By William Coleman
This year the Caravan And Motorhome Club held their annual National Rally at Sledmere House in Driffield, York. The 4 day event had tons of entertainment for children and adults alike, there really was something for everyone.
Over 5,000 Club members attended the Rally and took part in all the activities available. What stood out the most to me was the huge amount of activities for children. In past events there attractions and activities to keep the kids occupied but at this year’s National the little people really were put at the forefront, they are the future after all.
What made it even better was that all the activities were 100% free for the children to enjoy, which certainly helps with the pockets of mum and dad. So if your child wants to hold animals, climb walls, get their face painted or tire themselves out on the bouncy castle all day it won’t cost a penny.
Of an evening the Club made sure that the children and parents alike were kept entertained well into the evening. On the Friday evening The American Divas (Madonna, Cher and Tina Turner) wowed the crowd with The UK’s best Queen tribute act, Killer Queen, rocking the stage on Saturday. On Sunday evening Elvis dusted off his Blue Suede Shoes to sing all the classics and on the final evening of the event the Prom Night Silver Concert took place.
Everyone who attended were all just so happy and very friendly, I am sure the amazing weather helped. Everyone I spoke to was so upbeat and willing to talk and help out their fellow Club members. One couple had literally just bought their first ever touring home and were still learning what they needed to get fully set up. Having forgotten a water pipe their neighbouring pitch was more than happy to lend them their spare pipe. And it is that kind of spirit that makes being a Club member so worthwhile.
The Caravan and Motorhome Club held their Experience Freedom CycleFest on Sunday morning. The 8 mile bike ride had people all shapes, sizes and age take part, there were even some 4 legged participants getting involved.
CAMC Director General, Nick Lomas took part with his son and Harvey Alexander, CAMC’s Director or Marketing, along with his entire family all saddled up for the race. Both Nick Lomas and Harvey Alexander stayed on site in their personal caravans for the whole show. Which just goes to show that they are both truly tourers just like all Club members.
I cannot express enough just how much fun there was being had during the National Rally. Everyone just seemed like they were on holiday and loving life the whole time. It was really refreshing to see how many younger Club members there are, which just proves how popular touring holidays are becoming.
As some of you may know I fancy myself a bit of a chef, well I like to cook a little bit, and this year’s Rally had the BBQ Chef of the Year finals. There was amazing food cooked up by the contestants and the top 3 won Cadac BBQs.
Overall the 4 day event was a great success. It brought people together, got people active, gave people a well deserved break and ultimately helped people share their love for touring holidays and vehicles.
