Bailey strikes double gold in customer satisfaction survey

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by Joe Jeffrey

Both new and pre-owned caravans receive gold award in customer satisfaction

Bailey of Bristol has secured a coveted Gold Award for both New and Pre-Owned Caravans in the 2016 Practical Caravan Magazine Customer Satisfaction Survey.
  
Bailey accounted for 27 per cent of the total responses in the new caravan survey, the largest number for a single manufacturer, and achieved an overall satisfaction rating of 85 per cent in the survey and in doing so secured a coveted Gold Award. Supplementary figures also showed that, of the UK manufacturers, Bailey also had the highest proportion of fault free new caravans in use.    
  
The picture was similar in the pre-owned caravan survey where Bailey topped the poll with a satisfaction rating of 88 per cent.
  
The Bailey retailer network also put in a strong showing in this year’s survey securing a collective total of five gold and five silver awards, including Oxford Caravan Centre who achieved the highest overall satisfaction rating for a retailer in the new caravan survey.
  
Managing director, Nick Howard said: “We take a lot of positives from our showing in this years’ Practical Caravan Survey. Total customer satisfaction is top priority at Bailey and this independent owner feedback shows that we are on the right track in terms of product performance and customer service. However we shall be looking closely at the findings of the report to identify the areas which we can improve upon to take ourselves forward”.
  
Over the past eighteen months Bailey has implemented a comprehensive corporate re-development programme entitled Project Aurora, where it has introduced modern manufacturing and business principles and procedures to the industry for the first time.  
  
It is said that all parts of the company have benefited from this new initiative, but two areas which have already received significant investment have been the product development and customer services departments.

Congratulations to Bailey on receiving yet another award.

Caravan in tree proves popular for caravanners looking for something ‘different’

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by Joe Jeffrey

Caravan hoisted 15ft up in a tree proves popular for some, but would you stay in it?

Fancy doing something different this summer, but are on a budget? Then this caravan may just be for you – as long as you don’t mind climbing 15ft up a tree to access it that is.

Jake Williams of Rhynie, Scotland, has placed an add on Airbnb advertising the two-berth caravan for hire, which forms part of his Bogancloch Treehouse, at just £17 a night.

Described as “shabby” and lacking mains electricity and internet facilities though, we here at CaravanTimes are not sure we’d survive the night, but, for those looking to be at one with nature, you certainly wouldn’t be barking up the wrong tree (excuse that).

It’s not without all of the amenities you’d expect though, and the caravan comes with an original gas cooker, with hotplates and a grill. Unfortunately though, the caravan lacks wash facilities, but we hear the showers at the local swimming pool are nice this time of year.

Be warned though: those looking to take advantage of the caravans with a view have been warned however: “It’s 15 miles to the hospital.. we don’t pay any public liability insurance, so if you’re a sleepwalker or a big drinker, please be careful.”

The caravan is no stranger to receiving attention either, having featured in a 2012 low-budget, award-wining arthouse movie starring actor, Jake Williams, which saw the caravan hoisted into the tree where it has remained since.

Judging by the 70 reviews on Airbnb’s website, Jake must be doing something right, but what do you reckon? is this something you might stay in? Let us know in the comments below.

Storm Imogen continues to batter UK

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by Joe Jeffrey

Winds of up to 96mph recorded as Storm Imogen brings disruption to parts of the UK

Treacherous weather conditions across the UK show no sign of easing up, as parts of Southern Britain have been hit hard by heavy rain and winds of up to 96mph after Storm Imogen made its unwelcome arrival. The storm is the ninth to hit the country this winter.

More than 5,000 homes are without power in south-west England, south and mid-Wales and the Midlands, with bad weather expected to move eastwards. At time of writing, 60 flood warnings were also in place across England and Wales.

Rail services have been disrupted, and some cross-Channel ferries have been cancelled. Drivers have also been urged to take extra care, with focus remaining on adverse weather on routes including the M4 and M5 motorways.

Gusts in south-west England are expected to reach up to 80mph, with high winds sweeping across across the country, leading to the Met Office to issue an amber “be prepared” warning to those in Wales, south-west England, London and the south-east.

Coastal areas in the west are also on high alert, with predictions that the sea state could reach “phenomenal” – the highest level on the World Meteorological Scale.

