Elddis appoints new directors ahead of 2017 leisure vehicle launch

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by Joe Jeffrey

Angela Robson and Spencer Davies join Elddis’ board of directors, as company prepares to launch 2017 season portfolio

The Explorer Group Limited – home of Elddis, Compass, Xplore and Buccaneer brands – has announced the appointment of two new members of its team ahead of its 2017 leisure vehicle launch.

Spencer Davies has been promoted to the role of sales director and Angela Robson has been promoted to the role of customer services director.

Davies initially joined the company in late 2003 and, since his return three years ago, has demonstrated tremendous leadership by increasing the company’s dealership network, sales and market share.

Spencer’s priority of working with The Explorer Group’s product design and development team as well as other teams within the factory has been key to producing market-leading and saleable product.

Rob Quine, managing director at The Explorer Group Limited, said of Davies’ appointment: “Spencer’s promotion to this critical, strategic role will be key to our continued growth in sales in what remains a highly competitive market place.”

Meanwhile, Robson joined The Explorer Group Limited in late 1998 and over almost 18 years has continued to show tremendous commitment to the company, working in a variety of different departments.

Quine continued: “Angela’s breadth of experience, combined with her drive and determination is exactly what our business needs as we commit our Customer Service department and the rest of our company to focus on providing the very best all-round customer care possible.”

Alongside her work in customer services, Angela has, in recent years, successfully championed projects to improve the appeal of Explorer Group’s caravans and motorhomes, helping to create the foundation for the aesthetic design team to now become fully integrated into the design and development function under the new structure being created by the Group’s recently-appointed design and development director, Kevin Hewitt.

Both Davies and Robson will take up their new roles on 1 August 2016, shortly before the official launch of 2017 Season Elddis, Compass, Xplore and Buccaneer ranges on 15 August.

Congratulations to both newly appointed directors; we personally can’t wait to see what else in store from Elddis for 2017.

The all new second generation Bailey Autograph motorhome: prices and ranges explored

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by Joe Jeffrey

Take an in-depth look at all the layouts in Bailey’s latest motorhome offering, the all new, second generation Autograph range

It could be true to say that many thought it would be impossible to improve on the practicality and comfort of the original Autograph range, but judging by what we’ve seen today, it seems Bailey have accomplished this in an attempt to deliver their best ever motorhome yet. But what about the six layouts?

Upon launch, six models within the Autograph range will be available, namely the four berth Autograph 75-2, Autograph 75-4, Autograph 79-4, and Autograph 79-4T, as well as two six berth options by way of the Autograph 79-6 and Autograph 79-6G. Prices range, rather competitively, between £50,995 and £55,490.

The Autograph 75-2, 75-4, 79-4, 79-4T & 79-6 models will be arriving at approved Bailey retailers from early August onwards. The Autograph 79-6G will make its first appearance at the Motorhome & Caravan Show, NEC Birmingham in October.

All Autograph models have been assigned new names using a number sequence identifying the length of the vehicle and the amount of dedicated passenger seats (e.g. the 75-2 model is 7.5 metres long and capable of transporting two people). In certain case a suffix letter has been added to signify the layout type. Layout details for each model within the all new second generation Autograph range are as follows:

Autograph 75-2
Four berth low-line end-bedroom with longitudinal fixed double bed (formerly the Approach Autograph 740 model)

Autograph 75-4
Four berth low-line end-bedroom with longitudinal fixed double bed & designated travelling seats (formerly the Approach Autograph 745 model)

NEW Autograph 79-4
Four berth low-line end-bedroom with twin fixed single beds, designated travelling seats & rear storage locker

NEW Autograph 79-4T
Four berth low-line end-bedroom with longitudinal fixed double island bed, designated travelling seats & rear storage locker

NEW Autograph 79-6
Six berth low-line end-lounge, front transverse drop down double bed & designated travelling seats

NEW Autograph 79-6G
Six berth low-line end-bedroom with rear transverse fixed double bed, front transverse drop down double bed, designated travelling seats & rear storage garage

All models feature the Peugeot Boxer Euro 6 cab powered by 2.0 Blue Hdi 160 bhp engine complete with a 6-speed manual gearbox, AL-KO AMC chassis and the Alu-Tech bodyshell as standard specification.

