Brush up on your caravan and motorhome skills for free at the EventCity Caravan & Motorhome Show 2016

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by Joe Jeffrey

Ideal for newbies or experienced caravanners and motorhomes alike, the Caravan & Motorhome Show 2016 will have a little something for everyone this January

The Caravan & Motorhome Show 2016 is almost here, and what better way to to brush up on your towing and motorhome manoeuvring skills than by taking advantage of the show’s number of free tutorials, designed for experienced caravanners and motorhomers and those new to hitting the great outdoors alike?

In conjunction with The Caravan Club, visitors to the Caravan & Motorhome Show 2016 – held between 21 – 24 January at Manchester’s EventCity – will be able to sign up for a number of free sessions, including tow car tasters, motorhome manoeuvring and plenty more.

Starting with caravans, The Caravan Club will be on hand to offer you the opportunity to have a go at one of their free taster sessions which will show you how to hitch-up a tow car, as well as allow you to get behind the wheel and take a test-drive in one of the Club’s recommended vehicles. Open to both experienced caravanners who just want to brush up on their skills, you can book your free 20 minute session by signing up at The Caravan Club’s stand on the day.

When it comes to motorhoming, it’s true to say many of us can be a bit fearful when transitioning from being behind the wheel of a small car to hitting the road in a home on wheels, but The Caravan Club’s motorhome manoeuvring taster should put paid to that. Again, ideal for both the motorhome savvy or simply those looking to purchase their first motorhome, the Club’s experts will be on hand to help you get to grips with mastering the manoeuvring of a motorhome or to simply help you brush up on what you already know.

It doesn’t stop there though, and there is sure to be something for everyone at the Caravan & Motorhome Show 2016, including the opportunity to see all of the newest caravans, motorhomes and leisure vehicles all under one roof.

To purchase your tickets for the show, click here. Alternatively, and if you’re feeling lucky, why not enter our competition to win one of ten pairs of tickets here now!

Penalty points cost UK drivers £132 million a year

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by Joe Jeffrey

London, Glasgow and Birmingham forking out the most in insurance, according to research conducted

Caravanners take heed! Penalty points on driving licences are costing UK motorists over £132 million a year in higher insurance premiums, according to new research by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) and MoneySuperMarket.

Of these it’s the drivers with the highest number of points who are unsurprisingly paying the most, with those who have accumulated 10-11 points and rivers with 12 or more respectively forking out between 81.8 per cent and 89.3 per cent more for their car insurance each year.

In terms of regions, motorists in London, Glasgow and Birmingham are having to shell out the most, paying more than £8 million, £4 million and £3 million respectively in more expensive insurance.

Research conducted by the IAM and MoneySuperMarket saw a stark patterns in the increase in premiums for drivers with one to three penalty points, four to six points, seven to nine, ten to 11, and 12 or more for every postcode area of the country, as well as major towns and cities.

The research shows that even getting the lowest number of points (between one and three) is costing drivers in London more than £2.4 million, Glasgow £1.5 million and Birmingham more than £1.2 million.

It adds that across the UK those with one to three points will pay an extra £49.5 million in higher insurance, those with four to six points an extra £57.4 million, seven to nine £18.9 million, ten to 11 £3.5 million and 12 or more £2.6 million.

The full top ten is:

London – £8,079,529
Glasgow – £4,080,190
Birmingham – £3,423,840
Nottingham – £2,833,865
Newcastle – £2,642,079
Cardiff – £2,586,075
Sheffield – £2,535,609
Edinburgh – £2,070,783
Swansea – £2,036,358
Manchester – £2,026,561

People in Bournemouth, Brighton, Bristol, Chester, Coventry, Derby, Leeds, Liverpool, Norwich, Oxford, Portsmouth, Preston, Southampton, Stoke and York have all paid more than £1 million in additional insurance premiums. Bath and Plymouth sit just below the £1 million mark.

MoneySuperMarket says that those with one to three penalty points have paid 5.1 per cent more for their insurance than someone with no points at all in the past year.

Having four to six points really hikes premiums up, costing motorists 25.8 per cent more. Having seven to nine points has cost drivers 45 per cent more in the past 12 months.

