Holiday parks Management Spring Issue

Issue 9

Holiday Parks Management Magazine Features Spring Issue INPAS Show Media Theme Feature

www.holidayparksmanagement.com

The Ultimate Suppliers Guide For Holiday Parks, Caravan Parks and Campsites

INPAS 2013 Expo and Trade Show TUESDAY 12th and WEDNESDAY 13th MARCH 2013 STONELEIGH PARK EXHIBITION CENTRE CV8 2LZ 9.30am - 4.00pm INPAS 2013 is your opportunity to view an array of inflatables, play equipment and other related products direct from leading manufacturers and suppliers at the largest show of its type in the UK in 2013.

See all the latest designs and innovations on display at our massive 8000 square metres of exhibition space

Who should visit the show?

Bouncy Castle Hire Companies Event Organisers Family Entertainment Centres Hotel & Country Clubs Mall & Retail Managers Municipal & Local Authorities Playgrounds & Leisure Centres Showmen Theme Parks & Attractions Zoos Farm Attractions Indoor Playcentres Holiday & Caravan Parks

FREE ADMISSION Register online via the show web site, Facebook or Twitter

FREE ONSITE PARKING Parking is just a short 2 minute walk

ON SITE ACCOMMODATION Special rates available at Stoneleigh Park Lodge

EASY TRAVEL Road, Rail, Bus and Plane

Full details visit www.inpas.co.uk 2

About Us Maggie Media Ltd is an energetic business offering a website called Holiday Parks Management and a Magazine, to clients throughout the UK and Europe.

The company, which is located in Herefordshire, was set up in 2010 realising the demand for Holiday Parks and Caravan Parks to have a medium in one place to purchase products and services for their businesses.

The owner has been in the Leisure Industry for over 14 years and has much experience in this market place.

The magazine has a growing network of advertisers and clients such as ‘Cartoon Network’, ‘Proludic, Sound Leisure,’ ‘Pattersons,’ ‘Tri County Golf,’ ‘Frontier Pitts,’ ‘Re-bound’ etc The Company is owned and run by Nina Blanchard who also owns www.campsitefinderonline.com This website has such park groups as Park Holiiays UK, Park Resorts and independents parks like ‘Holgates Caravan Parks’ and ‘Best of British’ to name but a few.In 2012 they secured the Caravan Club as one of their major clients. Adding 200 parks to the 3500 database of clients.

The professional staff, website and magazine help clients source supplies and products for their Parks & Sites throughout the year, offering four seasonal magazines. Winter - February, Spring - May, Summer- August, Autumn - November.

These services are designed to improve performance and help with Holiday Park & Caravan Park Management.

Designed and Produced by Print Plus 01432 272025 www.printplushereford.co.uk Maggie Media Ltd 7378641

Vat Registration 128 6998 57

© Copyright 2013

olly Roger (Amusement Rides) Limited is the one of the world’s leading manufacturer of licensed and premium coin operated kiddie rides.

J

The new additions to our portfolio for 2013 are the innovative Candy Van dispenser and the exciting Camper Van ride.

The Candy Van is a sweet and toy dispenser built in bright durable self-coloured fibreglass with no power required. With 18 sweet dispensers and 2 capsule toy dispensers, this new vending machine has a change giver facility at the rear of the Van and a sweet paper bag dispenser on the side. The Candy Van is very user-friendly as each dispenser has an independent coin mechanism.

Creation of exciting unique leisure spaces - that reach your customers wherever they are !

• Mobile soft play conversion specialists • Bespoke conversion of retired double decker buses

The Camper Van ride is based around a retro vehicle evocating happy springs and summers with bright flowers that will attract the attention of all the kids and their parents. This colourful ride features on-board sounds, three seats and a fun interactive geography related game that will captivate the attention of our young audience. This ride is easy to use thanks to its “plug and play” simple features and it is also built in durable self-coloured fibreglass.

• Conversion of other large vehicles undertaken • All leisure application conversions undertaken

www.theplaybuscompany.co.uk info@theplaybuscompany.co.uk tel: 07801554642 - Design & Development tel: 07706945529 - Sales & Marketing

These new creations from Jolly Roger will be a colourful addition to any entertainment or retail environment, will keep your customers coming back and generate substantial revenue to increase your profits!

We also have a stock of secondhand refurbished rides – please contact us for more details.

Telephone: +44 (0) 1754 896 800 Email: sales@jolly-roger.co.uk Website: www.jolly-roger.co.uk 3

BOND Tented Holiday Lodges make it possible for holiday makers to enjoy the excitement, glamour and romance of living under canvas without foregoing those little luxuries we value on holiday. For the campsite owner, our lodges offer a competitively priced form of accommodation which can command a significant rental premium – they are spacious, comfortable and have huge appeal to families.

BOND has been manufacturing all types of marquees and temporary structures in the UK for over 20 years, more recently drawing on this experience to develop the Tented Holiday Lodge. Made with quality performance materials and finished to a very high standard these lodges have significantly increased revenues and also extended the season for many of our campsite and holiday park clients.

