACCIDENT REPAIR CENTRE 16 Progress Way, Croydon, Surrey CR0 4XD T: 0208 680 8888 E: service@fleetline.co.uk W: www.fleetline.co.uk

BIRCHWOOD CARAVAN SERVICES LTD Mobile comprehensive habitation sevices to all motorhomes £156 inclusive, NCC/Approved workshop scheme accredited.

T: 01473 718433 W: www.suffolkcaravanservicing.cu.uk EUROVANS (CRAWLEY) Overdene Drive, Ifield, Crawley RH11 8DU SHARMAN CARAVANS T: 01293 279082 (Habitation services to all E: mail@eurovans.co.uk motorhomes - NCC/AWS approved W: www.eurovans.co.uk workshops).

Colchester Road, Ipswich IP4 4RU T: 01473 713284 SUSSEX E: accounts@sharmanscaravans.co.uk CARAVAN TECH SERVICES LTD W: www.sharmancaravans.co.uk London Road, Hurst Green, East Sussex TN19 7PN WAVENEY MOTORHOMES T: 01580 860260 (Mobile service offered) E: shop@caravantech.co.uk 3 Tunstall Drive, Lowestoft NR32 4RN W: www.caravantech.co.uk T: 01502 513560 E: info@waveneymotorhomes.co.uk MERIDIAN SERVICE CENTRE W: www.waveney motorhomes.co.uk Motorhome & Caravan Servicing and Repairs, Unit 7 Church Farm, Old Park Lane, Bosham, Chichester SURREY PO18 8EX ELMWOOD VEHICLES LTD T: 01243 572672 Motohome Servicing & MOTs W: www.meridianservicecentre.com 278 Kingston Road, Epsom, Surrey KT19 0SH T: 0208 394 2847 E: info@elmwoodvehicles.co.uk W: www.elmwoodvehicles.co.uk

MOTORHOMES OF EXCELLENCE

WALES

AUTOMASTER (SOUTH WALES) LTD Unit 3, Llywna Farm, Llanharri Road, Brynsadler, Pontyclun, Mid Glamorgan CF72 9DB T: 01443 222234 E: peter@auto-master.co.uk W: www.auto-master.co.uk MOTORTORQUE Unit 3 Castle Way, Severnbridge Industrial Estate, Portskewett, Caldicot, Gwent NP26 5PR T: 01291 422094

WEST MIDLANDS

PTC CARAVAN & MOTORHOME REPAIR CENTRE Habitation services to all motorhomes Unit 15 Whitehall Industrial Park, Great Bridge, Tipton DY4 7JY T: 01215 206858 E: premiertowing@btconnect.com W: www.uk-caravanrepairs.co.uk

WORCESTERSHIRE

AUTO-SLEEPERS LTD Orchard Works, Willersey, Nr Broadway, Worcestershire WR12 7QF T: 01386 853338 W: www.auto-sleepers.co.uk

abitation Servicing • Accident & Insurance Repairs torhome or Caravan • Fully Qualified mechanics

ww.auto-sleepers.com/servicing

Auto-Sleepers

MOTORHOMES OF EXCELLENCE

MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013 31

Rear view mirror

GENTLEMAN JACK SHOOTS FROM THE LIP...

Contact Jack: Fen Leisure Services, 16 Cartmel Way, Eye, Peterborough, PE6 7XA E: fen.leisure@ntlworld.com

Past participle?

Future perfect?

First off - what (I think) might be this year’s most significant range launch. The first artist’s impressions of the Auto-Trail PVC’s have been released. As predicted in ‘Goss’, they’ve a unique roofline. Auto-Trail has fitted their own roof cap and skyline overcab moulding. Apart from looking the part, this will add sufficient internal headroom to allow a double-floor. See flush-fitting double-glazed automotive style windows. You will be able to read about the range (almost) as soon as it is launched because Kavanagh Deville is already undercover in Europarc!

A

I came across these two AA beauties at the recent Commercial Vehicle Show… should ignite a few memories!

Restoration work was just faultless, they are probably in better nick than when they were new!

And the winners are…

It was a privilege to be one of the judges at the Caravan Club’s 2013 Motorcaravan Design and Drive Competition. Here’s a photo tour of this year’s deserved winners.

Class One

van conversions up to £38,000

Bilbo’s Komba SE just stole the award from Wheelhome’s latest masterpiece of miniaturisation, the Skurry. What a fantastic package the Komba is though, a brand spanking new Vee-dub campervan for £35,000. The last Auto-Sleeper Trooper built was knocking on the door of £53,000. Go figure 32 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

w

Mar Berkshir 01635

Motorcar

AwArd winners

The UK’s largest dealer network

175

WINNER Coachbuilts up to £45,000

Caravan Club Design & Drive Awards 2013 WINNER Majestic 175 3RD PLACE Lifestyle 644

Lifestyle 644 3RD PLACE Majestic 175 WINNER & Drive Awards 2013 Caravan Club Design

Britain’s best-selling Special Edition Ranges Built by UK manufacturer Elddis, the award-winning Majestic motorhome range is renowned for quality, value for money and holiday performance.

At Marquis & Elddis reliability and comfort are regarded as the most important forms of safety and each Majestic is a testament to our knowledge and experience within the industry.

644

3RD PLACE Coachbuilts up to £45,000 Change for the better

The comfort, quality and style across the Lifestyle motorhome range is truly outstanding, offering everything you need to achieve the ultimate holidaying experience.

For further information and to book your personal viewing appointment visit

www.marquismotorhomes.co.uk or call 0800 026 77 77 Marquis Berkshire/Surrey 01635 248 888

Marquis Devon 01752 892 977

Marquis Dorset 01202 738 777

Marquis Durham 0191 492 2480

Motorcaravanner Mag Advert Award Winners OUT 210613.indd 1

Marquis Gloucestershire 01684 296 222

Marquis Hampshire 01489 860 666

Marquis Lancashire 01772 731 313

Marquis Northampton 01604 402 888

Marquis Suffolk 01473 630 800

Marquis Sussex 01825 873 377

17/06/2013 10:21:31

Class Two

van conversions from £38,000 to £45,000

A

The class winning entry only just made it into the competition on time as they were waiting for IVA approval. Bet they were glad they went the extra mile for their Shire Phoenix 2XL Studio proved bestin-class. Just look at that amount of floor space…

Class Three

van conversions over £45,000

This year the re-launched re-vamped Auto-Sleeper Symbol won. It used to be extremely popular with members, then many changed to large coachbuilts, now I reckon a fair few will renew their acquaintance with an old friend

O V Re

NO

E

Win

Class Four

Coachbuilts up to £45,000

It looks like an Elddis Autoquest because it is based on one. This is actually a Marquis Majestic 175.

Marquis are really switched-on when it comes to dealer specials and this no compromise two-berth will be a runaway sales success. Not sure about the length of that rear overhang though 34 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

Fo

ww

Untitled

Auto-Sleepers Does It...

Auto-Sleepers

MOTORHOMES OF EXCELLENCE

Again, & Again, & Again, & Again!

Online Video Reviews

Say; “Auto-Sleepers keep their value well.”

NOW LIVE

Iconic Status Symbols One and All, Experience Auto-Sleepers Award Winning 2013 Range Today!

Judges Comments -

Winchcombe - “Excellent 2-berth coachbuilt, very spacious, nicely finished and mated to refined Merc.” “Luxury two-berth. Three pointed star is a deal maker.”

Symbol - “Drives well with very few rattles, plus had added bonus of a reversing camera.”

Broadway EL Duo - “Really splendid British motorhome with all accoutrements.”

For further information, brochure request and to find your local dealer visit:

www.auto-sleepers.com +44 (0) 1386 853 338 Untitled-1 1

17/06/2013 11:38:13

7086 Kn

REAR VIEW MIRROR Class Six

‘A’-Class

Lowdham always enter a couple of aspirational ‘A’-class `vans.

Quite how Lowdham and Knaus can retail such an appealing fully-loaded quality ‘integral’ and still offer it for a (relatively) approachable £64,995 remains a mystery to me.

If I was in charge of Hymer, I’d be seriously worried!

Class Five

Coachbuilts over £45,000 and Overall Winner

Auto-Sleeper didn’t just win another class, they also walked away with the Overall Winner’s trophy. The Merc based Winchcombe is a sensational two-berth coachbuilt that wants for nothing. Hopefully this award will finally lay to rest two often repeated but groundless criticisms of our oldest volume converter. They were…firstly that they don’t build `em like they used to, and secondly, that the Broadway crew can’t build a large coachbuilt. Wake-up and smell the coffee!

K w OVERALL WINNER

K

T

M

A

Next month we’ll have a brief look at my personal favourite from the competition and a NKOTB that was so different, the judges felt a new award for ingenuity should be offered.

36 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

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7086 Knaus Motor Caravanner Mag_Layout 1 13/06/2013 12:21 Page 1

Knaus wins again!

Winner A Class

KNAUS SKY 700i LEG

The Caravan Club Motor Caravan Design & Drive

Awards 2013

Nottingham

Huddersfield

Lowdham Leisureworld Lowdham Road Gunthorpe Notts NG14 7ES

Lowdham Leisureworld Crosland Hill Huddersfield W.Yorkshire HD4 7AD

Tel: 0115 8712094 www.lowdhams.com

Tel: 0148 4819154 www.lowdhams.com

Group news & diaries Hi everyone, Hopefully the sun is shining wherever you are at the moment. A nice mix of sun and rain here in Suffolk has left the garden blooming, although unfortunately so are the weeds!

We have a feature on accessories this month so check it out if you are thinking of making some new purchases.

We also have lots of pics and stories from the National which I hope you enjoy reading. Thanks Kelly

ANGLIA

Contact: 07586 786413

GROUP NEWS & DIARIES

May Day Rally at Sheringham. 39 units enjoyed a great Bank Holiday weekend. We had a good contingent of visitors from Essex as well as from other groups. The stewards Peter & Marie gave us varied sorts of entertainment ranging from the traditional Treasure Hunt around the town Sunday afternoon to a magazine detective paperchase on Sun evening.

Some members went further afield on the bus whilst others were content with strolling round the Saturday Market. On Saturday evening we were entertained in the hall by Marcia Santana a very talented singer who got us all up dancing. Treasurer Carol did a Charleston Line Dance with Marcia as a duo to much applause.

Thanks are also due to Bob & Thelma for acting as stewards at short notice.

It was much appreciated.

Date: July 4-7 Venue: British Sugar Social Club, Hollow Rd, Bury St. Edmunds IP32 7BA Start time: 12 noon Hosts: Peter, Marie, Brian & Liz Costs: £8.00 p.u.p.n.

Directions: From Thetford on A134 turn L at A143 Junc. Turn R at next R/ bt and entrance on R at top of hill.

Take first entrance NOT factory one!

From A14 take S/P Thetford and at junc with A143 turn R then as above.

Facs: Walk into town, Abbey Gardens, entertainment Sat. night in club house, Sunday roast bookable in club.

Date: 26 July–2 August Jubilee Rally Venue: Sheringham High School.

Fully Booked NOTE: IF YOU ARE ATTENDING THIS RALLY LEVELLING BLOCKS MAY BE REQUIRED. 38 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

Group news and diaries coordinator: Kelly Parker Email: groupnews@motorcaravanners.eu Post: Kelly Parker, Motor caravanner Magazine, Countrywide Publications, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6DH Telephone: 01502 725840 DEADLINE: 22nd July for inclusion in September’s magazine

Date: Aug 2–11 Gorleston extended Rally. See special rallies page

AVON

the raffle was drawn. Quite a few members were seen going back to the show. Another good weekend. Kay

Date: 18-21 July Venue: Ebdon Bow, Wick St Lawrence, Weston-super-Mare BS22 9NZ Start time: 11.00am East Somerset Railway saw 49 vans Hosts: June Dash and Mike Stock arrive to a venue we’ve not been to Costs: £8pupn incl use of barn + RF for a couple of years. Overnight it had Directions: Exit Junc 21 of M5 towards rained and we were greeted with a car park of large water filled potholes, which Weston-super-Mare. On leaving motorway rdbt take slip road L. Follow gave the hosts a few problems parking signs for Crematorium, then MCC. everyone up, so no one opened there door straight on to a puddle. They did Date: 1–7 Aug (Pre Balloon Rally) a great job. We had use of the village Venue: Gatcombe Farm, Weston Road, hall over the weekend, and Ray & Sue Flax Bourton, Bristol BS48 3QT hosting their first rally for the group, Start time: 11.00am arranged the evenings entertainment Hosts: Carol & Mike, Pet & Tony including quizzes, music. The buses Costs: £7 pupn + RF + Carvery etc were put to good use, and quite a Directions: At south end of Long few members took trips on the Steam Ashton bypass at Flax Bourton (A370), trains. Coffee morning was held in the take B3130 towards Nailsea, turn R at village hall. Well done to Ray and Sue, mini rdbt. Site on L in 400yds. a successful first host of a rally, look forward to many more.

Total of 5 vans for the May Day Bank Date: 7-12 August BALLOON FIESTA Venue: Parsonage Farm, Church Lane, Holiday arrived at Wincanton. The Long Ashton, Bristol BS41 9LU weather was fantastic. A new couple to Start time: 11am the Avon group came along. The bar Hosts: Committee was open every night at 8.00pm. There Costs: £7pupn + RF, own san essential. were quizzes, music, a few jokes, card Directions: From Bristol at Long tricks, boules and generally good chat, Ashton bypass, take B3128 for getting to know each other, which was Clevedon. Pass Park & Ride and tl’s, lovely. Everyone commented what a turn towards Long Ashton. Pass Angle relaxing weekend it was.

