Almost 100 objections to caravan site plans in Somerset

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By Claire Lawson

Proposals for caravan and camping site sparks opposition from all sides

Plans submitted by a construction company for a new caravan site near the M5 in North Somerset have caused over 90 objections, including those from two parish councils and the local police.

The idea proposed by Oakdale Design Services Limited (ODSL) was to develop land in St George’s into a site that caters for 40 touring caravans and camping pitches. Issues raised by local residents include the thought that plans for such a site may act as a ‘smokescreen’ for an unofficial travellers site, the suggestion of which has since been refuted by ODSL.

St George’s Parish councillors have also raised issues pertaining to access to the site, the environmental impact on the river and rhyne courses as well as the frequency of which the area floods.

Avon and Somerset Constabulary has also objected saying that roads close by are too narrow to allow for caravans, as well as raised concerns regarding the impact the site would have on local residents owing to an increase in traffic within the surrounding area.

The Environment Agency highlighted the flood risks in the area, saying: “The above proposal falls within floor zone three, which is an area with a high probability of flooding.”

Let us know what you think of these plans, as well as whether you feel these objections are possibly taking things a little too far, in the comments below.

Camping and Caravanning Club study shows kids who camp perform better at school

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ByJoe Jeffrey

Kids who camp perform better at school and are healthier and happier than those who don’t, survey shows

Children who camp in the great outdoors at least once a year go on to do better at school, as well as being healthier and happier, a study has found.

The finding comes following a survey carried out by the Institute of Education at Plymouth University and The Camping and Caravanning Club who collaborated to discover perceptions of the relationship between education and camping.

Parents and children around the UK were asked a series of questions which looked at the educational, psychological and social benefits of the camping experience to children of all ages.

The research, led by Sue Waite, Associate Professor at the Plymouth Institute of Education, found that more than four out of five parents thought camping had a positive effect on their children’s school education.

It showed that 98 per cent of parents said camping makes their kids appreciate and connect with nature; 95 per cent said their kids were happier when camping; and 93 per cent felt that it provided useful skills for later life.

Some parents (15 per cent) reported that escaping technology, including laptops, tablets and mobile phones, is a good thing for their children and one of the benefits of camping. A fifth of parents (20 per cent) said camping gives their kids freedom, independence and confidence; and more than two thirds (68 percent) felt camping helped their children to enjoy learning in the classroom, because they can share their camping adventures and experiences such as visiting exciting educational or historical sites.

Sue Waite said: “Interestingly, the parents surveyed believed camping supported the key curriculum subjects of Geography, History and Science and actually, that stacks up because the most common camping activities were natural – such as rock pooling and nature walks – where children were getting to understand ecosystems and identify lifeforms, respecting nature and the environment.”

The children who took part in the research were asked what they love about camping and the most common themes were making and meeting new friends, having fun, playing outside and learning various camping skills. Children also recognised camping’s value for curriculum subjects and for problem solving and working together.

This compelling link between education and camping is the focus of a new campaign, ‘Get Kids Camping’, as previously mentioned on CaravanTimes, which was launched today (21st May) at The Deck, London by Julia Bradbury, The Camping and Caravanning Club President.

To mark National Camping and Caravanning Week (25 to 31 May), there will be a series of pop up campsite roadshows around the UK where families can come and get a taster of what camping is really like. They will have opportunities to put up a tent, take a look inside state-of-the-art caravans and motorhomes, enjoy cooking demos, and have a go on cycling, rowing or cross-trainer equipment to simulate the activities campers enjoy while on holiday. And all visitors to the roadshow venues will take away a fun camping goodie bag.

“Taking the kids camping is such a great experience for the whole family,” says Julia, who is mum to three year old Zephyr, and twin baby daughters Xanthe and Zena. “We have masses of beautiful scenery on our doorstep in the UK and camping doesn’t have to be expensive, although you can try glamping!

It’s a brilliant way of getting our kids out in the fresh air, away from the TV and computers – developing their brains and teaching them to interact with each other and the countryside in different ways,” she continued. “If you haven’t taken your family camping, give it a go – it’s an adventure that won’t disappoint you, and there are hundreds of superb British campsites to choose from.”

To find out more information about the ‘Get Kids Camping’ campaign, and the roadshow locations it’s travelling to, click here.