Sarah Sillars, IAM chief executive officer, said: “If people don’t understand the safety dangers of the offence they have committed which has earned them the penalty points, they should certainly understand the damage it will do to their bank balances.

“And someone with multiple points and fines is paying through the nose for car insurance; just think what other things they could use that money for. Driving safely could put thousands back into your pocket.”

Kevin Pratt, insurance expert, MoneySuperMarket, commented: “When it comes to driving offences, points definitely don’t mean prizes. In fact, points on your driving licence mean pounds – extra pounds payable on your car insurance. Insurers want to know about your motoring offences so they can build up a picture of what kind of driver you are.

“The more points they see for offences such as speeding and careless driving, the higher your premium will be. A typical £500 premium would increase to around £525 for someone with just a single three-point speeding offence. But someone with six points on their licence could see their premium leap to £625.

“Drivers with points on their licence should shop around and compare prices when it is time to renew their insurance as it is highly likely they will get a cheaper offer with another provider.

“The message is simple: points on your licence puts pounds on your premium. So stick to the speed limits and drive with care, courtesy and attention to avoid unnecessary costs,” he continued.

Official: Women admit men are better drivers!

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by Joe Jeffrey

The debate on men/women drivers continues by way of AA-populous survey

Women are four times more likely to concede men are better drivers than they are – if the results of a new AA-populus survey are to be believed.

Among those female motorists questioned in a new survey from the AA, 28 per cent conceded that their partner is a better driver – four times more than when the questions was put to men.

The above said, findings also revealed that over one third of female drivers said they are safer behind the wheel than their partners (37 per cent), with just 13 per cent accepting their partner is safer.

Of the 24,739 AA members questioned last month, the survey also found that five per cent of men in the North East of England are least likely to concede their partner is the better driver, whilst eight per cent of those in East Anglia, London and Northern Ireland were most complimentary.

In stark contrast, women most likely to consider themselves as better drivers were found to be in Wales (35 per cent), the North West (31 per cent) and Yorkshire/Humberside (30 per cent). 31 per cent of women in the West Midlands were more inclined to accept their partner is a better driver than them.

AA president, Edmund King, said of the AA-populous survey’s findings: “Women are still more likely to be in the passenger seat and more likely to think their partner is a better driver despite the trend showing women making more car trips as a driver while the trend for men declines. The accident figures still clearly show that males are more likely to be involved in crashes.

“You may be a more confident and sharper driver than your partner, more skilful with the controls, reading traffic, manoeuvring and taking opportunities, but it doesn’t mean the person in the seat beside you shares your self-assurance.
“We wanted to find out, not only how partners regard each other’s driving, but whether they differentiate between being a ‘better’ driver and being a ‘safer’ one. And clearly they do – particularly when it comes to men versus women. It may be the cause of arguments or may lead to other car occupants sitting in silence, feeling uneasy or even scared.”

What do you think? Is your partner the better driver or will it take hell to freeze over for you to agree with the above findings?

Marquis Motorhomes & Caravans welcomes expanded Benimar family range for 2016

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by Joe Jeffrey

New additions added to Marquis Motorhomes Benilo range looks set to increase offering to ten models

Marquis Motorhomes & Caravans have teamed up with motorhome experts, Benimar, once again, to develop three new family models to its Benimar Mileo line-up for 2016, increasing the range to a total of ten layouts.

The all-new Mileo 313, a 3500kg sub 6m family six-berth motorhome with six travelling seats, along with the Mileo 323 and 346 which are also six-berths are based on the powerful Fiat 4250kg chassis, looks set to all provide for a massive 1000kg plus payload. Furthermore, both the Mileo 323 and Mileo 346 have garages below the rear beds which are accessible from either side of the motorhome, enabling an abundance of storage wherever you’re heading.

The new models will be showcased on the Marquis stand 3150 at the Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show 2016 taking place at the NEC, Birmingham from the 23rd – 28th February 2016.

For further information and to register your interest in the expanded Benimar Mileo range visit Marquis’ website here now.

Coachman expands production facilities following record sales

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by Joe Jeffrey

Expansion to production facilities to complete by Christmas following unprecedented demand

Coachman looks set to expand its storage and production facilities following unprecedented demand for the company’s ranges for 2016, it has been announced.