Pub, turn L into Church Lane, turn L It’s a good thing the 84 vans that again past church into site. arrived at Castle Combe paid no Facs: Balloon Fiesta across rd from attention to the weather forecast. It rally field, free entry. 2 night-glows, was lovely, little breezy at times but everyone was able to sit outside vans in firework displays, mass balloon the sunshine (not seen that for a while). ascents, stalls, free samples, helicopter rides, fun fair. PLEASE do not arrive Everyone enjoyed the show, plenty of before 11am. There will be plenty of things to see and buy. Coffee morning was outside the hosts van, Rowena said room on the rally field, BUT due to the we could stay until 4pm but then would size of the rally it will not be possible have to move to another field. Birthday to save spaces (arrive together to pitch together). and anniversary cards given out, then

Contact: 07890 377041

CHILTERN

Contact: 07934 376158 Sunshine on a bank holiday? Are we dreaming? No, the spring bank holiday in the Chilterns turned into a sun fest with even the occasional glimpse of shorts and under-tanned legs. But it also produced a bumper crop of ralliers for Chiltern’s wildlife rally at Beale Park near Pangbourne where stewards Mick and Julie worked frantically to keep abreast of things as motorhomes poured onto the field.

Beale Park sits alongside the Thames and the weekend activities at the park, amid the wild birds, meerkats, lemurs and other exotic animals, members enjoyed a model boat show including a mock battle, with explosions, smoke and flames, between a British and German boat on the park’s lake. All food fun and you can guess who won! Inbetween visits to the park, quizzes, refreshments and other entertainment were organised and vice chairman Pete Randall was joined in hearty applause when he thanked Mick and Julie for all their hard work over the long weekend.

Red kite rally at Watlington was attended by a good mix of Chiltern members and visitors. Stewards Colin and Tina provided challenges in the form of a red kite and general knowledge quiz, with games including Mick and Julie’s playing card bingo, plus home-made bread pudding and chocolate cake to tickle the taste buds and members displayed their usual hospitality with an excellent selection of food for the faith supper.

Date: July 18–21 (3 nights) Venue: Westfield Farm, Medmenham, nr Henley CANCELLED replaced by

Date: Aug 2–4 Venue: Gaddesden Estate, Bridens Camp, nr Hemel Hempstead HP2 6EZ Start time: 2pm Hosts: Hazel & Peter Randall 01442 270378 Costs: £7.50pupn plus rally fee.

Directions: Ext M25 at J20 and take A4251. Take first exit, sign-posted Hemel Hempstead. Go straight across traffic lights. At “magic” rdbt take exit towards Leighton Buzzard. Follow LB signs for approx 3 miles, turn R opp Red Lion pub. Destination on L in 1/2 mile.

New site on a beautiful country estate.

Possible availability of wine tasting and spa treatments (at extra cost). Olde worlde pub a short walk away!

EAST MIDLANDS

Contact: 07855 388289 19-21 April. Beautiful weather welcomed 20 vans to Tattershall for the pyjama themed rally ably hosted

by Bernie & Lynda Roe and Les & Joyce Pert. Friday night in the hall was free and easy, card Bingo was played which gave Roy Blackham a rare chance to win a game. The other winner was Chris. Saturday we were treated to an aerial display of the Lancaster, Hurricane, Spitfire and Dakota practising overhead. A map of the village with quiz was provided and Karen & Phil Toone were the winners.

A large variety of attire from old fashioned nightshirts to modern onesies were worn at the pyjama party with hot chocolate being provided at bedtime and another quiz of guess the objects tied in socks, won by young Bryn. Our President Kit Hildred was a welcome visitor for Sunday morning coffee. Jo W Mablethorpe 3–6 May. Stewards Les, Joyce, Bernie & Lynda. Les & Joyce’s first time as lead Stewards and ably supported by Bernie & Lynda, they truly deserve their ‘badge’. We welcomed Jo & Dave Parker as first time ralliers,

1 visitor from Nene Valley, 3 Anglia, 2 Severn Valley, 1 East Wessex, 2 Avon and 6 Yorkshire, a total of 70 vans.

Friday evening bingo payout for full house more than covered rally fees – 3 lucky winners there! Ted, from Northern Counties, learned how to play bingo properly and expressed his delight at how enjoyable it can be.

Joyce’s general knowledge quiz was well received – neither too hard nor too easy. Our President, Kit Hildred attended Saturday morning coffee.

Saturday evening’s get-together was ‘seaside spirit’. Shorts, sandals, shades and multi coloured shirts were in evidence. A mini beach complete with sand, chair, umbrella and beach ball took pride of place at the front of the hall. Guitar/vocalist ‘Brian G’ had the dance floor full. Stewards served up ice cream and jelly. Sunday evening bingo, played with a twist. Some clever art was on display in the sandcastle competition, 1st was ‘Severn Valley Team’. 2nd Mark Greenhill (East Mids) and 3rd John Taylor (East Wessex). 14 teams competed for the ‘Curling (not Carling) Trophy’. The eventual winners were ‘Table 12’ John, Trevor, David & Tony. During the interval we were treated by Les, celebrating his 65th, to cheese and wine in generous portions.

Monday coffee morning revealed the answers to the ‘Who’s Who Photo Competition’ - the outright winner, with near maximum score, was Linda Beesley. Chairman Maurice summed it up – a great Rally. Thanks to the Stewards and all attendees.

Carpe Diem Date: 5–8 July Venue: Market Rasen Racecourse, Legsby Road LN8 3EA Start time: 2pm Costs: £6 pupn Directions: Leave A46 on A631 to Market Rasen. Follow racecourse signs and look for local MCC signage.

Facs: Water, Chem disp. Family Race Day Sunday 7th – extra cost for admission. Market Rasen Town ½ mile

Date: 18-23 July Venue: Bakewell Showground See Special Rallies Date: 1-5 August Venue: Nottingham Riverside Festival See Special Rallies

MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013 39

GROUP NEWS & DIARIES

Date: July 5–7 Venue: The Dairy, Moreton, nr Thame OX9 2HX Start time: 4pm Hosts: Sue and Paul Prebble 07866 376898.

Costs: £8pupn plus rally fee.

Directions: From M40 junc 7 take A329 towards Thame. In approx 3 miles, turn R sp Moreton. Turn L at war memorial. Site 200 yds on L. Facs: One of our most popular venues.

Flat site immaculately tended, within walking distance of Thame, one of Oxfordshire’s most appealing towns.

Date: July 19-21 (2 nights) Venue: Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road HP22 4BY Start time: 2pm Hosts: The committee.

Costs: £25.00pu, plus rally fee. No night rate, sorry. Includes free entry to the Railway Centre.

Directions: The Railway Centre is signposted off the A41 AylesburyBicester Road at Waddesdon. Then look for MCC signage.

EAST WESSEX

Contact: 07989 102902 We had a lovely Bank Holiday weekend at Fort Widley with 23 vans attending.

We had some visitors from Avon, Sussex, West Wessex and even as far away as Yorkshire. The sun shone for us all weekend and everyone made the most of the lovely weather. A boules competition was organised and played, and our eventual winner was Barry Mobbley. Carol Forfar was second. Well done to you both! We had our marquee up and we had a disco on Saturday night, thanks Harry, and on Sunday evening we played a few games of card bingo and then we had a Mr & Mrs competiton. Winners were Vic & Yvonne Biles

GROUP NEWS & DIARIES

Date: 12-14 July Venue: Blue Roof Farm, Yeomans Road, Throop, Bournemouth BH8 9DT Start time: 1pm Directions: From A338, take A3060 exit into Castle Lane West, to Castlepoint Shopping Centre. Go over rdbt, at next rdbt take 3d exit into Yeomans Rd, At rdbt, continue into Yeomans Rd (unmade Rd. Site on R) Facs: Water, Toilet & Elsan.

Date: 26-28 July Venue: Woodlands Farm, Alma Lane, Durley SO30 2AP Start time: 12 noon Directions: M3 to jct 11 towards B3335 Bishops Waltham. Follow Marwell Zoo signs. Turn L at B2177/ Portsmouth Rd. Continue to follow B2177. 2 miles from Zoo turn R at Alma Public House (Mortimer Lane B3037) and then immediately L into Alma Lane. Farm 1 mile on Right hand side. Only way in, other entrances too narrow.

Facs: Water & Elsan & Barn.

Date: 2-4 August Venue: Winchester Rugby Club, Off Nuns Road, Winchester SO23 7EF Start time: 1pm Directions: Exit M3 Junc 9. From North: exit towards Winchester/A272 then at rdbt take 4th exit into A34/ Winchester Bypass. From South: exit onto A34 Newbury at roundabout take 2nd exit onto A34/Winchester Bypass. Then ALL: Bear right onto A33/ Winchester Bypass. At next junc turn L onto B3047/London Rd continue to follow B3047 towards Winchester. Turn L into Russell Rd, then R into Chaundler 40 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

Rd. First L into Hillier Way. Field at end of rd.

Facs: Water & Elsan.

ESSEX Pleshey 5-7th April. Situated in North Essex this unspoiled Essex village is another one of our favourite venues.

We were all pleased to see, well at least for this weekend, clear skies, sunshine and surely spring was on its way.

Friday evening we had the village hall buzzing with conversation and of course don’t forget the bingo.

It wasn’t hard getting up Saturday morning and be greeted by warm sunshine and our very own Ivor who lead us out on a very enjoyable 4 mile ramble around the local FP routes taking in the fresh air and local scenery.

By the time 7pm came round everyone except two people were seated in the village hall at tables laid for a wedding reception and then our newlyweds entered the hall, Pat & Terry, who had just returned from St Lucia having been married there, but they wanted to be with their Essex friends to celebrate, what a surprise for them both when they came into the hall, a beautiful wedding buffet and reception was waiting for them courtesy of the Essex girls including a three tier wedding cake made by our Carol.

A speech was given by best man Ken who had us all in stitches, this was special and further endorsed the camaraderie that exists in our group and I am sure, many other groups of this great club, another day had come to a close and fond memories will live on especially for Pat & Terry.

Sunday morning, a beautiful day (can it last!) and I hope our first time couple Jan & Brian will continue to enjoy us here at Essex.

Our thanks go to Carol, Brian, Paul and of course the ladies and gentlemen who put this great weekend together.

Essex gets it right.

A.C.B. º¿º Date: 12–14 July Venue: Newhall Vineyard, Chelmsford Rd, Purleigh CM3 6PN Start time: 14:00 Hosts: Committee Directions: Directions: On A1010 Danbury-Latchingdon rd. Site on L 1 mile after A414/B1418 rdbt.

Date: 26–28 July Venue: Brightlingsea, Lower Pk, Playing Fields CO7 0LE Start time: 14:00 Hosts: Committee Directions: Take A133 from Colchester to Frating Green.

Follow signs B1029 Thorrington/ Brightlingsea. Enter town, pass Community School and after ½ mile take R fork into Spring Chase. In 400yds, pass Park Drive on R then turn R (opp blue Weight Limit sign) into lane marked Park Playing Fields

ISLE OF WIGHT Date: July 12-14 Venue: Pony Field, Beatrice Avenue, East Cowes P032 6LU Start time: 12 noon.

Hosts: Andrew & Cheryl Clapp Tel: 01983 299662.

Costs: £5 pupn.

Directions: From Newport, take the A3054 towards Cowes. At racecourse rdbt, take first exit onto Whippingham Rd and continue for about 1.6 milesturn L onto Beatrice Avenue (St. Mildreds Church) and look for MCC signs to site on L. Facs: Toilets, water & kitchen facilities.

NO ELECTRIC

KENT Contact: 07708 921121 The sun actually shone for us at Sandwich for the May Bank Holiday, OK we had a cooling breeze, but when you managed to get out of it, it was possible to sit outside and enjoy the fresh air. It was just what we needed.

Alex provided music for dancing each evening, thanks again Alex - great job. And on Saturday evening we had the bonus of classically trained singer Chris McCloud who apart from singing solo, encouraged us in a sing-along.

This was something completely new for our group, and seemed to go down very well.

In July we are again accepting an invitation from Sussex Group, and joining them at Sharnfold Farm in East Sussex. Unfortunately I have no information about what they have planned, but you can bet it will be something good, so do come along.

Another invite from Sussex in July will find us at Rye Rugby Club. Kent Group has visited Rye on a number of occasions, and it is a favourite

venue for us. The site is within a short walk of the historic Cinque Port with its antique shops, quaint streets and restaurants, and always proves to be popular with members.

In case your August magazine gets held up in the post I will also mention our visit to Headcorn Aerodrome at the beginning of the month. You have the opportunity to take a pleasure flight, and even a parachute jump if you feel so inclined.

Wherever you choose to travel in your motorhome, have a safe and great time. Len Date: 12-14 July Venue: Sharnfold Farm, Hailsham Road, Stone Cross, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN24 5BU Start time: See Sussex/Kent websites Directions: From A27 take B2104 Stone Cross to Hailsham rd. Site on L. Date: 19-21 July Venue: Rye Rugby Club, New Rye Road, Rye, East Sussex TN31 7LS Start time: 14.00 hours.

Directions: From Canterbury take the A28 towards Ashford, then A2070 to A259 towards Rye. Rugby Club is on A259 shortly before town centre.

Date: 2-4 August Venue: Headcorn Aerodrome, Headcorn TN27 9HX Start time: TBC. Please see Kent Group web page nearer the time.

Directions: From Headcorn follow A274 south towards Tenterden. As you leave village, rd bends to the R and you will cross over a bridge. Follow rd for approx 1 mile, take 1st rd on L.

LANCASHIRE

Date: 5-7 July Venue: Tarleton Bowling Club, Sutton Lane, Tarleton PR4 6UY Hosts: TBA Directions: See rally on 1st March Facs: Bar drinks. Crown Green Bowling Competition.

NENE VALLEY Contact: 01604 754816 What a difference a bit of sun makes to a rally! Our May Bank Holiday rally took place at the Racecourse in Stratford on Avon. 28 vans attended with the majority staying for 5 nights. It was just a pity that some members were unable to stay for the full rally due to work commitments, but at least they got the best of the sun. The racecourse could not have been better. There was not a puddle or damp patch to be seen and all the facilities were very clean.