Railway crossing causes a problem for caravan owner

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By Claire Lawson

Railway crossing traps driver towing a caravan

A caravan being towed became stuck on a level crossing in North Yorkshire last Friday (22 May) when the barriers came down and caged the caravan just as the car reached the other side of the crossing.

The incident happened on the crossing on the A1238 Leeds Road in Thorpe Willoughby. Luckily a signaller was on site and alerted Network Rail to the event who delayed trains between Selby, York and Leeds.

A local witness stated the barrier had come down before allowing both the car and caravan to pass free from the track, meaning it could not be moved out of the way.

Network Rail quickly dispatched an engineer to solve the situation whilst also alerting the North Yorkshire Police and British Transport Police. The problem was resolved over an hour later with no injuries or damage to the car or the caravan.

It just goes to show that you should always be sure to be aware of your environment, especially when crossing through intersections where contact with other vehicles is potentially dangerous.

Bee sanctuaries to be introduced to over 100 holiday parks across British Isles

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ByJoe Jeffrey

Bee sanctuaries to be introduced to over 100 holiday parks across British Isles

Honey bee numbers are set to blossom at holiday parks this year, thanks to a new initiative which will see a national network of honey bee-friendly park sanctuaries introduced across the UK.

The ambitious project, headed up by the David Bellamy Conservation Award scheme in conjunction with the British Beekeepers Asociation, is hoped to bring an end to the dramatic decline in various bee species in recent years, thought to be due to the increasing scarcity of food resources and nesting habitats.

More than 100 holiday parks across the UK – from Scotland to Cornwall – have taken the ‘honey bee pledge’ in an effort to increase the bee popularity and, according to David’s son, Rufus, it couldn’t have come at a better time, as he explained:

“Holiday parks are in a position to provide a wide variety of forage crops that, if chosen carefully, can provide food for bees for a long period of time,” he said.

“Parks can also provide places for bees to nest. In fact, a surprising number of parks are already getting into beekeeping, often in conjunction with their local beekeepers association branch.

It’s not just bees that look set to benefit though, with other insects looking set to reap the rewards of the intiative, as Rufus continued.

“Butterflies and other pollinators will also benefit when a holiday park commits to increasing its stock of bee-friendly flowers and shrubs.”

By the end of the year, it is hoped that almost every county in the British Isles will be able to boast at least one honey-bee friendly park. And, as for embracing bees, Rufus believes it’s not just holiday parks that should do their bit in order to preserve the species, adding:

“Another important dimension of our work with the British Beekeepers Association is to help parks enlighten guests about the important role they can play.

“Interpreted walks around the park and its bee-friendly planting schemes can be used to explain why foraging is so important for bees.

“Our hope is that many holidaymakers will use the knowledge to make their own gardens more welcoming to bees and other pollinating insects.”

What do you think about this initiative?

Elddis and The Caravan Club join forces in latest competition to win a motorhome holiday in association with Freedom to Go

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ByJoe Jeffrey

Elddis and The Caravan Club offering one lucky family a week’s holiday in Autoquest 180

Elddis, Freedom to Go and The Caravan Club have teamed up to offer one lucky winner and their family or friends a week’s stay in an Autoquest 180 motorhome.

The competition, which will see the winner hit the road during October half-term week (24 – 31 October), looks set to offer you the opportunity to explore all Cornwall has to offer, with free accommodation at the Godrevy Caravan Club Site, as well as a free personal surf lesson by Freedom to Go ambassador and surf extraordinaire, Melodie King.

Surrounded by beautiful scenery and nestled amongst quaint Cornish fishing villages, Godrevy’s Caravan Club site will also allow for you to put your feet up and relax whilst also enabling you to explore further afield with the freedom to get out and about in your very own Elddis Autoquest 180, a motorhome with a reputation for quality, value and driving performance.

To find out more about this fabulous competition, as well as to enter, click here now.

National Camping and Caravanning Week 2015 begins

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ByJoe Jeffrey

The Camping and Caravanning Club begins its annual promotion of the great outdoors with tour across the UK

National Camping and Caravanning Week 2015 has kicked off with a bang.

