Heavy traffic expected over Bank holiday weekend

Posted by

By Claire Lawson

Millions are expected to hit the road for the long weekend

Traffic over the Bank holiday weekend is expected to be busy as millions of people plan to travel within the UK during the break.

Analysts, INRIX, predict the roads in the south-east to be 35 per cent higher than usual on Friday afternoon whilst peak traffic in the Midlands and north-west are expected to be between 4pm and 5pm.

According to the AA,16 million drivers will be on the roads; the organisation has advised drivers planning to travel via motorways in the heart of England to set off during the morning or evening if possible.

The Highways Agency has suspended as many as 151 miles of roadworks which allows for 98 per cent of England’s motorways to be free of roadworks. However, roadworks on the M6 and M25 could not be lifted and restrictions will still be imposed.

High levels of traffic are also expected on Monday as people make their return journeys. Heavy traffic is expected to last all day in the south-east peaking around 11am. South-west peak time is said to be estimated at around 1pm and the Midlands will peak at 5pm.

Passengers travelling on the Network Rail services are not expected to run into disruptive or major engineering works following strike action no longer going ahead as planned.

1.8 million people will be heading out to the airports for their overseas trip with almost a quarter leaving through Heathrow Airport.

Whatever you do this bank holiday, we hope it’s a good one. Remember to stay safe – and out of those pesky jams.

The Caravan Club warns of bogus email containing potential virus

Posted by

By Joe Jeffrey

Club advises members to delete bogus Trojan virus ‘phishing’ email with potential to steal data

The Caravan Club has warned of a bogus email currently being distributed which may contain a virus.

The email, appearing to be from The Caravan Club with the subject title ‘Travel Order Confirmation 0300202959’ whilst suggesting it emanates from the address overseastravel@caravanclub.co.uk, is NOT from The Club and its attachment may contain a potential harmful Trojan virus which may attempt to ‘phish’ for members’ details.

In order to avoid risk of downloading a virus which could potentially cause harm to members’ computers or handheld devices, The Caravan Club has recommended those in receipt of the email delete it and any other emails that are not expected.

A temporary measure of disabling the email inbox overseastravel@caravanclub.co.uk has been implemented whilst further investigation is ongoing and The Club has advised all members who have opened the email to download and run a free virus checker from the website www.malwarebytes.org or use their own anti-virus software to check for potential problems.

The Club has subsequently apologised for the confusion the scam email may have caused, whilst assuring those who have booked overseas travel that plans have not been affected.

GEM Motoring Assist releases illegal and prescription drug-driving videos launched

Posted by

By Claire Lawson

New video campaign outlining the laws on drug-driving by road safety organisation looks set to inform road users of the dangers and consequences of driving under the influence

A new video by road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist looks set to provide information on the laws surrounding drug use and the law.

The video, which can be seen below, outlines the changes of the drug-driving laws and establishes the legal limits of both illegal and legal drugs.

The video, funded by the GEM Motoring Assist Road Safety Charity, details the eight illegal and eight legal prescription drugs which fall under new measures, which could ultimately see road users facing penalties under a new UK legislation. GEM chief executive, David Williams MBE, said: “This video sets out to explain the new legislation, as well as to reinforce the warning that driving after using any potentially intoxicating substance is both dangerous and illegal.

“Drugs can affect your vision, your hearing, your reaction time, your perception of risk and your ability to carry out a variety of tasks. You may feel sleepy, sick, dizzy or unable to move quickly. Your vision may be blurred, and you may also find it hard to focus or pay attention.. symptoms like this make you much more likely to be involved in a collision,” he continued.

Two versions of the video have been made for young drivers and mature motorists. The shorter version for the younger audiences focuses on illicit drugs whilst the longer version for a more mature audience contains vital information on the effects prescription medicine can have whilst in control of a vehicle behind the wheel.

Transport Research Laboratory helped to produce the video with chief scientist Professor Andrew Parkes providing proof on drug effects. “Different drugs have different effects on different people and the picture for road safety is really complicated. But they all have an effect on driving; none of them makes driving better,” he said.

“We hope this video will be used extensively, particularly to support school and college advice programmes for their students, and to inform older drivers who may be at risk because of the prescription medicines they take,” finished David Williams.