Following on from a successful run at the Motorhome & Caravan Show 2015 in October, which saw Coachman secure £10 million in sales, Coachman’s factory on Hull’s Sutton Fields Industrial Estate will also see the introduction of a unique 3D Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine, which used the latest computer technology to control machine tools.

Alan Roberts, Coachman‘s production director, said: “Due to an increase in production demands, we found ourselves working at capacity. A larger storage area and machine shop will enable us to increase space by 456 square metres, reorganise the factory layout and become more efficient.

“The new CNC machining centre has been created to our specification and is the first of its kind. It will enable our routering table to be divided into three zones capable of handling a variety of plywood component sizes. This will help increase productivity and marks a significant investment from Coachman, which will stand us in good stead for the future.”

The new production and storage area will be ready to go by Christmas.

With news reaching CaravanTimes Towers such as this, we can only remain certain that 2016 is going to be a good one for the leisure industry and caravanners alike.

Win tickets to The Caravan & Motorhome Show in Manchester

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by Joe Jeffrey

CaravanTimes has teamed up with The Caravan & Motorhome Show 2016 to offer you the chance to win a pair of tickets to the show this January

The North’s largest outdoor leisure show, The Caravan & Motorhome Show is back for 2016.

The show, which runs from 21 – 24 January at EventCity in Manchester, will offer a huge choice of the latest models of touring caravans, motorhomes, holiday homes and much more.

This year’s show is set to be a great day out for all the family with the unveiling of the brand new Get Back to Nature stage, where visitors will be encouraged to rediscover the British countryside and interact with the stage’s special guests including TV Presenter & Marine Adventurer Monty Halls.

With a host of campsites and parks, holiday inspiration from the UK and the largest ever selection of accessories, there will be lots to stimulate exciting new ideas for touring adventures with the family. Plus, be the first in the UK to see the new Hymer ML-T 580 4×4 edition motorhome – launched exclusively at the show!

To celebrate its return, CaravanTimes has teamed up with The Caravan & Motorhome Show to give away a pair of tickets to ten lucky CaravanTimes readers. 

For a chance to win, simply like our Facebook page here and complete the form below.

Winners will be announced in our newsletter on 18 December, so make sure you enter today for your chance to win!

Terms and Conditions:

One winner will be picked at random on Friday 18 December and will be notified via the email supplied in the entry form

Competition open to members of CaravanTimes only

Only one entry per person

No purchase necessary

No cash or alternative will be offered

The competition is open to UK residents aged 18 and over

Car tax avoidance rate doubles after new governmental measures implemented

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by Joe Jeffrey

Figures released highlight stark rise in untaxed cars on the road

Figures released from the Department for Transport (DfT) have revealed that the rate of unlicensed vehicles in traffic has increased to 1.4 per cent in 2015 from 0.6 per cent in 2013, since the abolishment of paper tax discs in October 2014.

560,000 unlicensed vehicles are said to be in use, equating to approximately £80 million a year in vehicle excise duty being lost – a figure at its highest since 2007, despite some of this figure set to be recovered through enforcement action or car owners paying arrears at a later stage.

Changes in October 2014 saw the requirement for car drivers to display a valid tax disc scrapped, with reminders of when tax is due instead sent by email. Those who pay via direct debit see their road tax automatically renewed.

However, with the above said, new measures also mean that any existing vehicle taxed automatically would end as soon as a vehicle changes hands, with a refund issued to the previous owner and the onus placed on the new owner to pay tax on the car immediately.

A spokesperson for the DfT said: “There is therefore potential for evasion rates to increase if the new keeper fails to understand or comply with the new arrangements.

“However, this situation can only arise where a vehicle changes hands, and the DVLA have been issuing reminders to all new keepers who have not taxed their vehicle.”

DVLA chief executive, Oliver Morley, said: “Almost 99 per cent of all vehicles on the road are correctly taxed: that’s around £6 billion in vehicle tax passed to the Treasury every year.

“We write to every registered vehicle keeper in the UK to remind them when their tax is due and we have introduced a range of measures to make vehicle tax easy to pay. At the same time we are taking action against those who are determined to break the law.”

