Salop Leisure reports 35% rise in demand for caravan repair work

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by Jack Beresford

The increasingly popularity of caravan holidays has contributed to a marked rise in the amount of work being undertaken by tourer repair and servicing firm Salop Leisure.

According to figures released by the Shrewsbury-based firm, there has been a 35 per cent increase in the amount of work being undertaken by the company during the last year.

In a bid to cater to the sizeable increase in workload, Salop Leisure is now planning to expand its range of 12-bay repair workshops and is currently considering an investment in a new state-of-the-art paint spray booth.

Open seven days a week, the firm has enjoyed steady growth over the past six years, with the team of engineers employed at the company climbing from five to 12 during that time.

Salop Leisure sales manager Viv Jones said: “We now have the largest touring caravan and motorhome crash repair centre in the West Midlands and Wales.

“The key to our success are the highly skilled and experienced team of engineers that we have assembled and our constant focus on providing quality customer service.”

The workshops come highly recommended, having gained endorsement from the Approved Workshop scheme, which is backed by the Camping and Caravanning Club, the National Caravan Council and the Caravan Club along with a number of key manufacturers.

Devon and Corwall Police seeking answers after caravan fire

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by Jack Beresford

Volunteers at a pony rescue centre in Efford have been left shocked after a caravan based on the site was burned to the ground earlier this month.

The fire took place earlier this month (6 September), on the same day a new fundraising initiative was launched by the group, which works to save wild horses and Dartmoor ponies from slaughter.

According to a report from the Plymouth Herald, the tourer had been parked on the site near Newham Clay Works at the time of the incident.

As many as ten firefighters were required to deal with the blaze, which reportedly began at around 8.15pm.

Little was left of the caravan in the aftermath of the fire, and police officials remain mystified as to how or why the tourer was torched.

A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: “Enquiries are ongoing but if anyone has information we would urge them to contact us immediately.”

Fortunately no one was harmed in the fire, though it was a different story last month when a blaze aboard a caravan in East Surrey left a 30-year-old man with serious burns.

VIDEO: What’s the safest way to tow a caravan?

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by Chris Jefferies
Towing a caravan for the first time can be a nervy experience, but if you take all the proper precautions, it doesn’t have to be.
There are many things to consider, such as matching your car with a suitably sized caravan, and finding out if you’re legally allowed to tow a certain weight.
In this video, CaravanTimes has been getting some invaluable advice from Simple Caravan Insurance expert Rob Walton.
He explains how to deal with common issues such as snaking, how to choose the correct towbar for your car and much more besides.
Thanks to Old Hall Touring Park and Kenmore Caravans for their help with this video.

2013 Coachman Amara: Prices, pictures and new layouts revealed

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by Chris Jefferies
Coachman Caravans has released the full details of its revamped 2013 Amara collection, including a range of interior upgrades and two new layouts to choose from.
Last summer saw Coachman overhaul its Pastiche, VIP and Laser collections, and this time it’s the turn of the entry-level Amara, with a smart new exterior look, which features one-piece aluminium side panels.
The improvements continue on the inside, with several new features that should make for even more comfortable caravan holidays.

Sprung mattresses have been added to all fixed bed models, while two-tone locker doors help to create a modern interior style.
A larger Belfast-style sink has been fitted to all rear bathroom models, while the heating system has been upgraded to a dual-fuel Truma Combi Boiler.
Further enhancements can be found in the kitchen area, where Coachman Amara owners will find a dual-fuel hob and a 113-litre fridge, both made by Thetford.
Two new layouts are also on offer in the form of the four-berth Amara 565/4 and the five-berth Amara 580/5.
The 565/4 boasts the twin single bed layout, which has proved so popular over the last 12 months, while the 580/5 is a family layout with two fixed bunks at the rear and an offside single dinette.
All of this comes at a cost, however, with an average of £580 being added to the price of the seven layouts that have been carried over from 2012.
As a result, the 2013 Amara range will set you back something between £15,495 for the two-berth 380/2, and £19,945 for the twin-axle 655/6 model.
MTPLM weights are yet to be confirmed, but those hoping to take a closer look at these smart new entry-level caravans will get a chance at the NCC Motorhome and Caravan Show, which runs at the NEC Birmingham from 16 to 21 October.


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Eterniti Caravans reveals launch layouts for Chronicle and Genesis

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by Chris Jefferies
The newest caravan manufacturer in the UK, Eterniti Caravans has announced the layout details of its first two ranges, the Eterniti Chronicle and the Eterniti Genesis.
Due to be launched at the NCC Motorhome and Caravan Show (16 to 21 October), both ranges will feature a host of unique features, including an electric slide-out section that significantly increases the internal space.
The Chronicle range will include four single axle layouts, while the Genesis range will offer a choice of two twin-axle layouts.
The specifications will remain broadly similar between the two ranges (both will benefit from Alde heating) with the only exception being the air conditioning system, which is only fitted to the Genesis.

