Thieves target Dickens Festival caravan

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by Tom Walsh

Owners of caravan used for the Dickens Festival left devastated after thieves steal vehicle containing rare and expensive memorabilia

The Isle of Thanet’s annual Dickens Festival has been dealt a blow after thieves stole a caravan containing rare and expensive memorabilia.

Owners Mark Hemmings and Louise Woodcock were left devastated when they discovered the distinctive 1970s Avondale Perle Orestes caravan had been taken on the morning of 15 January.

The caravan not only had some rare items relating to Charles Dickens but also provided facilities for a dressing room and office for when the festival is on.

Police are now appealing for any witnesses to the incident which took place between 22:40 GMT on January 14 and 09:15 GMT on January 15 to get in touch. The van was stolen from a driveway in Brooke Avenue, Garlinge.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Kent police to help them with their ongoing enquiries.

The Dickens Festival takes place in the Isle of Thanet every year, celebrating the life works and novels of Charles Dickens.

Westfalia Pinpointpal set to stop thieves in their tracks

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by Joe Jeffrey

Innovative Pinpointpal GPS tracker device offers real time tracking for your caravan or motorhome

Ever woken during the middle of the night in a cold sweat, having dreamt that someone’s just towed your beloved caravan away only to go and check on it to ensure it’s safely where you left it? Well, that situation may never need arise, owing to a nifty little innovative and affordable GPS tracking device known as Pinpointpal.

With various stories trickling through in recent weeks surrounding caravan theft, it goes without saying that ensuring our caravans and motorhomes are secured when parked up or stored away for the winter is a must, and Westfalia, world’s leading suppliers of towbars and vehicle-specific wiring kits, may just have the perfect solution.

Designed and developed in Britain by experts in mobile communications, the Pinpointpal GPS tracker is an easy-to-install tracker system, which connects to a free downloadable app on any smartphone. Providing you with real-time information on the whereabouts of your pride and joy 24-hours a day is something that needs to be accurate and reliable and, having seen the Pinpointpal in action, it’s certainly both of those things.

Included in the subscription based service for two years from purchase are movement alerts which send automatic notification to you if your vehicle has been moved outside a virtual ‘geofence’ boundary set, enabling you to inform the authorities should someone wish to try their luck and pinch your home on wheels.

For more information, head over to Westfalia’s official site now to find out more.

Swindon Caravans takes first place in Dealership of the Year category in CaravanTimes Caravan & Motorhome Awards 2015

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by Joe Jeffrey

Swindon Caravans voted best dealership in CaravanTimes Awards

Swindon Caravans has won the Dealership of the Year category in the CaravanTimes Caravan & Motorhome Awards 2014.

Established in 1988, family-run Swindon Caravans secured 13.60 per cent of the voting share in the Awards, voted for by readers of CaravanTimes.

In second place came Read Caravans in Blackburn, with a respectable 12.20 per cent of votes, whilst third place was awarded to Sharman Caravans in Suffolk who received 8.80 per cent of the voting share.

The CaravanTimes Caravan & Motorhome Awards, saw an unprecedented number of people cast their votes for 2014, far surpassing previous years’ awards, and voting in the Dealership of the Year category proved more popular than ever before.

The relationship between caravanners and motorhomers and their preferred dealership isn’t just determined by the choice of ranges on offer, but more so by customer experience, as well as quality of customer service received, whether that is before, during or after making a purchase as our Awards have shown.

To take a closer look at all of the results in our Awards, visit our forums by clicking here.

COMPETITION: Win tickets to the Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Home Show

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by Joe Jeffrey

Enter our latest competition to win a pair of tickets to the Scottish show of the year

As one leisure show opens, another one begins to build up pace and that’s how we here at CaravanTimes like it.

This time, however, caravanners, motorhomers, holiday-homers (is that even a word?) and lots more will convene north of the border for all the Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Home Show has to offer.

The Show will give visitors the chance to see all the latest models, accessories and will even have a Park Village area, providing you with ideas on the next big caravan and motorhome trips. Free parking has also been thrown in, along with exclusive offers and deals only available at the show, so there’s really no better time to be at the SECC.

CaravanTimes is offering you the chance to be part of the action in our latest competition where we’re giving away 15 pairs of tickets to the show, which takes place between 5-8 February.

Now here’s the easy bit. All you need to do to take part is like our Facebook page and complete the form below.

All that remains to be said is good luck! Hurry though, the closing date is 30 January 2015, which is also when we’ll be announcing the winners.

