Swift and Specialised Covers team up for partnership

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by Jo Subramaniam

Yorkshire companies announce new partnership this week

Ever wanted a Specialised Cover with your caravan? Well now you can get exactly that! Swift and Specialised Covers have announced a new partnership this week. The agreement means that Specialised Covers is now the only official supplier of fully tailored covers for Swift caravans.

Gavin Hughes, Head of Sales at Specialised Covers, spoke about the relationship between Swift and Specialised Covers, commenting: ”There is a natural synergy between us, with both companies boasting a rich history of quality British manufacturing in the leisure industry. Specialised Covers have been producing high quality tailored caravan covers for 20 years, with a proud customer service record, which I know is paramount to Swift and one of the reasons we were chosen as their official supplier.”

To commemorate the partnership, Swift is giving away one caravan cover with every caravan sold at the Motorhome and Caravan Show at the NEC in Birmingham. That’s just one more on the endless list of reasons to attend the show, isn’t it?

Highways Agency, The Caravan Club and The Camping and Caravanning Club enter agreement

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by Jo Subramaniam

Tri-party agreement aimed at improving road safety

In the first of its kind to ever have been signed, an agreement was reached today between the Highways Agency, The Caravan Club and The Camping and Caravanning Club during the Motorhome and Caravan Show at the NEC. This tri-party agreement signifies closer dialogue between the three organisations and a commitment to safer journeys. Under the banner of ‘Safer journeys, happier holidays,’ the agreement also reflects the government’s increasing involvement in the Agency.

Robert Louden, Director General of The Camping and Caravanning Club, commented that the agreement would ensure that leisure motoring stayed fun as well as safe. He added: ”That’s why we are delighted to stand together with our partners to represent the interests of our club members on the open road, to make for happier, safer journeys and a better start and end to their touring breaks.”

The agreement also aims to create a closer liaison and collaboration for road safety, share more information to improve journeys and establish a positive platform for the Highways Agency to communicate with club members.

Graham Dalton, Chief Executive of the Highways Agency, commented on the agreement’s focus on smoother road travel, stating: ”England’s motorways and major A roads help millions of people get away on their holidays every year. Campers, caravanners and motorhome users use our roads to get to their destinations-and we want all their journeys to be as safe and as trouble free as possible.”

Nick Lomas, Director General of The Caravan Club, also commented on the importance of the agreement, stating: ”Most of the Club’s one million members are regular users of the strategic road network. It’s important to us that holiday journeys are safe, reliable and trouble free, and our work in conjunction with the Highways Agency helps to ensure that is the case.”
How do you think this strategic agreement will benefit caravanners?

Matt Neal at Motorhome and Caravan Show 2014

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by Jo Subramaniam
British Touring Car Champion Matt Neal attends Motorhome and Caravan Show today, with Bailey Pursuit
British Touring Car Champion Matt Neal was at the Motorhome and Caravan Show today, sharing his crazy caravanning tales. The three time British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) champ was at the Bailey of Bristol stand with a Pursuit caravan and dishing out a stack of autographs higher than, well, any of us to a steady stream of fans in attendance. Neal might have been decked out in Honda Yuasa merchandise, but, as we found out, he is a wildly enthusiastic caravanner.
We asked him about his first caravanning experience, and we did not expect what came next.
”My first experience with a caravan was when I was 17, and I went down to Porthmadog,” began Neal. ” There were eight of us, at a Welsh farmer’s campsite, and we were all squeezed into a two berth caravan! It was quite cramped, but I never looked back from there on,” he chuckled. Given Neal’s imposingly tall frame, we gave that anecdote quite a bit of thought.
It’s actually not that surprising that Neal didn’t look back from that rather hellish sounding trip, because it turns out that caravans relax him more than cars. ”Racing requires so much concentration doesn’t it, and it’s lovely to just chill out and cruise in a caravan.” And car fans, we know your secret, so don’t pretend like you don’t like caravans either. Matt Neal took the Bailey Pursuit 550-4 to the tracks at Snetterton for a surprise lap, and the crowds could not get enough.
The freedom that a caravan offers probably has something to do with it, according to Neal. ”Home is where you lay your head, and it’s nice to sometimes hide away or go away on the weekends,” he commented. And indeed, Neal’s teammate Gordon ‘Flash’ Sheddon often goes on weekend getaways in the Pursuit 550-4.
Before long, the never ending line of fans seeking autographs had caught up with us at the Bailey stand, but we couldn’t let Neal get away without pestering him with one last question. ”My favourite place to go caravanning is definitely North Devon. Bit of beaches, bit of camping, I love it there!” So the next time you’re in North Devon, be sure to look out for Matt Neal and his Bailey Pursuit 550-4.