A gentle walk of about 15 minutes from the racecourse took us into the beautiful centre of Stratford where there was plenty of entertainment for all tastes. A great majority of the men made for the classic car display probably thinking “if only”! A wander

along the banks of the river Avon took some of us to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre where we climbed to the top of the tower (albeit by lift) and took in the magnificent views of Stratford and the surrounding countryside. We even managed a coffee morning outside.

We have two rallies in July. The first is from 5th to 7th at Hollowell.

We start at 2pm. The cost will be £8 pupn plus entrance to the Hollowell Steam Fair and Heavy Horse Show.

This annual event features not only steam engines and horses, but also a funfair, arena events, music, a dog show, helicopter rides, reptiles, military vehicles, arts and crafts and much more. Full details can be found on the show’s website at www. hollowellsteam.com.

From the A5199 Northampton to Leicester, turn left in Spratton at the Steam Fair signs and follow these until you see the camping field sign. Keep your eyes peeled for the MCC sign.

Camping is usually in the field just before turn to official car park.

Our second outing is to Bakewell Showground from 18th to 23rd July.

This is by the kind invitation of the East Midlands Group. Please see their entry in these pages for details.

Just in case this summer turns out like last year’s, we would ask anyone thinking of rallying with us to either consult the website before they venture out or to telephone Kathleen (01604 754816) to make sure the rally is still going ahead. It is impossible for us to contact everyone in the event of a cancellation, but the website is always up-to-date.

Martin

N. COUNTIES Contact: 07812 950309 Braithwaite welcomed 41 N/Counties, 1 Spanish, 6 Yorkshire. Thanks to Sheila and John who as usual put a tremendous amount of work, time and effort into preparing and hosting this rally. It had a 1920’s theme which everyone enjoyed.

Ambleside followed with 32 N/ Counties, 1 Lancs, 4 Yorks, 1 E/Mids attending. Unfortunately the weather let us down.

Sedgefield next 26 N/Counties, 5 Yorks, 1 Scotts and 1 Seven Valley.

Thanks to Jean, Dave, Janice and Gordon who once again put a lot of thought and imagination into this excellent rally. Roger MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013 41

GROUP NEWS & DIARIES

3-7 May, May Day Rally at Hamilton House. Friday evening was a welcome evening and time to chat with old friends. The hall was really cold, however, the Lancashire Group spirit kicked in and we had an enjoyable evening playing bingo and listening to music. Saturday morning the chairman’s wife went to a local hire shop and hired a gas heater for the remainder of the weekend. A committee meeting was held Saturday morning to ascertain if any further planning was needed for the Holiday and Roses Rally in August. Saturday evening we all met in a much warmer Hall and played take your pick. We

were then entertained by a great artist who had everyone singing and dancing to some fantastic music. We had a thoroughly enjoyable evening. Sunday morning saw the group completing the maypole ready for the dancing at lunchtime. Sunday evening we were entertained with a game of Play Your Cards Right and some great music to dance and sing to.

Monday morning a lot of the group left as they had work commitments, however, a small group stayed until Tuesday.

17-19 May, Aspull Rugby Club.

Friday the weather was quite good for parking the vans, however, it turned a bit nasty as the night went on. We all met in the hall as usual and had a nice evening playing bingo. We had a stand-in bingo caller for the evening and she really entertained us. We were then entertained by Dean and his large selection of music including Country Music for our line dancers. Saturday appeared to be a shopping day with a lot of members going into Wigan for some retail therapy. Saturday evening we played take your pick and danced to some fine music. Jack returned from a long holiday and entertained us with some good country music for the line dancers and a dance to Working Man.

Date: July 1-4 Venue: Kendal Rugby Club, Mint Bridge, Kendal, Cumbria LA9 6DL Sat Nav: N54°20’23, W2°44’19.

Start time: 2pm Hosts: Ina-Colin Hughes Costs: £5pupn + R.F. Directions: Travelling west on the A685 at Kendal turn R at Morrison’s, turn L onto the A6, Rugby Club on R. FACILITIES: Water, elsan, Clubhouse open some of the time. Within walking distance of Kendal/local shops. Bus nearby. Out of town shopping nearby.

GROUP NEWS & DIARIES

Date: July 4-8 Venue: Grasmere Sports & Show Field LA22 9SN Sat Nav: N54°27’21.

W3°01’12.

Start time: 12pm Hosts: Laine-John Walker Costs: £12pupn +RF Directions: Off A591 Keswick to Kendal Rd entrance through car park.

Facs: Toilets, showers, water & elsan, room. Close to village, pubs & shops.

Lakeside walks. Stunning scenery.

Local buses, Some limited use of electric for emergency use.

Date: July 8-12 Venue: Keswick Rugby Club (new venue) Davidson Park, Keswick CA12 5EG. Sat Nav: N54°36’03. W3°08’45 Start time: 12pm Hosts: Anne & Roger Allen Costs: £10pupn +RF Directions: In Keswick follow Brown Campsite Signs. On A5271 at mini rdbt turn onto B5289, turn R onto Crow Park Rd, pass Booths and Bus Station turn R. Immediately after Rugby Club entrance turn R down lane before camp sites.

Facs: Use of room, toilets when club open. Close to village, pubs & shops.

Lakeside walks. Stunning scenery.

Local buses.

Date: July 12-15 Venue: Stanhope Unthank Park, Stanhope Showground DL13 2PQ Sat Nav: N54°44’50. W2°00’53 Start time: 2pm Hosts: Kim & Allan Mckelvie Costs: £7 pupn + R.F. Directions: In Stanhope turn L onto B6278 S/P Barnard Castle/ Eggleston, at sharp R bend keep straight on, site at end of track.

Facs: Water, elsan, room. Short walk along riverside to Stanhope Village, shops and pubs. Own drinks. 2 mins walk to outdoor heated pool.

42 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

Date: July 19–22 Venue: Alnwick Rugby Club, Northumberland NE66 1BG Sat Nav: N55°24’09. W1°41’54.

Start time: 2pm Hosts: Jo & Neil Huggon Costs: £6 pupn + R.F. Directions: Left off A1 signpost Alnwick, L at first rdbt follow Rugby Club signs.

Facs: Water elsan, clubhouse, use of concert room Sat night. Alnwick centre, castle & gardens nearby.

Date: July 26-29 Venue: Lizard Farm Sunderland Airshow, Lizard Lane, Whitburn SR6 7NW Sat Nav: N54°57’47. W1°22’31.

Start time: 2pm Hosts: TBA Costs: £6 pupn + R F. Directions: Off A183 signpost Golf Course, turn left, farm on right.

Facs: Water, elsan, Sunderland Air Show weekend, lots of attractions at Seaburn.

Air show can be seen from site.

N. IRELAND Contact: 07842 092535 Lisburn Rally, 10-12th May. 19 vans, arrived at the Masonic hall car park in Lisburn, on Friday night to be warmly welcome by our hosts Elmer, Selma, Victor and Eleanor. After encampment some members did their own thing, while others waited to welcome Dessie and Ruth in their new Motorhome. On Saturday, the Lisburn Lord Mayors show was on in the town. There was a pipe band contest and fun activities in the park. Saturday evening we were made very welcome by the members of the Masonic Lodge, when we attended their dance and bingo session. We congratulated Pamela and Jim on their Golden wedding anniversary.

Sunday at the coffee morning, Dessie cordially thanked the Masonic Brethren for their hospitality and the use of their hall facilities He also thanked our rally hosts. The morning was completed by the number plate draw, which was won

by Maurice McAleese and Lita Burton.

Agnes Adair won the quiz. Dessie wished us all a safe journey home.

Bailey and Bett Hillsborough Rally 17-19th May. 30 Motorhomes attended Beechlawn School Hillsborough. They were greeted and made very welcome by their hosts Bob and Iris who were assisted by Eleanor and Jim. On Friday evening everyone enjoyed a get together

in the hall and a game of bingo.

Saturday brought a big change in the weather from Friday’s glorious sunshine to torrential rain all day, making a visit to the flower festival at Hillsborough Castle not quite as enjoyable at it could have been. But being used to Northern Ireland’s weather, a few brave souls battled on regardless, and made the most of it. Visiting the garden displays and stalls and some taking a tour around the castle. Others made their way to one of the lovely village pubs for a swift half and a bite of lunch!

Saturday evening was great fun with friendly rivalry in the hall at a thought provoking table quiz followed by some background music and chit chat. The winners were the “All Girl Team”, They called themselves, “The Dogs Bowl Axe”, Joint second were, “The Ancient Mariners “, and “the DDT Nightmares”.

At coffee morning on Sunday, our Vice Chairman Norman Gordon welcomed new members, and thanked everyone for attending. He wished all members a safe journey home.

The quiz winner was Lesley Roberts and the children’s word search quiz winners were Samantha and Natasha.

The Number plate draw winners were, Seamus Cushenen and Andy Clarke.

A very enjoyable weekend was had by all. Thanks again to our hosts for all their time and effort. It was very much appreciated. Sam, Lynne and Samantha.

Date: 9-14 July Holiday Rally Venue: Scoil Phadraig Primary School, Ballina, Mayo.

Full details of Rally’s can be found on the MCCNI Website

NWM&NW Contact: 07981261071 NWM&NW 50th Anniversary Rally Oswestry - April 2013. This was a very entertaining and well-supported weekend with 123 units. Friday night brought us an Elvis Presley Tribute Act – Paul Larcombe. Saturday night we were entertained by Birmingham band Vivo who sang a wide range of songs for all ages while playing many different instruments. On Sunday we had an indoor Hog roast that went down well. It was an excellent time for everyone and will be remembered for a long time to come.

Easter at Mayday. This was an excellent venue (Llangollen Pavilion)

within very close proximity to Llangollen Town. 36 vans attended with another 3 new members – we do hope to see you all again very soon.

Many ventured out walking, cycling and few partook in the local hostelries.

The small motor museum proved to be a hit for some along with the famous Llangollen Steam Railway. The quiz was based on an Easter theme and was won by the Worth, Crosby & Hill family (not sure if there was some inside knowledge there!). Many tried and failed to win at ‘Play your Cards Right’ – despite assistance from Katie our very own young dolly dealer.

Sunday afternoon saw the children scavenging for eggs. Well done to Megan Crosby for collecting the most.

Congratulations also to new members Kay Davies, for selecting the correct key after husband Phil failed in a previous attempt to win Open the Box. Bangor Rugby Club. This was a new venue and what a good venue it was, the parking was good and the clubhouse was great. 19 vans attended all from NW Midlands and N Wales. The Friday night was interesting as we had to share the clubhouse with the Bangor University Medical Students Rugby Team who had their leavers dinner. What a night!!!! Saturday saw people venture into town on the bus and that evening most went in the clubhouse for a fantastic 2 course Carvery then a quiz won by the Last one’s up.

Date: 5-7 July Venue: Barthomley Smith Green Equestrian Centre Hosts: Paul, Gill & Girls + Ian, Maria & Boys.

Facs: Country Walks & Horse Riding Lessons

Date: 26-28 July Venue: Cotton Arms, Wrenbury Hosts: Phil & Barbara Clarke.

Facs: Pub on site for Meals & Drinks.

Hall for socials, Canal side for Walks, Shop in the Village

Our April Rally at the Whitby Rugby Club attracted twenty units including visitors from N. Counties, Yorkshire and E. Midlands.

The site is ideally situated on a bus route with a regular service to the town centre, most members exercised their bus passes on several occasions.

Alternatively an attractive cliff top walk offered a more energetic option.

The Rally. Coincided with an annual Goth celebration of the life and works of Bram Stoker of Dracula fame.

Whitby was full of Goths parading their finery, they were all very willing to be photographed. Their outfits were quite spectacular varying from the bizarre to eh extremely elegant, top hats and aviator goggles seemed to be the must have accessories – what is that all about? The bitter wind did not appear to deter some extensive displays of skin!!

The very cold and windy conditions severely restricted on site activities (they do say there is nothing between Whitby and the Ural Mountains – and it felt like it). Unfortunately the wind was so strong on Sunday that Coffee Morning had to be abandoned – we do apologise to our visitors for this, but do hope they managed to enjoy their weekend with us.

The photographic competition (theme ‘people’) was won by Reg with Colin and Pam very close behind.

Many thanks to Jane and Harry for finding the site and running a most enjoyable rally in trying conditions.

John Weston.

Date: 17-21 July Venue: Highbench’ Oakeford Fitzpaine, Blandford, Dorset DT11 0RR Hosts: Pam Wright Secretary 01252 314375 Set subject: Indoor Date: 14-18 Aug Venue: Millers Field Motorhome Camping Ambleside LA22 0EE Hosts: Reg Jones 07928 490029.

Set Subject Natural History.

S&W WALES Contact: 07599 130292 Peter H, Winston and Christine welcomed 27 vans to Caldicot including 4 over-eager members who arrived a day early. An enjoyable weekend.

Thanks to first time hosts.

14 travelled onto Cardiff Harlequins RFC hosted by Pam, Trudi, Dave and Peter, including new Group members Jean and Brian Croeso. Rugby fans watched the Royal Corps of Signals 7-a-side tournament. The Clubhouse was open throughout, meaning some experienced difficulty walking and talking! Cycle paths and walks canalside with great weather. Thanks hosts and Clive (RO), super venue.

57 vans attended Porthcawl Rugby Club, after persistence of RFC and Clive 1 with council ‘red tape’. Visitors from Avon - Ann Bond, Severn Valley – Audrey and Jenny Barlow and 1st timers from Severn Valley – Ann and Steve Long and Wendy. Welcome!

Also to Gill and John Grainger, new members. Flat site and Clubhouse toilet available throughout. A buffet Friday with live entertainment and wine. More wine on Saturday in the Club Concert Room. 85 people paid £3 per head for a fantastic cooked breakfast served

by RFC Committee and hosts. Buses to town, or 10 minute walk. Bingo on Monday night. Thanks to hosts Mary, Pam, Perri, Clive 1, Dave and Tony.

