24-hour torture challenge for Oakley Waterman Caravan Foundation fundraisers

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by David Bates

Trio attempt endurance feat for caravan charity

A Portsmouth trio are readying themselves for a 24-hour endurance challenge in aid of the Oakley Waterman Caravan Foundation (OWCF).

Tomorrow (15 August), Dave and Lee Waterman, along with friend Gavin Jones, will take to Hornchurch Country Park for the 24-hour Spitfire Challenge to raise funds for Waterman’s charity, which he founded to fulfil the ambition of his late son Oakley.

Former Portsmouth Defender Waterman’s son suffered from Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare form of cancer, and died in 2005. Oakley enjoyed caravan holidays at Sussex site Church Farm , so much so, that he urged his parents to invest in a caravan for children in a similar position to enjoy.

The OCWF since purchased another spot at Devon Cliffs near Exeter.

The Waterman brothers and Jones are marking the tenth anniversary of Oakley’s death, and the charity’s foundation, with this remarkable push for funding to secure a replacement caravan for their Church Farm site.

The race, which is normally run in relays, will be tackled by the trio simultaneously; they expect to cover over 100 miles over the day and night.

Jones acknowledged that their training regime has been brutal: “We’ve been training at 1am and 3am in the morning to try to get our bodies used to it. It’s a killer.”

The race will undoubtedly will be further torture, but the three men are powerfully motivated. “We won’t quit, though, because it’s for Oakley,” Jones insisted.

You can contribute towards a daunting challenge and a wonderful cause here.

The Little Tent Festival set to help children’s summer fun

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by Jessica Almeida

Parents seem to not have the time to play outdoors with their children

Summer activities, such as climbing trees, riding bikes and making daisy chains are seemingly becoming a thing of the past, with the stresses and strains of modern life indicating a lack of parental time to play outside with the kids, according to the results of a survey commissioned by The Caravan Club .

Results of the interesting survey demonstrated that 80 per cent of adults admitted that their children spend less time outside playing activities such as football, ‘tag’ or riding their bikes than they did when they were kids. It’s not shocking that over 70 per cent of adults stated that their kids would much prefer to play their computer games or on their tablets than enjoy the outdoors. However, over 75 per cent of the parents surveyed stated that the main reason for their kids staying indoors this summer is that they (the parents) are not able to play outside with them.

Over 50 per cent of respondents said that spending time with parents and siblings would get the kids outside more to enjoy the summer fun and activities they had as a child. However, 40 per cent of the respondents who say that they do play with their children would like to be able to do more.

Simon Reeve, TV presenter, explorer author, has joined The Caravan Club and created the Big Little Tent Festival – and initiative to encourage families to get outdoors this summer and spend more time together as a family.

The Big Little Tent Festival commences over the August Bank Holiday weekend, on the night of the 30 August. This festival aims to bring families together by encouraging them to have a festival in their own gardens, camp out together, become Woodland Trust Nature Detective, cook together over a campfire and spend time enjoying each other’s company. This concept moves the family away from all modern day distractions of tablets, televisions and video games, whilst providing the conveniences attributed to being at home.

Those who are interested in signing up can do so at www.caravanclub.co.uk/BLTF and are also able to register for a free festival pack that includes wristbands, bunting and various activities, as well as enter a prize draw to win a European family camping holiday with The Caravan Club. There will be BBQ prizes across the social media platforms from 17 to 31 August (just make sure you include #BigLittleTentFest15 on Twitter). The best picture submitted on Festival day also wins a European camping holiday. Also available for download on the website are recipes and music festival playlists.

The Caravan Club’s director general, Nick Lomas, said: “We all know how great it is to be outside and we want to encourage the next generation to ditch their smartphones, grab their parents and satisfy their natural thirst for adventure. So what better place to start than by exploring their own back garden? The Caravan Club and our partners over at the Woodland Trust are supporting this drive to ensure the younger generations embrace the excitement that camping and exploring the great outdoors provides.”
You can follow the festival on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @BigLittleTentFestival, and share your fun with the hashtag #BigLittleTentFest15.