Running all week, between 25 to 31 May, and organised by The Camping and Caravanning Club, as well as being strongly supported by the caravan industry, this year’s theme is ‘Get Kids Camping’ and will see the Club conducting ground-breaking new research in association with Plymouth University, exploring the benefits of children holidaying in the UK’s great outdoors.

One key theme of research being undertaken during the week, which coincides with the school half-term, will be to determine whether camping and caravanning holidays help make kids smarter and more creative, whilst supporting learning and development during their important formative years.

The new study will concentrate on the Club’s Real Richness Report, incorporating results obtained from Liverpool John Moores University back in 2012 that looked at the association between camping, caravanning and happiness, which revealed that eight in ten caravanners found that holidaying brought families closer together.

The Camping and Caravanning Club has already began hosting a pop-up campsite roadshow across the UK with a host of themed activities throughout the week, including fun competitions, in the hope of encouraging more people to get involved in camping and caravanning across the UK. Beginning at Chester Zoo yesterday (25 May), the roadshow will take to various locations throughout the country including Glossop Caravans today (26 May), and will continue through to Sunday (31 May).

To find out more about how you can get involved and where the roadshow is pitching up next, visit The Camping and Caravanning website now.

Heavy traffic expected over Bank holiday weekend

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By Claire Lawson

Millions are expected to hit the road for the long weekend

Traffic over the Bank holiday weekend is expected to be busy as millions of people plan to travel within the UK during the break.

Analysts, INRIX, predict the roads in the south-east to be 35 per cent higher than usual on Friday afternoon whilst peak traffic in the Midlands and north-west are expected to be between 4pm and 5pm.

According to the AA,16 million drivers will be on the roads; the organisation has advised drivers planning to travel via motorways in the heart of England to set off during the morning or evening if possible.

The Highways Agency has suspended as many as 151 miles of roadworks which allows for 98 per cent of England’s motorways to be free of roadworks. However, roadworks on the M6 and M25 could not be lifted and restrictions will still be imposed.

High levels of traffic are also expected on Monday as people make their return journeys. Heavy traffic is expected to last all day in the south-east peaking around 11am. South-west peak time is said to be estimated at around 1pm and the Midlands will peak at 5pm.

Passengers travelling on the Network Rail services are not expected to run into disruptive or major engineering works following strike action no longer going ahead as planned.

1.8 million people will be heading out to the airports for their overseas trip with almost a quarter leaving through Heathrow Airport.

Whatever you do this bank holiday, we hope it’s a good one. Remember to stay safe – and out of those pesky jams.

The Caravan Club warns of bogus email containing potential virus

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By Joe Jeffrey

Club advises members to delete bogus Trojan virus ‘phishing’ email with potential to steal data

The Caravan Club has warned of a bogus email currently being distributed which may contain a virus.

The email, appearing to be from The Caravan Club with the subject title ‘Travel Order Confirmation 0300202959’ whilst suggesting it emanates from the address overseastravel@caravanclub.co.uk, is NOT from The Club and its attachment may contain a potential harmful Trojan virus which may attempt to ‘phish’ for members’ details.

In order to avoid risk of downloading a virus which could potentially cause harm to members’ computers or handheld devices, The Caravan Club has recommended those in receipt of the email delete it and any other emails that are not expected.

A temporary measure of disabling the email inbox overseastravel@caravanclub.co.uk has been implemented whilst further investigation is ongoing and The Club has advised all members who have opened the email to download and run a free virus checker from the website www.malwarebytes.org or use their own anti-virus software to check for potential problems.

The Club has subsequently apologised for the confusion the scam email may have caused, whilst assuring those who have booked overseas travel that plans have not been affected.

GEM Motoring Assist releases illegal and prescription drug-driving videos launched

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By Claire Lawson

New video campaign outlining the laws on drug-driving by road safety organisation looks set to inform road users of the dangers and consequences of driving under the influence

A new video by road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist looks set to provide information on the laws surrounding drug use and the law.

The video, which can be seen below, outlines the changes of the drug-driving laws and establishes the legal limits of both illegal and legal drugs.

The video, funded by the GEM Motoring Assist Road Safety Charity, details the eight illegal and eight legal prescription drugs which fall under new measures, which could ultimately see road users facing penalties under a new UK legislation. GEM chief executive, David Williams MBE, said: “This video sets out to explain the new legislation, as well as to reinforce the warning that driving after using any potentially intoxicating substance is both dangerous and illegal.