Our standard lodge sleeps 6 – 8 people and is currently in use in many locations around the UK. We have also developed more bespoke lodges with some of our clients who wanted to add their own design element to a lodge, some of which sleeping up to 12. We can supply as little or as much of the interior furnishings as you require, such as our rustic pine furniture set, wood burning stove suitable for cooking, handmade double cabin bed and a locally crafted Belfast sink unit.

TENTED HOLIDAY LODGES

‘The romance of a tent with the luxury and home comforts of a lodge’

From the small family run campsite to a large holiday park, we can tailor the lodges to your requirements. We invite you to please take a look at our website and give us a call to discuss your individual needs or ideas.

BOND F AB R I CAT I O N S LT D

Unit E1. Bath Road Trading Estate. Stroud. Gloucestershire. GL5 3QF Telephone: 01453 767171 Email: enquiries@bondfabrications.co.uk Website: www.tentedholidaylodges.co.uk

9ec[ WdZ c[[j j^[ 9e c [ W d Z c [ [ j j ^ [ C W ] h _ d _ \W c _ b o CW]h_d_ \Wc_bo$$$$ $$CW]h_d_ 8WXo 9^Wd]_d] Kd_ji

ii #ONTOURED CONTEMPORARY DESIGN

ii %XTRA DEEP SIDES INCREASE SAFETY AND ELIMINATE THE NEED FOR STRAPS

ii 7ITHSTANDS STATIC LOADS IN EXCESS OF +GS

ii (YGIENIC EASY CLEAN SURFACE

ii #HOICE OF COLOUR TO SUIT ANY PROJECT

-( (ORIZONTAL

"ABY #HANGING UNIT

-( (ORIZONTAL "ABY #HANGING 5NIT

-6 6ERTICAL "ABY #HANGING 5NIT

-4 #OUNTERTOP "ABY #HANGING 5NIT

-8 3TAY 3AFE "ABY 3EAT

$$CW]h_d_

>_]^ 9^W_h

ii 3TACKS HIGH FOR EASY STORAGE

ii &RONT LOAD STACKING ELIMINATES NEED FOR UP OVER LIFTING

ii ,IGHT WEIGHT WEIGHS LESS THAN KG

ii 0USH UP DESIGN CONSERVES AISLE AREA

ii !DJUSTABLE SAFETY STRAP WITH INSTANT

RELEASE BUCKLE

ii $URABLE SOLID MOULDED IN COLOUR

WILL NOT PEEL OR FLAKE

7HITE 'REY

7HITE 2ED

#HARCOAL 2ED

#HARCOAL 'REY

4EL %MAIL SALES MAGRINI CO UK W W W M A G R I N I C O U K 5

Entertainment solutions provider Mediatheme has taken the nation’s favourite numbers game and given it a thoroughly modern twist that will appeal to the millions of customers who visit holiday parks every year in the UK. The software product, which is titled Main :[HNL 3PURLK )PUNV YLWYLZLU[Z [OL ÄYZ[ independently linked bingo software to be operated outside of traditional bingo halls. As Z\JO 4LKPH[OLTL ÄYTS` ILSPL]LZ [OH[ P[ OHZ [OL JHWHJP[` [V KLSP]LY H ^OVSL UL^ HUK OPNOS` WYVÄ[HISL YL]LU\L Z[YLHT MVY WHYR VWLYH[VYZ HZ [OL` ZLLR [V VW[PTPZL ]PZP[VY ZWLUK The beauty of the Main Stage Linked Bingo system lies in both its ease of operation HZ ^LSS HZ P[Z SV^ JVZ[ V\[SH` 0[ WYV]PKLZ H JVTWSPHU[ T\S[P ]LU\L SPURLK IPUNV WYVK\J[ ^P[O H WYV]LU IPUNV NHTL WLYT\[H[PVU [OH[ VMMLYZ H J\T\SH[P]L WYVNYLZZP]L JHZO WYPaL yet it requires only minimal effort to set up.

(UK ]P[HSS` VWLYH[PVUHS JVZ[Z HYL RLW[ H[ H YLHZZ\YPUNS` MY\NHS SL]LS

Entertainer system as it its host, which brings ^P[O P[ JVUZPKLYHISL HKK VU ILULÄ[Z (Z H result, Entertainment Staff will be able to keep WHYR ]PZP[VYZ JHW[P]H[LK ^P[O T\ZPJ RHYHVRL ]PKLV HK]LY[PZPUN +PZJV )PUNV X\PaaLZ HUK other games.

And of high importance for site managers, the system is fully programmable and automated. In essence, this means that they JHU ZL[ P[ \W [V Y\U H ^OVSL L]LUPUN»Z ^VY[O VM LU[LY[HPUTLU[ SLH]PUN [OLT MYLL [V THUHNL [OL ZP[L UV[ [OL ]PZP[VYZ Mediatheme managing director Tony Tony Eyre explained more about the system and its capabilities, saying: “Main Stage Linked Bingo has been designed from the ground \W [V KYP]L MVV[MHSS PUJYLHZL K^LSS [PTL HUK maximise spend-per-head. As experienced ZVS\[PVUZ WYV]PKLYZ PU [OL ÄLSK VM LU[LY[HPUTLU[ Z`Z[LTZ PU SPJLUZLK LU]PYVUTLU[Z ^L OH]L HU innate sense of what works and what doesn’t. >L JHU ZH` ^P[O JVUÄKLUJL [OH[ [OPZ YLHSS` KVLZ ^VYR ILJH\ZL P[»Z HSYLHK` ILLU WYV]LU [V HKK ZPNUPÄJHU[S` [V [OL IV[[VT SPUL VM [OVZL VWLYH[VYZ ^OV OH]L IV\NO[ PU[V P[Z HTHaPUN potential.”