Meanwhile, on public transport, South West Trains has reduced the speed of its services between 11am and 3pm, which will see up to 30 minutes added to some journeys between Southampton and Weymouth and Portsmouth to London. Arrive Trains Wales services between Machynlleth and Aberswyth and Pwllheli have been suspended due to flooding, whilst Southern Railway and Great Western Railway have also imposed seed restrictions. Gatwick Airport has also advised flights may be affected.

Gary Webb, of Highways England, said: “We would encourage drivers, especially those driving high-sided vehicles, motorcycles or considering a trip with a caravan, to consider driving conditions before setting off as they could be difficult.

“If you do have to make a journey by road be prepared, plan your journey in advance and check the latest weather conditions along your route.

“Be aware of sudden gusts of wind, and give high-sided vehicles, caravans, and motorbikes plenty of space. In the event of persistent high winds we may need to close bridges to traffic for a period, so please be alert for warnings of closures and follow signed diversion routes.”

Imogen is the ninth named winter storm and comes days after Storm Henry, which brought winds of up to 90mph in places, causing schools to shut and disruption to transport.

How’s the weather where you are? Join in with the discussion on our forums here to let us know.

The Caravan Club announces new Scottish camping sites for 2016

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by Joe Jeffrey

A number of great campsites have been announced by The Caravan Club for Scotland

The Caravan Club has shown out in force at the Scottish Caravan,Camping & Motorhome Show 2016 – and all for good reason.

With 30 sites across Scotland, ten of which offer tent camp pitches as well as caravan and motorhome pitches, to say The Caravan Club’s presence north of the border is quite prominent would be somewhat of an understatement and, it’s true to say, Scottish tent camping has grown in popularity over the last year, with Strathclyde, Brora, and Edinburgh Caravan Club Sites showing an increase in tent bookings.

There is no membership requirement for campers who want to pitch up at over 40 Caravan Club sites across the UK network, and bookings for tent camping are on sale now; prices start from £12.60 per night based on two adults.

Edinburgh Caravan Club Site is the most popular in the Scottish network, and offers up to ten tent pitches. This site is situated in a park-like setting surrounded by mature trees; there is a children’s play area and a fenced woodland area for dogs to play. The site is a stone’s throw away from the waterfront where campers can walk along the promenade of Cramond and, only a short drive away – visitors can enjoy the popular coastal suburb of Portobello with its pubs, restaurants and shops.

Strathclyde, near Glasgow, also boasts a children’s play area and beautiful parkland, while Brora Club Site is situated in the Highlands with pretty views of the surrounding countryside. The tent area is positioned next to the gate that leads to a beautiful, safe and sandy beach via public footpath and across the golf course.

Harvey Alexander, director of marketing at The Caravan Club said: “We’re glad to be adding to our ever-growing network of tent camping sites – it shows that The Caravan Club is about outdoor adventure in its many forms.”

Reviews on The Caravan Club’s online forum Club Together show that adding camping pitches to Caravan Club sites makes it easier for members to invite their friends and family along on their holidays, as our tent areas are accessible to everyone with no joining fee.

To see what else Harvey had to say, check out the video above. It’s certainly worth a watch.

The Caravan Club discusses the importance of caravanning to the Scottish economy

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by Joe Jeffrey

Caravanning brings £35 million into Scottish economy as exciting future investment is announced

The Caravan Club has discussed the positive impact caravanning has seen within the Scottish economy and the integral role Scotland plays in encouraging caravanners to visit parks north of the border at the opening of the Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Show 2016.

During the show’s opening day, The Caravan Club’s director of marketing, Harvey Alexander, spoke on two brand new, multi-million pound site developments – at Strathclyde and Stonehaven – whilst touching upon plans to invest millions more across the Club’s Scottish caravan network in the foreseeable future.

Already a strong presence Scotland, the Club runs a network of welcoming sites across the country, from Thurso to the Borders, and from the cities of the Central Belt to the wilds of Wester Ross to help visitors make the most of their trip. Alongside smaller, five-pitch Certified Locations, the sites network provides over two million touring ‘bed nights’ per annum in Scotland.