Competition rules:
The lucky winners will be picked at random at midday on 30 January 2015 and will be notified via the email address supplied in the entry form
Only one entry per person
No purchase necessary
No cash or alternative will be offered
This competition is open to new or existing CaravanTimes members and Facebook fans only
No employees of CaravanTimes or StantonPace Ltd may enter
The competition is open to UK residents aged 18 and over

Bailey Approach Advance: designed to be driven

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CaravanTimes takes a closer look at Bailey’s new entry-level motorhome, and finds out what makes it designed to be driven

For 2015, Bailey of Bristol has introduced the Advance Approach to add to its stable of motorhomes.

The entry-level Approach Advance sees the same design as the award-winning Approach Autograph range, but at a lesser price and with narrower body width (2.35 metres).

Bailey has kept weight to a minimum on all four Advance models, with a maximum weight of 3,500kg – making the range an ideal choice for anyone with a full UK driving licence, with no B and E entitlement required.

As with other Bailey offerings, when released in April, the Advance will come with Bailey’s lighter bodyshell and GRP outerskin, as well as Alu-Tech construction system. And with protection also coming by way of its grade III insulation properties, the Advance looks set to truly be a motorhome for all seasons.

Better driving characteristics come by way of an ultra-low profile AL-KO AMC chassis and lower entry step, set to improve driving control owing to a lower centre of gravity.

CaravanTimes caught up with Bailey to find out more about the new Approach Advance and what exactly it is that makes the Advance designed to be driven.

Check out our video above and let us know what you think. Also, make sure you check out our prices, weights and layouts article on the Bailey Approach Advance here.

Matt Baker launches Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015

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by Joe Jeffrey

BBC’s The One Show presenter kicks off Manchester’s Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015

Television presenter Matt Baker officially launched the Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015 yesterday at Manchester’s EventCity.

BBC’s The One Show presenter, Matt – himself an experienced traveller owing to time spent on Blue Peter – is also no stranger to travelling the length and breadth of Britain in his capacity as co-presenter on BBC One’s Countryfile, a popular teatime programme which makes the most of what the UK’s countryside has to offer.

Matt said of exploring all what the UK countryside has to offer: “I love it, it’s a home from home. You can go where you want, when you want.

“You can be in the middle of nowhere, sitting enjoying a sandwich and a cup of tea and the rain can be lashing down outside – that’s absolutely amazing and I think anyone should experience it,” he continued.

The 37-year-old father-of-two also explained the virtues of holidaying at home – a pastime that has become more popular over the recent years with many opting for staycations as opposed to breaks abroad.

“It is amazing to witness how different each place can be, from the breathtaking views on the west coast of Scotland to little villages in the Lake District,” Matt went on.

“I say to my kids, the countryside is there for you, go out and see it. Enrich yourself. Get out in the fresh air.”

The Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015 is on now until Sunday (18 January). To book your tickets for what is absolutely guaranteed to be a great day out, click here

The Camping and Caravanning Club teams up with Shaun the Sheep

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by Joe Jeffrey

The Camping and Caravanning Club teams up with Shaun the Sheep to promote, yep, you guessed it, camping and caravanning

The camping and Caravanning Club has teamed up with Aardman Animations to support the studio’s new film, Shaun the Sheep The Movie, and promote camping and caravanning to families with young children.

The film, which is released on 6 February 2015, has been produced by the Oscar-winning creators of Wallace and Gromit and Chicken Run and features a caravan alongside the much-loved children’s character.

When Shaun’s mischief leads to the farmer being taken away to the Big City in a caravan, the flock leaves the farm to rescue him, setting the stage for an epic adventure.

The story highlights how we sometimes forget to appreciate the things we have in life and the people who love us. It is also a celebration of outdoor rural life – values that the Club identifies with and actively promotes through its camping and caravanning experiences.

There will be opportunities for families to enjoy Shaun the Sheep themed activities with the Club at upcoming industry shows. The Club will also be offering Shaun the Sheep The Movie games and activity packs for all of the family to experience and enjoy.

Robert Louden MBE, Director General at the Club, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for families to be able to relate to camping and caravanning – and we hope the film and the promotion around it encourages young people to experience our popular pastime.

“These young children are our future Club members and it’s important for the industry as a whole to support initiatives such as this to ensure we pass on our enthusiasm for the great outdoors to future generations.”

Check out a prevewe of Shaun the Sheep The Movie below.

Mogo Freedom leads the way for innovative leisure travel at Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015

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by Joe Jeffrey

Could the Mogo Freedom revolutionise the way we travel?

If you’re anything like us at CaravanTimes, one of the main things we love about caravan and motorhome shows are the innovative things we stumble upon by way of smaller featured exhibitors. The Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015 is no different, and the Mogo Freedom is one of those innovations.