23 vans attended Builth Wells. Hosts welcomed new members Lorna and Ron and a visitor from Severn Valley.

Happy birthday Richard and thanks Roger for accompanying us on the piano. Margaret procured taxis to Smallholders Show. Well done June on 1st prize in the veteran dog section for your clumber spaniel. Olwen’s bargain bamboo will keep Peter busy in the garden. Saturday evening’s Chinese Auction was fun, ‘fighting’ over teabags and a choccie bar. Sue’s delicious cakes for Coffee morning were devoured, sorry Derek! Thanks Margaret, Sue and Derek.

The Pembroke Pen Date: July 10-12 New venue Venue: Brecon Sports Association Fields, LD3 7EL - GPS: N51.9436 W3.3864 Start time: 12noon Hosts: Sue & Adrian + Jean & Alan Costs: £5pupn Directions: Tk Brecon by-pass N, at rdbt tk 1st L 4 Brecon. Just B4 ptrl stn trn L ovr hmpbck brdg. Go pst Rgby grnd. Site on R. Date: July 12-14 Follow on, new venue Venue: Abergavenny Leisure Centre, NP7 - GPS: N51.830583 - W3.023763 Start time: 12noon MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013 43

GROUP NEWS & DIARIES

Date: 19-21 July Venue: Cartio Mon Go-Cart Track, Anglesey Hosts: Gareth & Niah Facs: Go-Carting, Hall for Socials Buses to Holyhead or Bangor.

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Hosts: Angie & Glyn + Val A & Graham Costs: £5pupn Directions: Frm S hd 4 twn cntr. At war mem (Tesco on R) trn L alngsd church into Pen-y-Pound Rd. In 300 yds at TL trn L and imed R. In 500 yds trn R at schl sign – along NO ENTRY rd. Wrong way use has bn apprvd. DO NOT entr via mn entrance on “Old Hereford Rd”.

Date: July 21-26 Royal Welsh Show Venue: Builth Wells Junior School, LD2 3GA - GPS: N52.147312 - W3.408717 Start time: 12noon Hosts: Pam & Dave + Mary & Clive 1 Costs: £25 pu (2 adults), £20 pu (1 adult) Directions: Entrng Builth Wells frm E, thrgh twn centre, fllw Hospital sgns.

Entring from W, turn R at Greyhound Pub. Fllw MCC sgns.

GROUP NEWS & DIARIES

SW PENINSULA Contact: 01752 318021 Fred & Di hosted our Easter rally at Hendra near Newquay, a popular rally as always with visitors from all over the country. Even though we were asked to move fields everyone still enjoyed themselves on this full facility site. It’s booked again for next year and I doubt you will find a cheaper Easter rally on a full facility site. Come and join us.

Then came Camborne RFC for the annual Trevithick day celebrations.

What a day! Where to start? Loads of steam engines, live bands, street entertainers, stalls, beer tents and more. Pet, Mel, Roy & Joan looked after us, and as always the rugby club and the stewards were superb hosts. We were even treated to a spontaneous cabaret on the Saturday night when the team got back after losing an away game. It’s all to do with forfeits when the team lose and as this is a family magazine – enough said. It was hilarious though.

We moved on to Carlyon Bay next with a “Wurzels” weekend with the aim of raising a few bob for Help for Heroes.

Simon, Chris, Dave, Dave and Catherine hosted the weekend, with over 40 vans attending, and what a weekend it was. The Saturday saw a cake auction and the chance to purchase real cider which had been donated. A TV was auctioned along with a coffee maker and a bottle of scotch was auctioned at least three times. Thanks to Mark and Kevin for acting as auctioneers.

There were some games to play and a set of stocks appeared for members to 46 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

throw wet sponges at willing volunteers.

Simon, James, Dave and Ian spent time in the stocks and particular thanks go to Ian who copped a full fire bucket for his troubles! A ploughman’s lunch was provided by the ladies, and a great afternoon and evening was had in the wonderful Cornish sunshine. At the end of the day the magnificent sum of £575 was raised. An absolutely brilliant job – well done and THANK YOU to everyone who took part and donated money. Have a look at the pictures on our website.

Advance notice of our Xmas rally – 6th to 8th December at Trencreek near Looe a full facility site with a pool and refurbished facilities. Entertainment from Rocket 88 a fabulous rock and roll band who we have used before.

Booking forms on our website or from the Committee. Bookings only. Please book by the AGM as we have to confirm numbers to the site for the Xmas meals.

New Year will be at Trevarrian Holiday Park near Mawgan Porth. No need to book just turn up. Full facility site with entertainment each evening.

Hope to see you on the rally field.

Date: 23–27 August Venue: Ivybridge RFC nr Plymouth PL21 0BD Hosts: TBC Costs: £7 pupn Facs: No hook ups, limited toilets. A very welcoming rugby club. 5 days 4 nights rally. Site near to bus stops for travel to Plymouth, Totnes, Exeter & Torquay.

SCOTTISH We visited the Hirsel country park at Coldstream and enjoyed a good rally hosted by Leslie and Arleeta. We managed to sit out every day due to the good weather with lovely views of the beautiful Hirsel Lake. 6 vans - 5 Scottish, 1 Northern Counties. Some visited Homestead Museum and various craft shops as well as the inviting cafe.

Edith and John won the Quiz and the lucky van prize.

17 vans gathered at Kelso Showground - 8 Scottish, 3 Northern Counties, 1 Essex, 3 Yorkshire, 1 Lancashire, and nice to meet new member Sally How. Thanks to hosts Robert and Marion for all their hard work. Robert had acquired some horseshoes and bent them into shape for a good game.

A quiz every night got the socialising

going well. Plenty music and a bit of a sing song made for good nights in the shed.

Thanks to Audrey for helping with bingo and raffle tickets and Barbara helping out at coffee morning.

Over the 5 days most people paid Kelso a visit it is a superb rally venue.

Third rally this month was at Noah’s Ark in Perth. 13 vans in total and good to see Vic and Christine Edwards back with us from Lanc’s group. Friday was lovely and we were outside for a coffee when Don and Joan stopped by for a visit. We had the marquee up and had good fun and games though Old Scoop has been voted the worst quizzer in the group, no more hard quizzes from him. Pat Grant won a hotly contested Play-your–cards-right and Marlene’s team won the murder quiz, or the quiz that was murder something like that. After many false starts Kath won the counting game it’s hard to count after a few drinks. Saturday was wild but the tent stood up to the wind and rain and we gathered again for more chat, a few members had visited Perth City for some touristy fun. Andy Sutherland hand-picked his team and quality shone through in Janette’s rhyming quiz where they came top of the class! Stop the Bus saw some good old fashioned competitiveness evident throughout all the teams, we do like to win the quiz up here, Black Rum Bill’s pirates won in the end. Harold brought over his guitar and gave us a few good tunes. Thanks to all who helped with the coffee, bingo, money, tent (great new lights Scoop) and Bill and Marlene ran the raffle and booked everyone in, Scoop was down as host but got there when all the hard work was done.

Lanark might have a wee bit of entertainment (TBC) if you can manage down June 28th – 1st July.

Beautiful Pitlochry 18th – 23rd July. Remember the invite to Northern Counties Summer Rallies through July as well. Then Sandhead 1st – 6th August.

Help with Hosting? If you can please let a committee member know.

Cheers, Scoop

SEVERN VALLEY Contact: 07979 818992 What a great start to the months rally’s starting at Tewkesbury, a great time had by all, even the weather was kind to us, a BIG thank you to our hosts Danny and Sharron Boden,

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The Northern Motorcaravan Show The Northern Motorcaravan Show will be taking place on 19th-21st July at Cheshire Showground, Knutsford – and Motorcaravanners’ Club members can use the accompanying discount voucher to receive reduced price day visitor tickets to the Show.

Over 200 specialist traders will be present at the Show, including some of the UK’s leading dealers such as Wellhouse Leisure, Lowdham Leisureworld, Spinney Motorcaravans, Cleveland Motorhomes, Glossop Caravans and Fifth Wheel Company. A huge choice of both new and pre-owned British, European and American motorhomes will be on-sale, alongside thousands of must-have accessories, gifts and gadgets from many well-known brands and

suppliers. You can shop items ranging from solar panels, outdoor leisurewear and footwear, to trailers, TVs, cookery utensils, upholstery, furnishings and more.

If you can’t stay for the weekend but would like to visit during the day, admission rates are adults £6.50 and children £2.50 (5-15yrs).

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MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013 47

GROUP NEWS & DIARIES

Danny sending us back to the 60s, complimented by his fantastic outfit, well done to those who dressed up.

The pre-National was another resounding success story, Hosted by Allan and Gill Warren, who ran their socks off, ensured the 84 vans,50 first timers were catered for and going the extra mile, putting on entertainment in the evenings, and running a coach trip which was a sell out, most members complimented on a well run and great rally. Well done both.

On to the National, 38 SV vans along with 1 Anglia, 1 NWM&NW and of course 1 from E Midlands (Severn Valley section) joined in with SV for the fun, with changeable weather conditions that didn’t dampen the spirits’. Reception duties were carried out very efficiently by a fantastic team, dealing with the throngs of vans attending, moving them on site in record time and with the warmest of welcomes, a BIG BIG thank you to you all, even CoM’s was very impressed.

Prize giving was quite a shocker, two of our children from the group was awarded rosettes, a 2nd for William Turner and a third for Lily Turner in the picture class, well done, we are very proud of you both. The trophies didn’t stop there, we were awarded the HOST trophy, Best Retention trophy and Best Recruitment trophy, on receiving the trophies the appreciation was displayed not only by the group’s members but escalated in the whole hall erupting with delight, we thank each and every member who have brought us to this memorable position.

Finally SV are out of the doldrums for awards, let’s hope we can carry on next year, look out Ireland.

Next month, August holiday period not a lot on, so till next time, drive carefully, stay safe, we look forward to seeing you all at another great Severn Valley Rally. JJK Date: 12-14 July Venue: Bourton Rovers Football Club, Rissington Road, Bourton GL54 2EE Start time: 2pm Hosts: Vic and Hazel Lancaster Tel: 07515713075 Directions: Exit A429 at traffic lights into Station rd, continue into Rissington road, turn L opposite car park on R, following MCC signs.

Facs: “JAM” session on the field over the weekend, led by Vic, so if you have an instrument, bring it along, better still, come along anyway, bring up 48 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

your chairs for a great time. Explore the delights of the village too.

Date: 19-21 July Blues Festival Venue: Boye Meadow Caravan Park, Upton upon Severn WR8 0PD Start time: 2pm Hosts: John and Pat Kirby Tel: 07979 818992 Directions: Turn off A38 onto A4104 signed Upton, site on right opposite marina.

Facs: The “BLUES” festival is a new venue.

Date: 19-26 July - Royal Victoria Country Park & 25-28 July - Welland Steam Fair - see Special rallies page

SPANISH Contact: (0034) 966 786 403 Twenty vans attended Villamar, Benidorm including one visitor from the UK. We started with meet and greet on Wednesday afternoon. Our hosts Pam and Dave Brack outlined a full schedule for the rally including a go karting BBQ - more of which later! Our chairman Alan also gave details of health issues of members and we wish them all a speedy recovery. Wednesday morning had seen water aerobics in the indoor heated pool. Evening entertainment was karaoke in the cabaret lounge. The food was mostly English fare of a very good standard.

Thursday morning the petanque competition was held. Partners were drawn at random which made for some interesting games. Overall winners were Alan and Brenda who beat off fierce competition. In the afternoon the bikers took off on their motor scooters for a tour of La Cala, an interesting town. The evening was a quiz with a difference - one round had been set around caravanning (as opposed to motorcaravanning). This was a struggle for most as questions were quite technical. Against all odds, and the rest of the campsite, our very own Terry and Sue came first and won €30, despite never owning a caravan!

Friday morning was another session of water aerobics. In the afternoon 12 budding Formula One members accompanied by their better halves went to Karting Finestrat, transported to and from the event by stretch limousine. They had the track to themselves and after many laps of competitive racing the winner was Lawrence followed by Mike and Bob.

Racing was followed by a fabulous BBQ washed down by Spanish cava. During the racing, our chairman Alan decided to park on a corner of the track.

Rumour has it he was waiting for the ice cream van to appear! An excellent event, well worth the cost.

Saturday saw a free day for visiting Benidorm and walking along the beautiful promenade. In the evening we had the meal in the cabaret lounge.

The food was of a very high standard particularly given the numbers. After that, our very own North South Country Boys and Bobby Valentine took to the stage and gave us two hours of nonstop country music. An excellent evening.

Sunday morning saw a farewell full English breakfast and coffee morning all for the price of €3. Again the food was excellent. Our chairman Alan thanked everyone involved in all activities during the week and in particular Pam and Dave who had worked hard all rally. Prizes were then given out for the go karting (Lawrence), rally quiz (Lawrence) and petanque (Alan and Brenda). It was then once again time to head off home. Until the next time - adios.

Hasta luego amigos. Paco.

Date: July 17–21 Venue: Camping Marjal Costa Blanca, Catral, Alicante. Tel: +34 965 484 945 www.marjalcostablanca.com Directions: AP7 Elche to Cartagena motorway, take the 730 Catral exit.

GPS. 38° 10’ 44” N - 0° 48’ 33” W Facs: FFS. Restaurant, Bar, Supermarket, Swimming pool. €20 per night. Clubs website: www.mccinspain.weebly.com

SURREY Contact: 07910 437330 Last month, I am sorry to say that I had the resignations of Bill and Carole Hutchings, due to various reasons. But this does now leave us with the legal minimum of 5 on the committee, and just 2 vans, John’s and Ray’s to bring all the gear we need to the rallies, and sometimes just one of these vans. So please don’t shout at us if we have forgotten something or have decided to downsize on the equipment. We are doing our best for you all.