Starting with the smallest in the range, the Chronicle EB2 is a two-berth tourer that features a front convertible double dinette and a rear washroom.
The extra space created by the slide-out is filled by an L-shaped kitchen, with the hob and fridge on the nearside and the basin and food preparation area on the offside.
Next up is the Chronicle IB4, which as the name suggests is a four-berth island bed configuration. The washroom is fitted to the offside, with the kitchenette on the nearside.
This layout offers a longer island bed than usual, since it is fitted into the slide-out section in a transverse arrangement.
The Chronicle FB4 is a similar layout, with a futon instead of an island bed, which folds out into the centre of the caravan using Eterniti’s Eazzzzzy Bed system.
Completing the range is the Chronicle BB4, which has two fixed bunk beds fitted into the slide-out area. A rear corner washroom and L-shaped central kitchenette complete the layout.
In the beginning…
The biblical theme continues with the Genesis range, which is the twin-axle offering from Eterniti. Both layouts come with a second access door straight into the full-width washroom, which can be fitted with either a bath tub or a double-width shower cubicle.
In the Genesis IB4 there is a transverse island bed fitted to the offside alongside the L-shaped kitchen, and the remaining two berths are made up by a convertible front double.
The sixth and final caravan to be launched by Eterniti is the Genesis BB5, which manages to fit a single dinette and two fixed bunks into the slide-out section. The L-shaped kitchen is fitted on the nearside to complete the layout.
All six caravans will be on display at the Birmingham NEC next month (Hall 9, Stands 9-25). Exact weights and prices are yet to be confirmed but Neil Boulton, Commerical Director at Eterniti, has told CaravanTimes that they are expected to be comparable to a top-of-the-range Swift, Elddis or Bailey.
With so many clever tricks and features, it’s obvious that these caravans will draw plenty of attention from curious show visitors, so we’d recommend getting to their stand early to beat the crowds.


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Bailey Caravans celebrates 20,000 Alu-Tech vehicles and counting

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by Jack Beresford

The 20,000th caravan built using Bailey of Bristol’s patented Alu-Tech design system has rolled off the production line.

This innovative system, which has been patented by the company, involves the use of an interlocking aluminium extrusion external framework and is designed to clamp the body panels of the caravan together to produce a rigid and durable sheel.

First developed in 2007, the system reduced the number of external joints and fixing points required on the average tourer, which helped improve the overall structural integrity.

Bailey of Bristol also moved to increase the thickness of its caravan shells while also removing any timber components on the sides and roof of the tourer.

Regarded as a major breakthrough in design technology, the methods were first applied to the Bailey Pegasus touring caravan range back in 2009.

Since then, the firm has introduced the system across the entire range of tourers developed by the company, including the recently launched Bailey Unicorn Series II and the Bailey Approach SE range of Alu-Tech motorhomes.

Commenting on this achievement Bailey managing director Nick Howard said: “Since its introduction three years ago Alu-Tech has changed the way people think about leisure vehicle construction.

“To have reached this milestone in such a short period of time is testimony to the popularity of the benefits the systems provides to customers and its proven track record of performance in use.”

Welsh adults only caravan park gets five star rating

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by Jack Beresford

A caravan site that has been used for camping since the end of the Second World War has been honoured by the Welsh government tourism body Visit Wales, who gave the resort a special five star rating.

The decision follows the completion of upgrade work on Tyddyn Du Touring Park, which now has improved shower and toilet facilities for use when staying there.

A report in the North Wales Weekly News explains that the land on which the site is built has belonged to the family of Pam Watson-Jones for over 120 years.

But while the area has been a popular fixture among campers since the 1940s, caravanners had to wait another 40 years before Ms Watson-Jones hit upon the idea of turning it into a site for tourers, subsequently gaining a license.

Speaking to the news provider, the caravan park owner admitted it had taken a lot of hard work to get to this level.

“I brought it up from two stars to four stars and now five stars,” she explained.

“I’m very proud because that is what you want to work towards – being the best at everything.”

It’s been a bumper year of success for caravan parks in Wales, with the Tree Tops site in Gwespyr also among the accolades after picking up a Wales in Bloom award for its beautiful gardens last month.

VIDEO: How the Whale Watermaster IC tackles caravan pressure problems

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by Chris Jefferies
Keeping your water system in good working order is crucial if you want your caravan to live a long and healthy life, and the water pump makers at Whale know that better than most.
Two main problems that often crop up are the unpredictable electrical supply to the water pump, and the danger of the pump burning out when the tank is empty.
With one new part called the Watermaster IC, Whale claims to have solved both of these problems.
In this video, CaravanTimes travels to Northern Ireland to meet the makers of this new part and find out how it can help make your caravanning holidays hassle free.
We also take a look at the company’s new 3D printer, a space-age machine that can build prototype parts from scratch in a matter of hours.
UPDATE: The Watermaster IC is now available to buy and comes fitted as standard on all 2013 Elddis Xplore and Avante caravans.