Range images

Autograph 75-2

Autograph 75-4

NEW Autograph 79-4

NEW Autograph 79-4T

Key Features of the New Autograph Range include:

Peugeot Boxer Cab

– NEW Peugeot fully compliant Euro 6 Boxer Cab supplied with a 3 year / 100,000 mile warranty & 12 months Peugeot Assist Cover
– NEW Peugeot 2.0 Blue Hdi (High Pressure Direct Injection) 160 BHP engine with six speed manual gear box
– NEW ‘Bianco’ white cab with colour coded bumpers and door handles
– NEW Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
– Cruise control & cab air conditioning
– Driver & front passenger airbags
– NEW fully adjustable upholstered driver & passenger Captains’ seats with twin armrests & integrated headrests
– DAB Radio with Bluetooth connectivity & 2 door speakers
– NEW twin cup holders

AL-KO AMC Chassis

– Ultra-low profile wide track AL-KO AMC Chassis

Alu-Tech Bodyshell Habitation Area

– Supplied with a 6-year transferable body shell integrity guarantee & a 3-year transferable manufacturers components warranty*
– 4-year transferable extension to bodyshell integrity guarantee available as a cost option (making 10 years in total)
– 3-year transferable extension to manufacturers component warranty available as a cost option (making 6 years in total)
– EN-1646-I Grade III classification for heating & thermal insulation
– European Whole Vehicle Type Approval

Construction

– Structural interlocking aluminium extrusion external framework with no external fixing points for additional strength & rigidity
– Four or five part fully bonded exterior panel assembly system featuring:
– Upper body panels manufactured using superior bead application laminating technology for a stronger more consistent bond
– Upper body panels built using a timber free construction, incorporating a composite plastic internal skeleton, a high density polystyrene insulation & a GRP inner wall lining
– Upper body panels cloaked in a single sheet impact resistant GRP outer skin for extra durability
– Strengthened floor panel with GRP underside protection

Exterior Features

– NEW ‘Polar white’ bodyshell with co-ordinating graphics scheme
– NEW design ‘Aero Style’ rear bumper and light pillars with individual LED road lights, wheel arches & side skirts
– NEW flush fit double seal exterior locker doors featuring heavy duty handles, two compression locks & retaining clip
– NEW ‘Aero Style’ Fiamma F45S wind-out awning
– NEW ‘Aero Style’ double glazed windows throughout
– NEW large ‘Aero Style’ double glazed opening sky view over cab window with pleated night blind
– NEW exterior gas BBQ point

Interior Features

Furniture & Soft Furnishings

– NEW Bailey ‘Mendip Ash’ furniture finish
– NEW Dual finish high gloss overhead locker doors in living area
– NEW ‘Satin white’ finish cupboard doors in kitchen & vanity units in washroom
– NEW ‘Basalt stone’ finish kitchen & washroom worktop laminate
– NEW ‘Granite stone’ finish shower cubicle
– NEW premium quality fixtures & fittings in brushed steel finish
– NEW ‘Aero Style’ overhead locker system with split level storage, gas struts, domestic style metal hinges & push open locker doors
– Structural locker dividers with greater load bearing capacity
– NEW domestic standard kitchen units featuring durable worktop surfaces and heavy duty drawers with positive catches
– NEW drop-down kitchen worktop extension (model specific)
– NEW design slide out bed boxes for easy bed make up
– NEW design fixed beds with aluminium frames & gas strut assisted opening mechanism (model specific)
– NEW design ceiling mounted mechanically operated Alu-Line transverse drop down double bed with sprung base (model specific)
– NEW ‘DreamSleep’ multi-layered lounge seat base cushions for enhanced comfort & easier bed make-up
– NEW ‘DreamSleep’ domestic style lounge backrests for enhanced comfort
– NEW foam filled upholstery featuring premium quality fabrics and high density filling
– NEW ‘DreamSleep’ mattress with honeycore foam construction and breathable anti-bacterial ultimate freshness fabric
– NEW ergonomically shaped rear designated travel seats (model specific)
– NEW choice of either ‘Berkeley’ or ‘Grosvenor’ soft furnishings with two scatter cushions, co-ordinating decorative window panels and roman window blinds

Electrical System

– NEW Truma 100 watt solar panel
– Banner 110 ampere/hour premium leisure battery
– NEW electrical control panel with push button operation for all motorhome services
– NEW 12v ambient, mood and task lighting throughout
– NEW 230v power supply with up to eight new design interior sockets
– NEW up to three USB sockets

Water & Heating Systems

– Alde Hydronic Compact 3020 programmable radiator heating system with combined water heating
– Touch screen user-friendly control pane
– Dual fuel 3.4 Kw gas and 3 Kw electric power sources
– Programmable daily timer
– Panel radiator in washroom
– NEW panel radiator in living area (model specific)
– Whale Aqua smart II on-board water pump with Aquasource ‘lay flat’ filling pipe
– 100 litre external insulated fresh water tank with baffles and level sensor
– 100 litre external waste water tank with baffles & level sensor
– Inboard shower unit with ceramic ball mixer tap and Ecocamel shower head
– NEW single piece fully sealed shower cubicle with concertina partition door
– NEW pedestal washroom hand basin with ceramic ball mixer tap
– NEW retractable clothes line
– NEW shower mat & duck board