Park owners will also welcome Main Stage Linked Bingo’s class-leading quota of unique features that come as standard. Sites can take full control of their offer by customising the system with their own logo designs and backgrounds.

For added security, it has PIN code accessibility to thwart unauthorised use, and a secure remote upload reporting feature. ;OL WYVNYLZZP]L WYPaL HJJ\T\SH[VY TLHU^OPSL JVTLZ ^P[O H WYL JVUÄN\YHISL WYL ZL[ JHZO /L HKKLK! ¸3L[»Z [HSR TVYL ZWLJPÄJHSS` HIV\[ WYPaL ]HS\L [OH[ H\[VTH[PJHSS` PUJYLHZLZ HZ dwell time for example. Main Stage Linked ticket sales build and build.

Bingo, allied to all those enhancements that come as standard on the Entertainer system, Additionally, the system boasts user will keep customers on site for much longer JVUÄN\YHISL IPUNV WHY[PJPWH[PVU MLLZ HZ ^LSS and spending more money in the process.

HZ \ZLY JVUÄN\YHISL WH`V\[ WLYJLU[HNLZ That’s crucial for operators who want to for one or two lines. It also has peer-to-peer NLULYH[L PUJYLHZLK YL]LU\L PU [OLPY SVJH[PVUZ messaging alongside detailed on-screen and make sure that the money they earn stays YLWVY[PUN PUJS\KPUN HSS WYL]PV\Z NHTL WSH` on site rather than leak out elsewhere. It’ data. Furthermore, to ensure it remains ‘future- all about keeping customers WYVVM» HUK YLSL]HU[ [OL Z`Z[LT JVTLZ ^P[O entertained with greater PU I\PS[ º5L^ .HTL» JVUÄN\YHIPSP[` HSSV^PUN choice and encouraging park operators to introduce new game titles at more of that discretionary no added cost. spend. We know that our WYVK\J[ KLSP]LYZ VU HSS [OVZL >OH[ THRLZ 4HPU :[HNL 3PURLK )PUNV L]LU fronts, and most importantly more compelling is its ability to offer more than at a realistic cost to the just bingo. The system relies on Mediatheme’s operator.”

THYRL[ WYV]LU 7* IHZLK [V\JO ZJYLLU

7

Well, actually playing games is just what we are doing. At Sound Leisure we take having fun seriously and Captivator-360 is about as serious as we’ve ever been.

Everyone can get Captivated; Jump up and down // Go bowling // Take part in London 2012 // Drive faster // Be an ace footballer // Get down and boogie // There’s no end to the fun!

Captivator-360 from Sound Leisure is an advanced housing that safely & securely holds an Xbox 360® with Kinect™ sensor, providing a gaming system like no other.

No lost bats or controllers – no stolen gaming discs – no damaged consoles – virtually no running costs.

Simple to install - simple to use - hassle free

www.captivator.co.uk E: hello@captivator.co.uk T : 0113 232 1700 Other Sound Leisure divisions: www.slkids.co.uk / www.soundleisure.com / www.slretail.co.uk / www.classicjukeboxes.co.uk

8

he Magrini Breeze High Chair ……… the latest addition to the Magrini High Chair family

At Magrini safety is our main concern and the Breeze features a permanent T-bar for intrinsic safety as well as an adjustable, instant-release buckle.

The chair is designed and manufactured in the U.K. and is available in a choice of colours.

T

The Breeze high chair is the latest addition to the Magrini range of commercial childcare products.

This stylish, light-weight chair combines classic good looks with the durability of HDPE material.

The high chairs stack up to eight high for easy storage and the front-load stacking design eliminates the need for up and over lifting.

The Breeze high chair pushes up to the table to enable your smallest guests to join the meal as well as conserving valuable aisle space.

For furth er details on the Magrini range of commerc ial c hildcar e pr oduc ts visit ww w.magr ini.c o.uk or email sales@magrini.co.uk

Is your Entertainment System serving you well? or many Holiday Parks and leisure businesses, on-site entertainment venues are an essential draw for visitors, so it’s no surprise that a major trend of recent years has been the growing investment in AV and entertainment systems.

F

One of the leading specialists in this area is Illuminate Design, a company with a strong track record in the leisure industry, thanks to its expertise in maintaining and installing entertainment systems.

Formed over eight years ago, the company is led by a knowledgeable team of designers and technical specialists who understand the industry well and have spent the last three years investing in the business in order to provide leisure operators with a high quality, dependable service.

Responsive to what is a very diverse industry - with major players sitting alongside small independent operators - Illuminate’s service ranges from providing a few microphones for hire, to offering ongoing maintenance packages, right up to the design and installation of major new systems.