2016 Elddis Accordo 120 highlighted in new video

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by Joe Jeffrey

All-season Accordo 120 highlighted in new video from Elddis

The all-new Elddis Accordo 120 has been unveiled in a brand new video from Elddis.

Ideal for couples looking to get out and about, the compact Elddis Accordo 120 motorhome, new for 2016, features two single beds with the option of converting these into one large double, a side kitchen complete with everything you need for a touring holiday, and a spacious, centrally-located bathroom.

Inside the cab, cruise control comes as standard, as does Bluetooth technology, and driver and passenger airbags.

‘Marine’ craftsman built cabinetry with handcrafted dove-tailed drawers, overhead lockers and contrasting two-tone ‘Fantasie Brushed’ flush-fit kitchen add a touch of class and sophistication.

An abundance of light is available throughout the Accordo 120, thanks to Elddis’ Sky-View opening cab sunroof with blind for when it’s time to call it a night.

Elsewhere, new 4kW space-saving Whale heating, which runs on gas and/or electric with a quiet night-time setting should ensure you remain comfortable at all times. Add to this a GRP underskin to the motorhome floor which creates a water resistant barrier, as well as one piece GRP silver sides for ultimate resistance, and the Accordo 120, like all over Accordo models in the range, makes for a motorhome for all seasons.

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

Road safety and breakdown recovery organisations weigh in on clampdown on unfit drivers

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by Joe Jeffrey

GEM, RAC Foundation and Institute of Advanced Motorists speak on new GMC ruling surrounding GPs reporting unfit drivers

Road safety and breakdown recovery organisations have spoken out on the General Medical Council’s (GMC) decision to call on GPs to report patients who who are not ‘medically fit’ to drive.

The GMC this week strengthened its advice, pointing out that doctors play an important role in keeping the wider public safe by contacting the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to report those who many cause a potential threat behind the wheel owing to either age or illness.

In new draft guidance, the GMC said doctors have a public protection duty to inform the DVLA when patient continues to drive against advice, with an aim to enable doctors to balance both legal and ethical duties of confidentiality with wider public protection responsibilities.

The guidance states that doctors must disclose information if there is a need to protect individuals or the wider public from the risks death or serious harm.

Now, amidst fears of many losing their licence, GEM Motoring Assist has let to the GMC’s defence to support new measures set to be implemented.

GEM chief executive, David Williams MBE, said: “Thankfully most people accept that there are good reasons why certain medical conditions or drugs make it unsafe for them to be driving. But there are some who see it as their right to drive, regardless of what risks they may be posing, to themselves and to others. 

“It is in situations such as this that doctors must place public safety above patient confidentiality.

“GEM wants everyone to drive safely for as long as possible, but anyone of any age whose ability to do this is compromised by a medical condition or certain drugs must heed the advice of a medical professional and not drive. If they choose to ignore these warnings, then they are creating an unacceptable risk, not only for themselves but for anyone who happens to get in their way. Public safety must be the priority here.”

Steve Gooding of the RAC Foundation, meanwhile, highlighted the potential concern faced by many once these new measures are put into place, saying: “Thirty-seven million drivers depend on the car for getting about and for those with serious medical conditions there is a real fear around losing their licence.

“But with the right treatment, many illnesses will not lead to people having to hang up the keys.

The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) also weighed in on the issue, with director of policy and research, Neil Greig, saying: “Clarifying the role of GPs is a very positive road safety move.

“Our research shows that drivers are much more likely to listen to a medical professional giving them advice about giving up driving than to their friends or family.”

Now it’s over to you. What’s your opinion on this? Could you be affected by this new policy?

Couple set to embark on gap year with a twist in Elddis motorhome

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by Joe Jeffrey

Karen and David give up day jobs to travel to Spain in Elddis Encore 254

When we think of of the term ‘gap year’, we often think of pre-uni students travelling to far-flung places abroad. But for one couple, rather than the teenagers you might expect, Karen and David are fully-formed grown-ups, with established careers, not to mention, bricks and mortar!