The end of summer may be just around the corner, but it is never too late to get out there, toast some marshmallows and tell stories around the campfire whilst enjoying the great outdoors.

Check out the promotional video for The Big Little Tent Festival below.

Get your caravan ready for the magical Just So Festival

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by Daniella Almeida

This years Just So Festival focuses on the golden age of travel and will be great fun for children and adults alike

The award-winning annual Just So Festival is set to take place this year between 21 to 23 August at the Rode Hall Estate in Cheshire, it has been announced.

The theme for the festival this year, produced by Wild Rumpus has been announced as ‘the golden age of travel’ and will bring with it a plethora of activities for the entire family to enjoy.

The weekend-long camping festival will provide families with an imaginative outdoor adventure unlike any they’ve ever seen. Many activities, including art, music, literature, comedy and theatre will be held at the festival and provide an ideal opportunity for anyone wishing to view, listen, or take part.

The draw of the festival, however, can be found in the location. The beautiful landscape of the Rode Hall Estate is equipped with a magnificent woodland clearing, ample parkland, amphitheatres, and lakeside spots where the host of activities can be appreciated.

A mix of regional, national, and international performers and artists will be in attendance. All of these incredible things are perfect for people and families looking for a bit of adventure and wonder.

The Tribal Tournament, which has continued to remain a festival mainstay, will be performed by the motley crew from theatre extraordinaire the LAS Theatre. For those unaware, the Tribal Tournament is a series of games that will be played and performed by the theater separated into teams properly named the Fox, Frog, Owl, Fish, Stag and Lion tribes. Once you arrive at the festival, you will be introduced to your tribe and can then support them in the games and at the Tribal Parade!

The festival is well equipped with a host of magical themes, from pirates and fairies to expeditions into distant lands. To find out all of the details, head over to the Just So Festival’s website where you will be able to book your tickets. Ticket prices for the weekend are £100 for adults and £50 for children.

Whether you decided to engage in a midnight feast, pillow fight, or tribal tournaments, the weekend is guaranteed to be great fun! So pack up your caravan and set your sites for this magical land.

Book a last minute UK getaway with The Caravan Club

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by Jessica Almeida

Caravan Club campsites perfect for last minute bookers

Although summer may be coming to an end, there are still plenty of opportunities to take a last minute getaway around the UK with The Caravan Club. Enjoy a spot of surfing, a country walk, or even a scenic cycle along one of the 35 cycle routes developed in affiliation with Sustrans – a British charity that promotes sustainable transport – this summer.

Whether you are a member or a non-member, you can book a last-minute seven-night stay at one of The Caravan Club’s sites for a family of four from as little as £203.

Scarborough West Ayton Caravan Club Site, Yorkshire

Set amongst stunning nature, Scarborough West Ayton Caravan Club Site in Yorkshire, is perfect for all ages and provides many opportunities for walking, cycling and horse riding. Easy within reach from the site features many attractions including Castle Howard, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and restaurants perfect for a family outing.

A seven night stay at Scarborough West Ayton Caravan Site costs from £217.00; based on two adults, two children (aged 5-17), one car and caravan. Offer is valid until 31 August.

New Forest Caravan Club Site, Hampshire

Those who enjoy history will love the New Forest Caravan Club Site in Hampshire. The campsite was originally part of a Second World War airfield with sections of the runway still detectable. New Forest Caravan Club Site is the perfect place from which to explore the surrounding area and bustling towns of Poole and Christchurch by foot or bike. Organise day trips to the scenic Isle of Wight from just £8 per person.

Available until 31 August, a seven night stay at New Forest Caravan Club Site based on two adults, two children (aged 5-17), one car and caravan costs from £247.80.