The Mogo Freedom was conceived after a period of downsizing when founder, Matjaz Korosec, started looking around for alternative, cost effective solutions that would enable him to continue taking holidays irrespective of economic constraints.

Having spent years working in the caravan industry, Korosec and his team set to work in creating something that could be ethically produced which enabled the user to utilise space with total flexibility.

The construction method used is said to provide the Mogo Freedom with limitless movement and more flexibility when it comes to getting out and about and handing trickier terrain. It’s also rather lightweight, weighing in at just 350kg empty with a further loading capacity of 400kg, meaning it can be towed by lightweight cars or even tricycles, enhancing user experience and not just limiting the Mogo to car drivers.

Each Mogo Freedom is built in accordance to an individual customer’s needs, with CAD models for each Mogo built to ensure accuracy. Built using ultra lightweight sustainable Banova balsa wood from plantations in Ecuador and Paraguay, the Mogo is also heavily insulated using newly developed plastics used in the building and housing industries, as well as bonding technology based on Sika products which are said to be leading the way in solutions for monocoque structures. In addition, all seams and doorframes are strengthened with brushed aluminium profiles that are incorporated into the framework. Coming complete with a bed that hides in the ceiling when extra storage space is required, this is innovation at its best.

For more peace of mind, the Mogo comes with ALKO breaks, suspension and jockey wheel.
Sleeping two comfortably and small enough to fit inside a garage, the Mogo is a truly versatile vehicle. Be it for business, leisure or pleasure – or anything else you could possibly think of – even simply an escape from the rat race when it’s time to hit the road.

To find out more about the Mogo Freedom, visit the official website here.

Let us know what you think. Would you consider buying one of these lightweight wonders?

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Bailey Approach Advance unveiled at Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015

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by Joe Jeffrey

New entry-level Approach Advance on show now at Manchester’s EventCity

With all that’s currently going on at the Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015, you’d be pretty hard-pressed to see every single thing that’s under EventCity’s roof, but there are certain things that are a must. One of those is Bailey of Bristol’s brand new Approach Advance motorhome range.

With an emphasis on low cost, low profile and light weight, the new Bailey Approach Advance has been designed with the first-time motorhome buyer in mind.

Unique for the entry-level motorhome market, all four models in the Approach Advance range have been built on the ultra-low profile, lightweight AL-KO AMC chassis for improved driving performance and increased user payloads. Not only has this method of construction decreased the weight and height of Bailey’s new offering, but it has also ensured an easier drive owing to better handling on the road.

All models across the Advance range are built using Bailey’s patented Alu-Tech bodyshell, including a GRP outer skin said to provide for extra durability, as well as thermal insulation, making this a motorhome for all seasons.

Make sure you check it out at the Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015 today and let us know what you think in the comments section below.

Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015: What to see and do

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by Joe Jeffrey

Wondering whether to still go along to the Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015? With so much to see and do, you’d be mad to miss it

The day has come. The Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015 has arrived. The doors have opened, and thousands of people will be stepping into EventCity over the next few days (15 – 18 January) to make the most of what 2015 has to offer by way of caravans and motorhomes.

If you haven’t booked your tickets yet and are pondering as to whether or not you should make your way down, hopefully our guide here will help point you in the right direction.

First up, the show is set to feature a who’s who in the leisure vehicle industry. From Adria to Airstream, Bailey to Burstner, Coachman to Compass and Elddis to Swift; we could go on – and we will.

Adria will be on hand to show off their latest Sportline, Altea, Adora and Astella ranges, whilst Bailey of Bristol are set to unveil their new entry-level Approach Advance motorhome range along with the rest of their 2015 ranges too.

Meanwhile, Coachman Caravans will be on hand with their new collection for 2015, including the Coachman Vision, VIP, Laser and Pastiche; secure your very own Coachman at the show and you could walk away with a Powrtouch Motor Mover absolutely free.

Elddis will also be on hand at EventCity to show off their latest arrival – the new Encore Luxe motorhome and you could even end up winning a brand new 2015 Compass Corona courtesy of approved dealers Spinney.

The Swift Group look set to show off their latest 2015 creations too – from caravans and motorhomes to their latest venture into holiday homes with a twist and the arrival for 2015 of the new S-Pod. The company will also be ready to answer any questions first time buyers have in a dedicated First Time Buyers Area.

It’s not all about caravans, motorhomes and new product launches though. There’s also so much more to see and do. All tickets holders will be given complimentary entry to The Times presents Destinations: The Holiday and Travel Show, which will be running in Hall Four at EventCity. So once you’ve browsed the latest caravans and motorhomes and planned your UK trips for the 2015 season, this will provide the perfect place to research and book your next escape to the sun and escape the winter blues.