Like a growing number of their peers Karen and David have itchy feet. A deep-seated Wanderlust coupled with a ‘get the most out of life’ philosophy that has led to the bold move to take a ‘Mid-Life Gap Year’ – all thanks to Elddis.

In their Fifties and together for over ten years, Karen and David are counting down to a year on the road in a brand new Elddis Encore motorhome, on a voyage of discovery around Spain.

The couple were fortunate enough to take a nine-month round the world trip when they first got together, a highlight of which was exploring New Zealand by motorhome – a first for both of them. This original motorhome adventure left a long-lasting impression on the pair, as Karen and David revealed.

“We feel that there is no better way to completely immerse yourself in a place than to explore it at leisure, by road,” Karen and David said.

Fast-forward a decade and Karen is working her notice as a Financial Controller at a major Russian news agency, as is David who is an experienced IT Manager. Their house is to be rented out, their finances are in order . and their gleaming new Elddis motorhome is about to reach the end of the production line!

Inspired by Rick Stein, the couple from County Durham plan to follow in his footsteps on a culinary quest to discover all that Spain has to offer in an Elddis motorhome. Aiming to get off the beaten track and uncover the less-explored areas of the country, blogging and Tweeting as they go. “If we inspire others thinking of making the leap too, that would be a great thing,” David said.

Of the adventure, Rachel Moncrieff, marketing manager at Elddis said: “David and Karen are not seasoned motorhomers, not by any means. Everything about this trip is a new experience – and a steep learning curve.

“David and Karen are going to blog throughout their year-long trip – essentially showing other potential motorhomers exactly what’s involved and what the benefits of having a motorhome can be.

“Whether it’s taking a motorhome on a ferry, pitching up at a campsite or negotiating a foreign city – we feel Karen and David can share these first-time experiences and challenges with others in a helpful, down-to-earth way,” Rachel continued.

Following choosing the Elddis brand and its all-new luxury Encore range, Karen and David needed to decide on the right layout to suit them, which became possible during the Elddis Factory Open Event in September as previously reported here. The couple were able to compare and contrast the layouts available, as well as talk to other motorhome owners to decide upon the right choice for them. A further trip to the Motorhome & Caravan Show 2015 at the NEC in Birmingham galvanized their decision – the all-new Elddis Encore 254 with transverse fixed bed at the rear.

“Having seen the Encore 254, we are both overjoyed at the home comforts and luxury that it gives us,” Karen said. “I’m not a good sleeper, but the fixed bed in this model is really supportive and cosy so I do feel that I’ll be able to sleep well in my lovely bed!

“It has also got a brilliant breakfast table at the end of the bed, with windows to the front and side, so we can enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take in what we hope to be stunning scenery at the same time. Better still if David makes me breakfast in bed!”

David feels confident and secure about the technical aspects of the motorhome and is keen to try out the many gadgets and gizmos that come as standard with the comprehensive specification. The couple have also opted for a solar panel, roll-out awning, rear view camera and Fiamma bike rack to aide their trip.

“I’m really impressed with the cooking facilities and kitchen space,” he said. “Everything has been well thought-out, which is great for us wannabe Rick Steins.” And if the recipes don’t all work out, there’s a sizeable fridge for all the local delicacies – and all the Cerveza and Vino they can carry! “We are very, very happy with our new home on wheels!” say Karen and David, “the New Year can’t come soon enough!”

To follow Karen and David on their travels, make sure you visit their dedicated website here. You can also follow the couple’s journey on social media via Facebook and Twitter.

All that remains to say is good luck! We here at CaravanTimes can’t wait to see what this one particular gap year has in store.

Thieves targeting caravan park take off with thousands of pounds worth of goods

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by Joe Jeffrey

Caravan thieves responsible for at least 18 caravan burglaries in same park as caravan crime continues

Callous thieves have made off with thousands of pounds worth of goods following a spate of break-ins at one single caravan park.

Ribble Valley Country and Leisure Park in Paythorne, Lancashire, has become the main target for the thieving opportunists who have broken into at least 18 empty caravans in one single weekend, leaving many caravanners distraught in the process.

The current amount of goods taken during the break-ins is said to currently be in the region of £3,000, with damage made to the targeted caravans said to amount to much more owing to the way in which the intruders gained entry.