So, at this years’ AGM, We will be looking for members to join us on the Committee. THIS IS YOUR GROUP, SO PLEASE KEEP IT GOING, OR IT

WILL FOLD. Then you will have further to go for rallies. If you have any ideas we can use, please talk to the Committee. On saying that, we are very appreciative of all the help you do give us when on site. THANK YOU. 41 vans saw the month of May in, at Old Windsor. What wonderful weather we had, except Saturday, when it just fell down, just when everyone was about to walk out of the gate heading for Windsor and its Castle. Runnymede, along the river Thames, and Slough etc, all armed with their bus passes or bikes or just pure shankseys pony.

Saturday Evening, we arranged for fish and chips to be delivered and they were enjoyed all round, then we continued to dance and enjoy the different sounds of Debbie C. Sunday again members were out and about, and I for one, went by electric bike thru Windsor to Eton and back again via The Prince of Wales farm shop. Sunday tea we had different sorts of cakes and biscuits and Old Tyme music to dance to, if you wished. Sunday evening was supposed to be Latin American, but the members were too tired to dance, until I (Mandy’s Music) put on some Barn dances, waltzes, Valetas and the Gay Gordons, and all sorts of other dances like that, well, the members went mad, and had a great fun evening trying to teach each other these type of dances.

Happy travelling, Mandy.

Date: 8-11 August Venue: Pierrepont Farm, Reeds Road, Tilford GU10 2DL (Next to Rural Life Centre) Start time: Thursday 2pm.

Directions: A31 Farnham bypass, at tl’s turn L to Farnham Station. Over the railway crossing, fork R Tilford

SUSSEX The weekend rally at Seaford Head School was most enjoyable despite the windy weather. 30 vans arrived to visit the busy seaside town and dutifully came back to take part in the Forum which the group had planned.

The committee asked to be told of any gripes that anyone might have, thankfully there wasn’t many. We were glad to listen to suggestions, which will help take the Sussex Group forward, a bit of new thinking was also ‘put into the pot’. One request was to have more meets in West Sussex, we like to spread them around the county but venues are getting harder to find and costs are soaring. We would greatly appreciate members looking for possible sites, all that is needed are adequate parking, water and an elsan point, so start looking for them in your area. Let Ian and Claire know, and they will follow it through.

Gloria and Ted, with the help of Tony did a brilliant job of hosting, amusing us all with contests and quizzes and a bumper raffle. Mel, the evening entertainer, sang, chatted and charmed her way through to a late hour. Thanks to all!

By kind invitation from Surrey we are invited to Shalford Park on the 4th7th July (extended by a day), it is the Guildford Festival and Annual Narrow Boat Show where there will be raft racing, a street market, riverside walk and plenty of pubs and cafe’s.

On the 12th-14th July our group will be at Sharnfold Farm, there is plenty to do, hopefully there will be soft fruit to pick, a Farm and Nature trail and it has a cafe for cream teas. Just a short walk is a carvery pub, and a Garden Centre, further on is The Old Loom Mill Craft Centre and for the cyclists, The Cuckoo Trail. Children enjoy this weekend. Di, Barry and Tony will be there to meet you. We cordially invite Kent, and of course all other groups to join us there.

Last meet in the month will be at Rye Rugby Club on the 19th-21st July, always a popular venue with its close proximity to this historic town and all it has to offer. We have the use of the clubhouse for the weekend, a cheese and wine party has been planned for Saturday evening, flat countryside is all

around for cyclists to enjoy, Tony and Paula will be hosting, see you there!

Dot Date: 4-7 July Invite from Surrey Venue: Shalford Park, Shalford Road (A281) Guildford GU1 3XJ Start time: 2pm Directions: From Guildford take A281 for one mile, site entrance on R past toilet block.

Date: 12-14 July Invite to Kent Venue: Sharnfold Farm, Hailsham Rd, Stone Cross, Eastbourne/Hailsham BN24 Start time: 4pm Directions: From A27 take B2104 Stone Cross to Hailsham rd, site on L. Date: 19-21 July Venue: Rye Rugby Club, New Rd, E.Sussex TN31 7LS Start time: 2pm Directions: To Rye on A259 towards Camber, at rdbt onto New Rd, over bridge, site 200yds on R

WEST COUNTRY Our Bude Rally was hosted by Alan and Julie Newbery - first time hosts.

With Geoff and Sue Jackson co-hosts.

21 vans were on site for an enjoyable five days, we had a room in which we had two fun evenings. Alan did a quiz on Friday evening and many of us are not as brainy as we think we are, 20 general knowledge questions, the overall winners scored 7. We had a game of Peter Greers Hoik and a skittles evening on Saturday.

On Sunday morning after coffee and raffle many people went as far as the Rugby Club to a classic car show.

56 vans enjoyed the Bank Holiday Rally at Cofton Holiday Park. We had many visitors from many groups 1 York, 1 Chiltern, 1 Severn Valley, 1 Lancashire, 3 South West Wales, 4 SWP, 12 Avon, and 33 West Country.

Glorious weather with tea and cakes on Friday, raffle and coffee morning Sunday. Fred Smith did heads and tails for our charity. The prize a wooden bird table was won by a member who then put it up for auction, a grand sum of £110.00 was raised for our charity (40 commando welfare fund).

The winner was Sandy Rodda a new member.

Lunch was enjoyed by many at the onsite restaurant, and the children MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013 49

GROUP NEWS & DIARIES

Date: 25-28 July Venue: Henfold Lake, Fishery & Leisure Park, Beare Green, Dorking RH5 4RW Start time: Thursday 2pm Hosts: John and Mandy Directions: From Dorking on A24, Deepdene Ave, then fork L into Chart Lane South, continue onto Blackbrook Road, continue onto Henfold lane until you see MCC signs on L. Facs: Very good fishing lakes. Day fishing tickets. Licensed Cafe Bar and meals on site. Falconry and bird displays. Friends of members may also join us.

Road, in 3miles, turn R into Reed rd.

Follow signs for Rural Life Centre.

Facs: Quiet, interesting site.

spent hours in the pool.

Date: 5-10 July Venue: Warcombe Farm EX34 7EJ Hosts: Brian & Maureen/John & Janet Date: 11-15 July Venue: Clovelly Date: 16-21 July Venue: Barnstaple RFC, EX31 1JH Green Men Weekend in town Hosts: John & Janet Slade, Peter & Jeanette Greer, Sue & Geoff Jackson Date: 23-28 July Venue: Exmouth Rugby Club, EX8 1DG Hosts: Committee Date: 28 July-6 Aug Venue: Warren Farm Dawlish, EX7 0NG Hosts: Committee

GROUP NEWS & DIARIES

WEST WESSEX Our rally at the Abbey Hill Steam Fair, in May, was very well supported with 51 vans, for which we thank Bill, Joan and Caroline Lovelock for hosting, and enlisting sunshine for the whole weekend.. In addition to the interesting events and exhibits of the very busy show Dereck organised a minibus shuttle bus service, with Dobbin’s assistance, to and from Yeovil. The marquee offered music and refreshment bar in the evenings.

I understand there was a small incident involving some unwelcome Eastern Europeans insisting on pitching their tent in our rally field, probably for personal gain while members attended the show; however with the aid of the site security they were promptly removed.

Our 2nd rally this month was at the Bridport Football club, hosted by Lynda and Doug Rowberry, it was supported by 14 vans, of which 4 were visitors. The number being down as some of our regulars visited the Newbury motorhome show which coincided with this rally. However for those that attended there was sunshine for Saturday and the option of a short walk into Bridport or a longer walk down to West bay. The clubhouse was for our exclusive use offering the usual get together in a cosy environment. Ray G. Date: 4-7 July 50 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

Venue: The Paddocks, Marsh Lane, Devices SN10 1RF Start time: 12 noon Hosts: Ann & Keith Curwain, Telephone 01202 681684 or 07722 166824 Costs: £8.00 pupn + rally fee Directions: A361 Devices to Trowbridge rd, turn to Marsh Lane B3101 signpost Rowde follow MCC signs, site on R just after canal bridge Facs: Basic. On canal side short walk to Devices Date: 18-21 July Venue: Bucklers Hard, Beaulieu Hants SO42 7XB Start time: 12 noon Hosts: Linda & Doug Rowberry Tel 01202 257020 or 07754 779356 Costs: £12.50 pupn + rally fee Directions: A35 Lyndhurst, follow signs for Beaulieu, then follow signs for Bucklers Hard.

Facs: Basic. Bucklers Hard village entrance included in site fee.

Date: 25-28 July Venue: Milton Abbas Park Farm DT11 0AX Start time: 12 noon Hosts: Linda & Cris Horwood Tel 01202 257572 or 07941 312560 Costs: £10.00 pupn + rally fee Directions: A354 Blandford to Dorchester. At Wimbourne Whitchurch, take 2nd R (at Milton Arms pub).

Continue to Milton Abbas site on R. Facs: Basic, levelling blocks required sloping field. Street fair Saturday.

YORKSHIRE 19-21 April, Ripon attracted 34 vans, which was a good turnout considering it was Peterborough show, 1 van from East Midlands and 5 from Northern Counties including first time visitors Mr & Mrs Taylor, Saturday was the warmest day of the year so far, with many taking the pleasant walk into Ripon and sitting outside their vans in the afternoon. Both nights we had bingo and a quiz, thanks to Richard & Anne for these and hosting.

The bank holiday, 3–6 May, was spent at Sutton Park Stately Home, we had 31 vans in total, 2 East Midlands, 1st time visitors Mr & Mrs Allen from Photographic group, and first time Yorkshire ralliers the Barkers and the Kelleys. Weather lovely, quite a few enjoyed the stately home on the sat, usual bingo and quizzes fri, sat, sun and

barbeques all round! Very enjoyable weekend. Thanks to Dot and Colin for hosting.

Our new venue at the Old George Inn at Sykehouse, 10-12 May, only saw 13 vans turn up, all from Yorkshire. A great field behind the pub with large beer garden, playground and swimming pool.

Nice walks in the area. Weather was sunshine and showers. Most of us ate in the pub on Saturday night. Thanks to Anne and Don for hosting.

17-19 May, we had 29 vans arrive at Bishopthorpe, despite the rain that was forecast for Saturday. With the exception of 1 van visiting from Northern Counties, all the rest were Yorkshire with returning members Sam and Ann. Saturday it rained until about lunchtime, some got the bus into York, while others went for a walk or visited the local pubs. Despite the cold quite a few dug their barbeques out. Thanks go to Pete & Eileen Hewitt for hosting.

Date: 5-7 July Venue: Burn Gliding Club, Nr. Selby YO8 8LW Directions: From M62 jct 34 take A19 sp Selby for 3 miles, in Burn take 1st R & follow Gliding Club signs Facs: Water, Elsan, Toilets, Club House Date: 12-14 July Venue: Styrup Village Hall DN11 8LT Directions: A1M, North or South exit at Junc 34. Take A614 to Bawtry/ A631. At rdbt take 1st exit Bawtry Rd A614. Turn L into Snape Lane. Take 1st L into Serlby Rd. Hall on L. Facs: Water, Elsan, Kitchen Date: 19-24 July Holiday Rally Venue: Ribblesdale RUFC, Settle BD24 9QS Directions: Turn R at 1st rbt onto B6480 then 1st R after Falcon Manor Hotel onto Inglefield Lane then Lower Green Foot. Ribblesdale RUFC on L. Facs: Water, Elsan, Room Date: 24-29 July Holiday Rally Venue: Hawes Auction Mart, DL8 3NP Direction: From A1 take A684 to Bedale/Leyburn onto Hawes. 1/4 mile past Burtersett turn off, Auction Mart on L. From A65 take B6255 at Ingleton signposted Hawes. At Hawes, turn R through village and 1 way system, past ropemakers on L, Auction mart on R. Fac: Water, Elsan, Room

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Holidays and special rallies SUSSEX GROUP

HOLIDAY RALLY

22-27 August The Academy at Selsey

From 10.30 on 22nd-27th August. Professional live entertainment for 5 nights inc the NEW AMEN CORNER. Carnival, Boot sale, close to shops & beach. Why not make it a L..O..N..G break, C&C Club National Feast of the Lanterns is at Ringwood 5–19 Aug. Our own popular South Harting rally is 16–18 Aug then a few days to explore Sussex and travel to Selsey on 22nd. Bookings: Contact Rosemary on 01323 761259 or email - rosemary16@hotmail.co.uk or Tony on 07939 034340 or email tony.padley@gmail.com WEST COUNTRY GROUP

HOLIDAY RALLY

23 -28 July Exmouth Rugby Club Ex8 1DG Cost £9pupn. Bookable with Mrs Mitchell 01884 32245.

Hosts: Committee

HOLIDAY RALLY

28 July-6 Aug Warren Farm Dawlish EX7 0NG

Rally Field Cost £8pupn. Just Turn Up. Hosts: Committee

Email your special rallies to: gro

AVON GROUP

August Bank Holiday Rally

21–27 Aug Moor Farm, Knights in the Bottom, Chickerell, Weymouth DT3 3EA

Hosts: Roy & Shirley. Bus to Weymouth seaside town, shops & bustling harbour. Nearby: Portland Bill, Castle, The Nothe & the Old Quarter of Weymouth set around Brewer’s Quay shopping arcade. Victoria Inn, 300yds from site serves food. Tractor ride arranged by the farmer. £6pupn+rally fee. Own san essential. Start: 12noon

Holiday Rally

13–22 Sept Manor Farm Holiday Centre, Charmouth, Bridport, Dorset

Hosts: Carol & Mike, Pet & Tony. Full fac site inc play area, clubhouse, pool, health club & coffee house. Charmouth beach 15 mins walk, sand/shingle, boat & swim. £12pupn for 2 people+rally fee (£3 pupn EHU) Start: 11am YORKSHIRE GROUP

DRIFFIELD STEAM RALLY

8-12 August Driffield Showground YO25 9DN

EAST WESSEX

Directions: From York A166 to first big roundabout, turn right to Kelly Thorpe roundabout, showground on left.

Price TBA. Facilities: water, Elsan, toilets, room.