For more information, check out the videos below and let us know your thoughts.

Prescription video

Drugs, medicines, driving and the law from GEM Motoring Assist on Vimeo.

Illicit drug video

Drug, driving and the law from GEM Motoring Assist on Vimeo.

How to use your sat nav the right way

Posted by

By Joe Jeffrey

Following on from a recent pilot scheme incorporating the use of sat navs during UK driving tests, CaravanTimes speaks to Garmin to find out how to get the best out of your sat nav device safely and efficiently

It goes without saying that in-car technology has its uses when taking to the road to explore pastures new. Gone are the days where we reach for the A to Z in order to plan our route before setting off on our latest adventure behind the wheel of our cars or motorhomes, and satellite navigation systems have proven to be a fast and efficient way of getting to our desired destination in the quickest and most convenient time possible – all at the press of a few onscreen buttons.

It is also a given that, over the past 17 years since Garmin introduced their first in-car sat nav, the StreetPilot, to the public in 1998, advances in technology now means we are able to not only plan a specific route, but also find points of interest along the way, as well as the nearest petrol station when its time to refuel, our favourite restaurant chain en route, and even check-in on social media once we arrive where we’re heading to let our loved ones know that we’ve arrived safely and in one piece.

Now it seems we are entering into a new phase in the ever-growing realm of advanced technology, and it’s not just car drivers that are embracing sat navs, but more so those that permit us to get behind the wheel in the first place.

A nationwide shakeup earlier this month has seen a new type of driving test introduced that is currently being trialed across the UK that includes following directions on a sat nav system for 20 minutes, whilst carrying out standard manoevres.

Sat-nav technology isn’t without its pitfalls though, especially when it’s not used correctly and safely, as Kirsty Quarterly, Garmin personal navigation device (PND) product manager agrees. Of the new pilot scheme, Kirsty told CaravanTimes: “The proposed new driving test, which incorporates the use of a sat nav in the car, is a great way of introducing future road users to using in-car technology in a safe and responsible manner. Our advice isn’t just about helping learner drivers pass their driving test, this is advice that even the most seasoned of sat nav users should be reminding themselves about for safer and more efficient driving.

“Sat navs do now form a part of modern driving so it makes a lot of sense to start educating young drivers early on about how to use a sat nav properly,” she continued.

The above said, it certainly pays to be vigilant when it comes to ensuring you get the most out of your sat nav whilst remaining safe behind the wheel at all times. Read on to find out how.

Kirsty’s top tips:

1. Remember: YOU are the driver, your sat nav is an aid
Your sat nav is there to help give you directions but remember that you are the one in control! If there are road diversions in place or if you judge that the route ahead is not appropriate, then do override the directions and continue on the safest route. It will always automatically re-adjust itself so you can still arrive safely at your destination, just via an alternative route. The sat nav is an aid, it is not absolute, so make your own judgements based on the situation ahead accordingly.

2. Hone up on your listening skills
You should keep your eyes on the road, not on the sat nav. Get into the habit of listening to the directions rather than looking at them. Make like commuters on the London Tube and try not to make eye contact – you shouldn’t need to look at your sat nav for longer than is necessary! This allows you to focus on your driving and means you’ll be more aware of potential dangers that present themselves as you make a turn or navigate a roundabout. Do switch your phone onto silent too so notification sounds don’t interfere with your concentration.

3. Double check your route before you set off

It may seem obvious but do double check that the postcode and/or address you have entered is actually your desired location – a single incorrect letter or digit could mean you end up further away from your destination than when you set off! Also, if there are certain areas or roads you wish to avoid during your journey, or if you’d like the most time- or fuel-efficient route, do enter this into your sat nav from the get-go.

4. Only handle your sat nav as a last resort

When driving, the road ahead and surroundings should have your full attention so avoid handling your sat nav as much as possible. Certain models do have voice-activated navigation so you simply need to speak your instructions and your device should respond accordingly, leaving both your hands safely on the wheel and your eyes on the road.

5. Keep your map software updated

Research by Garmin shows that almost half (40%) of sat nav owners never update their mapping software1 and this can lead to a plethora of potential problems later down the line. Roads come and go so as time goes on maps will become less accurate, meaning that you’re more likely to end up in the wrong location so try to update your mapping software at least once a year.