Stockton holiday park opts for static caravans over tourers

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by Jack Beresford

Developers and caravan enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting news regarding a decision on plans to revamp a holiday caravan park in the Yarm area of Stockton-on-Tees.

According to a report from gazettelive.co.uk, the Stockton Council planning committee is meeting today (September 12th) to discuss plans for the site.

The Welsh Family Trust LLP has submitted the new application, which will see the development of 34 chalet-style residential caravans in the area, which was originally set aside to be developed into a campsite for up to 80 touring caravans.

This new project has already received the backing of planning officers, who have submitted a recommendation to approve the plans. However, the proposals have yet to receive the full backing of the local council.

The initiative has divided local residents, many of whom are concerned at the damage the development will do to local wildlife and drainage systems. Others, meanwhile, believe the plans could provide a major boost to tourism in the region.

Local objections have hindered a number of caravan park development plans in recent months, with one site in Climping, West Sussex delayed amid concerns from residents regarding the environmental impact.

NCC announces first eight approved caravan distributors

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by Jack Beresford

The first eight firms to receive the prestigious National Caravan Council (NCC) Distributor Status accolade have been revealed at a special celebration held last week (5 September).

This new NCC Approved Distributor scheme is one of three new consumer focused initiatives designed to raise standards of customer service and professionalism across the caravan and motorhome industry.

It is hoped that, by establishing a new Consumer Code of Practice, members of the NCC will take heed of how best to operate and compete in the ever-expanding world of caravanning and camping, taking note of consumer rights at all times.

The eight firms to receive the recognition were: Orchard Caravans Ltd, Bridlington Caravan Centre, Lake Coast and Dale Leisure, Parklands Leisure, Keat Farm Ltd, Salop Leisure Ltd, Southern Counties Leisure and PM Leisure Homes Ltd.

These companies were presented with certification of their Approved status at The Lawns in Cottingham by NCC vice chairman Colin Crewther.

Commenting on the awards, NCC director general John Lally said: “Meeting the code is a significant achievement and demonstrates each businesses professionalism and commitment to best practice.”

Carlight Caravans goes mainstream with new entry-level range

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by Chris Jefferies
Carlight Caravans has announced plans to launch a brand new range of entry level caravans, with prices ranging from £17,995 to around £27,000.
The prestigious marque was revived last year to much fanfare, with new models going into production for the first time in ten years.
But the prices, which started at around £35,000 for the single-axle Commander, proved to be prohibitive for many.
Now the company, which is widely known as the Rolls Royce of caravanning, has now decided to branch out into the mainstream, in the hope of convincing even more families to realise the dream of owning a brand new Carlight.
By moving their starting price under £18,000, Carlight are bringing themselves into direct competition with the likes of the Elddis Crusader and the Swift Conqueror.
The new Carlight range is due to arrive in the next few weeks, and Carlight fans will get a chance view them at the company’s headquarters in Sleaford, Lincolnshire towards the end of October.
First details emerging
John Gibbons, Sales Director at Carlight, told CaravanTimes that the new range has not yet been given a name, but there will be five set layouts to choose from, featuring both fixed beds and bunk beds.
He also confirmed that lengths will range from 13 to 23 feet, while the company is opting for an eight foot wide chassis, as can currently be found on continental caravans such as those made by Adria and Hobby.
In order to bring the prices down to a competitive level, these models will not be as customisable as the flagship Commander collection. Nonetheless, they are retaining the venerable Carlight name, so luxury touches are sure to abound.
But that’s not all – the company is planning to bring out yet another range in 2013, following its acquisition of Thomson Caravans earlier this year.
With all this in the pipeline, it seems like Carlight are certainly ones to watch as we move into the New Year.

Scottish caravan park granted ten-pitch site extension

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by Jack Beresford

The development of ten new caravan pitches at the popular Cloak Farm Caravan Park at Catterline in the Aberdeenshire region of Scotland will go ahead as planned.

It follows the news that the proposal has won approval from the Kincardine and Mearns Area Committee, after a meeting of officials last week.

Under the plans, the caravan park area will be extended by 4,600 square metres, which is roughly the size of a small football pitch.

The decision comes despite objections from members of the public and the Catterline, Kinneff and Dunnottar Community Council who were concerned that the surrounding landscape and access road would be severely disrupted by the development.

However, according to the Kincardineshire Observer, Aberdeenshire Council members were satisfied with the application, with Councillor Agnew among those backing the plans.

“I can’t see anything in the application that it can be validly refused for,” he told the news provider.

The approval of these plans came in the same week that a proposal to redevelop Stonehaven’s Queen Elizabeth caravan site received similar backing from Aberdeenshire authorities.