by Chris Jefferies and Tom Lowenstein
This week, Manchester’s Event City will be opening its doors to thousands upon thousands of caravan lovers for the 2012 Motorhome and Caravan Show (January 19th to 22nd), and this year’s event is bigger than ever before.
The organisers, Clarion Media, have moved the show from Manchester Central to its new home, meaning that it will be 50 per cent larger this year – meaning there are more caravans, more accessories and much more to discover.
And, to add a touch of glamour, former Dallas actress and Dancing On Ice star Charlene Tilton will be opening the show at 10.15am on Thursday (19th January). Charlene revealed that her Dallas co-star Patrick Duffy had recommended that she get involved in the show.
“Caravanning really appeals to me as I have spent much time in trailers on film and television sets; and when chatting to Patrick, he suggested visiting the show as the easiest place to start,” she said.
Charlene will be joined at the show by many caravan industry experts and insiders, and with so much on display, it’s almost impossible to see everything. With this in mind, CaravanTimes has put together a quick rundown of five of the best things to see at Event City…
Try your hand at towing with the Friendly Club
The Camping and Caravanning Club will be giving touring newbies a chance to try towing for the first time, with their Towing Experience outside Hall 1. These free 15-minute sessions include helpful tips from expert tutors on how to hitch up and tow your caravan safely, efficiently and economically.
See the new Swift Challenger Sport layouts
Six months after launching its stylish new Challenger Sport range, Swift has added three new layouts, which should prove to be a big hit with families. Head over to Hall 2 to get a first look at the Challenger Sport 564, 584 and 585.
Admire the new Majestic range from Elddis and Marquis
Industry giants Elddis and Marquis have joined forces to create a distinctive lightweight range of caravans, called Majestic. Based on the best-selling Elddis Xplore range, these compact tourers are likely to draw big crowds to Hall 3, Stand 81.
Check out the latest Bailey Unicorn model
The luxury range from the Bristol boys is getting a new addition in the form of the Unicorn Cadiz. On show to the public for the first time, this four-berth layout is ideal for families with teenage kids. Make your way to the Campbells Caravans display at Hall 1, stand 41 to take a closer look.
Get some holiday inspiration from Monty Halls
Outdoor expert and BBC TV presenter Monty Halls (right) will be giving a talk on discovering the hidden gems in the remotest corners of the British Isles. Don’t miss this exciting presentation at the Expert Talks Theatre on Saturday (January 21st) at 12.30pm.
Tickets for the Caravan and Motorhome Show 2012 at EventCity in Manchester cost £8.50 on the door, under-16s go for free and there are 3,000 free car parking spaces. If you want to save £2 off the price of your ticket, then book online using the CaravanTimes discount code DST1