The 2015 Winnebago Brave Motorhome

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by Jo Subramaniam

Winnebago releases funky new motorhome for 2015

Looking for a sleek motorhome but want the exteriors to resemble vans in the ’70s? Look no further than the 2015 Winnebago Brave. This retro styled, fully tricked out motorhome has enough space to store a crate of drinks, and even has a powered patio awning to enjoy them under. All in the space of 28 or 30 feet versions.

Don’t be fooled though, there’s a lot more to this innocent looking motorhome than you think. The 2015 Brave features a fibreglass roof, thermo-panel sidewalls, powered mirrors with defrost and, to top it all off, a rear view monitor so you won’t even have to think about scratches or dents while backing in or out of campsites (if you’re driving the Brave, that is). If you’re sitting back with your mates and someone else is driving, why not take advantage of the swivelling seats that turn to create a spacious living area? Did we mention the MCD shades that block even the tiniest bit of light so you can get a good night’s sleep in the powered StudioLoft beds?

Need we say more? Perhaps not, but we’ll leave you with a last little bit of information about customisation.The Brave comes in three distinct colours, ‘Crimson ‘n Clover’, ‘Woodstock’, and ‘Mello Yello’. You can also customise the interiors to suit your needs, and you can choose from ‘Cream Soda’ to ‘Cherry Cola’ wood finishes or bright yellow carpeting and walls.

Sounds groovy to us!

Fiona Bruce and Nigel Mansell open Motorhome and Caravan Show alongside caravan of the future

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by Jo Subramaniam

Motorhome and Caravan Show kicks off with Caravisio

You know how you build something up when you think about it for days, and you look forward to it so much that you think you’ll be let down when it actually happens? The opening of the Motorhome and Caravan Show 2014 was exactly like we dreamed it (of course we dream about caravans!), and it has officially kicked off with Nigel Mansell and Fiona Bruce cutting the ribbon at the caravan of the future, the Knaus Tabbert Caravisio.

The cool caravan was shown off by the even cooler duo, and you could see well into the sleek interiors of the Caravisio. Undoubtedly the caravan of the future, this trendy caravan can be controlled from your smartphone or tablet, so you could have snapped a picture of Mansell and Bruce while turning on the kettle, all at the same time and without having to move an inch. Now that’s what we call a good time!

Don’t worry if you missed your chance this morning, Nigel Mansell will be at the Experts’ Theatre through the morning and for a lunchtime session. He will be speaking about his experiences as an F1 driver and, needless to say, his passion for caravanning. There will also be a special Q&A event at quarter past one, where you’ll have the opportunity to get candid with the former motorsport champion, so you really have no reason to miss it.

Today’s events also include a live cookery demonstration, an Adria product launch and….well why should we deprive you of the fun of finding out yourself? Get down to the NEC in Birmingham and you could get your own pictures with Nigel Mansell and Fiona Bruce.

The Motorhome and Caravan Show 2014 begins today

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by Jo Subramaniam

Motorhome and Caravan Show kicks off at the NEC in Birmingham today

It’s here! It’s finally here! The Motorhome and Caravan Show has officially kicked off at the NEC in Birmingham today, and it’s the first of five caravan filled fun days with a healthy sprinkling of celebrity speakers, new models and live shows. The largest motorhome and caravan show in the UK is all set to be opened by Antiques Roadshow host Fiona Bruce and sporting legend Nigel Mansell, but that’s only the beginning.

