Cyclist Dave Sims, Matt Baker and Julia Bradbury added to Motorhome & Caravan Show 2015 lineup

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by Joe Jeffrey

Show set to go with a bang as more special guests are added to leisure vehicle show lineup

A new lineup of special guests has been announced for the Motorhome & Caravan Show taking place between 13 – 18 October at Birmingham’s NEC.

Featuring alongside all of the new 2016 leisure vehicles being launched at this year’s show, Matt Baker and Julia Bradbury will be contributing to a compelling line-up in the show’s Experts’ Theatre plus much more, guaranteed to get people on seats.

Also in the Experts’ Theatre, on Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 at 3pm, cyclist Dave Sims will speak about his incredible experience cycling 1,600 miles of the 2015 Tour De France on a bike designed in the seventies for children. With the professionals using carbon fibre bikes worth thousands of pounds, Dave completed the route on nothing more than a Raleigh Chopper! He raised thousands of pounds for charity and received support from Chris Froome and Team Sky in his bid to prove that you don’t need an expensive bike to take part in the world’s most gruelling bicycle race. He’s a big fan of caravans and motorhomes, having used a motorhome to support his pedalling adventure.

On the opening day of the show (Tuesday 13 October), which also marks Caravan Club Day, well-known TV and radio presenter Matt Baker will feature as a guest of the Club. Visitors can hear what he has to say about his countryside adventures and much more, whilst also grabbing the chance to find out more about the Club’s own network of UK sites, overseas travel service plus touring advice.

Friendly Friday on 16 October meanwhile, will see TV presenter and president of The Camping & Caravanning Club Julia Bradbury welcome show visitors. She will speak about her love of the outdoors, walking and will also take audience questions in the Experts’ Theatre at 3pm. Julia will also be on the Club stand throughout the day to meet and greet Club members and non-members alike.

At 3pm on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18, Lee Davey will take to the stage in the Experts’ Theatre to tell his inspiring story about the Davey family going #screenfree in their Swift Sprite caravan.

Caravanners for more than a decade, the Daveys focused on family time at Caravan Club sites in the UK and abroad by leaving TV’s, iPads, and other electronic devices at home to make the most of the great outdoors.

Also on hand at the show every day is ‘Gadget Girl’ Ella Williamson, probably best known for her five-year residency as ‘Gadget Guru’ on BBC2’s Something for the Weekend.

Ella regularly features in national newspapers and magazines, and on television and radio and also writes for BBC News. Not only will Ella be compering most of the sessions in the Experts’ Theatre, but she will also be giving her own expert advice daily at 4pm on the must have gadgets to take on holiday.

The show, supported by The Caravan Club and The Camping & Caravanning Club, is also set to welcome Carl ‘Foggy’ Fogarty, who will officially open the show as reported on CaravanTimes previously.

That’s not all though, and visitors can also enjoy exclusive show-only deals, new product demonstrations, free caravan towing and motorhome manoeuvring lessons, browse hundreds of accessories, free parking and a free show guide – plus kids go free too!

To buy tickets now and find out more about what to expect, click here.

Welsh caravan park blamed for local oil spill environmental disaster

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by Joe Jeffrey

Natural resources officers are working around the clock to contain the leak, said to have emanated from a caravan park generator

A 300-litre oil spill, thought to be attributed to a leak from a Conwy caravan park generator has spilled into a nearby river, leaving ducks swimming from their natural environment to seek dryer ground whilst believing to have killed off other wildlife inhabiting the area.

Natural Resources Wales officers are currently working around the clock to contain the pollution in a tributary off the estuary of Afon Gyffin close to the historic Conwy Castle.

Operations manager of Natural Resources Wales, Dylan Williams, told popular North Wales’ newspaper, the Daily Post: “We received a report on Tuesday morning of an oil pollution in a tributary of the Afon Gyffin in Conwy.

“Our officers are on site and are working to contain as much of the oil as possible by placing booms to prevent further risk of pollution downstream.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and are working with the local authority to assess and mitigate any environmental impact.

“The waters and rivers in Wales are very important to the country as a whole and it’s vital that we address these type of incidents as soon as they’re reported.”

It is thought the leak made its way to within the picturesque tributary late Monday evening, although the caravan park said to be responsible has not yet been officially named.

“We could take action against the caravan site owner’s, investigations are underway,” Williams concluded.