Their in-depth knowledge of the wide range of audio, lighting, video and staging products available means they can handle anything from a one-off upgrade to a major multi-site project. Rather than imposing a ready-made solution, they will specify the right equipment for the right location to give the best end result.

This flexible approach has won the company many clients, and a growing number of sites are signing up for its maintenance service, which includes system assessments, equipment audits, PAT testing and equipment cleaning, as well as upgrades and redesign if desired.

Should equipment fail for any reason, a callout service is also offered, delivered by a network of skilled technicians who cover the whole of the UK. This ‘on the road’ team is backed by a team of specialists at Illuminate’s head office in Colchester, and a further team based at a regional office in the South West.

The company has recently been working with one of the leaders in the UK leisure business, Bourne Leisure, which operates three of the industry’s most successful brands – Haven Holidays, Warner Leisure

Hotels and Butlins. The leisure group has invested in technical upgrades across its 51 UK venues, and Illuminate Design has handled every aspect of the project.

If you haven’t reviewed your entertainment systems in a while, this is a good time to do so before the season gets fully underway.

Illuminate will handle every part of the process so you don’t have any of the hassle, and if you’re interested in upgrading, they’ll also work to short install times, so you’re up and running for the season ahead.

If you’re interested in discussing how Illuminate Design could create either a bespoke maintenance programme for your venue or a system review, please just call.

Illuminate Design 01223 969694 info@illuminatedesign.co.uk www.illuminatedesign.co.uk 9

Get the season off to a flying start with our Inventory & Inventory Display Packs.

Our range of packs contain everything you need to furnish your accommodation at minimal cost! Simply pick your pack and we will deliver your goods boxed, per unit and ready to be laid out.

Eliminating the need to shop around, this super efficient service is guaranteed to save you time and money.

Inventory Packs Kit out your caravans and holiday homes with our Inventory Packs. Full of all your accommodation essentials and spanning all budgets, you are sure to find the perfect pack for your park.

Inventory Display Packs As the holiday industry is all about selling dreams, transform your caravans into aspirational holiday destinations instantly with our Inventory Display Packs. Each pack contains stylish pieces that will enhance your interiors, adding value without adding to your budget.

Choose from 3 hot trends

Hot Red

Lime Sorbet

Chocca Mocha

For more information visit our specialist accommodation website www.accommodationsupplies.co.uk or call us on 0117 934 1270.

You can also find our range of packs in our Holiday Park product catalogue, request yours today: web@accommodationsupplies.co.uk or telephone: 0117 934 1270.

Make Pattersons the one stop shop for all your accommodation supplies.

10

Your Next Day Accommodation Supplier

illuminate esignltd

TECHNICAL SERVICES MAINTENANCE | UPGRADES | REDESIGNS

Illuminate Design specialise in supplying technical equipment and services to the leisure and tourism sectors.

full system maintenance

Whether you need to hire a few microphones, maintain your current systems or upgrade your venue, we can help.

AV & staging equipment for hire

Our professionalism and our competitive pricing means we get lots of positive feedback from clients - here’s what just

design and installation

one has said: “Efficient, flexible, reliable and excellent at their job. We are delighted to have found Illuminate Design!”

skilled technicians

Call us 01223 969694 the complete package

Illuminatedesign Ltd

illuminate esignltd

01223 969694 info@illuminatedesign.co.uk www.illuminatedesign.co.uk

Members of PLASA | ALD 11

Park News What do you think the single biggest challenge is for the holiday park industry in 2013?

he UK park industry has a lot to offer, and the quality of many parks is better than ever. We see many park improvements being made. Facilities are expanding and many of the smaller parks are now on par with the larger Holiday park groups. What is lacking is marketing awareness. At UK Campsite Finder we see so many examples of great parks that aren’t communicating their value proposition strongly enough. Many owners do not appreciate that their park website need to updated and upgraded. So many websites lack the excitement that visitors are looking for. Many websites were created years ago and customers expect more from a website these days.

They need to be user friendly easy to move around and of good design. As long as your website is welcoming a visitor will stay engrossed.

T

A lot has changed over recent years, more and more, people rely on the internet to research their holidays. Whilst the internet is important, so too are the devices that people are using. I read the other day that Apple will have sold 350million I-pads by next year – they are easily carried and are clearly the way forward who wants to take a clumber sum laptop on holiday. Add this number to all the other devices sold and it becomes clear that tablets and smartphones are taking over.

So in my mind the biggest challenge in 2013 is marketing. This is the year I believe, where those parks that spend more effort on internet marketing will reap rewards and move ahead of those that don’t.

With 50% of all online booking expected to be made on a mobile devices what impact will this have on the park market?

As I said in response to the first question, this is the year where

Parks group offers year-long holiday from pitch fees ree pitch fees for the coming twelve months are now available to quick-off-the-mark buyers of caravan holiday homes and lodges at Park Holidays UK

F

In a move designed to encourage buying commitments before its parks open for the season in March, the group is offering to waive an entire year's pitch fees for fast-moving purchasers.

The deal - which will run until 17 February - will mean an average saving for every buyer of £2800, an amount normally paid up-front by customers before they take over their holiday homes.

For those using finance to fund their purchase, says the company, the sum could equal a year's worth of repayments - or it could allow them to buy a holiday home of an even higher specification.