Over the next few days (which we sincerely hope never end), you can expect more than 400 exhibitors , talks at the Experts Theatre, advice on new caravans, live demos and even a ‘Friendly Friday’! What’s more, at the end of each day, there will be a big giveaway and you can expect some fantastic products and offers to come your way.

So drive into Birmingham from 14-19 October and you could be driving away with your very own caravan. But whether or not you do, we guarantee you’ll leave with a big smile on your face.

2014 Tourism Award finalists announced

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by Jo Subramaniam

Best holiday park and holiday village among competitive categories

Claylands Park in Garstang and Bay View Holiday Park in Carnforth have been announced among the list of finalists for the 2014 Lancashire Tourism Awards.

The biggest contender of the two, Bay View Holiday Park, was awarded the title of best holiday park in 2013 and offers options of bringing or renting your own caravan or motorhome. Camping pods are also available here, as are luxury caravans and a games area for children, ensuring that there’s really something for everyone..

Claylands Park was bought by Fred and Margaret Robinson in 1959, and is just as impressive as its rival, having come a long way from being a 14 acre farm to an award winning caravan site and holiday park. Andrew Brewer, from Claylands, told the Garstang Courier: ”We are delighted to be nominated for this prestigious award. Our guests and visitors are always at the very heart of what we do and not only do we listen carefully to our customers and develop the park to meet their aspirations but we also take into account the needs of local people, and the local economy.

Andrew added: ”As a true Lancashire family business, we are so very keen to share the area we love with our visitors.”

The final results will be announced on 6 November. Have you been to either of these caravan parks? Which one do you think is going to win the award?

Bailey of Bristol to unveil two new Autograph models, new Unicorn and more at Motorhome & Caravan Show 2014

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by Joe Jeffrey

Two new layouts for the Bailey Approach Autograph range, all the new Unicorns and even a Honda Civic Tourer replica racecar to go on display

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again; we seriously cannot wait for the Motorhome & Caravan Show 2014 starting next week. And one of those reasons has to do with Bailey of Bristol and their full range of motorhomes and caravans for 2015 set to go on show.

The new Bailey Unicorn – Bailey’s flagship range – will be on show in all its glory, showing off its newly developed layouts, designed using state-of-the-art CAD software which has enabled the manufacturer to make the most of and improve upon interior space available throughout all eight layouts.

A new Bailey Approach Autograph motorhome range will also be featured at the show, including the all new Peugeot Boxer graphite cab, which comes with loads of new exciting features, including LED daytime running lights and a DAB radio with Bluetooth connectivity. Also new for 2015 is the introduction of two new models – the compact Autograph 540, a three-berth layout featuring a ceiling mounted drop down bed and the spacious Autograph 730, a four-berth coachbuilt motorhome with a rear transverse island bed.

As an added bonus, Bailey will also have the Honda Civic Tourer replica racecar and matching Bailey Pursuit 550-4 on-stand for the duration of the event. This joint initiative by Bailey of Bristol and Honda’s BTCC team, previously reported on here, is sure to appeal to motoring enthusiasts in attendance.

As usual, Bailey will be arranging its vehicles by layout rather than range to make it easy to pinpoint exactly what you’re looking for amongst the company’s product offering.

Martello Caravan Park residents offered lifeline

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by Tom Walsh

Martello Caravan Park residents offered lifeline by fellow site

Park Holidays UK has come to the rescue of caravan and holiday home owners who have been forced to leave Martello Caravan Park in Walton-on-the-Naze. The Walton site is set to close at the end of the year when its lease runs out and will be replaced with 250 homes, a Tesco store, pub and hotel, fast food restaurant, a doctor’s surgery and care home.

It has meant holiday home owners have been forced to leave but Park Holidays UK has offered them a lifeline.

The company has created extra space at its sites in Seawick and St Osyth, to the south of Clacton, and offered any Martello Caravan Park residents the opportunity to relocate.
Tony Clish, company director of Park Holidays UK, told East Anglia Daily Times: “Our message to Martello’s owners is that the town doesn’t want them to leave, and that we will pull out all the stops to make sure they can return for more happy holidays next year.”