Competition to win a Compass Rallye caravan worth over £25,000 announced

Posted by

By Joe Jeffrey

Elddis teams up with The Camping and Caravanning Club and the Mirror Group to offer prize of a lifetime

To celebrate National Camping and Caravanning Week 2015, Elddis has teamed up with The Camping and Caravanning Club and Mirror Group to offer one lucky winner the chance to walk away with a state-of-the-art Compass Rallye 664 caravan worth over £25,000.

The Rallye 664 is a twin-axle four-berth luxury touring caravan, full to the brim with style and specification.

Key features include Compass’ Sky-Scape panoramic sunroof; 24-hour central heating, which can be controlled via mobile phone; a Phantom tracker system; and sumptuous interior complete with Aquaclean technology.

Ideal for the whole family, the Rallye 664 is one of Elddis’ most popular layouts, featuring a transverse fixed double bed at the rear and a spacious lounge at the front which converts into a large double bedroom when its time for lights out. The centrally located kitchen boasts a plethora of modcons, including microwave, dual-fuel hob, oven and grill, as well as an enormous fridge-freezer. And if it’s alfresco dining you’re after, you’ll love the external gas barbeque point too.

The large bathroom comes just as equipped as well, spanning the rear of the caravan and featuring hot water on tap – also programmable by your smartphone – and a heated towel rail for style and practicality.

As if that wasn’t enough, The Camping and Caravanning Club are also giving away 10,000 free ‘site nights’ – encouraging family and friends to get out and discover the vast and varied network of Club sites to explore across the UK.

The competition launches in the Sunday Mirror on Sunday 24 May 2015, so make sure you pick up your copy to be in with a chance of winning one of these great prizes.

Funding secures plans for Blue Anchor Leisure expansion to go ahead

Posted by

By Claire Lawson

Lincolnshire business is set to expand after funding from Yorkshire Bank confirmed

Owners of 14 caravan parks along the English East Coast, Blue Anchor Leisure, have received support from Yorkshire Bank to expand two of their parks.

The developments include a 140 pitch-site extension to the Golden Palm Resort in Chapel St. Leonards and 150 lodges at the Woodwards Lodges and Lakes park near Doncaster.

The strategy, in order to maintain such high quality of the parks, has always been to reinvest profits made back into the business in order to continue to improve the facilities and the atmosphere for each of the parks’ visitors, whilst making sure all of Blue Anchor’s clients’ needs are met.

Managing director, Peter Holmes, knows the importance of keeping to high standards. He said: “Creating the right environment for families to come back year after year is a challenge, so it’s important to ensure we listen to our customers and provide them with what they are looking for.”

Holmes stated that the support from Yorkshire Bank over the past 20 years has allowed the parks to take advantage of growth opportunities that help to attract new customers which, in turn, allows for further expansion.

“We were able to benefit from the recession as more people decided to stay in the UK for their holidays, but we have retained a large part of those customers due to the high quality and variety of facilities we are able to offer,” Hlmes continued.

“As well as our own investment, the continued support from Yorkshire Bank has allowed us to take advantage of growth opportunities such as Holmes Mere, which is allowing us to attract new customers.”

Animal sanctuary appeals for old touring caravan

Posted by

By Claire Lawson

Animal charity require a caravan donation for a great cause

Hillside Animal Sanctuary in Norwich are reaching out and asking for an old touring-type caravan for their staff in which to base themselves when looking after rescued animals on their farm.

The charity currently cares for 1,200 horses, ponies and donkeys, 500 sheep, 300 cows and 70 dogs and, needless to say, a caravan would come in handy when looking after so many farm animals.

Hillside’s latest addition is Jason, a new born foal whose mother, Sheila, arrived at the sanctuary in March. Already heavily pregnant, Sheila was in one of the worst conditions volunteers had seen, but with just two short months of care and attention, is now a lot healthier and looking after her handsome foal.

With the growing numbers of neglected animals entering through Hillside Animal Sanctuary’s gates, a caravan is just one of the many things that the organisation needs to continue to look after the poorly animals. Donations, old towels for use with the animals, old blankets and duvets for its rescued dogs’ bedding and second hand outdoor horse rugs in a usable condition and in various sizes are also required.