“Drugs can affect your vision, your hearing, your reaction time, your perception of risk and your ability to carry out a variety of tasks. You may feel sleepy, sick, dizzy or unable to move quickly. Your vision may be blurred, and you may also find it hard to focus or pay attention.. symptoms like this make you much more likely to be involved in a collision,” he continued.

Two versions of the video have been made for young drivers and mature motorists. The shorter version for the younger audiences focuses on illicit drugs whilst the longer version for a more mature audience contains vital information on the effects prescription medicine can have whilst in control of a vehicle behind the wheel.

Transport Research Laboratory helped to produce the video with chief scientist Professor Andrew Parkes providing proof on drug effects. “Different drugs have different effects on different people and the picture for road safety is really complicated. But they all have an effect on driving; none of them makes driving better,” he said.

“We hope this video will be used extensively, particularly to support school and college advice programmes for their students, and to inform older drivers who may be at risk because of the prescription medicines they take,” finished David Williams.

For more information, check out the videos below and let us know your thoughts.

Prescription video

Drugs, medicines, driving and the law from GEM Motoring Assist on Vimeo.

Illicit drug video

Drug, driving and the law from GEM Motoring Assist on Vimeo.

How to use your sat nav the right way

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By Joe Jeffrey

Following on from a recent pilot scheme incorporating the use of sat navs during UK driving tests, CaravanTimes speaks to Garmin to find out how to get the best out of your sat nav device safely and efficiently

It goes without saying that in-car technology has its uses when taking to the road to explore pastures new. Gone are the days where we reach for the A to Z in order to plan our route before setting off on our latest adventure behind the wheel of our cars or motorhomes, and satellite navigation systems have proven to be a fast and efficient way of getting to our desired destination in the quickest and most convenient time possible – all at the press of a few onscreen buttons.

It is also a given that, over the past 17 years since Garmin introduced their first in-car sat nav, the StreetPilot, to the public in 1998, advances in technology now means we are able to not only plan a specific route, but also find points of interest along the way, as well as the nearest petrol station when its time to refuel, our favourite restaurant chain en route, and even check-in on social media once we arrive where we’re heading to let our loved ones know that we’ve arrived safely and in one piece.

Now it seems we are entering into a new phase in the ever-growing realm of advanced technology, and it’s not just car drivers that are embracing sat navs, but more so those that permit us to get behind the wheel in the first place.

A nationwide shakeup earlier this month has seen a new type of driving test introduced that is currently being trialed across the UK that includes following directions on a sat nav system for 20 minutes, whilst carrying out standard manoevres.

Sat-nav technology isn’t without its pitfalls though, especially when it’s not used correctly and safely, as Kirsty Quarterly, Garmin personal navigation device (PND) product manager agrees. Of the new pilot scheme, Kirsty told CaravanTimes: “The proposed new driving test, which incorporates the use of a sat nav in the car, is a great way of introducing future road users to using in-car technology in a safe and responsible manner. Our advice isn’t just about helping learner drivers pass their driving test, this is advice that even the most seasoned of sat nav users should be reminding themselves about for safer and more efficient driving.

“Sat navs do now form a part of modern driving so it makes a lot of sense to start educating young drivers early on about how to use a sat nav properly,” she continued.

The above said, it certainly pays to be vigilant when it comes to ensuring you get the most out of your sat nav whilst remaining safe behind the wheel at all times. Read on to find out how.

Kirsty’s top tips:

1. Remember: YOU are the driver, your sat nav is an aid
Your sat nav is there to help give you directions but remember that you are the one in control! If there are road diversions in place or if you judge that the route ahead is not appropriate, then do override the directions and continue on the safest route. It will always automatically re-adjust itself so you can still arrive safely at your destination, just via an alternative route. The sat nav is an aid, it is not absolute, so make your own judgements based on the situation ahead accordingly.

2. Hone up on your listening skills
You should keep your eyes on the road, not on the sat nav. Get into the habit of listening to the directions rather than looking at them. Make like commuters on the London Tube and try not to make eye contact – you shouldn’t need to look at your sat nav for longer than is necessary! This allows you to focus on your driving and means you’ll be more aware of potential dangers that present themselves as you make a turn or navigate a roundabout. Do switch your phone onto silent too so notification sounds don’t interfere with your concentration.