St. David’s Lleithyr Meadow Caravan Club Site, Wales

Huddled between three headlands of the Pembrokeshire Coast,St. David’s Lleithyr Meadow Caravan Club Site in Wales is ideal for those after a last-minute action-packed getaway. You can enjoy nearby Whitesands Bay, whilst the site includes swimming, surfing, windsurfing and sailing.

A seven night stay at St. David’s Lleithyr Meadow Caravan Club Site costs from £203, based on two adults, two children (aged 5-17), one car and caravan available until 31 August.

For further information on these campsites and details how to join The Caravan Club visitwww.caravanclub.co.uk or book a tent pitch online at www.caravanclub.co.uk/camping

Tips from IAM on avoiding being scammed on the road

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by Daniella Almeida

Avoid being scammed with these tips from IAM

Attention all drivers, the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM)’s head of driving standards, Peter Rodger, reveals his tips on how to avoid being scammed by intentionally staged road accidents that force insurance companies to pay out high claims.

For starters, motorists should always be very aware of their surroundings at all times. However, should you be travelling through busy urban roads, it’s important to stay extra alert. Don’t be afraid to overuse your mirrors in order to maintain constant alertness of what is going on around you. If you spot a hazard early such as a motorist driving in an unusual way or a surge of oncoming traffic, make sure to slow down right away. Wait until it’s the right time to pass them and do so safely.

It’s also important for drivers to be able to spot hazards before they happen. If you can spot a hazard, you can probably stop it before it occurs. Many accidents happen when you’ve been following too close to another vehicle.

Always maintain a safe following distance from the car in front of you as a precaution. The general driving rule of thumb is to keep a two second distance behind any vehicle on any road. This allows you to have much more time to react than if you were directly behind the vehicle should they have to brake suddenly.

Even though you won’t be tailgating anyone, it is possible that others will not extend that courtesy to you. Always be aware of anyone that may be tailgating you and never let your guard down! Always keep your eyes on the road before you.

However, if the motorist behind you makes you feel threatened, pull over somewhere safe and legal to allow time for them to pass you.

Even if you feel safe to proceed with your journey, it is imperative that you continue to use caution. Don’t continue the drive if you don’t feel safe enough on the road. Only when you’ve regained your cool and feel safe should you do so. If you think a driver is flashing their headlights to give you way, think again. They could be doing this as a way to distract you. Always use your better judgment.

Road rage is a major factor in accidents, which is why it’s important to avoid engaging in an argument with the driver behind you. If you do, you run the risk of angering them further and increasing the chance of a collision. Again, should you feel threatened, pull over and call the police.

No matter how safe you are, accidents will happen. If a collision occurs and you don’t think you’re to blame, call the police. If anyone is injured, it’s imperative to the call emergency services – don’t try to fix the problem on your own.

Once you’ve called everyone that needs to be informed, be sure to collect the other driver’s details. Take pictures of any damage and the people involved so that you can’t be cheated later on. If you can prove that their were less people in the car, you can avoid the potential of injury claims being made. The same goes for damages. If you can prove what damages there were, you reduce the risk of being cheated.

Witnesses to the collision can be important, but seeing is believing. A dashboard camera is the best bet on understanding how an accident happened and who was involved. All motorists are encouraged for all motorists to install one in their vehicle.

If all drivers follow these tips, they can avoid getting scammed on the road. However, if you still need more assistance, consult the Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB).

Being involved in an accident is scary enough. Don’t let yourself be scammed on top of that.

Fire safety warnings issued after a series of caravan combustions

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by Ellie Pritchard

Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue reveal its hottest tips to prevent caravan fires

After a series of caravan fires, Lincolnshire fire fighters are warning caravanners to take extra precautions.

Deputy community safety manager, Steve Screaton, said: “In Lincolnshire, we have a large number of caravans and mobile homes. They are used for holidays, weekend breaks or for permanent residences.

“With this in mind, and the fact that a fire in a caravan or mobile home is nine times more likely to lead to death or injury than in a house, it is important that people are aware of the precautions they can take to reduce the risk of fire.”

Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue is urging caravanners to park their vans at least six metres part, never use barbecues inside a caravan or awning and to be sure to have a working smoke alarm fitted.

In addition, you should never leave children alone in your caravan, nor should you leave any cooking appliances unattended or smoke in bed.

If you’re ever in doubt, think PAT:
Phone: Make sure you know where the nearest phone point is.
Arrangements: Be aware of the caravan site’s fire safety arrangements.
Torch: Keep a torch by the door.

If your caravan catches fire, you should get out as quickly and as safely as possible. Once safe, call 999 giving your exact location and map reference and do not attempt to go back inside the caravan until the fire is out.

Marquis Leisure announces 11 NCC Approved Workshops

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by Daniella Almeida

The UK’s largest Dealer Network announces that all 11 of their workshops have passed NCC assessment

Marquis Leisure Motorhomes and Caravans announced today that all 11 of their nationwide Service Centres have passed strict assessment by the NCC. They have also been granted the Approved Workshop Scheme (AWS).

Commercial director of Marquis, Graham Davidson-Bowman, responded to the approval by saying: “I am delighted that the NCC have recognised the standard of our workmanship and customer satisfaction in awarding all of our Service Centres the AWS seal of approval.

“Jason Wilson, Marquis Director of Service along with all of our Service Centre personnel should be justifiable proud of this achievement,” he concluded.

The AWS is considered to be the standard for motorhome and touring caravanning service. It was created as a joint effort between the NCC, The Caravan Club, and The Camping and Caravanning Club.

The standards set out by AWS are quite stringent, but Marquis came prepared. The company has been investing in training for these services, as well as adding additional equipment and a purpose designed computer system.

We here at CaravanTimes extend our congratulations to Marquis Leisure.

Bailey announces Australian cross-country adventure

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by David Bates

Bailey set outback challenge for Alu-Tech machines

Bailey of Bristol is set to send two caravans across Australia, in a trip dubbed the West2East Challenge, aimed at demonstrating the manufactuer’s caravans’ reliability and durability in rough conditions.

On 21 August, two Bailey caravans – the first and second caravans to be fully built in Australia at Bailey’s Melbourne subsidiary – will depart on their 6,000km journey, which the Bristol manufacturer believes will exhibit the lightweight endurance of its Alu-Tech design and mark the advent of Australian-made Bailey leisure vehicles.

Leaving from Denham, Australia’s most westerly point, the two caravans, towed by two Toyota Land Cruisers, will travel to Byron Bay, the eastern-most point, in a journey expected to last 14 days until 3 September.

The West2East Challenge will move through Australia’s outback heartlands, taking in Alice Springs in the Northern Territory, Birdsville and Uluru, as well as 2,200km of gravel, dirt and corrugated roads, picked to put Bailey’s Alu-Tech construction system to the test.

Although it’s currently winter down under, the cross-country route will expose the inaugural Australian Baileys to daytime temperatures of between 34 and 38 degrees celsius, whilst during the night temperatures can drop below zero, especially in the Gibson and Simpson deserts. The team from Bailey will be hoping their temperature control system and market-leading insulation is as good as they say.

The caravans have been tested in advance at the Australian Automotive Research Centre (AARC) to ensure they’re up to the task, but, with a challengethe size of this, surely anything could happen.

For those keen to follow Bailey’s outback shenanigans, follow @BaileyofBristol using #W2EChallenge.

Kinmel Bay £5m holiday park expansion meets objection from locals

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by Daniella Almeida

Kinmel Bay residents voice concern following plans for park expansion

Plans to extend a caravan park in North Wales to the tune of £5 million have been met with strong opposition from local residents.

Plans to expand Sunnyvale Caravan Park in order to create more room for touring caravans and motorhomes, as well as more landscaping throughout the park, have already sprung into action. A bandstand, large golf course, toilet block and a liquified petroleum gas storage compound look set to also be introduced.