Experience the new Borders-to-Edinburgh railway with The Caravan Club

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by Joe Jeffrey

The Caravan Club highlights just how easy it is to partake on a journey fit for a Queen

Following the Queen’s visit to Scotland last week to officially open the new Borders-to-Edinburgh railway, The Caravan Club has highlighted just how easy it is to holiday within the area, providing a perfect link for an onward journey to Edinburgh along the way.

Melrose Gibson Park Caravan Club site, located in the Scottish Borders, is just a 30 minute walk from Tweedbank station so members and non-members staying at the site can enjoy a stress-free, fast journey in to the city of Edinburgh without the worry of traffic or park and ride.

The site also has excellent walking paths and cycle routes to help those who wish to explore the beautiful surrounding countryside or kick back and enjoy the peaceful setting. A caravan pitch at Melrose Gibson Park Caravan Club Site starts from £7.40 per pitch, plus £6.00 per adult and £1.70 per child per day.

The Borders-to-Edinburgh line is the longest new domestic railway to be constructed in Britain for over 100 years. It runs the 30 miles between Edinburgh and Tweedbank, taking just 55 minutes. A return ticket from Tweedbank to Edinburgh costs from £11.20 per person.

For more information on the park and its facilities, click here.

Scottish holiday park with Robinson Crusoe roots scoops top award

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by Joe Jeffrey

Award-wining park scoops Local Hero Award for Robinson Crusoe Adventure Park

A South East Scotland holiday park which makes a feature of its Robinson Crusoe connections has been voted the best visitor attraction in Fife.

Elie Holiday Park, just outside the picture-postcard seaside resort of Elie, took the accolade in the annual Local Hero Awards organised by Kingdom FM.

The station asked its listeners to vote in a number of different categories, including the visitor attraction which provided the best possible experience for visitors.

The result was a resounding thumbs-up for Elie Holiday Park, which attracts thousands of holidaymakers each year, and provides free entry for day visitors in the region.

Located on Shell Bay, the park provides luxury caravan holiday homes and lodges to rent and buy, plus pitches for campers, touring caravans and motorhomes.

Owned by Abbeyford Leisure for over 40 years, the park has recently been subject to a series of major investment projects – including the creation of a Robinson Crusoe Adventure Park.

Inspired by the region being the birthplace of Alexander Selkirk, the castaway sailor whose adventures were immortalised by Daniel Defoe, the fun play park has proved a big hit with visitors.

At its heart is a two-masted galleon linked to a fantasy desert island complete with palm trees.

The theme is continued by the park’s investment this year in a new development of Castaway holiday homes, luxuriously equipped and each with its own private veranda.

Peter Davies, Sales and Marketing Manager for Abbeyford Leisure, said the Kingdom FM award was a vote of confidence in both the park and its team:

“Many of our holidaymakers comment on the friendly and welcoming atmosphere at Elie Holiday Park, and the main credit for this must go to our park team,” he said.

“We take great pride in our reputation as one of the finest Scottish parks for family holidays, and the attractions and entertainment we provide are second to none.

“But this is also a great place to discover the region’s legendary beauty and fascinating history, and many guests enjoy exploring the Fife Coastal Path which runs through the park.
 
“We also play our part in safeguarding the natural world, and were delighted to receive the top David Bellamy Gold Conservation Award again this year for our many environmental initiatives.

“By opening our doors to day visitors with no entry charge, we have become something of a game changer in the holiday parks industry, and have become an attraction in our own right,” added Peter.

Elie Holiday Park is also closely involved with the local community, including football coaching for youngsters on the park through its links with St Andrews United and AM Soccer.

It has also teamed with Elie Watersports and Anstruther Golf Club to provide additional local sporting opportunities for park holidaymakers and owners under its Abbeyford Active initiative.

Elddis set to release updated Accordo motorhome range for 2016

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by Joe Jeffrey

Two two-berth and two-three-berth layouts announced in the award-wining Elddis Accordo motorhome range for 2015

Elddis’ compact, sporty Accordo motorhome range just got better for 2016 with the announcement of four layouts for the new season.

Despite the range’s compact size (under 2.6m in width and with 6’4″ internal headroom), it’s difficult to fathom how Elddis could do much more with the Accordo without compromising the range’s dimensions, but they’ve certainly managed to achieve this, whilst making it an ideal choice for those looking for something a bit more easy to park and manouevre.

Driver performance comes by way of a Peugeot Boxer 2.2 130bhp HDi Turbo Diesel which promises better fuel efficiency, as well as a six speed gear box and Euro 5 engine complete with reduced emissions.

Unlike some other coachbuilt motorhomes, all Elddis Accordo models within the range are built on an unmodified standard Peugeot chassis, said by Elddis to offer unrivalled driving qualities.