One victim in the latest spate of thefts who wished to remain anonymous said: “We have heard that up to 18 caravans were broken into over the weekend and the thieves stole a lot of expensive items and equipment such as televisions, laptops, vacuum cleaners and alcohol.

“We are very worried about this and would like to make everyone who lives on here aware of what has happened so they can take extra security measures.”

Police have now appealed for caravan owners on the Ribble Valley Country and Leisure Park site to remain aware at all times, and to report any suspicious activity as and when it occurs. Security is also said to have been stepped up at the park in an attempt to quell further robberies.

James Renwick, general manager of the site, said: “We have stepped up security all night on the park.

“We have installed extra security lighting on the exits and perimeter, and we’re introducing number plate recognition so that any vehicle not registered to an owner from the park will be questioned.

“The police are carrying out patrols, and we have asked our owners to be vigilant.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the police on 101.

Swift Group deputy MD wins ‘Rising Star of the Year’ at prestigious Forward Ladies Women in Business Awards

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by Joe Jeffrey

Swift’s deputy managing director shines at prestigious ladies awards

The UK’s top business women have been recognised at the prestigious finals of the Forward Ladies Women in Business Awards (WIBA).

As reported previously here on CaravanTimes, Amy Archer, Swift’s deputy managing director, first triumphed at the regional heat to make it to the national finals back in September. Amy was then put through her paces at a live session with an expert judging panel on 4 November, held at headline sponsor of the awards HSBC’s offices in Leeds.

The National finals, hosted by ITV newsreader Charlene White, took place at The Queens Hotel in Leeds on Friday 20 November, where outstanding, entrepreneurial business leaders from across the UK competed in 11 categories.

It was here that Amy was crowned the winner of the ‘Rising Star of the Year’ award after beating many other entrepreneurial female business leaders from around the UK. This year for the first time, award winners were offered support from two of the most influential names in business – HSBC, who are the headline sponsor of the Forward Ladies Women in Business Awards, and Microsoft, the awards technology partner.

James Cliffe, HSBC Head of UK Business Banking, said: “HSBC is proud to support the ‘Forward Ladies National Women in Business Awards’ and to recognise the many influential women who in 2015 demonstrated exceptional leadership in shaping the business landscape across the UK. The event attracted an outstanding group of business leaders across a range of industry sectors, and we wish to congratulate all those who participated in the regional heats and final. “HSBC also welcomed the opportunity to provide additional help and guidance to this year’s finalists on how they can best achieve their growth ambitions for the future.” ?

Microsoft will offer finalists a full review of their ICT set up. The review will explore how their organisation can utilise technology across a range of business functions to drive business results. Sharon Jandu, strategic partnerships, small and medium business, at Microsoft, said: “Our mission and values are all about helping businesses unlock their full potential and we are excited about the prospect of working with the UK’s leading women in business in their companies to support them to achieve this aim.”?

The WIBAs, now in its sixth year, has become one of the most high profile and respected accolades for women recognising their enormous contribution to the economy and acknowledges start-ups to multi-million pound companies.

Griselda Togobo, managing director at Forward Ladies said: “We were delighted to welcome applications from women across the UK in this year’s National Women in Business awards. We were also happy to have been able to reward and celebrate the achievements of women from diverse backgrounds and industries proving that success can be achieved by anyone through hard work and determination.

“As an organisation committed to supporting and developing women we are delighted to have been able to enlist the support of HSBC and Microsoft who have committed to providing business support and an ICT review to all our finalists.”

“Women are setting up their own businesses in unprecedented numbers and the news that women are also making strides in the boardroom signals a welcomed shift. We look forward to supporting more women and working with progressive companies looking to unlock the potential of women in their businesses.”

Amy Archer commented: “I am delighted to have won the ‘Rising Star of the year’ at these highly respected awards. It is a great accolade and I am honoured to be part of the WIBA which recognises the enormous contribution women are making in business.

“This award is proof that women who aspire to succeed in business can achieve their goals through commitment and hard work and I hope it inspires other women to unlock their potential.”

All of us here at CaravanTimes extend our congratulations to Amy on this wonderful achievement.