Kitchen Equipment

– Dometic 103 litre refrigerator with electronic ignition and detachable full width freezer compartment. Capacity increases to 110 litres when freezer compartment is removed
– NEW Thetford Duplex combined oven & grill with electronic ignition & flame failure device
– NEW Thetford dual-fuel hob with electric hotplate & 3 gas burners
– Stainless steel 800 watt microwave oven conveniently located at eye level
– NEW stainless steel square kitchen sink with swan-neck mixer tap, washing up bowl, drainer & chopping board

Safety & Security

– AL-KO outriggers fitted to AMC Chassis for enhanced floor strength
– 3-point seat belts on all designated travelling seats (model specific)
– Steel frame seat base supports for all designated travelling seats (model specific)
– Steel framed seat base tops for all designated travelling seats (model specific)
– Steel framed structural bulkhead to support all rear-facing designated travelling seats (model specific)
– Dedicated storage location for both free-standing & wall/floor mounted tables

Optional Upgrades

– NEW 15″ or 16″ graphite alloy wheels (model specific)
– NEW Factory fitted Media Pack
– Waeco reversing camera & dashboard mounted screen
– Status 550 telescopic directional digital television aerial
– 19″ Avtex digital television (12v or 240V) mounted in front lounge
– NEW Factory fitted Media Pack Plus
– Branded 6.5″ touch-screen head unit incorporating reversing camera screen
– Waeco reversing camera
– Status 550 telescopic directional digital television aerial
– 19″ Avtex digital television (12v or 240V) mounted in front lounge
– 24″ Avtex digital television with DVD player (12v or 240V) mounted in rear bedroom
– Branded 300W lounge speakers
– Branded portable Bluetooth awning speaker
– NEW Leather fabric upgrade on both ‘Berkeley’ and ‘Grosvenor’ upholstery choices
– Bespoke motorhome bedding sets to co-ordinate with soft furnishings (model specific)

Bailey of Bristol unveils brand new second generation Autograph motorhome range for 2017

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by Joe Jeffrey

Bailey of Bristol have just unveiled their latest offering for 2017 – the new second generation Autograph motorhome range, and it looks like next season just got that much better

Upon launch of the Approach Autograph in 2013, Bailey firmly established themselves as one of the leading mainstream motorhome manufacturers. It could also be said that the Autograph’s unique combination of quality, style and value certainly appealed to the general public, so much so that the motorhome range remains one of the most popular on the market – and on the road – today. Now, for 2017, Bailey seem to have done it again with the launch of the all new second generation Autograph Motorhome range.

Building upon the success of the original Autograph range and listening to customer feedback, it seems as though Bailey have gone back to basics, resulting in the delivery of a motorhome that surpasses the original to appeal to new and existing customers alike – something Bailey anticipates to be their best and most popular motorhome yet. Having seen the Autograph range in the flesh, we’d be pretty inclined to agree.

Priced between £50,995 and £55,490 OTR, the new Bailey Autograph is the result of one of the most comprehensive and rigorous design reviews of its kind – with 28 people working a total of 13,500 man hours and generating 126,000 3-D CAD computer files. By fine-tuning every single detail, the Bailey team have managed to create the next generation of motorhome, designed to make travel and holidaying a pleasure.

Bailey of Bristol concept designer, Claire Schofield said of the second generation Autograph’s design: “We really listened to what our dealers and consumers want from their motorhomes, including conducting a series of focus reviews.

“We’ve focused on providing some brilliant layouts for the second generation Autograph in order to meet the demand for the market and appeal to families and couples, making this a motorhome range for everyone. It’s everything you could ever want when on the road.”

Comfort

Starting with the all-important comfort factor, an all-new Peugeot Euro 6 Boxer Cab powered by a 160 BHP engine with six-speed manual gearbox and featuring ESP electronic stability control makes the Autograph easier to drive than ever before, while new fully adjustable seats enhance the comfort to make every journey a pleasure for both drivers and passengers alike. From the concertina windscreen blinds to the twin cup holders, the variable power steering to the cab air conditioning, every detail seems to have been carefully thought about to create an attractive and comfortable space for driver and passengers alike.