Harvey said: The Club is delighted to be able to say it has enabled so many visitors from outside of Scotland to enjoy the wonderful country and to assist another 30,000 Scottish-based tourers to find great locations to stay. Taking a look at baking made by tourers who live and also holiday in Scotland with the Club, Edinburgh Caravan Club Site and the Kingdom of Fife are our most popular holiday destinations – Dunnet Bay and Altnaharra are favourites for a more rural holiday.”

To see what else Harvey had to say, watch the video above and let us know your thoughts.

The Caravan Club kicks off Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Home Show with North of the border twist

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by Joe Jeffrey

Gaelic singer Joy Dunlop and Airstreamer extraordinaire Andrew Ditton launch Scottish show to the delight of those in attendance

The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Show has begun and thousands upon thousands of caravan, motorhome and holiday home fans have taken to Glasgow’s SECC to check out all the latest the leisure industry has to offer for 2016.

With so much to see and do during the show, which runs from 4 to 7 February, you’d be hard pressed to find time to unwind and relax, but that’s exactly what we here at CaravanTimes did yesterday thanks to The Caravan Club’s opening event, which saw traditional gaelic singer, Joy Dunlop, and Airstreamer extraordinaire, Andrew Ditton, take the the Club’s stand to entertain the masses with some wonderful entertainment.

Both Joy and Andrew were invited to provide some opening entertainment to those in attendance at yesterday’s show and they certainly didn’t fail to deliver.

Taking to the microphone first was Joy, who showcased her award-winning voice with a wonderful traditional gaelic song performance. Joy was then joined on the stand by popular blogger, vlogger and Airstream enthusiast Andrew, who spoke on his enjoyment of taking to the Scottish Highlands and beyond with his dog Dougal and motorbike to explore all caravanning – and Scotland – has to offer.

Let us know if you’re heading out the the Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show in the comments section below, and make sure you check out the video above.

Taking an intricate look at Auto-Sleepers’ new Peugeot van conversions for 2016

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by Joe Jeffrey

Take a look at Auto-Sleepers’ seven new Peugeot van conversions in our video here

Auto-Sleepers are, without a doubt, one of the most well renowned companies within the leisure industry, known for their innovative ranges of van-conversions – and 2016 looks to be no different if the new range of seven Peugeot van conversions are anything to go by.

With a range coming in three chassis lengths, and with the option of medium wheel based or long wheel based all under six metres, as well as four models within the range with an extra long wheel base chassis providing for more space, there’s certainly something for everyone.

The shorter of the van conversions within the range available from Auto-Sleepers for 2016 provide the perfect opportunity for those looking to escape on the ferry overseas, whilst the larger models allow for a larger amount of space and comfort without compromise.

With dual-purpose layouts, Auto-Sleepers‘ vans conversions also provide a brilliant choice for couples or families looking to escape all year round, 365-days-a-year thanks to Grade III insulation, enabling each van conversion to withstand temperatures of up to minus 15 degrees.

Notwithstanding the ability to allow for all-year-round use, the materials used in creating each Peugeot van conversion are second to none and, Auto-Sleepers say, are utilised in order to last for many years to come. And all of this comes at with economy in mind too, and each van conversion comes complete with an underfloor-mounted LPG gas tank which is able to be filled to the brim for just £11.

To find out more about the all-new Peugeot van conversions for 2016, check out our video above and let us know what you think.

Caravan Guard achieves five-star Defaqto rating for the fifth year

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by Joe Jeffrey

Defaqto provides insurance company with top class rating for fifth year in row

Specialist insurance provider, Caravan Guard, has received the maximum five-star rating for its touring caravan policy, for the fifth consecutive year.

Independent Financial Research Company Defaqto, responsible for rating, comparing and analysing financial products provided Caravan Guard’s tourer policy a five-star rating for the high standards of cover available to caravan owners.

Underwritten by leading UK insurer, Royal and Sun Alliance Insurance Plc (RSA), Caravan Guard‘s touring caravan policy enables caravanners to benefit from extensive cover for fire, theft, storm, flood and accidental damage, as well as the option to insure their caravan on a new for old or market value basis.

Customers can also protect their no claim discount and up to 240 days European cover and emergency accommodation cover is available with the 5 Star policy.