The offer is available at all of Park Holidays UK's 23 holiday parks in Devon and Southern and Eastern England, and can be applied to both new and pre-owned holiday homes.

This is the first time that the company has removed entirely its pitch fees at the start of the season, and it follows a year when Park Holidays UK made a record number of holiday home sales.

The coming twelve months could well create another high point, said group director Tony Clish, and this incentive will help concentrate buying activity at the quieter end of the year.

"We are, of course, delighted to welcome purchasers at any point, but early in the season gives our staff more time to spend with customers

12

internet marketing will drive business.

Those parks that understand this, will move ahead.

Many parks are still reluctant to add online booking despite customers wanting it. Late availability is a must we have many holidaymakers wanting to book at the last possible minute especially considering the UK weather.

So by adding an Online Booking Button to your listing on directories like ours means that no potential customer is lost, for the sake of a few pounds that may be lost on commission. Tell me - are not Full pitches better than empty ones?

Change is always hard to embrace, but I firmly believe that without online booking, business is lost. I recommend owners take a second look at their objections to online booking and contact reputable suppliers and add yourself to online directories what have you got to loose.

With the huge growth of mobile devices how important do you rate Wi-Fi on a park?

Being connected to the internet is now a way of life for millions.

Whether or not we agree it’s a good idea is irrelevant, the fact remains that millions of holiday makers won’t go somewhere if they can’t be connected, myself being one of them. A mobile coverage is not the answer, as the cost of using a mobile is high and not always a good option due to providers coverage. I believe Wi-Fi is a must have service. For evidence of how important this is, just look at the investment being made by others, from your local coffee shop, pub, train, ferries, public places the list goes on. Wi-Fi is not that expensive to install when compared to the lost bookings that almost certainly occur without it. It is difficult to quantify the lost bookings, it’s a hidden cost. I said last year I thought it might be as much as 5% of revenue, I can’t believe it’s gone down can you? Customers will pay for Wifi as long as the cost is reasonable for their needs.

Many potential visitors will budget for this in the cost of their holiday.

by Nina Blanchard

and afterwards preparing their home for occupation.

"It helps take the pressure off from both sides, and means we are less likely to have to cause delays to customers waiting to purchase at busier times later in the year.

"From the buyer's point of view, it has always made more economic sense to make a move at the start of the year in order to get maximum use from the home over the coming months.

"Now the bottom-line saving can be measured in literally thousands of pounds," added Mr Clish.

Pre-owned caravan holiday homes at the group start from £8995, and brand new models begin at £15,995 and can be funded with a special low-interest finance for less than £250 a month.

Customers wanting to balance the books even more in their favour can also opt to sub-let their holiday home when they don't need it, so creating a useful second income.

Park Holiday UK's management programme, available to the owners of new or near-new homes, takes care of all advertising, bookings, payments, safety checks, and cleaning after guests leave.

Photographs and descriptions of holiday homes available throughout the group are currently posted on the website of Park Holidays UK at www.ParkHolidays.com

Trade News olaris has extended the 0% finance scheme for all Polaris ATV’s and UTV’s through until 31st March 2013.

P

Business users can arrange interest-free finance on all new Polaris ATVs and Rangers through Polaris finance partners Rural Finance. The scheme offers payments over 24 months at 0% up to a maximum 80% of the Recommended Retail Price and will include an accessory subsidy of up to £1000.00, excluding VAT, on genuine Polaris accessories. Polaris recommends contacting your nearest Polaris dealer as soon as possible for full details and any special deals available.

NFU members also benefit from a special 5% discount.

As a world leader in ATV’s and Side x Side utility vehicles Polaris offer the widest choice of proven AllTerrain options and accessories. The Ranger Side x

HIGH PERFORMANCE MOWERS FOR A PROFESSIONAL FINISH FROM KUBOTA or turf care professionals looking for a high performance mower that offers reliability and versatility, Kubota offers a wide range of machines that have been specifically designed to deliver all of these. With an understanding of what professionals need, Kubota has developed its mowers to deliver exceptional fuel economy, while not compromising on driving experience, high levels of efficiency or the ability to tackle even the most demanding of groundcare jobs.

F

Whether choosing a ride on, zero-turn or an out-front mower from Kubota, professionals can be confident they will be able to reduce their workload and increase productivity, while ensuring a meticulous finish. The range of ride-on mowers offer high torque, superior combustion capability and a heavy-duty shaft transmission

Side utility vehicles with the Midsize, Full-Size and CREW offer versatility and muscle, in petrol, diesel and electric 4x4 versions. The legendary Sportsman quads promise the hardest working, smoothest riding, most powerful and rugged ATVs for all types of work, with Value, Premium and 2-up models available. A Pro-Steel™ Cab for the Ranger, Polaris Winch and Lock and Ride accessories complement the hallmark Polaris features of on-demand true AllWheel Drive and smooth ride. The availability of the 0% finance is subject to status and terms and conditions. Polaris Britain 0800 915 6720 www.polaris-britain.com

system to deliver power smoothly to the HST. This maximises durability while minimising power levels, as well as significantly reducing both noise and vibration levels.