The fully specified cab is matched with an ultra-low profile lightweight AL-KO AMC chassis. Design elements incorporated into the new Autograph also provide for a lower centre of gravity, thus improving road holding and braking efficiency by providing a balanced weight distribution. A low-level entrance step also makes it easy for anyone to get in and out of the vehicle.

It goes without saying that any Bailey offering would not be complete without the company’s patented Alu-Tech construction system, and the second generation Autograph range is no different. Complete with GRP outer skin and under floor protection, Bailey’s Alu-Tech system creating a robust and durable vehicle providing for one of the lightest motorhomes on the road today, without compromising on resistance to the elements and ensuring the Autograph is truly a top quality range for all seasons.

Style

Bailey’s designers have added a number of new exterior features to enhance the smooth and aero-dynamic looks of the Autograph range, resulting in a motorhome which will undoubtedly turn heads as soon as it hits the road. With an all-new graphic scheme, re-designed back panel incorporating recessed LED exterior lighting and new Aero Style wheel arches, side skirts and flush fit double glazing throughout, every model in the range looks stylish and contemporary on the road.

Further new features also enhance the functionality of the Autograph. These include the factory fit Fiamma awning and exterior gas BBQ point – perfect for the summer sun and alfresco dining. For those colder months, the BBQ can be safely stowed in any one of the new storage options with both under-bed and through-boot storage areas (model specific) with great ease.

Relaxation

Stepping inside the new Autograph, the décor has been expertly refined for 2017. New cabinetry features, including a ‘Mendip Ash’ finish, create a clean and contemporary look while premium quality fixtures and fittings in a brushed steel finish are standard throughout the kitchen, bathroom and living areas, complementing the design elements throughout. An overhead locker system with split level storage provides the ideal solution for keeping essential items stored away but within easy reach.

Venturing into the kitchen area, a new basalt stone finish ‘self-healing’ worktop adds a sophisticated yet practical touch, while new kitchen units with heavy duty drawers make the most of the space to make cooking and food preparation easier. A new Thetford Duplex combined oven and grill, along with a dual-fuel hob with electric hotplate and three gas burners will be sure to give users the opportunity to cook up a real feast. When it’s time to nominate who does the washing up, a new stainless steel square kitchen sink with swan-neck mixer tap is sure to make light work of what can sometimes be an arduous task.

As you’d expect in a motorhome of this quality, Bailey has fitted the Alde radiator heating system as standard and by working closely with the manufacturer we’ve enhanced its performance still further to make it the most effective to date. New look washrooms now contains a single piece fully sealed shower cubicle with a concertina partition door, along with a pedestal hand basin with ceramic ball mixer tap.

Just like the kitchen and washroom, the living area has been redesigned to introduce even more comfort. For the first time ever in a motorhome, we’ve included the Dreamsleep soft furnishing system. Featuring a domestic style cushion construction, with multi-layered base cushions and shaped back rests, it is built using breathable fabrics and a solid foam core to providing customers something much more akin to what they would find in the lounge of their own home. Add to this the fact that the cushions are lighter than those manufactured in a conventional manner and form part of an innovative bed-make up system you begin to see why ‘DreamSleep’ represents such a major step forward in soft furnishing design.

To ensure these stunning new motorhomes look every bit as good by night as by day Bailey have introduced new 12 voltage lighting, ambient lights and low-level task lighting bringing users more control than ever before, while a new Truma 100-watt solar panel provides a constant source of electricity to keep everything running smoothly.

Customers can create their own individual look for their Autograph, choosing either Berkeley or Grosvenor soft furnishings with two scatter cushions. Both styles come with matching window panels and roman blinds to create an integrated look that makes any model a real home from home.

Safety

Perhaps one of the most integral parts of any motorhome is safety for both drivers and passengers alike. Bailey haven’t scrimped here either and many safety features come as standard following rigorous testing via Bailey’s pioneering crash test research at the Millbrook Proving Ground. Bailey say these learnings not only reassure customers that all eventualities have been considered, but they have also led to the development of ergonomically shaped rear designated travel seats for increased safety and comfort.

Discerning motorhome users can choose to personalise their Autograph thanks to a range of new optional extras, including 15″ or 16″ graphite alloy wheels, leather upholstery and all-new factory fitted media packs featuring Waeco reversing cameras and screens.

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Upon launch, six models within the Autograph range will be available, namely the four berth Autograph 75-2, Autograph 75-4, Autograph 79-4, and Autograph 79-4T, as well as two six berth options by way of the Autograph 79-6 and Autograph 79-6G. Prices range, rather competitively, between £50,995 and £55,490.

The Autograph 75-2, 75-4, 79-4, 79-4T & 79-6 models will be arriving at approved Bailey retailers from early August onwards. The Autograph 79-6G will make its first appearance at the Motorhome & Caravan Show, NEC Birmingham in October.