As previously mentioned, for 2016, the Elddis Accordo will be offered in four layouts – two two-berths and two three-berths. The two-berth Accordo 105 features a spacious front lounge which converts into a double bed, with the option of transforming the two drivers seats into two single beds, equally for a good night’s sleep. A side kitchen, coming equipped with everything you need to rustle up a meal, and rear bathroom finishes off the design.

The other two-berth option – the Accordo 120 – comes complete with a rear lounge-diner and a similar bedroom layout. This model also features side kitchen with opposite central bathroom.

Taking a look at the three-berth options, the Accordo 125 – ideal for up to three people – sees the front dinette transform into a single bed for a small adult or child, as well as a smart fixed double bed with ‘garage’ storage underneath which can be accessed from the rear outside locker door or inside the motorhome. A side kitchen and opposite bathroom layout also applies.

Meanwhile, the three-berth Accordo 135 features a front dinette, also with the ability to transform into a single bedroom, rear lounge which transforms into a double bedroom with the option of plenty of storage when travelling, and side kitchen with opposite bathroom to the centre

Across the range, a Sky-view opening sunroof with blind provides for an abundance of light, whilst ‘Marone’ craftsman built cabinetry contrasts nicely with the two-tone ‘Fantasie Brushed’ flush-lit kitchen units featuring chrome inset detail.

For added comfort, fixed beds come with Ozio Coolsoft luxury mattresses, with all layouts featuring the benefit of new 4kW space-saving Whale heating offering the option of running on gas and/or electric and featuring a quiet night-time setting for when summer comes to an end.

The Elddis Accordo range starts at an OTR price of £38,549.

Aguri unveils RV500 sat nav, designed for caravans and motorhomes

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by Joe Jeffrey

Aguri sat nav designed for caravans and motorhomes looks set to change the way you holiday in your caravan and motorhome

The name Aguri might not ring any bells, but the team behind the brand has been designing and manufacturing accessories for the car, trucks, caravans and motorhomes for over 30 years. And the Motorhome & Caravan RV500 sat nav device is no different, having been designed specifically with the caravanner and motorhomer in mind.

Preloaded with the latest specialist motorhome and caravan routing software, as well as speed trap technology and full European mapping, the Aguri RV500 comes ready to use straight out of the box with no need for arduous set up or aimlessly staring at your computer screen whilst waiting for update number 574 to kick in.

Simple to use for even the biggest technophobe, the Motorhome & Caravan RV500 comes preloaded with full European mapping, so you can use it straight out of the box wherever you decide to go, whilst free lifetime map updates and free speed trap updates should see you on your way wherever you’re heading.

Perhaps the best feature of the RV500, however, is the fact that Aguri’s specialist routing software creates routes specifically for your vehicle’s dimensions – just simply enter the dimensions of your vehicle and it does it all for you – this includes routes avoiding legal height and width restrictions, plus many other hazards.

The RV500 is also preloaded with over 31,000 caravan and campsites and motorhome stop-over locations as well, which should put an end to aimlessly driving around searching for that remote park you always wanted to check out.

Another added bonus which really brings the RV500 into its own is the addition of a new built-in DVR dash cam. Designed to monitor your every move, the dash cam enables you to pinpoint the exact location of any unfortunate accident or, for that matter, to simply record a road trip to remember in style.

To find out more about the Aguri RV500, visit Aguri’s official website here. And if you’re thinking of upgrading from your dusty old sat nav to something a bit more appropriate and up-to-date, make sure you take advantage of our exclusive discount code which entitles you to a ten per cent discount by entering the code CARNEWS at checkout.

North Somerset caravan site seeks expansion

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by Daniella Almeida

Caravan site in North Somerset looks to update ‘tired and dilapidated park’

Purn Holiday Park in Bleadon, North Somerset, submitted a planning application to North Somerset Council on Monday in an effort to extend its clubhouse and swimming pool, among other things. The appeal comes as an effort for the park to grow from “tired and dilapidated” into a “contemporary entertainment complex.”

The holiday park is owned by the Highbridge-based company West County Park Homes and, it could be said, is quite behind in the times in terms of appearance and recreational facilities.

The proposal comes with the plan to not only extend the clubhouse and swimming pool, but to also create an all new reception area, restaurant and bar, as well as enlarge the on-site shop. This with the idea of catapulting into the 21st century in mind.

The plans also include new toilet and washing facilities as well as a complete renovation to the roof, windows, and outside walls. These walls are to be decorated with wooden cladding.