For the ultimate in manoeuvrability, the Kubota zero-turn mowers incorporate a 360° turning radius and high output diesel engines. Whilst robust and sturdy, the mowers remain agile to deliver a smooth mowing performance, ensuring professional results.

For those with exceptionally heavy workloads, the Kubota F-Series range of out front mowers feature 4WD as standard, making them suitable for slopes or slippery ground. The outstanding performance of the F-Series is further enhanced with the incorporation of Kubota’s unique deck suspension and weight transfer system, so professionals can be confident that the blades remain aligned to the ground – ensuring a perfect finish every time.

For more information on Kubota and its extensive range of solutions for the construction, groundcare and agriculture sectors visit www.kubota.co.uk or call 01844 268000.

Versatility at work

BX2350 SUB COMPACT TRACTOR AT WORK

B30 SERIES COMPACT TRACTORS

ZD ZERO TURN MOWER

G SERIES MOWERS

For demanding daily use, Kubota ubota o offers ffers a F or d emanding d aily u se, K powerful and versatile choice. p owerful a nd v ersatile c hoice.

T he K ubota rrange ange o roundcare m achinery d elivers o utstanding The Kubota off g groundcare machinery delivers outstanding p erformance, s imple o peration a nd llegendary egendary rreliability. eliability. performance, simple operation and F rom p owerful a nd v ersatile ttractors ractors tto oh igh p erformance mowers, mowers, From powerful and versatile high performance fi nd o ut w hy K ubota iis s tthe he p ractical c hoice ffor or professionals. professionals. find out why Kubota practical choice C ontact y our llocal ocal dealer dealer to to b ook a test test drive drive today. today.

Contact your book

FFor or further fur ther information information or to find your local dealer: dealer:

w www.kubota.co.uk ww.kubota.co.uk T Tel: el: 01844 01844 268 268 000 000 14

2 YEAR YEAR W WARRANTY ARRANTY A AS S STANDARD* STANDARD* *Conditions apply to 2nd year see dealer for details.

From the boldest ideas to the finest detail, we understand exactly what goes into the areas you create. That’s why, since 1947, we’ve guaranteed to meet your vision with our guarantee.

YOUR VISION OUR GUARANTEE

We guarantee great British fencing designed around you. We guarantee a seamless installation by our team of specialists, and most of all, we guarantee all of our products for 25 years.

Please call 0800 41 43 43 for a copy of our FREE brochures showing you the complete range of fencing, gates, decking, pergolas, agricultural, equestrian and security products... or to buy online visit jacksons-fencing.co.uk

Jacksons Jacksons Fencing Head Office 65 Stowting Common Ashford Kent TN25 6BN

Deer, deer, deer - what a lot of mouths to feed! espite being closed for the season, a top Lakeland caravan park is having to accommodate a raft of extra guests - none of which are paying, and all of which need constant feeding.

D

The unexpected visitors to Skelwith Fold Caravan Park in Ambleside, Cumbria, arrived shortly after a prolonged spell of mild weather turned to freezing Arctic conditions in midJanuary.

As the temperature plummeted and snow fell, red and roe deer plus other wildlife led the friendly invasion of the 130-acre park, coming down from surrounding high ground to find shelter and food.

The extra animals and birds, however, mean that the park has now had to step up its winter feeding programme to ensure fair shares for all.

"Skelwith Fold always plays host to an amazingly wide number of different of different species, including red squirrels and badgers," said park director Henry Wild.

"For that reason, we have always had winter feeding stations throughout the grounds which we keep regularly topped up after holidaymakers leave in November.

"Until halfway through January, we recorded below average consumption of the mixed wildlife diet we supply, but the sudden arrival of winter has now changed all that.

"The park now has many more deer than normal, and there

are many groups strolling along the paths and clustered in the woodland.

"It's a lovely spectacle, but it's too early for them to find much in the way of buds or leaves.

"Although the park does not re-open until March, we are fully staffed - and everyone has been asked to help keep a look-out for the welfare of our visitors," said Henry.

All employees are members of Skelwith Fold's conservation team which has helped the business achieve a number of prestigious environmental accolades over the years.

These include the David Bellamy Conservation Award at its top gold level, and a letter of praise from Prince Charles for the its success in re-establishing colonies of red squirrels.

Pictures of the guest deer have been posted on Skelwith Fold's website (www.skelwith.com), and Henry thinks that holiday guests will be surprised by what they see: "Within days of our closing each year, the animals begin to reassert their presence - and we turn from a busy holiday centre into a bustling wildlife park - and especially so this winter," said Henry.

"It does give us plenty of extra mouths to feed, but the sight is a delight!" he added.

15

16

Many products will merely mask bad odours, which can result in them returning a few hours later or even smelling worse than they originally did!

Vectair Systems ensures malodours are instead tackled at source, and so banished completely. We do this by combining innovative new technology with smart product design. ets, lingering cooking aromas, the phantom smoker, the sickly baby and the over indulged Saturday night reveller… all examples of how a caravan or chalet might end up full of nasty smells after each occupancy.

P

With many professional Holiday Park operators preparing a caravan or chalet for two or more different families a week, it is important that they find something quick, easy and effective to deodorise each unit and remove these smells.

In nature, ozone is produced by the action of high energy discharges in lightning on oxygen within the atmosphere.