For more on what each range offers, and a detailed description of each layout, click here.

What do you think of the new range unveiled by Bailey of Bristol today? Will one of these be on your wish list? Let us know in the comments below.

Carnforth caravan park provides perfect comfort for fundraising pensioner

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by Joe Jeffrey

71-year-old fundraiser on 900-mile mission finds comfort after barefooted walk

When long-distance charity walker Paul Ucheck asked to pitch a tent at a Lancashire holiday park this month, he quickly realised that he’d landed on his feet.

For Paul, who is walking barefoot from Land’s End to John O’Groats, was met at Bay View Caravan Park near Carnforth with a hero’s welcome.

He was told there was no need to flap about erecting a tent, for a luxury glamping pod had been arranged for his night’s stay – along with a slap-up meal in the park’s restaurant.

Paul, aged 71, is walking the 900-mile length of Britain – a feat he is undertaking without any kind of footwear in a bid to create a new Guinness World Record.

On route, Paul is raising money for Cancer Research UK after losing his wife to breast cancer, and then discovering that his daughter had contracted the same illness.

His epic journey began on 1 May – and around seven weeks later, Paul reached borders of Lancashire where he contacted Bay View in Bolton-le-Sands.

“We did a quick check, and found that Paul’s amazing trek was for real and that he had already raised thousands of pounds for charity,” said park owner Michael Holgate.

“We though he deserved more than just a patch of grass for the night, and offered him one of our luxury timber pods with heating, soft carpets and sheep’s wool insulation.

“He also ate very well in our park restaurant, and I hope we provided a memorable experience for Paul at the half-way point in his courageous journey,” added Michael.

Paul, who was born in Britain but now lives in Cape Town, South Africa, later posted on his Facebook page that he had just spent his “best ever night” of the trek.

As well as the hospitality, Paul said he also enjoyed the breathtaking views across Morecambe Bay to the Lake District for which the park is renowned.

Under the Guinness World Records rules, Paul isn’t allowed to use even plasters or bandages on his feet, and must get the signature of two witnesses each day.

As well as raising charity funds, Paul is also using the walk to publicise the importance of early detection of cancer – which he credits with putting his daughter on the road to recovery.

Bay View Caravan Park is the Lancashire flagship of the Holgate family which has been operating award-winning holiday parks in Cumbria for 60 years.

As well as glamping pods, the park provides caravan holiday homes to rent or buy, and pitches for touring caravans, motorhomes and tents.
 

Wellhouse Leisure heralds success of Ford Terrier campervan

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by Joe Jeffrey

Export orders of popular Ford Terrier sees further jobs created at Wellhouse Leisure’s HQ
   
Wellhouse Leisure has announced further success and expansion of its business following the first export orders for its Ford Terrier campervan, leading to the creation of further jobs at its new premises in Skelmanthorpe, near Huddersfield in Yorkshire, to increase production to meet demand.
 
The first export orders for the award-winning Wellhouse Leisure Ford Terrier camper van have been received from Ford Switzerland after David Elliott, managing director of Wellhouse Leisure, visited them with a LHD demonstrator model. The Wellhouse Ford Terrier will be sold at Ford dealers in Switzerland, with the first delivery expected in September.
 
Wellhouse Leisure has also visited other European countries recently, and expects to confirm further export orders soon. It will also be exhibiting its Ford Terrier at two caravan and motorhome shows in Europe for the first time – the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, Germany taking place this August, and the Suisse Caravan Salon in Berne, Switzerland in October.
 
The Wellhouse Ford Terrier is based on the new Ford Transit Custom, so conveniently fits in a standard car parking space, and features the classic campervan layout of a side kitchen and wardrobe and rear seat that converts into a double bed. The rear seat can seat three people and slides forwards or backwards on floor rails to make more space available for living when camping or loads when travelling. There is another double bed available in the elevating roof.
 
Paul Fratter, managing director of Ford Switzerland said: “The campervan market in Switzerland is strong and growing. In partnership with Wellhouse Leisure and our distributor, Automaxx, we are very happy to be able to offer customers a product with Swiss levels of quality and refinement based on the award-winning Ford Transit Custom.”
 
David Elliott, managing director of Wellhouse Leisure commented: “We are delighted to have our first export orders. Our Ford Terrier is one of the best-selling campervans in the UK, and we are confident that it will prove equally successful in the rest of Europe.”
 
“This is not only good news for Wellhouse Leisure and all our staff, but great for the UK’s trade with other countries as we approach the new post-Brexit world,” Elliott continued.