Caravan Guard’s managing director, Ryan Wilby, said: “Defaqto star ratings allow customers to see at a glance where an insurance product sits in the market when benchmarked against the competition. We are very proud of our product being awarded a 5 star rating which demonstrates that we provide one of the highest quality offerings in the caravan insurance market.”

Up close and personal with the Majestic motorhome rage from Marquis Leisure

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by Joe Jeffrey

Take a closer look at the Majestic motorhome range from Marquis Leisure in our latest video here

To say Marquis Leisure’s Majestic motorhome range has been nothing less than a success would be somewhat of an understatement.

Beginning production in 2010 with an eight-model line-up, the Majestic range’s offering has almost doubled for 2016, with 14 innovative models based on the Accordo, Autoquest and Encore ranges – all three of which are manufactured by Elddis.

The demand for the Majestic range which has seen the increase in models available is hardly a surprise though, and it is Marquis Leisure‘s strong bond with Elddis which has seen so many Majestics drive off of Marquis’ forecourt and into the driveways of many motorhomers over the years.

Similar to all of Elddis’ caravans and motorhomes, SoLiD Construction technology comes as standard across the Majestic motorhome range, and the range also benefits from the Euro 5+ chassis cab with 150bhp Peugeot engine as standard, exclusive to Marquis Leisure, as well as ESP Traction Control and Hill Assist.

Other features included across the Majestic range include automatic air-conditioning, cruise control, TPMS tyre pressure monitor sensors, top-notch entertainment system, including fully integrated touch screen console controlling DAB Radio/MP3 player, and Sat Nav with Bluetooth handsfree & USB, plus steering mounted controls.

Elsewhere inside the Majestic, new class-leading ‘Marone’ craftsman-built cabinetry which complements Marquis Leisure’s exclusive upholstery which helps create a light and relaxing ambience, also helped by the Sky-view opening cab sunroof which creates an abundance of light and space.

With so much more coming as standard across the Majestic range, including a rear view observation camera for when it comes to squeezing into those tight spots, it goes without saying that Marquis Leisure seems to have thought of everything and then some when creating this expanded range for 2016.

Check out the video above to find out more and to take look.

‘Caravan King’ Don Amott to raise money for asbestos cancer

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by Joe Jeffrey

Leisure Kingdom boss set to raise money in charity run

The chairman of motorhome manufacturer Leisure Kingdom and self-proclaimed ‘caravan king’ Don Amott is set to take part in a 2k charity run to raise money for sufferers of asbestos cancer.

The run, which forms part of the Great Northern Run and is organised by Derby-based triathlon kit-maker Huub, is set to take place down disused railway line on 6 March.

Funds raised by Amott will go to support equipment and training costs for Mickleover Cricket Club, as well as for Mesothelioma UK, which supports people with asbestos cancer.

The ‘caravan king’ said: “I would not regard myself as a runner so not sure how I will get on but I was keen to show my support for this and to give it a go.

“This is a great event for everyone and I really hope that the local community – both in Mickleover and further afield – will take this opportunity to enter or come along on the day and cheer on the runners.

“Local sports clubs rely on fund-raising and volunteers to keep going so we really need people to get behind the Great Northern event.”

The Great Northern Run is named after the disused railway line on which the event takes place. Participants can choose whether to run a half-marathon, 10k or 2k and entertainment and refreshments will be provided afterwards at MIckleover Cricket Club.

If you’re up for a challenge and many raising money for a great cause, click here now to sign up.

Deputy minister to open new £1 million Welsh caravan park

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by Joe Jeffrey

54-pitch site and local jobs have been created in Snowdonia

Wales’ deputy minister for culture, sport and tourism, Ken Skates, will officially open a new £1 million high quality touring caravan park in the heart of Snowdonia on 7 March.

Llanberis Touring Park, which will feature 54 pitches on eight acres of land on the edge of the popular village of Llanberis is now accepting bookings for the opening.

Owners Morris Leisure anticipate high demand from touring caravan and motorhome owners because of the park’s prime location in Snowdonia, which attracts more than ten million visitors a year. The opening will also see additional jobs created within the local area.

Shrewsbury-based Morris Leisure already owns the successful Riverside Touring Park in Betws-y-Coed together with four high quality caravan parks in Shropshire.