Vectair’s Prozone II® recreates this natural process. The ozone that Prozone II® produces destroys harmful micro-organisms and breaks down odour causing compounds – therefore destroying the unpleasant smells they produce.

Prozone II® can be fixed or

portable, depending on your requirements, and offers ‘real time programming’ with 8 different settings allowing for complete flexibility. It is safe, has been tested to European standards and covers areas up to 150m3.

For stains on carpets or upholstery that traditional cleaners cannot remove, Vectair’s Quadrasan® Breakdown effectively degrades any organic soiling (such as blood or urine) that has been absorbed, removing the stain completely. Again, the focus is on removing stains and smells, not masking them.

Vectair Systems is a leading global manufacturer of ‘away from home’ hygiene products and a technological innovator in the hygiene sector. Visit them at www.vectair.co.uk.

17

18

ykeham Mature plants have been supplying the trade for over 30 years, Wykeham Mature Plants has an extensive range of trees, shrubs, hedging and conifers of up to 20 years old, set in over 100 acres, giving you the freedom to select the correct plants for your project.

W

At Wykeham you really can buy time, such as large shrubs for instant effect, large trees, including fruit trees, or instant hedging or screening for privacy and security, giving any garden or planting scheme maturity which would otherwise take years to achieve. A range of pleached trees and trained screens are available, some as general stock ranges, others trained to order to your specifications (time of year and source stock allowing), which complement and supplement the range of trees in sizes heavy standard and above.

Advisory and quality planting services are available to both private and commercial clients, to ensure that the plants you purchase have the best possible start. The experienced sales staff

are happy to advise you of the ideal plants for your site.

Whether you require salttolerant hedging for a seaside caravan park, dense screening to add privacy around holiday lodges, attractive yet robust trees for windbreak planting to shelter a hillside campsite, or hardy shrubs to beautify the garden of a mountainside cottage, Wykeham Mature Plants can guide you to the perfect solution If you are unsure of the conditions on site, or if you would like guidance on designing the planting scheme, or even if you would like the staff at Wykeham to design the scheme for you, site visits are available so that you can discuss your requirements on-site with an experienced horticulturalist. (Site visits are charged at an initial

nominal fee, which can be redeemed later against the final invoice value of a subsequent order of significant value.

Geographical/logistical limitations may apply in some cases, depending on site location and the size of the project. Terms and conditions apply.) Alternatively, why not email some photos of the area which needs attention, together with your contact telephone number and the name and postcode of the site, so that one of the team at Wykeham can call you for a chat, without commitment, to discuss your project with you?

Set in the Vale of Pickering in North Yorkshire, Wykeham Mature Plants can be found within the Estate walled gardens adjacent to the main house of Wykeham Abbey, signposted from the A170 approximately seven miles west of Scarborough (open Mon – Sat 9.30am to 4.30pm).

For further inf ormation, call 01723 862406, email enquiries@wykeham.co.uk visit www.wykehammatureplants.co.uk.

19

! " #

$

% & %

& '

$

$ & & % (

20

Are you sick of enquiries that are stopping you from getting on with your daily tasks, Do you miss bookings because you're not in the office when the phone rings?

www.campsitefinderonline.com has the perfect solution We ARE offering you a great opportunity to catch all potential customers whatever you are doing Your Park, Campsite, Caravan Park should be adding ONLINE BOOKING as a priority for this years seasons.

Whether you have your own booking management system or not we can accommodate all your needs.

ONLINE BOOKING Your park would receive a Free Premium Listing and you only pay when a booking is made through our website We take a commission priced at 10% + VAT on that booking SIMPLE There are is no other costs or fees, Campsite Finder Online is offering you a chance to fill pitches at no risk or wasted adverting fee. There are no yearly subscription you can leave when you wish.

The Premium Listing also qualifies you to add your Park or Site to the Late Availability Calendar.

Many visitors are tired of trolling through websites and making phone calls for available sites especially in the in the busier seasons. This is a great way of letting potential visitors know you have space and availability.

The Calendar can be filled out as a Last minute Pitch or simply add your available dates. Ideal for Lodges, Statics and Pods How does this all work for you. If you have ever booked a Hotel online through Late Rooms.com then this is just the same but for holiday parks and campsites.

1/Owner / Manager specifies pitch availability statics, grass, hard standing any type of unit or combination you may have.

2/The visitor presses the BOOKONLINE Button on www.campsitefinderonline.com chooses the Pitch/Accommodation and how many days and any special requirements 3/We take the booking through an online booking page using our new booking partner The Camping Network Service (Camping Ninja’s booking system) We take a 10% non refundable deposit for the total of the booking That’s it their holiday at your park is booked 4/It is then up to you how you collect the remaining payment whether its on arrival or via a call from yourselves. You can specify your own cancellation and payment policies on your online booking page through Camping Network.

We will be taking this live at the end of March but we are taking pre-orders and adding the Full Premium Listings on now.

If this is of interest to your Holiday Parks, Caravan Park or Campsite please email Nina at info@campsitefinderonline.com Or call 01432 263219 The cost for a link to your own booking system along with a Premium Listing is £50 + vat for the year.