Caravan Club survey reveals kids are missing out on the great outdoors

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by Joe Jeffrey

Results of survey come as The Caravan Club readies for Big Little Tent Festival this weekend

Thousands of children are missing out on the fun and excitement of exploring the great outdoors because of parents’ aversions to camping, according to research conducted by The Caravan Club.

A survey conducted by The Club has revealed that despite nearly two thirds (61 per cent) of British parents camping in their youth, more than a third (37 per cent) have never given their own children the same opportunity to make family memories on a holiday in the great outdoors.

The research has subsequently highlighted parents’ attitudes towards camping, with more than half avoiding trips because of the unreliable British weather (56 per cent).  Other reasons include not having the right gear (22 per cent) and fear of mud, dirt and wildlife (13 per cent).

A surprising one in 20 parents have never spent time outdoors with their children despite more than half of parents (56 per cent) admitting that their children ask to go camping.

Yet, when it comes to who is responsible for introducing children to nature, there is some confusion. A whopping 82 per cent thinking it is dad’s job; three quarters of those surveyed (74 per cent) think it should be up to mums; and over a quarter (28 per cent) think after-school clubs should be leading the way.   

The survey falls ahead of the launch of The Caravan Club’s Big Little Tent Festival in partnership with BritMums, the UK’s largest parent blogger community made up of nearly 8,000 influential bloggers.  The campaign encourages families to pitch a tent in their own back garden, and enjoy the delights of camping; campfire cooking, outdoor games, exploring the local fauna and flora and creating shared memories all within reach of the comforts of home. 

With the rest of July set to be a scorcher, following on from recent weeks of miserable wet weather, the Big Little Tent Festival, set to take place this weekend, will demonstrate what the British outdoors has to offer this summer and why families should be getting outside and having fun. Families are encouraged to join in the fun throughout the summer holidays, on a day that works best for them, right up until 19 September by downloading the free festival pack here. The packs include wristbands, bunting to help create a festival atmosphere, recipe suggestions to be cooked over a campfire (or barbecue), festival flags and invitations for little ones keen to get their friends involved in the garden camp out.

Founder of BritMums and keen camper, Jennifer Howze, has teamed up with The Caravan Club to inspire parents to explore the great outdoors with their children this summer.

Howze said: “Getting outside and exploring the countryside is a great family holiday and mums and dads up and down the country are being encouraged to join in the fun as part of this unique virtual festival.  We want people to share their pictures and videos of their own outdoor memory making ‘festivals’ on social media so we can create one great big summer festival. By taking part in their own gardens, we hope people will be reminded what a great time they can have outdoors with their children and what a great enjoyable and rewarding experience it can be.  We certainly know many of our members are blogging and writing about it already.”

Harvey Alexander, director of marketing for The Caravan Club, added: “As parents, we all remember the days of sleeping under canvas on a family camping holiday and what fun it was – even if a little damp.  These days the quality of tents has gone up, and the cost of tents has gone down, making it a great family holiday accessible by all.  We hope the Big Little Tent FestivalT will remind parents how exciting it can be and encourage them to get out there with their kids.”

There are plenty of chances to win prizes with The Big Little Tent Festival too – every family who signs up will be entered into a prize draw to win a European camping holiday. There are BBQ prizes across the social media platforms live from now until 19 September 2016 along with Keela outdoor clothing and Dometic cool bags. Simply share your photos and videos of you showing off your outdoor cooking skills during the Big Little Tent Festival using #BigLittleTentFest16 to be in with a chance of winning.

Marquis announces new A Class range from Mobilvetta launching for 2017

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by Joe Jeffrey

New Mobilvetta A Class range to launch in time for Motorhome & Caravan Show 2016

Marquis have teamed up with Trigano group manufacturer Mobilvetta to bring an exciting new A Class range to the UK.

Launching for the 2017 season at the forthcoming Motorhome & Caravan Show, set to take place at Birmingham’s NEC between 11-15 October, Marquis will be offering a new range of three Fiat-based A class models, namely the K-Yacht Tekno Line 79, 80 and 85.

The range looks set to be very competitively priced within the luxury A Class sector while, CaravanTimes understands, refusing to compromise on quality or specification.

Being manufactured to an enhanced UK specification and continuing the Marquis ethos of ‘one price and one specification’, all models will come with a powerful Fiat 150bhp Euro 6 automatic gearbox for that extra bit of umph.

An early season launch of the K-Yacht 80 is predicted at the New 2017 Model Tour destined for Marquis Durham on the weekend of 2 to 4 September, which will become the premier UK home for Mobilvetta UK – something which will be sure to attract a lot of attention for those on the lookout for a new motorhome while offering a unique approach to hitting the road as well as your favourite caravan park to boot.