We know how much a majority of caravanners love animals, so if you think you can help Hillside in their current plight, click here for more details.

New statistics show motorhome registrations reach new high

Posted by

By Claire Lawson

Increase of 26 per cent in motorhome sales for the month of March

Figures released from the National Caravan Council (NCC) show the registrations of new motorhomes in March this year have reached a new high since March 2011.

1,953 vehicles were registered with the Driver and Vehicle and Licencing Agency in March 2015, a 26 per cent increase compared to March 2014, with a total of 2,546 having been registered in the first quarter of 2015.

Marketing Director of NCC, Jenny Summers, explained what she thinks is the reason for the rise in sales, saying: ” We believe that with returning consumer confidence more buyers are being drawn to leisure vehicles because of the lifestyle they enable. It is all about the freedom to explore, getting into the great outdoors and going where you want, when you want to.”

The report comes just before tickets for the UK’s only international motorhome launch event go on sale at the end of June. The Motorhome and Caravan Show will showcase the latest 2016 models on 13-18 of October at the NEC in Birmingham.

Should the event be a hit as it has been in the past, the rise in registrations and sales are certain to continue into next year.

Tyre safety tips for this bank holiday

Posted by

By Joe Jeffrey

This bank holiday, make sure you check your tyres before you set off on your travels, with TyreSafe’s handy guide

It’s pretty much a given that many caravaners and motorhomers will be hitting the roads this bank holiday weekend, heading off for a short break to their favourite site or exploring pastures new. And with the Spring bank holiday leading straight into the May half term for most schoolchildren, even more families will also be using the road networks for week-long staycations across the UK wherever that may be.

Estimates say that somewhere between 14 and 18 million people will use the UK’s road networks this weekend alone. So, to help avoid any unwanted delays, and to keep you and your loved ones safe as you take advantage of the extended break, TyreSafe – the UK’s tyre safety organisation – has provided some quick tyre safety tips to help se you on your way.

“Punctures and tyre-related incidents are the second most common cause of breakdowns according to the AA,” said TyreSafe chairman Stuart Jackson. “We’re advising drivers to use these tips because we know anyone travelling this weekend will want to arrive safely and on time.”

Tyre Tips

Check your tyre pressure:

Check your recommended pressure using the owners’ manual. It can also be found on a sticker in the fuel flap or inside the driver or passenger side door

  • You can check your pressure and inflate your tyres at your local petrol station
  • Remember: if you are carrying more passengers or luggage, the manufacturer’s recommended pressure will often change

Check your tread depth:

  • You must have at least 1.6mm across three-quarters of the tread around the entire circumference of the tyre
  • Insert a 20p coin into the main tyre grooves at several places around the tyre
  • If the outer band of the coin is visible your tyre may be illegal and you should have it checked by a specialist
  • Remember: if your tyres are illegal you can face a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points for each illegal tyre

Check the condition:

  • Inspect the tyre for signs of wear or damage such as cuts, lumps, bulges, exposed cords or sidewall damage
  • Remove any stones or other items embedded in the tread
  • If you spot any wear or damage to your tyres you should have them checked by an expert

Check your spare:

  • If you have a spare wheel don’t forget to check its pressure, tread and condition
  • If your spare tyre is for temporary use only, remember that speed restrictions will apply
  • Remember: if you have a spare and intend to change it yourself, make sure you have a functioning jack and tyre brace

For more information about how to perform pre-travel tyre safety checks, including a range of easy-to-understand advice, videos and animations, click here. Whatever you’re doing this bank holiday weekend, we hope you have an enjoyable one.

No Comments

filed under: News

Dartford Crossing users charged twice, according to AA

Posted by

By Joe Jeffrey

Glitches in new payment system to blame, says AA

A number of motorists using the Dartford Crossing between Kent and Essex are being charged twice due to a glitch with a payment system, the AA has said.

Despite being introduced back in November 2014 new payment system, Dart Charge, which replaced tollbooths on the Kent-side of the crossing, is still not without its teething problems according to some road users.

Motorist Clive Turrell tweeted: “Twice I’ve credited my account online without it appearing on my account. When you call, staff haven’t a clue.”

Edmund King, the president of the AA, said: “The new scheme has undoubtedly eased the congestion at busy times but, for some, there is a new concern regarding the behind-the-scenes bureaucracy that accompanies this supposedly high-tech, non-stop tolling.”