Guests flocking to the area on holiday will naturally desire to take in the amenities of the site. The pubs, restaurants, and public buildings in the area will be open to the holidayers and this will escalate the traffic of a usually tamed locale.

Local residents have expressed concern that the expansion will cause an increase in noise and traffic in the area, with one resident, Patricia Hill, saying: “All residents object to tourers on the underdeveloped area as the tourers will have access to Southlands Road to get to the pubs and restaurants, which will cause noise and disturbance and litter to a very quiet cul de sac.

“The proposal to put a permanent toilet and shower block and bulk gas behind our properties is a major concern for elderly residents.

“The access road from the camp is one of the most dangerous in the area and there have already been several near misses by residents already,” Hill concluded.

The problems aren’t going unheard, though; a spokesperson for Sunnyvale said: “We have fully taken on board the concerns of local residents.

“Planning permission already exists for touring caravans to be sited on this section of the site. With reference to the location of the toilet block, it has been considered that this is the best location for this facility.

“We are unable to restrict holidaymakers or the general public from accessing Southlands Road from the park itself.

“Finally, we have been committed to the locality for over fifty years and have worked with local people and the local authority to continually improve and work to resolve any legitimate questions and concerns,” the spokesman finished.

Despite the issues that come with the park, the residents will also be offered generous opportunities once the expansion happens. Future plans will provide employment for local tradesmen and bring in around £3 million to the local economy each year.

What do you think of these concerns? Let us know in the comments below.

The CaravanTimes guide to the top 10 best dog-friendly caravan sites

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by Jessica Almeida

Why leave your dog at home bring when you can bring it on your next family holiday? CaravanTimes looks at some of the best dog-friendly sites across the UK

To many, a dog is more than just an animal, it is a member of the family. You wouldn’t leave a family member behind on a family trip, so why leave your dog? Many families take their pets with them while caravanning, but the problem is some caravan sites don’t allow pets. CaravanTimes has taken the initiative to compile a list of the top ten dog-friendly campsites so you don’t have to. So read on to find out our top ten best dog-friendly caravan sites.

Thetford Forest

Located on the edge of Britain’s largest lowland pine forest, the Camping and Caravanning Club’s Thetford Forest is ideal for those wanting to explore Norfolk’s towns and cities. The local area is perfect for walking and cycling and has many trails designated for dog walking. There is an abundance of outdoor actives and members and non-members are welcome along with motorhomes, trailers and tents – and of course our four-legged friends.

Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with many visitors heaping praise on the great dog exercising areas throughout. The site has been described as nice and quiet which is perfect for a dog’s first caravanning experience. And, with so many returning visitors, this site is a top choice for dog owners whose furry friends are welcomed free of charge.

For more information on Theford Forest click here.

Dunstan Hill Campsite

Dunstan Hill Campsite is located in an area that is best known for its beautiful views and beaches. Situated just a mile from the North Northumberland Heritage Coast, this site is a great place to adventure out into the ‘castle coast’. The bonus part of this site is the pleasant woodland walk near the beach, which is a wonderful place to walk your four-legged family member. The site welcomes caravans, trailers, motorhomes and tents.

Guests say the campsite has many points of interests for all ages and is popular among those who like to take their dogs with them on holidays since there are many areas your dog can explore. Dunstan Hill is perfect for every member of the family especially your dog.

To find out more about Dunstan Hill Campsite click here.

Normans Bay

Normans Bay site is a great retreat for those who enjoy walking and exploring all nature has to throw at them. The site, located in East Sussex, is just a stone’s throw away from a dog-friendly beach – ideal if your pooch enjoys chasing the sea. Meanwhile, facilities onsite include all the essentials and allow caravans, motorhomes and trailers with its all season pitches. The area is steeped in history and is surrounded by a lot of places where you can discover an abundance of history.

Reviewers say the campsite is very friendly and welcoming and it is a very well kept dog-friendly site. With little to complain about, the site is sure to be well received by every family member, especially dogs.