In the design and access statement submitted to the council, Shattock Associates, the park’s agent, said: “These works have been designed to link the existing swimming pool complex with the clubhouse and shop complex, and to generally improve the entertainment and relaxation hub of this caravan park.

“This will drastically change the appearance of the centre from a tired and dilapidated state to a state-of-the-art, contemporary entertainment complex.

“This is a massive investment in a somewhat tired holiday campus that will be a huge boost to the tourism industry in North Somerset,” the statement reads.

If the application is approved, new jobs in the local area will be created, according to the agent.

You can view the application on the council’s online planning portal here.

Return of the Tractor Bumble as man tows caravan with tractor thousands of miles

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by Joe Jeffrey

Peter Matheson travels a further 3,500-miles on tractor with caravan and faithful dog in tow

You may recall last summer CaravanTimes reported on Peter Matheson, who drove from Scotland to Norway on an 8,000-mile caravan journey with a difference as part of his very own Tractor Bumble charity drive. The ex-policeman from Inverness decided – in his infinite wisdom – to tow his Elddis Crusader Sirocco by tractor with just his trusty pet Labrador, Amber, for company.

Well, Peter has since decided to do it all again and has just returned from a tour of Ireland – all in the name of a couple of more good causes.

The 3,500-mile trip, in a bid to raise money for the Irish Cancer Society and the Teenage Cancer Trust, saw Peter push his tractor, affectionately named Annie, even further to the extreme, beginning his journey at Larne Harbour in Co. Antrim and completing a drive which saw him finish a full lap of Ireland – a journey which took two months to complete at his tractor’s top speed of 15mph.

Similar to his journey to Norway last year, the spritely 51-year-old had no concrete plans other than to complete the journey – a move which saw him make his way from north to south and back again, whilst enabling him the opportunity to meet generous people on the way, as he told The Irish Post.

“The people really made it,” he said. “I had so much great support along the way. The Irish people really lived up to their reputation of being welcoming.”

“The people in Ballymaloe House were incredibly generous. They were holding a garden festival and invited me to stay for the weekend and I managed to raise 500 euros there alone.”

In total, Peter managed to raise more than £2,000 through his efforts, with charitable donations continuing to flood in by way of his fundraising website, which can be found here.

You’d think that, two journeys later, Peter would want to put his feet up, but it really seems as though there’ll be no slowing down.

“Next year I’ve something big planned but I don’t want to give too much away yet,” Peter said. “But I’ll be doing something afloat!”

To take a look at Peter’s journey in pictures, visit his Facebook page here. Meanwhile, if you want to donate to a worthy cause or two, click here.

Plans for Lincolnshire Caravan site turned down

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by Daniella Almeida

New touring caravan park proposed for Addlethorpe rejected

A caravan site in Addlethorpe, Lincolnshire, proposed to provide “a luxury rural venue, not a holiday park” has been turned down by the East Lindsey planning committee.

The aforementioned pledge was made by Sally Hobbins at the East Lindsey’s planning committee on Thursday in support of her application for 33 pitches to be allowed on land to the rear of Ormsby Lodge, off Mill Road.

The application, as detailed on CaravanTimes previously, proposed for the caravans to complement an angling lake that is operated by Hobbins and her husband. The lake has increased in popularity among residents and visitors alike after being loaded with £30,000 worth of fish.

Despite the appeal of the caravan site and the added recommendation of planning officer Jane Parker, the committee turned down the proposal seven votes to five.

It’s believed that the council objected to the application because the residents of Addlethorpe have already seen their fair share of caravans with 573 pitches in a small village of just 123 properties.

In a written presentation, ward member Councillor Colin Davie said his opposition was because it risked “destroying the separation of the tourist coast of Ingoldmells and the agricultural and rural nature of Addlethorpe.”

Councillor Jim Swanson also argued that the “cumulative effect” of more caravans would be “too severe.”

On the other hand, Councillor Tom Ashton proposed postponing any decision until further discussions were held. His motion was shot down, however, and the resolve to turn down the park remained.

Hobbins now has the choice to submit a revised application or lodging an appeal which would be heard by an independent inspector at a later date.

Is Zoe Ball heading to BBC Top Gear?

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by Joe Jeffrey

Chemistry suggests Zoe Ball set to join Chris Evans as second presenter on BBC Top Gear

Zoe Ball is set to join Chris Evans as co-host on BBC1 flagship motor show Top Gear, according to reports.

News of Ball’s imminent signing comes following new of producers being impressed with the chemistry displayed during a screen-test between television and radio presenter, Ball, and Evans, who currently remains the only confirmed presenter at this time.