21

Belfast triumph for national holiday parks summit elfast played host to over 400 holiday park owners and operators from across the United Kingdom who gathered in the city for their annual business convention recently (29-31 January).

B

The three-day event at the Europa Belfast Hotel was organised by the British Holiday & Home Parks Association which represents the UK's park industry.

It was the first time that the association, formed just over 60 years ago, has crossed the Irish Sea for its yearly summit, and it judged the occasion "an outstanding success from every perspective".

Delegates to the conference represent an industry which generates over ÂŁ4 billion annually for Britain's tourism economy, as well as residential parks which provide lower-cost retirement homes.

Guest speakers at this year's event included senior figures who addressed subjects ranging from tourism trends to park management and changing regulatory requirements.

A major trade exhibition was also run alongside the conference, featuring suppliers to the industry.

But despite the packed business agenda, delegates and their partners were also provided with plenty of opportunities to discover why Belfast is a perfect scene-setter for leisure as well as work.

Making one of the biggest splashes was a celebration night at Titanic Belfast where guests enjoyed an evening of fine dining and entertainment with a nautical theme.

22

Captaining the conference, which brings together parks of all sizes in the UK, was chairman of the British Holiday & Home Parks Association, Northern Ireland businessman James Kennedy.

According to Mr Kennedy, whose family business operates five holiday parks on the Co Down coast, Belfast delivered one of the industry's most successful and memorable events to date: "Our association began planning this conference over a year ago, and the great outcome is a credit to them and to the superb support provided by the Belfast Visitor and Convention Bureau.

"But what sealed the event's success in the minds of all our delegates was the warm welcome they received in Belfast, and genuine hospitality shown towards them throughout their stay.

"If ever there was an occasion designed to demonstrate the generosity of spirit shown by the city, this was most certainly it," he said.

Throughout the conference, Mr Kennedy was joined by Con Quill, chairman of the Irish Caravan Council and past chairman of the European Federation of Campingsite Organisations.

At the banquet on the final night of the conference, Mr Kennedy concluded his two-year term as chairman of the association by passing the chains of office to Wales parks owner Huw Pendleton.

Handy web Directory Electrical: CPES : Caravan Park Electrical Services Limited are market leaders in the design, manufacture and installation of electrical distribution systems on holiday, park home and touring parks throughout the United Kingdom. http://www.cpes.co.uk Demon International Power Washers : Demon International are manufacturers of high pressure cleaning equipment, working closely with Holidays and Leisure Parks across the UK. Demon offer a comprehensive range of UK built hot, cold, petrol, diesel and electric pressure washers. www.demon-pressure-washers.co.uk

Shows Inpas Show Soft Play and Indoor Play Equipment 12th - 13th March Stonleigh Show Ground http://www.inpas.co.uk Education Show march 14th - 16th NEC Birmingham http://www.educationshow.com/education/website/Home.aspx?refer=1& id=mainLnk1 Saltex 3rd 4th 5th Sept Windsor Race Course http://www.iog.org/shows-and-events/iog-saltex Playfair 2013 Windsor Race Course 3-5th September http://www.playfairuk.com LIW Show 24th - 26th September 2013 NEC Birmingham http://www.liw.co.uk The Lawns The Caravan Extravaganza 7th - 8th September 2013 http://www.lawnsandbeaulieushows.com Beaulieu Show 27th - 29th September 2013 Hides Field, Beaulieu, Brockenhurst, Hants http://www.lawnsandbeaulieushows.com EAG International 2014 Amusement Show Excel London 21st - 24th 2014 http://www.holidayparksmanagement.com/eaginternational-expo-2014/

Landscape/ Machinery Products Services Arch Enclosures : The joy of this flexible swimming pool enclosure system is in its ability to retain an outdoor option for those sumptuous summer days when everyone will want to enjoy their outdoor swimming pool. http://www.archenclosures.co.uk

Fencing/ Security Frontier Pitts: as the acknowledged leader in perimeter security equipment, can offer a complete range of products, including gates and barriers. http://www.frontierpitts.com Jacksons Fencing: Jacksons Fencing is a family run company that has been trading for 65 Years. With fencing centres in Ashford, Bath and Chester it enables nationwide coverage, delivery and installation. http://www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk

Play Equipment/ Manufacturers/ Installers SL Kids: Our wall mounted and free standing play systems add an extra splash of colour and fun to any area. When used in conjunction with our extensive range of play modules and play wheels these unique solutions create a focused environment for children to freely explore the play activities available. http://www.slkids.co.uk Play & Leisure Ltd : Having been established for over 22 years we offer a full turn-key package in regards to planning, installation and maintenance of play equipment, safety surfacing and street furniture. We understand the challenges and responsibilities faced by clients and have many resources to call upon, including, RoSPA and the Association of Play Industries. http://www.playandleisureservices.net Re-bound Safety Play Surfaces : AN innovative alternative to traditional bark is helping holiday park owners create safe, long-lasting play areas all year long. www.re-bound.co.uk

23

enquiries@holidayparksmanagement.com www.holidayparksmanagement.com

Holiday Parks Management Magazine Tel : 01432 263219 The Ultimate Suppliers Guide For Holiday Parks, Caravan Parks and Campsites