Both Seawick and St Osyth are situated close to the coast offering great views for caravan and holiday home owners.

A day in the life of a Specialised Cover

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by Joe Jeffrey

Ever wondered what it takes to get that Specialised Cover from the factory floor to your caravan or motorhome? Well we’ve got the scoop right here

When it comes to protecting your caravan or motorhome from the elements of adverse weather or general wear and tear, protective covers play a pretty integral part in ensuring your home from home is prepared for the worst. And, it seems, no one knows this more than Specialised Covers in West Yorkshire.

The company, established in 1981, does exactly what it says on the tin and makes – you guessed it – specialised covers for caravans, motorhomes and other vehicles to exact specification. Just enter your details onto their snazzy website and in no time at all you’ll have the full protection you need.

What about the process behind all of this though? Well, CaravanTimes went along to Specialised Covers’ head office in West Yorkshire to find out more and look at the day in a life of a Specialised Cover.

Check out the video above and let us know what you think.

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Introducing the Elddis Encore: NEW motorhome range to debut at Motorhome & Caravan Show 2014

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by Joe Jeffrey

Elddis has announced a brand new motorhome for 2015 – the Elddis Encore

When we didn’t think it couldn’t get any better, it looks like the Motorhome & Caravan Show 2014 just did, with the announcement of the new Encore motorhome range from Elddis.

The Elddis Encore looks a sight to behold in more ways than one and, with all the additional extras you can shake a stick at thrown in as standard, it certainly looks like the Encore is set to impress.

Coming in two layouts for 2015, the four-berth Encore 255 and two-berth Encore 275, both of which are built on a Peugeot Tempo Libero low-line wide-track chassis providing a sporty look and improved road handling, personify luxury.

The 255, featuring a fixed 6’6″ bed with OZIO Coolsoft luxury mattress to the rear, features Reno Walnut craftsman built cabinetry throughout.

Moving away from the bedroom, the central kitchen includes a 189-litre fridge freezer and 800W microwave amongst other smart features expected with the level of luxury Elddis has gone for, whilst the fully-lined separate shower cubicle features an exclusive Eco Camel Orbit water-saving Halo shower head with built-in Aircore technology.

Moving into the cab, fully adjustable swivel Captain seats with armrests as well as cruise control, speed limiter and air conditioning with internal and external temperature display will ensure a confortable ride. An abundance of light will also come as standard thanks to the Sky-view opening cab sunroof – with blind in case it all gets too much.

The two-berth Encore 275 features all the same, only this time with the washroom at the rear stretching across the entire width, providing plenty of space for splashing about.

With lots more coming as standard, including improved Alde 24-hour multi-programmable central and water heating system, leisure battery, winter pack and even rails for a rear mounted cycle rack thrown in for good measure, it looks like the Elddis Encore range is one to watch.

Rowland Rivron at Motorhome & Caravan Show 2014

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by Jo Subramaniam

Comedian and caravan enthusiast to speak at NEC Birmingham show

If you thought Nigel Mansell, Julia Bradbury and Fiona Bruce weren’t reason enough to attend the Motorhome and Caravan Show from October 14-19, we’re giving you one more that will definitely push you over the edge. Writer, comedian and caravan enthusiast Rowland Rivron, of The Comic Strip, The Tube and The Young Ones fame is scheduled to speak at the Experts’ Theatre in the NEC in Birmingham on 15 October.

You might know a lot of things about this comic genius and musician, but did you know that he not only bought his own custom made caravan in 2008 but also takes regular trips in it with his family?

Commenting on his appearance at the show, Rivron said: ”I am delighted to be speaking at the Motorhome & Caravan Show 2014, I have a long affinity with the hobby and thoroughly enjoy the freedom that caravanning gives you. Looking at the sheer scale of the Show I’m also looking forward to seeing all the new models and perhaps upgrading my own caravan.”

We’re definitely going to catch Rowland Rivron’s talk from 2-3 pm at the NEC. Are you?