For more information on Normans Bay click here.

King’s Lynn Caravan and Camping Park

Situated on the edge of North Runcton, Norfolk, King’s Lynn Caravan and Camping Park is an eco-friendly site that has all the amenities needed for a well deserved holiday. The campsite is very welcoming of all kinds including families, motorcyclists and student groups, but most importantly it’s dog-friendly. There are many on-site attractions and many nearby leisure activities for everyone.

With high-rated reviews, guests state that this campsite is a perfect getaway for a nice relaxing weekend, featuring well maintained pathways and open areas perfect for dog walkers.

For more information visit www.kl-cc.co.uk.

Crows Nest Caravan Park

Located between Scarborough and Filey, award-winning Crows Nest Caravan Park is a great place for your dog to feel as free as a bird. Not only is it perfect for your furry friend, but this park has everything you are looking too. Able to accommodate tents, touring caravans, motorhomes or campervans, Crow Nest Caravan Park provides activities for every member of the family.

If that doesn’t sounds good enough guests rate this park highly, with 85 per cent willing to recommend this site to a friend and 83 per cent indicating they would stay at Crow Nest Caravan Park again. Guests were pleased with the efficiency of the staff and mentioned that a number of personal touches made them feel like they were at home.

For more information visit Crows Nest Caravan Park’s website here

Stowford Farm Meadows

Stowford Farm Meadows is one of the few campsites in Devon that is open all year round, which means it is never a bad time to visit. The park welcomes dogs with open arms within its superb rural setting and is sure to be the best spot for your next adventure into the great outdoors.

Stowford Farm Meadows is an award winning touring site and well received among caravanners and campers. Well worth the money, many guests enjoy the area owing to the location being set directly within the centre of the park – an ideal opportunity to explore the many restaurants, pubs, play areas, and leisure activities to boot.

Want more information? Click here.

Dornafield Caravan Park

Five star multi award winning park, Dornafield is also located in Devon between Torquay, Totnes, Newton Abbot and Dartmoor. It is affiliated with The Caravan Club and is a member of the Best of British group. After you have relaxed and recharged you and your dog can explore everything the site has to offer, from beaches to restaurants, the site has it all, including two spacious off-lead dog exercise areas.

Guests have previously commented on the friendly staff who are always on hand, remaining knowledgeable and passionate about their home county and willing to help to no end. Those who intend to only stay for a short period, often find themselves returning to Dornafield Caravan Park for an extended break time and time again.

If the awards this park has received don’t express you, then check out the site for yourself. Visit http://www.dornafield.com now for more information.

Thriftwood Holiday Park

Located within easy reach of London, Thriftwood Holiday Park is situated in the picturesque village of Stansted, Kent. Owners of the park have made it their responsibility to create a five-star park to be proud of. Whatever you are looking for in a holiday you are bound to find it here. This family-friendly and dog-friendly park offers a variety of activities including a play-park, arcade, swimming pool and other on-site facilities.

Guests admire the friendly, willing-to-help staff who are on hand to make your stay as easy and comfortable as possible. Taking notice of the ideal locations, guests have expressed their thoughts on the beautiful views Thriftwood Holiday Park has to offer time and time again.

Check out the picturesque view for yourself and visit http://www.thriftwoodholidaypark.com for more details.

Stanwix Park Holiday Centre

Geared towards families, this Cumbrian coastal park offers a great number of facilities to keep everyone – including your furry family member – entertained. The site accommodates caravans, motorhomes and tents all year round. The site has also featured in many other publications as a top park, so we can’t all be wrong!

Guests describe the park as a “beautiful hidden gem” and state that it provides everything you are looking for when it comes to planning a perfect family holiday. A majority of visitors say that Stanwix Park Holiday Centre is well worth a visit.

To experience the fun yourself click here.