July 26-28 Woodlands Farm SO30 2AP

50th Jubilee Celebration

HOLIDAY RALLY

M3 to jct 11 towards Bishops Waltham, follow Marwell Zoo signs, L at B2177, turn R at Alma Pub, L into Alma Lane, farm 1 mile on R, all other entrances too narrow.

No arrivals before noon. Sat Tramps Ball & disco. £8pupn + rally fee. If bad weather phone Allan on 02392 351807

5 day HOLIDAY RALLY

19-24 Sept Weyhill Fair SP11 0PP

From M3 exit junc 8 onto A303 toward Andover, take A343 exit toward A342, at rdbt, take 3rd exit onto A343, at rdbt take 1st exit onto A342, at Pub turn into field. No arrivals before 1pm. Weyhill Fair short walk from field and dates back to the 1225. Buses to Andover and Salisbury just outside the gate. Come for as many days as you like.

ANGLIA GROUP

SUMMER Holiday rally 2-11 August Cliff Park Junior School, Gorleston NR31 6SZ

No need to book and short stays welcome.

Professional entertainment on both Saturday nights, plus events in hall or outside weather permitting every day/evening. Bus stop outside school to major towns. Short walk to beach. Site opens 12 noon.

Fee: £9p.u.p.n. See Anglia website or July diary for further information.

52 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

3–7 October Drax Power Station, Sports & Social Club

Ho Down, buffet, 60’s tribute act, tour around Drax Power Station, line dancing lesson, guided walk around local area. £50 for four nights. Location: From Selby on A1041 turn left through Camblesforth, at Power Station r/about look for club entrance road.

Facilities: Water, Elsan, Clubhouse with Bar, showers.

SEVERN VALLEY GROUP

Holiday Rally

19-26 July Royal Victoria Country Park, Netley Southampton SO31 5GA

Hosts: Les & Jane Cheney, 4pm start, £9pupn+rally fee.

Tel. 07836 350150/01926 330289. On bus & train route to Southampton/Portsmouth. 22 acre park with woodlands, views across Southampton Water. Exit M27 junc 8 on A3024, at rdbt take 2nd exit A3025, Hamble Rd. At junc follow tourist signs via Hound Way & Station Rd.

Welland Steam Rally

25-28 July Woodside Farm WR13 6NG

Hosts Alan & Rosalind Wolfe, Tel 01527 543044 or 07733 022310. Set in the beautiful Worcestershire countryside.

3 days 4 nights of nostalgia, sights, sounds, colour and movement. Directions: From Upton through town, site on R in 3 miles, follow MCC signs.

rallies to: groupnews@motorcaravanners.eu LANCASHIRE GROUP

ROSES Rally

16–27 Aug King Edward VII and Queen Mary School, Lytham, Lancs FY8 1DT

£12 pupn, 7 professional artists - Lee Brady, Aquarius, Nashville Angels, Lancashire DJ’s, Damon Noone, Matt Andrews & The Great Damondo. Bingo each Friday 3 games, Country & Western on Weds, Table Top Sale second Saturday, Party night, dress your table and yourself Hawaiian theme, Lancashires 2 best DJs, Jiving Jack & Disco Dean, other nights, Take your Pick, Bonus Ball, Sammy Snail Club each day. Direction: End of M55 take the 1st exit off rdbt A5230, follow signs for airport. Go past airport to end of rd (traffic lights) turn L onto A584, pass Pontins on L, school approx 3 miles on this road on R. Precise instructions re entrance will be in magazine. Own drinks, local buses at road end to Balckpool, St Annes, Fleetwood, varied entertainment.

ESSEX GROUP

CLACTON AIR SHOW

21-26 August Gainsford Avenue Sports Ground CO15 5AT

5 night Bank Holiday break, extra night available.

Attractions in Clacton include; Flying displays Thursday & Friday, beach road train into Clacton, Beer Festival Saturday. Attractions on site include, Grand raffle, bingo, music, Fish & Chips delivered, bacon rolls from Carol’s Kitchen, nice walks, sea air, Pier, outdoor games (weather permitting). If you missed Southend Air Show, join us at Clacton. We would love to see you, but not before 2pm Wednesday. “Essex gets it right” º¿º

S&W WALES GROUP

HOLIDAY RALLY

6-18 August Greenhill school, Tenby

BOOK NOW

South and West Wales group invite you to our Holiday Rally at Tenby.

The rally has been booked to coincide with the Tenby Carnival. The rally promises to fill your holiday with fun!

We have special themed evenings, a Male Voice Choir, professional entertainment and a special talent night so that you can share your hidden talents!

Remember to bring clobber for the 40’s - Military, 50’s - Ballroom dancing, 60’s - Rock & Roll and Country and Western nights.

For the days you can either relax at our perfect location, go to the beach or join in with some of the activities we have planned, these include a sightseeing coach trip (doggies welcome), pleasure boat and sea fishing trips, dog show, boules competition, childrens disco, treasure hunt (on foot through town), table top sale, collage classes for kids and adults, a Hog Roast, Cream Tea and lots lots more!

Cost: £12pupn (2 adults) additional adults (16yrs+) £5 per night. There is a one off service charge of £3.00 per van. Prices held as of 2010.

SURREY GROUP

This is a limited bookable rally and it is filling fast so don’t delay book today with a £20.00 deposit with a cheque made payable to SWWMCC Group to Dave Couldrick (Treasurer) 22 Oaks End Close, Gelligaer, Hengoed CF82 8HZ please send an SAE for receipts.

4-7 July Shalford Park, Guildford GU1 3XJ

EAST MIDLANDS GROUP

GUILDFORD FESTIVAL AND NARROW BOAT GATHERING

Hosts David and Jane. 4 days of shopping in big name shops, as big as London but a whole lot nearer. See the decorated narrow boats on the River Wey. Raft racing (also dressed up). Also street market, and lots of other fun things happening all around Guildford. Beautiful riverside walks, if you want to be quiet, and plenty of places to eat.

CHILTERN GROUP

Summer Extravaganza

August 22-27 Swiss Farm International Touring Park Henley RG9 2HY

Rally field within walking distance of the picturesque Henley on Thames. Bookable Rally but no deposit required. £6.50 pupn. Tel: 07786 855512. Start: 2pm

5 day holiday rally

18-23 July Bakewell Showground, Off A6 Bakewell, Derbys DE45 1AQ

Visit the town famous for its pudding. Market, pubs, shops, cafes + more. Beautiful Peak District National Park.

Walking & cycling paradise. Buses to scenic destinations. £8.50pupn. No booking required. John 07867 503146.

RIVERSIDE FESTIVAL RALLY

1–5 Aug National Water Sports Centre, Adbolton Lane, Holme Pierrepont NG12 2LU

3 day free Nottingham Riverside Festival with spectacular Fireworks Sat night on Victoria Embankment. Abundance of other events for all ages. Next to Water Sports Centre & Country Park. Bus stop to Nottingham City, Victoria Embankment & Supermarket ¼ mile. Toilets, Showers, Water, Chem disposal. Limited hook ups (extra cost). £7.50pupn. Any enquiries to Mick 07866 603577 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013 53

Drawing up a will Samuel Phillips Law Firm provide some important advice on will writing.

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Badges awarded for loyalty to the Club As announced at the National we have arranged for cloth and pin badges to be produced to acknowledge members who have been in the Club for 25, 40 or, in the case of a select few, 50 years.

Unfortunately the badges were not ready in time for the National but we are sending out the 50 year badges to those entitled to them in the next few days.

Thanks to Rick Edwards for bringing this to our attention at last years AGM we do listen to you sometimes Rick.

If you think you are entitled to either a 25, 40 or 50 year badge then please contact the Club Office with details of your name and membership number so that they can check the records. If you are eligible the appropriate badges will be sent out to you FREE of charge in recognition of your loyalty and service to the Club. CoM 54 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

The benefits of drawing up a will are widely recognised. In doing so, you make provision for the winding up of your affairs after death.

There are also opportunities available to make provision in advance for the possibility of you becoming incapable of managing your own financial and welfare affairs during your lifetime.

This becomes increasingly important as the risk of supervening mental incapacity grows through longevity, illness or accident.

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)?

A LPA is a legal document allowing you to choose in advance person(s) (called attorneys) whom you trust to make decisions on your behalf about financial and/or health/ welfare matters in the event of you being unable to make such decisions yourself due to ill health.

You can appoint as many attorneys as you consider necessary although two or three is often sufficient with perhaps one other appointed a replacement attorney in the event of your main attorneys predeceasing you or being unable or unwilling to act. It is important therefore to discuss the LPA with your chosen attorneys to ensure that they are willing to act before going ahead.

There are two types of LPA one for financial affairs and the other for personal health and welfare decisions. The latter can only be used by your attorneys when you lack mental capacity to make health and welfare decisions yourself but the former can be used at any time once it has been formally registered at the court. The financial affairs LPA can therefore be beneficial

for individuals who are physically incapacitated or otherwise desire a family member to manage financial affairs on his/her behalf.

The health and welfare LPA can provide your attorneys with the power to make decisions about daily matters such as the clothes you wear, your diet and medication to decisions about where you live and consents/ refusal of life sustaining treatment.

The financial affairs LPA is by far the most popular of the two types of LPA, it provides your attorneys with the power to make any decisions about your property and affairs such as managing investments, bank accounts, pensions and buying or selling house property. The power granted to your attorneys can however, be restricted so that they may only deal with certain aspects of your financial affairs.

Who can I choose as my Attorneys?

You can choose anyone, but it is sensible to choose persons who are close to you, whom you trust and who are sensibly minded. You can appoint a spouse, children, siblings or even friends. There is no limit on who you can appoint but please bear in mind that they must be over 18 years of age and it is sensible to choose attorneys who are either younger than you or around the same age.

In some cases a professional such as a solicitor or accountant may be preferred to act as attorney, this often in cases where there is significant wealth or a degree of independence from the family is sought.

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Enhance and smarten your Motorhome with Alloy Wheels. 15” and 16” heavy duty wheels to fit most vans from £425 for 4.

We can supply by Mail Order or fit in our tyre depot near Chester.

See our website for more choice.

AUTO VAN SERVICES

A

L I M I T E D

V

S

Motor Home & Caravan Repairs and Parts

Parts and accessories for all models Specialists in quality repairs and refurbishments Genuine Autohome parts

Driverite semi-air suspension system Disabled conversions and modifications Worldwide mail order service

“We’ll keep you on the move” C O N TA C T

01202 848414 www.autovan.co.uk 32 CANFORD BOTTOM, WIMBORNE, DORSET BH21 2HD

www.MarcleLeisure.co.uk Tel: 01531 660797 DAVE COOPER SCOOTER RACKS THE NO.1 NAME IN “CLIP-ON” SCOOTER RACKS

SCOOTER RACKS Just £219.00 Inc VAT (+ £16.50 postage)

Delivery available Lightweight • Clips on to tow bar in seconds Removable ramp • Front wheel support clamp Four tie down points for securing scooter Dave Cooper (Motor Caravanner), Unit 7 Pettings Court Farm, Hodsoll Street, Wrotham, Kent, TN15 7LH. Tel/Fax: 01732 820082 Website: www.davecooper.co.uk Email: info@davecooper.co.uk

MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013 55

Motor Caravanner’s essential guide to buying a…

1995-2006 Hymer B544/B544 Classic Algebra lesson…Kavanagh Deville finds that B, E and S = A; but that C doesn’t…

UP TO

SEE H

Left: Publicity photograph of a 2003 Hymer B544 Classic. Above: Interior - looking rearwards in a 2002 B544 Classic

Are you sitting comfortably…then I’ll begin! Throughout most of Europe, motorcaravans are divided into categories by body type. PVC’s (panel van conversions), coachbuilt (either Luton overcab or lowprofile) and ‘A’-class are the main combatants. Of course an ‘A’-class is also a coachbuilt, though none of the original cab bodywork is retained. All right so far? Here’s where it goes off the rails a bit…

Hymer - the prestige Kitchen stayed along the rear wall on most 544 Classics whereas it had migrated a couple of feet further forward on the (longer) 544’s some years previously.

Wardrobe and coat hooks took its place at the far rear on the longer models

German manufacturer decided on their own nomenclature, where a HymerCar is a actually a van.

A HymerVan is not a van but a coachbuilt, and finally an ‘A’-class isn’t! They call them ‘B’-class (expensive); ‘E’-class (very expensive); or ‘S’-class (if you have to ask the price, you probably can’t afford it).

Hymer’s B-Class 544 and B-Class 544 Classic are really both ‘A’-class motorcaravans (sometimes called integrals). We find out whether they are top of the form or class clowns.

The fact that the B544 has

been in production pretty much continuously from 1986 gives us a clue. We are concentrating on those built on the Ducato X/44 which covers the period 1995-2006 and represents the bulk of them offered as a used buy.

All of this generation have a rear kitchen, offside corner washroom and forward lounge.

The default lounge layout in early offerings favoured a palatial inward-facing settee on the nearside, opposite which was a double Pullman dinette featuring two travel seats. Swivelling cab (Captain’s) chairs also joined in, adding to the seating compliment.

The main alternative layout replaced the dinette with an ‘L’shaped settee. This worked better with the swivelled offside cab seat and still offered two travel seats. By the end of this production series it had become the default choice though a Pullman dinette remained an option.

The main bed is a transverse double which hinges down from the cab on gas continued on page 58...