A Top Gear insider told the Sunday Mirror: “She was brilliant down on the race track and she’s enthusiastic about cars.

“She’s a complete professional and of course has a long history of working with the BBC on radio and television so she has known Chris a long time. Things immediately clicked into place and there was a lightbulb moment among producers.

“The chemistry between Zoe and Chris is perfect.”

Evans has since hit back at rumours, taking to Twitter to say: “Hilariously inaccurate story in 2days paper. Re my good friend Zoe Ball excelling in Top Gear screen test. She hasn’t even been for one.” But didn’t Evans previously deny his own role prior to an official announcement being made?

The change in presenter lineup comes following Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May’s departure from the popular BBC show earlier this year following an altercation between Clarkson and a production staff member in March.

The trio has since gone on to announce a new television deal with Amazon Prime, the budget of which is rumoured to have cost the company somewhere within the region of £160 million and set to air from next autumn.

Contenders for the position of third co-host include motorcycle enthusiast, Guy Martin, Dermot O’Leary and actor, Philip Glenister of Life On Mars fame. Earlier this year, the BBC also launched a search for a Top Gear presenter, inviting members of the public to submit 30-second video auditions of themselves, although an announcement has not yet been made.

Fifth Wheel Experience announced for October

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by Daniella Almeida

The Fifth Wheel Experience is due to take place from 8 – 10 October

Those who have been eager to find out what exactly goes into a Fifth Wheel product will have the opportunity next month during the Fifth Wheel Experience.

The experience is primarily for customers looking to buy a Fifth Wheel Tourer or Inos Caravan, but is also looking to provide customers with information before they make any purchase.

During the event, guests will have access to the manufacturing process, sales team, and the end users. Customers who have toured all over Europe, lived in full time, and just used the product for weekends and holidays will be around to discuss the products.

Also, at the event during the day, guests will be able to test drive a Fifth Wheel tourer to experience it for themselves. All of the information one needs to have before buying a caravan will be at your disposal during this event marking it as a fundamental occasion for anyone.

The test drive includes the support of one of Fifth Wheel’s experienced drivers that will aid guests with improving their skills and learning how to tow a Fifth Wheel.

Some of the activities at the event include a factory tour, a hitching and unhitching display, and a reversing challenge. Guests will also get the opportunity to browse the endless possibilities of customisation available for their caravan.

The day begins at 10am and is set to include some great activities, many of which, including the test drive, have to be booked in advance so don’t miss out on your chance!

To book, call 01745 583000 or email Chris at cb@fifthwheelco.com.

Coachman see sales increase by 34 per cent at The Lawns Caravan Extravaganza

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by Joe Jeffrey

Coachman sees surge in sales of over one third following Caravan Extravaganza show

Coachman Caravans enjoyed an outstanding weekend at the annual Caravan Extravaganza show held at The Lawns in Cottingham earlier this month, with sales rising by more than a third on the previous year with a total retail value of £1.25million.

The show, held over the weekend of 5 – 6 September saw a 34 per cent increase in sales for Coachman’s ranges, including the front fixed bed layout of the Pastiche 470, as well as the Vision 570 featuring ultra versatile family layout – both new for 2016.

The two new layouts join Coachman’s other offerings for 2016, all of which look set to feature new designs, upgraded features and updated upholstery.

Of the upsurge in popularity of Coachman’s ranges, Coachman’s managing director Martin Henderson said: “We’re over the moon. The signs have been good for the caravan industry for some time now, but this year’s show at The Lawns has been an absolute joy. There was an incredible buzz, and Coachman is at the forefront of the revival.

“By reducing the weight of our caravans without impacting on quality, we’ve made them more accessible – they can now be towed by a wider range of vehicles than ever. We’ve also added ALDE heating to our Pastiche models, making caravans warmer and more comfortable for all-season touring.”

Henderson continued: “The new layouts proved extremely popular, with queues of people keen to see our latest models. The innovative two-berth Pastiche is our lightest fixed bed caravan, and couples praised the exclusive layout for its convenience and luxury, whilst the five-berth Vision 570 drew plaudits from families for its ergonomic design and fantastic use of space.”

Coachman’s efforts for 2016 have been focused on reducing the weight of its caravans. Working alongside engineers from the University of Hull and Bostik, the world’s leading producer of advanced sealants, Coachman has developed Advanced Bonded Construction techniques which have enabled the company to produce precision-manufactured caravans that are lighter, stronger and more durable than ever before.