Plassey Holiday Park

Plassey Holiday Park is a perfect getaway for those who are accompanied by a furry friend. This site is dog-friendly and even has a specific dog exercise area where they are permitted off-lead, with an additional three miles of nature trails dogs are allowed to enjoy on-lead. Located in the beautiful Dee Valley, in North Wales, the site is home to a retail village with 20 independent boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops too, so if you’re also looking for a spot of retail therapy, you really can’t go wrong.

Popular among families, the park’s guests say it is a favourite for every member of the family. Guests describe the site as first class and a delightful place that is easily accessible, leaving very impressed and claiming that they will return.

If you are interested in finding out more about Plasey Holiday click here.

Next time you plan a family holiday, save the kennel costs and bring your pooch with you. With these top ten caravan sites to take dogs to, there is no reason why your furry family member should stay stuck in the kennels when it’s time to relax and explore pastures new.

If you think we’re missing somewhere you think deserves to be on the list, let us know below. We’d be interested to hear your thoughts.

Bunn Leisure refunds bereaved grandmother – into her dead partner’s bank account

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by Ellie Pritchard

Leisure park that wouldn’t refund a grieving grandmother has now made another faux pas

A holiday park which refused to refund a pensioner the cost of her holiday following her partner’s sudden death has finally issued a refund – into the pensioner’s deceased partner’s bank account.

As reported last week, bereaved grandmother, Jean Kinahan, 78, was denied a refund on her Bunn Leisure caravan holiday following the death of her husband because, according to the popular leisure park company, death is not covered in the terms of the comany’s cancellation policy.

Jean told the Mail Online: “I was banking on that money so I could pay for the funeral. I’m not sure what I’m going to do now.

“I am relieved that they are repaying it, it’s more the principle than anything else.”

Jean had been with her partner James Burgess, 76, for 20 years. They had planned to marry, but had to postpone the wedding when James was taken into hospital with heart disease.

They postponed the big day from June to August in the hope that James would be out of hospital in time, and then booked a caravanning honeymoon at West Sands Holiday Park in Selsey for September. Sadly, James sadly passed away two weeks ago.

Bunn Leisure’s reluctance to refund Jean outraged one local resident, who set up a petition gaining over 1,000 signatures.

“I was shocked to get so many signatures on the petition. After it reached 1,000 I had a phone call from John Bunn himself,” Jean said.

“He didn’t apologise but did say the refund was being done.”

Jean explained to the company that her late partner had paid for the holiday with his bank card, and she had then repaid him in cash. But, now that the money has been refunded into his bank account, it could take weeks for Jean to have access to it, because his estate has to be managed.

John Bunn, managing director of the leisure park, has confirmed that the company has received James’ death certificate – a necessary procedure, which enabled the company refund the full £434 for the week long stay.

He said: “‘We have never had this situation arise before, but in light of this case, we are reviewing our terms and conditions and will undoubtedly be including bereavement in the policy terms moving forwards.”

What do you think about this series of unfortunate events? Do you feel as though Bunn Leisure should have moved the goalposts in this instance to handle the matter with a bit more dignity? Let us know in the comments below.

John Lennon’s gypsy caravan: the story behind one of the world’s most famous caravans

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by Ellie Pritchard

We all know of John Lennon’s famous Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band caravan, but where did it come from? And where is it now?

Since 2011, John Lennon’s lavish Rolls Royce has been kept safe in the confines of the Royal British Columbia Museum and many of his well known drawings have long been auctioned, but there was one key piece of Beatles memorabilia that left fans bemused as it remained lost for 40 years.

The Burton design caravan was initially bought by Lennon as a gift for his son Julian’s fourth birthday. He hired the pop art designing trio from Amsterdam who collectively called themselves ‘The Fool’ – consisting of Josje Leeger and Simon and Marijke Koger – to paint his son’s extravagant present with the famous Sgt Pepper motif and the Romany art designs that were so popular amongst travellers at that time.