After recent major investment and refurbishments of both Marquis Northampton and Dorset, the Mobilvetta range will be available to view after the Motorhome & Caravan show once full production is in flow.

What do you think of this announcement? Are you excited to see something new hit the UK roads this year?

Swift begins construction of £8m production facility

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by Joe Jeffrey

Swift’s expansion plans underway and heading for completion by summer 2017

Swift Group has commenced development of a new £8m purpose built modern manufacturing facility at its headquarters in Hull.

The new facility will take an estimated nine months to build and will house production of all the company’s Holiday Homes and Lodges from summer 2017.

The opportunity to build a whole new production facility from scratch is virtually unheard of within the industry and will allow Swift to create a state of the art facility that will set new standards in the manufacture of holiday homes and lodges and secure employment at the site for many years.

Swift Group has engaged two local firms, namely Alan Wood Partnership and Houlton, to project manage and construct the facility. Alan Wood Partners was established in Hull in the 1960’s and the firm has grown substantially to provide a full range of engineering services in all areas of the construction industry. Houlton first worked with Swift in the mid eighties when they were commissioned to build their first production building at Dunswell Road. Family firm, Houlton, has been at the forefront of the local construction industry for over 130 years.

The £8m outlay follows on from other major investments in capital equipment over the past four years as Swift Group introduced its SMART innovative construction systems in touring caravans and motorhomes that have revolutionised their manufacture. The most recent development will be commissioned in the coming weeks and fully operational after the summer.

£10m holiday village plans submitted for Folly Farm

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by Jeanned’Arc Sanbar

Folly Farm looks set to get a little bit more fun for caravanners and holidaymakers alike

An award winning Pembrokeshire attraction has submitted plans to develop a Holiday Village set to consist of 56 themed lodges, glamping facilities including teepees and yurts, and touring caravan facilities at a cost of £10milliom, it has been announced.

Should planning permission be granted, Folly Farm’s Holiday Village will be divided into three different themed areas, namely Fairground, Safari and Farm.

Plans submitted also include the regeneration of existing farm buildings to accommodate a café, games room and reception area, and it is thought that the redevelopment of the 11.03 hectare site will help to drive tourism to the Pembrokeshire area and help create an increase in employment within the region.

Should Golly Farm get the go-ahead to begin the refurbishment, it is thought work will begin in September this year.

Chris Ebsworth, director at Folly Farm said: “With the development of Folly Farm’s Holiday Village, our vision is to take the most successful and well-loved elements of the existing attraction and expand on them to offer a truly unique place to stay.

“At the moment, our plans will allow us to build 29 vintage showman wagons and shepherds huts, 27 timber lodges as well as space for 43 touring caravan pitches, and a range of safari, bell and circus tents.

“The proposed accommodation would also create new jobs within the Holiday Village and Adventure Park, generating additional direct and indirect spend within the local economy, both during the construction and operation periods.”

Camping and Caravanning Club joins forces with BBC Countryfile Live

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by Joe Jeffrey

Camping and Caravanning Club teams up with Countryfile Live to offer ultimate immersive experience

The Camping and Caravanning Club has announced it is set to join forces with Countryfile Live as its official camping and caravanning partner, providing on-site camping and caravanning for the duration of the show set to take place between 4 and 7 August 2016.

Countryfile Live is an all-new event which aims to combine the tradition of the UK’s best county fairs with the high quality presentation of BBC One’s Countryfile programme, all set in the stunning stately home and grounds of Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire. Taking place across four days, the event looks set to bring the very best of the British countryside to Blenheim Palace, offering something for all the family – including dogs.

Visitors to the show will be able to immerse themselves in every aspect of the British countryside and country living through live arena shows, talks, animal displays, hands-on activities and farming practices.

The event will also offer those in attendance the chance to get up close to Countryfile presenters as well as take advantage of over 600 food and craft producers.

200 standard grass pitches will be made available at the Club-operated campsite in the stunning Blenheim Palace estate, and visitors will be welcome to hitch and pitch up in caravans, motorhomes, tents and trailer tents with a host of site facilities on hand to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

Camping and Caravanning Club member services director, Darren Whittington, said: “Countryfile is a hugely popular show, and a hit with many of our members, so we’re over the moon to be joining forces with Countryfile Live and playing a key role in this inaugural event. The Club will exhibit at the show too, so we’re looking forward to meeting visitors to the event, and sharing with them the joys of camping with the Club.”