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56 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

MSSF F

THE MOTORHOME SHOW

SEASON FINALE

DAY ADMISSION

UP TO FOUR NIGHTS’ CAMPING FOR MOTORHOMES, CARAVANS AND TENTS

Adult Child (5-15yrs)

SEE HUNDREDS OF NEW AND PRE-OWNED MOTORHOMES AT ONE VENUE COMPACT VAN CONVERSIONS, ENTRY LEVEL COACH BUILTS, AMERICAN RV’S AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN

£7.50 £2.00

EXHIBITION OPENING TIMES

WELCOM E

PREVIEW 2014 MODELS BEFORE THEY HIT THE FORECOURTS TRADE-INS AND VALUATIONS AVAILABLE PLUS EXPERT ADVICE

TO

9.30am - 5.00pm Friday Saturday 9.30am - 5.00pm Sunday 9.30am - 4.30pm

LINCOLN

HUGE SELECTION OF ACCESSORIES, GADGETS, GIFTS AND MORE THREE HALLS OF QUALITY CAMPERS’ ENTERTAINMENT TO ENJOY VISIT THE CAPTIVATING AND HISTORIC CITY OF LINCOLN

Book your weekend away now, visit

www.themotorhomeshow.co.uk for more information call 01778 391123

(Mon-Fri 9am-5pm)

THE MOTORHOME SHOW SEASON FINALE - BOOKING FORM 2013 A full list of clubs attending can be found on the website. The Organisers are unable to take telephone bookings.

SATURDAY EVENING ENTERTAINMENT FEE CAMPING Titlefurther camping Forename the website. information, terms and conditions For Yourplease campingvisit fee depends on your arrival day and is CAMPERS ONLY Surname

based on up to 2 adults with up to 3 children in one unit.

Saturday night with the Glenn Miller Tribute Orchestra, Additional adults (16yrs+) will be charged at £15 per person. Mark Robinson and the Counterfeit Crickets and Fee includes unlimited access to the exhibition area.

Jill Daniels’ tribute to Vera Lynn.

No. of adults _________ No. of children (5-15yrs) ________ The Organisers reserve the right to alter the programme at short notice. All evening entertainment is included in your camping PRE-BOOKED UNITS CAMPING AREA fee except for Saturday, for which a separate ticket is required.

ARRIVING ON (Please tick): (please tick one only - if a preference is not selected you ■ Adult tickets @ £15 each £ ________

Town County Postcode

■ Thurs-Mon £45 ■ Fri-Mon £42

We’d like to let you know about our latest offers.

If you do not wish to receive direct mail from Warners Shows please tick here ® If you do not wish to receive direct mail from selected third parties please tick here ®

Email Stay up to date with all the latest show news by receiving our Showgoer e-newsletters.

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Telephone (Please include area code) I’m happy to receive special offers via telephone from: ® Warners Shows ® Selected third parties

Mobile

will be sited in the general area)

■ Child tickets (5-15yrs) @ £7 each Parental guidance advised

■ General ■ Disabled* ■ Club Area*

Tickets allocated on receipt of payment, subject to availability at time of processing and on a first-come, first served basis. Discount only applies to pre-booked campers. Entertainment tickets sold at the show will cost: adult £17, child £9, if available.

ALL CAMPERS MUST BE OFF SITE * COMPLETE DETAILS BELOW BY 12 NOON MON 23 SEPT

*DISABLED AREA Disabled badge no. _________________________________ DISABLED BADGES WILL BE INSPECTED ON ARRIVAL. Only official badge holders may camp in the disabled area.

Disabled pitches are separate to the club rally areas.

SUBSCRIBERS DISCOUNT

Subscribers to these titles qualify for an additional £2 discount per show, please tick if you are a subscriber and provide your sub number.

I’m happy to receive special offers via SMS from: ® Warners Shows ® Selected third parties

*CLUB AREA Club Name________________________________________ Membership No._______________________________ (We cannot accept your booking without your vehicle registration) Club members receive a £2 discount per show when rallying In the club area subject to availability. Club members paying at the show will not rally in the club area or be eligible for this discount.

Type of Vehicle (please tick)

■ MMM______________

■ Caravan

■ Tent

■ Other

■ Caravan________

Subscriber number must be supplied to qualify for discount, There is not a separate subscriber camping area

Vehicle Registration ____________________________

■ Motorhome

Non-booked price at show: Thurs-Mon £55 & Fri-Mon £52 (2 adults + 3 children)

BOOKING DETAILS (This section must be completed) PLEASE SEND TO:

Camping Fee Entertainment tickets PRE-BOOKING CLOSES 10AM ON MONDAY 2ND Additional adults @ £15 each SEPTEMBER - after this date please pay on arrival.

Less Club Camping £2 Discount A LIMITED NUMBER OF Less Subscriber £2 Discount NON-BOOKED DISABLED PITCHES ARE AVAILABLE. TOTAL

£ ________ £ ________ £ ________ -£ ________ -£ ________ £ ________

Exhibition Dept (Lincoln), West Street, Bourne, Lincs PE10 9PH. VEHICLE PASSES WILL BE MAILED OUT PRIOR TO THE SHOW. PLEASE ONLY CONTACT US IF YOU HAVE NOT RECEIVED YOUR PASS 14 DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT. ANY PASS QUERIES MUST BE REPORTED BY THIS TIME. PLEASE NOTE TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE, NON-EXCHANGEABLE & WE REGRET LOST TICKETS CANNOT BE RE-ISSUED.

Total amount payable £________ ■ I enclose a cheque made payable to Warners Group Publications or ■ please debit my

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MCC

Address

Card No

■■■■ ■■■■ ■■■■ ■■■■

■■■■ Start Date ■■■■ Issue No ■ Security number ■■■

ALRA ALEE

Signature _________________________________ Date _________________

Presented by the Publishers of MSSF FP Ad MCC.indd 1

5/4/13 17:20:47

SPEC CHECK Manufacturer: Hymer, Bad Waldsee, Germany. www.hymer.com Base vehicle: Fiat Ducato chassis-cowl Drive train: 2.5D, 2.5TD, 2.8TD front-wheel drive. 5-speed manual gearbox Weight: 3,400/3,500kg as standard Size: Overall length B544 6.39m (20ft 11.5in). B544 Classic 5.98m (19ft 7.5in) ...continued from page 56 assisted struts. Depending on the layout, a further two singles or a double and a single can be made from the seating.

The B-Class 544 was aimed squarely at families and getaway couples who wanted room to spread-out on-site, but in a manageable on-the-road package. Its advantages could be summarised thus: (1) ‘B’-Class Hymers were built to a specification not to a price. (2) They always feel more spacious than an overcab coachbuilt of the same length… principally because they are! (3) Finally the drop-down cab bed is seen by many as being preferable to having to convert the seating, mostly because it can be stowed made-up and has a one-piece orthopaedic mattress.

To help the less well-trousered, Hymer also produced the B544 Classic which was slightly lower spec and built on the previous body shape. The smart money chases these on the dealers’ lots.

One of the first 500 series…a 1979 B520 on Opel Blitz (Bedford CF) Note it already has the logo on the side - three parallel horizontal bars in a contrasting colour have spent every winter being lived in on the Iberian Peninsula. Finally, check the windscreen for damage, replacing one isn’t for the fainthearted.

Mechanical All of this generation will have power-assisted steering but make sure early models have a turbocharger. Doesn’t matter whether it’s ‘only’ a 2.5-litre but check it’s got a ‘blower’…an absence really affects the resale value. Payload could be an issue on 3,400kg models, though an upgrade to 3,500kg can be achieved without affecting driving licence requirements. Pre 2002 models had a habit of losing 5th gear, fortunately this is a cheap and easy repair and doesn’t involve removing the gearbox.

BEST BUYS

Left hook ‘Classics’ from a nonfranchised dealer are frequently

58 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

DOSH

1995 models available privately from £14,000. Several on e-Bay with a ‘buy it now’ price of £13,000. Mint, cared-for examples from £20,000.

Top-of-the-shop 2006 12,000 miles only, fully-loaded and warranted, currently advertised at £34,750

ALSO RUNNING

If you want a Hymer and like this layout but are not fussy about an A-class, then look for a much cheaper Hymer C544 (Swing or Camp). Rapido’s 924R is a similar ‘A’-class which sold well in the UK.

IN A NUTSHELL

KEEP `EM PEELED

Habitation As with any coachbuilt, check thoroughly for water ingress.

Examine the entrance door carefully as they were prone to delamination in the early days. Sit on all the seats to make sure that the foam isn’t bottoming-out…as it were. This is a sign that although it may have a low mileage, it might

the most sharply-priced. If funds permit, go for a post 2002 facelifted model. Highly-desirable run-out Silver Edition non-Classic 2005-2006 models came fully loaded with dash air-con, cruise control and many other toys

Hymer claim that their PUAL insulation used in all 544’s and 544 Classics of this generation is of equivalent efficiency to that provided by a 44cms (1ft 5in) solid brick wall.

Strictly Ballroom (LIKES) • Flexible layout with no major disadvantages • Safe travel for 4 (6 optional with Pullman dinette) • Luxury ‘A’- class with modest dimensions • Hymer cache Turkey Trot – (DISLIKES) • Wipers not handed for RHD • Poor access to engine.

Mechanic’s nightmare?

Motor Caravanner Classifieds WANTED

MOTORCARAVANS WANTED We pay top prices, settling any outstanding finance & we collect nationwide.

TONY MASDING URGENTLY NEEDS TO PURCHASE MOTOR CARAVANS Top prices paid Collections nationwide

A friendly service from a family business

Tel: 029 2079 3712 Mob: 07831 310492 / 07887 565007 www.motorcaravanswanted.co.uk

Ring Tony Masding in Newark on 07971 831353 Fax: 01636 706820

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UPHOLSTERY

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U

CornwallComm_MCM_2x2.indd 1

11/2/10 15:34:14

To advertise in the Motor Caravanner Classifieds, contact Miguel on 01502 725863

Motor Caravanner Classifieds REPAIRS & SERVICING

Fitting service available at shows, prebooked only

01952 587702 www.davenewell.co.uk MOT's. repairs and servicing to all makes of Motorhomes Habitation Inspections carried out

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Open Mon to Fri 8.30-5.00 Sat 8.30-3.30 M.O.T Centre 01553 813074 Commercial 07717205246 Garage Lane, Setch, Kings Lynn PE33 0BE

M & D SERVICES (BRISTOL) LTD. Unit 1 Balaclava Road Industrial Estate (off Ridgeway Road) Fishponds, BRISTOL BS16 3LJ

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

Premier Towing Centre

Specialist repairer of motorhomes, caravans & trailer tents NCC Approved Workshop Servicing - Accident - Damp - Appliance Repairs Elddis/Coachman/Autotrail Approved New & Used Parts/Accessories Insurance company approved repairer

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0121 520 6858

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Tel: 01243 572672

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

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call Miguel on 01502 725863 or email miguel.candeias@micropress.co.uk

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t 0CTPMFUF 1BOFMT t *OTVSBODF 2VPUFT t 5SJNT t 'BTU 4FSWJDF t 4XJGU )ZNFS $J 3BQJEP FUD t .PTU .PUPSIPNFT t $PNQFUJUJWF 1SJDFT t %*: 5SBEF

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Bazaar Private sale advertisements

Members can claim a FREE lineage ad. Complete the form on pg 58 or download from the MCC website and send to: Motor Caravanner, Countrywide Publications, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6DH or email: kelly@countrywidepublications.co.uk To include a photo, send a cheque for £12 (£10+vat) when booking, payable to Countrywide Publications.

Bazaar Enquiries, tel: 01502 725840

REMEMBER! If emailing your Bazaar listings, please include your address and membership number.

ACCESSORIES - Exterior Taylormade external screen pre 2007, Fiat Ducato, good condition. £45. Tel: 01162 866584 (Leicester) 1000 WATT KIPOR CAMPINGMATE GENERATOR 8 months old, used twice, change of vehicle forces sale, cost £347, will sell for £250 ONO. Tel: 01217 710127 (Birmingham) 3 METRE AWNING HARRISON open to offers. Tel: 01217 710127 (Birmingham)

OMNISTOR ROOFBOX 180x80x40cms, excellent condition, complete with mouting kit, cost £380, will sell for £150 OVNO. Tel: 01925 266519 (Warrington) FIAMMA CARGO BACK (10800) Soft luggage bag ideal for transporting chairs, ground sheet etc, easily installed on all rear bike racks, water resistant fixing straps included, pick up preferred will post at buyer cost. £30 Tel: 01606 781060 (Northwich)

RIVIERA MOTORHOME COVER Deluxe 6.1 metres, grey unused. £70 Tel: 01994 241257 (South Wales)

TWO folding cycles with front and rear suspension, 6 speed twist grip gear change, 20” wheels, as new condition. £95 each. Tel: 01327 353566 (Northants)

Mens Salisbury LPX Electric Bike 22kg Lithium Polymer with rear rack, 26” wheels, 3 years old in excellent condition. £499. Tel: 01162 866584 (Leicester)

Tradekar 2 bike carrier bolts to tow ball, has tilting system and electrics. £50 Various size Fiamma cycle clamps. £5 each. Tel: 01327 353566 (Northants)

2 Folding Electric Batribikes 12” wheels, 2 chargers, 2 yrs old, excellent condition, wt 21kg approx, cost new £500 each, accept £225 each or £350 pair. Tel: 01745 570687 (Rhyl)

FREE TOILET TENT circa 1950, suit classic van, good cond. SWING OUT TABLE LEG as new £45. Tel: 01530 224756 (Leics)

Registration plate on retention for sale RCG 52T may suit a Reg or Rog, all sensible offers considered.