Lennon also commissioned the trio to paint his famed Rolls Royce with a similar, but more psychedelic pattern as he wanted to be known as “an eccentric millionaire” according to reports at that time.

After the final touches had been added, Lennon, who was living with his first wife Cynthia and their son Julian at the time, had the caravan delivered to the family home in Tittenhurst Park, Ascot on July 24th 1967, while the family were on holiday in Greece. There, it remained in the garden for 7 years – of course, it was taken out for a spin every once in a while, as the family frequently toured Europe in the comfort of their caravan.

Later that year, the hippy Beatle bought the Irish island of Dorinish. Yes, he actually bought an island. After paying £1,900 for the land, and with it being only 15 minutes away from the coast of Ireland, Lennon’s initial plan was to build a house there. And if buying an island didn’t raise enough eyebrows, fans were surprised when he ferried his son’s colourful caravan over to Dorinish too.

Alas, with his busy recording schedule, Lennon didn’t get the chance to visit his island as much as he had wanted to and, by the time 1973 came around, he still wasn’t ready to settle down in Dorinish, so the planning permission for his dream home fell through.

With a long-term absence from Dorinish looking ever more likely, generous Lennon lent the land to Sid ‘King of the Hippies’ Rawle free of charge. Rawle used the land as a retreat for hippies, and together they started a commune, but the group eventually dissipated when they moved to Wales after their tents were destroyed by a fire.

Four years after Lennon was murdered in 1980, Ono sold Dorinish for £30,000 and donated the money to an Irish orphanage. Dorinish is now used as a grazing site for livestock and is sometimes visited by enthusiastic Beatles fans on the anniversary of Lennon’s death.

After the shock sale of Dorinish, caravan enthusiasts and Beatles fans all over the world were left asking what on Earth happened to that caravan? With it nowhere to be seen on the island, it was rumoured that the Sgt Pepper gypsy caravan lay at the bottom of the Irish sea – but that couldn’t have been further from the truth.

When fundraising director of the Ascot Lawyers Foundation, Alan Carr, bought former Beatle Ringo Starr’s Longcross residence, he was shocked to discover Lennon’s caravan hidden under polythene sheets in the garden.

It was soon revealed that Starr had acquired the caravan shortly after Lennon’s murder as part of his estate. When he saw the poor condition of his band mate’s pride and joy, Starr called in vintage caravan restorer John Pockett to make some much needed repairs. The caravan was then kept next to Starr’s swimming pool for 40 years, but this was unknown until Carr bought the house.

Upon discovery, Lennon’s gypsy caravan was completely dilapidated and much of the paintwork had been worn off. In fact, only the metal frame, the wheels and a few planks of wood had survived decades of dilapidating dormancy and its pending refurbishment is set to cost around £30,000 – coincidently the same amount of money for which Ono sold Dorinish – a small price to pay for the caravan’s return to its former glory.

Carr, 60, said: “I do not know at the moment quite what I want as I want to sell it to someone close to The Beatles.

“Hopefully it can be sold to somewhere in Liverpool to a cultural memorabilia museum or the cultural division of the band or something. But I will have to balance the interest of the charity very carefully.”

The fate of the gypsy caravan is still to be decided, but for now it lies in the safe hands of Carr, who is looking to have it auctioned or moved to a cultural museum. This has struck controversy amongst Beatles’ fans who think the caravan should be returned to its rightful owner: Julian Lennon.

Carr has since fought back, explaining his reasoning. He said: “I think it’s fine if fans want it to go to Julian but we are determined to raise a specific value so the charity can do as much good as possible.”

All we know is, with Lennon’s tooth being sold for $31,000 (around £20,000), his Rolls Royce being sold for $2.3 million (£1.5m) – making it the most expensive car in history – and the price of standard gypsy caravans retailing at around £10,000, Lennon’s Sgt Pepper vehicle could break caravan and motorhome sale records.

Let us know what you think should be done with this intriguing piece of history once it’s been refurbished to its former glory.