In response, a spokesman for Highways England said: “The vast majority of the 100,000 chargeable crossings at Dartford made each day are processed accurately and smoothly.

“Given the scale of transactions from time to time errors will be made for which we apologise unreservedly.”

Have you used the Dartford Crossing since implementation of the new payment system? If so, what has your experience been like?

Police Federation calls for cut to drink-driving limit

Posted by

By Joe Jeffrey

Lower drink-drive limit in England and Wales called for by police bidy, following change in Scotland last year

The Police Federation has called for a lower drink-driving limit in England and Wales to that of Scotland.

The Federation, which represents rank-and-file officers, has requested to reduced the current limit of 80mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood to be reduced to 50mg.

Victoria Martin, a chief inspector working at the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) said ahead of the start of the annual PFEW conference today: “We would like to see road safety back on the national and local agenda.

Of the changes suggested, Martin went on to say implementing a lower limit for the rest of the UK would also bring England and Wales in line with other European countries and tackle the “worrying trend” of women drink-driving.

The suggestion comes following research conducted by Social Research Associates that showed nearly one in six women who responded to a survey conducted last year admitted to driving when they thought they were over the limit. Perhaps, equally as worrying, was that research showed many women were also unaware as to how much alcohol would put them over the threshold when it came to getting behind the wheel of a vehicle.

Of Social Research Asscoaites’ findings, Martin continued: “We’ve seen a steep decline in men drink-driving over the years, with targeted advertising campaigns, which is great, but women don’t seem to be getting the same message.

“It seems we have a worrying trend, with females still flouting the drink-drive limit, sometimes scarily unaware, putting themselves and others in danger as well as adding to the drain on police resources.”

As the debate continues, let us know what you think. Should we follow Scotland’s route or simply ban all alcohol together?

Baaaaa-rmy army of sheep to be unleashed in Bristol with help from Bailey

Posted by

By Joe Jeffrey

Shaun in the City initiative set to raise thousands for children’s charity

Following on from the success of Aardman Animation’s latest big screen adventure, Shaun the Sheep The Movie, a new initiative supported by Bailey of Bristol is set to raise thousands for a good cause.

Bristol-based caravan manufacturer, Bailey, will act as an official sponsor of the Shaun in the City Bristol art trail, which will see a flock of 70 giant Shaun the Sheep sculptures placed at various iconic locations across the city from 6 July to 31 August.

Similar to the ‘Gromit Unleashed’ trail staged in 2013, Shaun in the City hopes to attract huge numbers of fans and tourists to Bristol this summer to see the five-feet high Shaun the Sheep sculptures, each unique and created by a different artist, designer or famous face. They can all be found by picking up a free trail map from information points all over Bristol, downloading a map from the Shaun in the City website or downloading the official Shaun in the City: Sheep Spotter app, which also gives users access to special challenges and trophies.

The Bailey-sponsored Shaun the Sheep sculpture will be located by the stunning, 800-year-old St Mary Redcliffe Church, famous for its18th century ironwork and beautiful stained glass windows, which is just 10 minutes’ walk from Bristol Temple Meads railway station. The sculpture’s design is top secret and will not be revealed until July.

This intiative follows the Shaun in the City trail in London earlier this year which featured 50 sculptures. Shaun in the City is organised by the Wallace and Gromit’s Children’s Foundation, which will auction all the sculptures this autumn to raise money to support children in hospital across the UK. Funds raised from the auction of the Bristol sculptures will support The Grand Appeal, the Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity and proceeds from the sale of the London sculptures will benefit Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Charity, which supports children in hospitals all over the UK.

Aardman Animations’ Nick Park, commented: “It’s been a busy year for Shaun, he has just launched his first movie and now he has his very own arts trail! Shaun is such a well-loved character with so many fans around the globe, I am sure many will flock to Bristol to be part of the fun.”

Nick Howard, Managing Director of Bailey of Bristol added: “Like Bailey, Shaun the Sheep was created in Bristol, and in their own ways, have both provided quality family entertainment and achieved international success, so we’re very proud to be an official sponsor of Shaun in the City and are sure everyone will enjoy seeing more of our great city while having fun finding this unique flock of giant sheep.”