The deputy minister said: “I’m looking forward to officially opening the Llanberis Touring Park as they get ready for the 2016 season in March. Investment in quality is absolutely crucial for our visitors. When they find a quality product in such a superb location, they’ll return time after time.  

“2016 is Wales’ Year of Adventure and the Llanberis park is ideally situated for visitors to take advantage of the amazing adventures which North Wales has to offer.”

Arfon Assembly member Alun Ffred Jones said: “I welcome this latest development which provides another high class facility in Snowdonia. Upgrading services to tourists will bring in visitors who will support other local businesses and strengthen employment. I wish the venture well.”

Morris Leisure’s managing director Edward Goddard said: “Following our investment in Riverside Touring Park, we have been keen to expand our park portfolio in Snowdonia and detailed market research identified Llanberis as an ideal location.

“Llanberis Touring Park is an exciting development for the company and we’re sure that caravan and motorhome owners are going to enjoy the stunning location.

“Based on figures issued by the British Holiday and Home Parks Association, we expect the touring park to generate in excess of £400,000 a year for the local economy, which has got to be positive news for Llanberis. We are very grateful for the support from the community and Gwynedd Council throughout the planning process.”

Morris Leisure is well known within the caravan industry and the company also owns Stanmore Hall Touring Park in Bridgnorth, Ludlow Touring Park in Ludlow, Oxon Hall Touring and Holiday Home Park in Shrewsbury and Bow House Country Park near Bishops Castle. Three of the parks are prestigious affiliated sites of The Caravan Club.

Elddis caravans and motorhomes heading north of the border for Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Home Show 2016

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by Joe Jeffrey

Explore everything Elddis has to offer at the Scottish show this week

Elddis will be showing out in true force later this week, after announcing a massive line-up of the company’s latest caravans and motorhomes at the Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show 2016 – including exclusive limited edition retailer special ranges at some great show prices.

A number of retailers will be representing Elddis, Compass, Xplore and Buccaneer ranges at the show, all under one roof, and we’ve got a list of all of them here, so keep reading to find out more.

Preston Caravans and Motorhomes

One of the largest caravan retailers in the UK, recently rebranded Preston Caravans and Motorhomes is home of the Supreme special edition caravan and motorhome ranges built by Elddis exclusively for them. In addition, Preston Caravans and Motorhomes sell Buccaneer, Elddis and Xplore caravans and Elddis Accordo and Encore Motorhomes.

With 25 caravans and motorhomes on display at the show, taking place between 4 – 7 February at Glasgow’s SECC, Preston promises something for everyone – from the smallest and lightest Xplore 304 to the flagship Buccaneer. Make sure you also check out the Elddis Crusader models on display, as Crusader – recently voted Scottish Caravanner’s ‘Range of the Year’ for 2016!

Kirkcaldy Caravans

Compass Caravans have continued their resurgence, scooping the title ‘Tourer of the Year’ in the Caravan Awards 2015 and introducing new models for the new season. Kirkcaldy Caravans is Scotland’s specialist Compass retailer and they promise an exciting line-up of the best-selling Compass Corona and Rallye models at SECC.

Tyne Valley Motorhomes

Popular retailer Tyne Valley Motorhomes return North of the Border with their great-value Signature retailer special motorhome range, built by Elddis. Five of the latest models will be on display to compare and contrast, each offering exclusive TVM specification and great value-for-money.

Cleveland Motorhomes

Elddis motorhome specialist, Cleveland Motorhomes, will be at SECC with the entire range of Autoquest, Accordo and Encore models – including the all-new Encore 254 and 285. Make sure you’re the first to see these latest models at SECC and get the best show deal while you’re there.

Perthshire Motorhomes

Perthshire Motorhomes and Elddis have joined forces this year to create an all-new dealer special range of motorhomes – the stunning Platinum Edition. See the full range of 6 models, each with a great show deal to celebrate the Platinum launch.

Every Elddis caravan and motorhome – including the exciting special edition ranges on show at the SECC – is built with Elddis’ unique and industry-leading SoLiD Construction, which comes backed by a ten year water ingress and body integrity warranty. What’s more, the Elddis team will be on hand at the SECC in Glasgow throughout the Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show to answer any questions you may have.

What are you looking forward to the most at this year’s Scottish Caravan. Motorhome & Holiday Home Show? Let us know in the comments below.