Email ronwilliams22@ btinternet.com Protex fitted cover for Ace Torino Novella used only three times. £150 Tel: 01286676074 (N. Wales) GENERATOR PLANET 2 VGC quiet running, used very little, cost £500, accept £200 Tel: 0116 2869238 (Leics)

EASY CAMP DAYTONA DRIVE AWAY AWNING plus clamps for fixing to VW T4 T5 used for two weeks only, cost £150 last year. £80 Tel: 01223 248285 (Cambridge) BRIAN JAMES TRAILER for Smart Car, rams, spare wheel, tie down straps. £800 ONO Tel: 07730 827665 (Essex) MOTORCYCLE/SCOOTER CARRY RACK with loading ramp similar to Watling’s make £85 bargain. Tel: 01324 860199 (Standburn)

62 MOTOR CARAVANNER July 2013

EDR’E SINGLE SCOOTER MOTORCYCLE TRAILER fully galvanised, only used once, max payload, 300kg, 10” wheels with spear, VIN plated, as new £375 OVNO. Tel: 07925 013216 (Yorkshire) 4 WHEEL MOBILITY SCOOTER removable seat armrests, battery drive mechanism folding handlebars for easy transport in vehicle, metallic red, excellent condition, hardly used. £425 Tel: 01737 843472 (Surrey) SAFARI ROOM 3.5 metres used twice, immaculate condition. £250 ONO Tel: 01202 623224 (Poole) BATRIBIKE Quartz electric folding bike hardly used, battery level/power indicator, three power levels, s/stand lights, mudguards, basket, good condition £190 ONO Tel: 07866 044880 (Derbys) CALOR LITE BOTTLE 6kg, new full. £20 Tel: 01994 241257 (South Wales) MOTORBIKE RACK comes with ramp etc does fit Merc Hymer but may fit other chassis, never used. £200. Tel: 01275 798678 (Somerset) SILVER SCREEN SOLAR WINDSCREEN COVER see out, not in, for Peugeot Boxer, pre-2007. £50 ONO Tel: 01926 843007 (Warks) SILVER SCREEN SOLAR WINDSCREEN COVER see out, not in, for Burstner Elegance pre-2006, LH driver door and RH window fixing. £50 ONO Tel: 01926 843007 (Warks)

ACCESSORIES - Interior Full set fitted loose carpets (new). £75 Tel: 01286676074 (N. Wales) Bathroom corner sink unit (new). £20 Tel: 01286676074 (N. Wales) SMALL SPIN DRYER portable type, top loader, ideal for camping £30. Tel: 01275 798678 (Somerset)

MOTORHOMES 2005 FIAT ADRIA CORAL MOTORHOME 2300cc diesel, 16,000 miles, 5 berth, 6 belted seats, Fiamma awning, full awning, storage box, other extras, taxed 09/13, MOT 04/14 £22,000 Tel: 07880 732415 (West Yorks)

SWIFT ROYALE 610 1996 2.5TD 32,000 miles, 2 owners, 4 berth, rear lounge, many extras, solar panel roof, motorbike rack, cycle rack, air-ride suspension, safari room, awning, top box. £14,500 ONO Tel: 07753 639123 (E Suusex)

OTHER VEHICLES 2010 Toyota Eygo 12,000 miles, fitted A-frame and jockey wheel, first class condition, one owner £5,000 ONO incl remainder of 5 year warranty. Tel: 01656 890572 (South Wales) SUZUKI WAGON R fitted with towtal A frame, 05 reg, 56,000 miles, Nov 13, MOT, fitted with bars and topbox. £3,750 ONO Tel: 01507 450456 (Lincs)

H U

THE FIRST CHOICE FOR LUXURY BESPOKE MOTORHOMES Handcrafted and built using the highest quality materials on brand new chassis, utilising our experience in building the UK's Market Leading Equestrian vehicles we now present our exciting range of Motorhomes from 3500kg to 5000kg.

* Awning is an optional extra

LEISURE-TREKA

EURO-TREKA 1 & 11

 2-4 Berth models  5 Great Layouts to choose from  Rear travel seats available*  High standard specification  Stylish high gloss or satin wood furniture  Removable carpets  Well equipped kitchens with spacious worktops  Choice of Leather or Fabric  Extra Long Wheelbase Peugeot Boxer  Swivel Captains seats  Daytime running lights  Radio/CD Player PRICES FROM  Truma Combi 4e £37,999  LED lighting including awning light  Electric entrance step  25l LPG Tank

 2-4 Berth models  AL-KO Chassis  Great Layouts to choose from  From 4500-5000kg  Single or Tag axle models  High standard specification  Luxury high gloss or satin wood furniture  One or two slide outs available  Choice of Leather or Fabric  Swivel Captains seats  Daytime running lights  Radio/CD Player PRICES FROM  Truma Combi 4e £67,999  LED lighting including awning light  Electric entrance step  25l LPG Tank

TO ARRANGE TO VISIT OUR FACTORY AND SHOWROOM CALL:

9-5pm MONDAY - FRIDAY, 9-12pm SATURDAY

01484 852121

www.moto-trek.co.uk

Tel: +44 (0)1484 852121 Fax: +44 (0)1484 852921 Email: info@moto-trek.co.uk Moto-Trek Ltd, Unit BL2, Bent Ley Industrial Estate, Bentley Road, Meltham, Holmfirth, HD9 4AP. United Kingdom MADE IN

GREAT BRITAIN

Highbridge Caravan Centre is a family run business with over 48 years of experience. As one of the Country’s largest Outdoor Leisure Companies, our success has been founded upon excellent customer service.

01278 782725

01278 764810

info@highbridgecaravans.co.uk

Highbridge Caravans is the largest dealer in the South West with over 300 new & used caravans & motorhomes on display

Used Motorhomes

last updated 14/06/13

1997 AUTOSLEEPER TROOPER AUTOMATIC (VW) 2.5L Sleeps 2 . £10,495

2008 AUTOCRUISE RHYTHM (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 2.......................... £29,995

2001 MOBILVETTA TOP DRIVER 52 (FIAT) 1.9L Sleeps 4 ............... £12,995

2008 ACE AIRSTREAM 630EK (FIAT) 2.2L Sleeps 2 ......................... £30,995

2001 COMPASS AVANTGARDE 200 (PEUGEOT) 1.9L Sleeps 4 ..... £14,995

2008 SWIFT SUNTOR 630L (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 6 ............................. £30,995

2001 HYMER CAMP SWING 494 (FIAT) 2.8L Sleeps 4 .................... £14,995

2011 TRIGANO TRIBUTE 650 SPORT (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 2............. £30,995

2001 HYMER SWING 494 (FIAT) 1.9L Sleeps 4 ............................... £15,995

2011 ELDDIS MAJESTIC 145 (PEUGEOT) 2.2L Sleeps 4 .................. £31,495

2001 AUTOTRAIL TRACKER CK (FIAT) 1.9L Sleeps 2 ...................... £16,995

2005 AUTOTRAIL ARAPAHO (FIAT) 2.8L Sleeps 6 .......................... £31,995

• huge choice

2002 CI RIVIERA 171 (FIAT) 2.8L Sleeps 5 ....................................... £17,495

2011 AUTOCRUISE PACE (PEUGEOT) 2.2L Sleeps 3 ...................... £32,995

2005 C I CARIOCA 635 (FIAT) 2L Sleeps 5 ....................................... £17,995

2011 AUTOTRAIL EXCEL 590 (FIAT) 2.2L Sleeps 2 .......................... £32,995

• leading brands • award winning

2004 ELLDIS SUNTOR 200 (PEUGEOT) 2L Sleeps 4 ....................... £17,995

2008 HOBBY SIESTA 600 GFS (FORD) 2.2L Sleeps 3 ...................... £32,995

2000 AUTOSLEEPER EXECUTIVE (PEUGEOT) 2.4L Sleeps 2 .......... £18,995

2012 SWIFT ESCAPE 696 (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 6 ................................ £32,995

2005 AUTOSLEEPER POLLENSA (FORD) 2.4L Sleeps 5 .................. £19,995

2009 SWIFT BOLERO 630EW (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 2 ......................... £32,995

2002 BENIMAR EUROPE TOP CL (MERCEDES) 2.7L Sleeps 4........ £19,995

2012 SWIFT LIFESTYLE 624 (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 5 ............................ £32,995

2009 DANBURY VERSITO (FIAT) 2L Sleeps 2................................... £19,995

2009 SWIFT MONDIAL (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 2 .................................... £32,995

2001 AUTOSLEEPER AMETHYST (FORD) 2.4L Sleeps 4 ................. £20,995

2011 SWIFT SUNDANCE 580 PR (FIAT) 2.2L Sleeps 2 .................... £33,995

2003 AUTOSLEEPER LANCASHIRE (FIAT) 0L Sleeps 2 .................... £20,995

2008 AUTOCRUISE STARDREAM (PEUGEOT) 2.2L Sleeps 2 .......... £34,995

2003 RAPIDO 772F (FIAT) 2.8L Sleeps 3.......................................... £20,995

2010 AUTOTRAIL APACHE 632 (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 3 ...................... £34,995

2005 ADRIA CORAL 680 (FIAT) 2.8L Sleeps 3 ................................. £22,995

2008 BESSACARR E785 (FIAT) 3L Sleeps 4 ...................................... £34,995

2004 AUTOCRUISE STARQUEST EL (PEUGEOT) 2.8L Sleeps 2 ...... £22,995

2007 CHAUSSON ALLEGRO 94 (FIAT) 3L Sleeps 3 ......................... £34,995

2006 ELNAGH SUPER D 102 (RENAULT) 3L Sleeps 4..................... £22,995

2008 CHAUSSON ALLEGRO 97 (FIAT) 3L Sleeps 3 ......................... £34,995

2006 HOBBY T550 AKSC (FORD) 2L Sleeps 4 ................................. £22,995

2009 AUTOSLEEPER BROADWAY EL (PEUGEOT) 2.2L Sleeps 2 ... £35,995

2004 SWIFT KONTIKI 610 (FIAT) 2.8L Sleeps 2 ............................... £23,995

2009 RAPIDO 707F (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 3.......................................... £36,495

2007 TRIGANO TRIBUTE 550 (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 2 ......................... £23,995

2011 BESSACARR E510 (FIAT) 2.2L Sleeps 2 ................................... £37,995

2004 CHAUSSON ALLEGRO 67 (FIAT) 2.8L Sleeps 4 ...................... £24,995

2010 HYMER ERIBACAR EMOTION 693 (FORD) 2.2L Sleeps 3...... £37,995

2008 COMPASS CALYPSO 220 (PEUGEOT) 2.2L Sleeps 2 ............. £24,995

2007 RAPIDO 9096 (FIAT) 3L Sleeps 4............................................. £37,995

2004 RAPIDO 786 F (FIAT) 2.8L Sleeps 4 ......................................... £24,995

2008 SWIFT KONTIKI 665 (FIAT) 3L Sleeps 6 .................................. £37,995

2007 ACE NAPOLI (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 4 ........................................... £25,495

2010 AUTOSLEEPER BROADWAY EL (PEUGEOT) 2.2L Sleeps 2 ... £38,995

2007 AUTOCRUISE STARFIRE (PEUGEOT) 2.2L Sleeps 2 ............... £26,995

2007 RAPIDO 9048 DF (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 4 .................................... £38,995

2009 ELDDIS SUNSEEKER 150 (PEUGEOT) 2.2L Sleeps 4.............. £26,995

2011 SWIFT VOYAGER 630 EK (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 2........................ £38,995

2006 AUTOCRUISE STARBURST (PEUGEOT) 2.8L Sleeps 2 ........... £27,995

2009 AUTOTRAIL SCOUT SE LHD (FIAT) 3L Sleeps 6 ..................... £39,995

2007 CHAUSSON WELCOME 28 (FORD) 2.4L Sleeps 5.................. £27,995

2012 RAPIDO 646 (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 3............................................ £39,995

2009 CI CARIOCA 746 (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 6 ..................................... £27,995

2008 AUTOTRAIL CHIEFTAN SE (FIAT) 3L Sleeps 4 ........................ £41,995

2011 ELDDIS AUTOQUEST 100 (PEUGEOT) 2.2L Sleeps 4 ............ £27,995

2012 CHAUSSON SUITE RELAX (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 4 ...................... £41,995

2005 RAPIDO 7086F (FIAT) 2.8L Sleeps 4........................................ £27,995

2012 SWIFT BOLERO 682FB (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 4........................... £43,995

2008 SWIFT SUNDANCE 590 RL (FIAT) 2.2L Sleeps 4 .................... £27,995

2007 RAPIDO 999M (MERCEDES) 3L Sleeps 4................................ £44,995

2007 LUNAR X STAR (RENAULT) 2.5L Sleeps 2............................... £28,995

2011 I H TIO M (MERCEDES) 3L Sleeps 2 ........................................ £48,995

2009 SWIFT SUNDANCE 590RS (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 5 ..................... £28,995

2010 NIESMANN & BISC ARTO 69 (FIAT) 2.3L Sleeps 4................. £54,995

• family run business • estd. 48 years • approved workshop • awning showroom • large leisure store † • nance available • p/x available

we want your...

motorhome call: 01278 764807

highbridgecaravans.co.uk

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New Motorhome Special Offers

why choose highbridge?

last updated 14/06/13

2011 Escape 696 .............................................................. 2,198CC, 100BHP, Diesel, Sleeps 6.......................................

2012 Chausson Flash 28 ................................................. 2,200CC, 125BHP, Diesel, Sleeps 3.......................................

2013 Hymer Car 372 ........................................................ 2,300CC, 130BHP, Diesel, Sleeps 2.......................................

2012 Bessacarr E400 E435 .............................................. 2,287CC, 130BHP, Diesel, Sleeps 5.......................................

2012 Bessacarr E400 E450 .............................................. 2,287CC, 130BHP, Diesel, Sleeps 4.......................................

2012 Bessacarr E500 E540 .............................................. 2,287CC, 130BHP, Turbo Diesel, Sleeps 2 ...........................

2012 Bessacarr E500 E564 .............................................. 2,287CC, 130BHP, Diesel, Sleeps 4.......................................

OTR* WAS SAVE £39,679 £33,995 £5,684 £43,668 £39,995 £3,673 £43,734 £39,995 £3,739 £43,025 £40,995 £2,030 £44,213 £41,995 £2,218 £51,590 £48,995 £2,595 £52,090 £48,995 £3,095

shop.highbridgecaravans.co.uk FREE delivery on orders over £100

Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this advert, however it is intended as a general guide only and must not be taken as binding. Highbridge Caravan Centre Ltd reserve the right to alter specications and prices detailed on this advert at anytime without prior notice.

Highbridge Caravan Centre Ltd, A38 Bristol Rd, Highbridge, Somerset TA9 4EX *OTR - On The Road Price †Subject to Status