Tim Etchells, managing director of BBC Countryfile Live organisers SME London, said, ‘”We want to offer Countryfile Live visitors a great camping experience at the event – what better partner could we have to do so than The Camping and Caravanning Club?”

Visitors planning to camp onsite at Blenheim must purchase both a day ticket to Countryfile Live, which starts at £26.40 for adults, as well as camping for the four nights of the show which costs a further £150 (for up to two adults and two children). Additional adults incur a one-off fee of £20 per person and the pitch price is fixed at four days of camping though visitors are not required to stay for that length of time.

The price per pitch includes re-entry passes to Countryfile Live for the duration of the event, meaning that campers will have access to the full four days of Countryfile Live for the price of their day ticket and accommodation. For more information, click here

RSPCA launch ‘Dogs Die in Hot Cars’ campaign

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by Joe Jeffrey

New initiative launched to prevent heat exposure for our four-legged friends

The RSPCA has teamed with a number of organisations across the UK to launch a new campaign aimed at the dangers associated with leaving dogs in hot cars.

New initiative, ‘Dogs Die in Hot Cars’, has been launched in an attempt to drive down the number of calls made to the RSPCA in relation to dogs being left in hot cars over the summer period. The move comes following the announcement that 230 call-outs were made relating to dogs being left in hot cars during 2015 – a rise from 223 in the previous year. Furthermore, the number of calls made to the RSPCA relating to dogs suffering from heat exposure from within the confines of vehicles, conservatories and caravans totalled 8,779 across the same 2015 period.

RSPCA spokesperson, Rachel Butler, said: “In an emergency, it is best to dial 999 and report a dog in a hot car to police.

“The RSPCA may not be able to attend quickly enough and, with no powers of entry, we’d need police assistance at such an incident.

“If the animal is displaying any sign of heatstroke – such as panting heavily, drooling excessively, is lethargic or uncoordinated, or collapsed and vomiting – call 999 immediately.

“If the situation becomes critical and police can’t attend, many people’s instinct is to break into the car to free the dog,” Butler continued. “But please be aware that, without proper justification, this could be classed as criminal damage. Make sure you tell the police of your intentions and take photos or footage of the dog as well as names and numbers of witnesses. The law states that you have a lawful excuse to commit damage if you believe that the owner of the property that you damage would consent to the damage if they knew the circumstances.

“Once removed from the car, move the dog to a shaded/cool area and douse him/her with cool water. Allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water.

“If the dog isn’t displaying signs of heatstroke, establish how long the dog has been in the car and make a note of the registration. Ask a member of staff to make an announcement of the situation over the tannoy, if possible, and get someone to stay with the dog to monitor its condition.”

Do you take your pets away on holiday with you when you hit the road? Let us know how you make sure they are comfortable in the heat in the comments below.

Overgrown junctions concealing signs pose threat this summer, warns AA president

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by Jeanned’Arc Sanbar

Concealed road signs pose a danger for drivers

If you are driving on the road this summer, overgrown junctions concealing signs could prove to be problematic, according to a new survey conducted by the AA.

Two fifths of 21,977 AA members surveyed up and down the country have found their view of oncoming vehicles, junctions and roundabouts blocked by long grass this summer, while more than a third stated that critical road signs were obscured by overgrown trees and bushes.

Further findings from the survey found that nine out of ten motorists believe obscured road signs pose a danger, with less than ten per cent feeling satnavs have made the issue less important.

Despite government cutbacks meaning less time and money can be spent on ensuring road signs aren’t obscured from wild foliage, there was still a strong belief by those AA members surveyed (70 per cent) that they should be kept clear at all times.

AA president Edmund King said of the findings: “A mixture of warm and wet spring weather has caused grass and trees to grow so quickly that it has put drivers at risk when making routine journeys. Due to budget cutbacks, councils are struggling with controlling the fast growth of trees and bushes and that is increasing the likelihood of collisions.

“The worst case scenario is a hidden Give Way sign on the approach to a junction where the road markings have been worn out. What warning does a driver get on an unfamiliar country road that traffic is about to cut across his path?”

Of those looking to escape for their summer holidays, King continued: “Drivers should take care and not assume that, if they don’t see a speed restriction sign for example, that there isn’t a speed limit.  If there are street lamps along the road then it is likely to be a 30mph limit unless there are small ‘repeater’ signs saying otherwise. 

“Also, be alert to the fact that foliage might be obscuring a warning sign, like a bridge height or narrowed road, and slow down,” King continued. “And also be prepared to stop at a roundabout where it’s clear that the grass could obscure your vision of oncoming traffic.”

What do you think? How should this problem be resolved, and how much of an issue have concealed road signs been for you this summer?