3. Double check your route before you set off

It may seem obvious but do double check that the postcode and/or address you have entered is actually your desired location – a single incorrect letter or digit could mean you end up further away from your destination than when you set off! Also, if there are certain areas or roads you wish to avoid during your journey, or if you’d like the most time- or fuel-efficient route, do enter this into your sat nav from the get-go.

4. Only handle your sat nav as a last resort

When driving, the road ahead and surroundings should have your full attention so avoid handling your sat nav as much as possible. Certain models do have voice-activated navigation so you simply need to speak your instructions and your device should respond accordingly, leaving both your hands safely on the wheel and your eyes on the road.

5. Keep your map software updated

Research by Garmin shows that almost half (40%) of sat nav owners never update their mapping software1 and this can lead to a plethora of potential problems later down the line. Roads come and go so as time goes on maps will become less accurate, meaning that you’re more likely to end up in the wrong location so try to update your mapping software at least once a year.

Competition to win a Compass Rallye caravan worth over £25,000 announced

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By Joe Jeffrey

Elddis teams up with The Camping and Caravanning Club and the Mirror Group to offer prize of a lifetime

To celebrate National Camping and Caravanning Week 2015, Elddis has teamed up with The Camping and Caravanning Club and Mirror Group to offer one lucky winner the chance to walk away with a state-of-the-art Compass Rallye 664 caravan worth over £25,000.

The Rallye 664 is a twin-axle four-berth luxury touring caravan, full to the brim with style and specification.

Key features include Compass’ Sky-Scape panoramic sunroof; 24-hour central heating, which can be controlled via mobile phone; a Phantom tracker system; and sumptuous interior complete with Aquaclean technology.

Ideal for the whole family, the Rallye 664 is one of Elddis’ most popular layouts, featuring a transverse fixed double bed at the rear and a spacious lounge at the front which converts into a large double bedroom when its time for lights out. The centrally located kitchen boasts a plethora of modcons, including microwave, dual-fuel hob, oven and grill, as well as an enormous fridge-freezer. And if it’s alfresco dining you’re after, you’ll love the external gas barbeque point too.

The large bathroom comes just as equipped as well, spanning the rear of the caravan and featuring hot water on tap – also programmable by your smartphone – and a heated towel rail for style and practicality.

As if that wasn’t enough, The Camping and Caravanning Club are also giving away 10,000 free ‘site nights’ – encouraging family and friends to get out and discover the vast and varied network of Club sites to explore across the UK.

The competition launches in the Sunday Mirror on Sunday 24 May 2015, so make sure you pick up your copy to be in with a chance of winning one of these great prizes.

Funding secures plans for Blue Anchor Leisure expansion to go ahead

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By Claire Lawson

Lincolnshire business is set to expand after funding from Yorkshire Bank confirmed

Owners of 14 caravan parks along the English East Coast, Blue Anchor Leisure, have received support from Yorkshire Bank to expand two of their parks.

The developments include a 140 pitch-site extension to the Golden Palm Resort in Chapel St. Leonards and 150 lodges at the Woodwards Lodges and Lakes park near Doncaster.

The strategy, in order to maintain such high quality of the parks, has always been to reinvest profits made back into the business in order to continue to improve the facilities and the atmosphere for each of the parks’ visitors, whilst making sure all of Blue Anchor’s clients’ needs are met.

Managing director, Peter Holmes, knows the importance of keeping to high standards. He said: “Creating the right environment for families to come back year after year is a challenge, so it’s important to ensure we listen to our customers and provide them with what they are looking for.”

Holmes stated that the support from Yorkshire Bank over the past 20 years has allowed the parks to take advantage of growth opportunities that help to attract new customers which, in turn, allows for further expansion.

“We were able to benefit from the recession as more people decided to stay in the UK for their holidays, but we have retained a large part of those customers due to the high quality and variety of facilities we are able to offer,” Hlmes continued.

“As well as our own investment, the continued support from Yorkshire Bank has allowed us to take advantage of growth opportunities such as Holmes Mere, which is allowing us to attract new customers.”