For the foodies in you, the new for 2015 Food and Travel Stage should certainly be on your agenda. Bringing together celebrity chefs, expert cooks and TV’s best-known travel personalities you’ll learn to prepare and cook their favourite campside meals and out your culinary skills to the test.

The Caravan Club will also be on hand and will be offering you the opportunity to participate in one of their free Tow Car Taster or Motorhome Manoevering sessions to help you brush up on those all important skills. Open to both experienced caravanners and first timers, simply visit the Club’s stand to book your free 20 minute tow car taster session. Don’t forget to bring both parts of your driving licence.

Speaking of towing, The Camping and Caravanning Club has teamed up with Mitsubishi to offer free 15-minute one-to-one tuition on how to tow a touring caravan safely, efficiently and economically, so by the end of your day at EventCity if you’re not itching to hit the open road we’re not sure when you will be!

Last but not least, if exciting and innovative days out float your boat (or caravan) the Great Days Out showcase in association with Swift is sure to make you smile. Exciting tourist attractions from around the UK, including the likes of the National Football Museum, the World of Beatrix Potter, Lakeland Motor Museum and Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway will be on hand offering great discounts and more.

So there you have it – well just a small sample of what awaits at EventCity this week. Tickets for the Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015 are still on sale here, so make sure you get yourselves along. We’ll see you there!

Win a Compass caravan with Spinney!

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by Joe Jeffrey

Spinney offers the chance to win a new 2015 Compass caravan in conjunction with 40th anniversary

To celebrate 40 successful years of being in the motorhome business, and in conjunction with entering the caravan market, Compass caravan retailer Spinney is offering you the chance to win a brand new 2015 Compass Corona 382 worth £15,000.

The all-new Compass Corona 382 features everything you need to get away for 2015, including award-winning OZIO upholstery in the living and bedroom area, craftsmanship cabinetry, Alde 24-hour programmable central heating, a kitchenette with microwave, oven and grill and lots more, and entering to win a Corona of your own couldn’t be simpler.

To enter, visit Spinney’s website by clicking here. Alternatively, you can also enter at EventCity’s Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015, which begins tomorrow (15 – 18 January).

All that remains to be said is good luck – make sure you let us know if you win!

Bailey Approach Advance to debut at Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015 tomorrow

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by Joe Jeffrey

See the launch of the Bailey Approach Advance at EventCity tomorrow

Visitors to the Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015 are in for a treat tomorrow (15 January), as Bailey of Bristol is set to unveil the all-new Approach Advance live for the first time.

With four models in the range and prices starting at £38,515 (OTR), the ultra-low Advance expands Bailey’s motorhome offering for 2015, with the range’s main emphasis being on entry-level motorhomers and first-time buyers.

There will be four Advance models available from launch, namely:

  • Approach Advance 615: two-berth, compact, low-line, end lounge: £38,515
  • Approach Advance 635: two-berth, low-line, end washroom: £38,795
  • Approach Advance 640: four-berth, low-line, end bedroom with fixed double bed: £39,795
  • Approach Advance 665: six-berth, low-line, end lounge with drop down double bed & designated travelling seats: £40,795

Bailey of Bristol has taken a new approach (excuse the pun) with the Advance 635, featuring a brand new layout for the company’s motorhome range, featuring a large front lounge with full length seats accompanied by an end washroom with dedicated shower.

The Advance 665, meanwhile, is a genuine six-berth motorhome with a snazzy longitudinal drop-down bed, which comes down over the spacious side dinette and is based on the popular Approach Autograph 765.

Many other features seen throughout the Autograph range have been borrowed too, including Bailey’s patented Alu-Tech construction with GRP outer skin, as well as grade II insulation, making it truly a motorhome for all seasons. Additional features include an ultra-low chassis enabling better drivability – ideal for entry-level motorhomers – as well as superior protection for all occupants whilst travelling thanks to rigorous testing undertaken at Millbrook Proving Ground.

Of tomorrow’s launch at the opening of EventCity’s Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015, Bailey of Bristol’s managing director Nick Howard said: “We are delighted to launch this important new motorhome range at the Caravan and Motorhome in Manchester.

“The Approach Advance makes Bailey standards of quality, durability and safety available to the entry-level market, with a winning combination of lighter weights, high specification and great value for money,” he continued.

Make sure you check out the Approach Advance range tomorrow on the Loudham stand (no: 3-75).

Prices for the Caravan & Motorhome Show start from just £8 in advance, so book your tickets now by clicking here.