Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine – October 2021

OCTOBER 2021

MAGNETIC NORTH

Discover moors, dales and extraordinary coastline on a tour of North Yorkshire MEMBER SAVINGS Discounts on motoring accessories and more

ESSENTIAL ADVICE Practical tips on water systems and tyre safety

SPECIAL GUESTS Top sites for spotting rare migratory birds

Inspiring your adventures

Why choose Adria?

If you are seeking freedom and adventure, owning a caravan or motorhome is a great choice.

YOUR VEHICLE. Freedom and adventures when you want it, just plan your getaways and go!

YOUR ACCOMMODATION. Travel with family and/or friends, with your things and to your standards, in your own environment.

YOUR ITINERARY. Independent travel, your own itinerary, find your own places away from the crowds.

YOUR ADVENTURES. Life changes with an Adria caravan or motorhome, offering endless possibilities for your adventures.

YOUR PEACE OF MIND. Adria is one of Europe’s leading caravan manufacturers, with over 600,000 recreational vehicles produced since 1965.

Please contact your nearest Adria dealership for more information: www.adria.co.uk/dealer-network

www.adria.co.uk

COMMENT EDITOR

WELCOME

camc.com/enquiries Editorial Editor Gary Martin Deputy Editor John Thynne Assistant Editors Stuart Egan, Stephen Hollis Design Michaela Millar

Postal address Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine, East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 1UA Club contact details For comprehensive contact details, see camc.com/contact Membership services and magazine circulation 01342 318813 (calls may be recorded) Site booking (members only)/ UK Club sites advance booking 01342 327490 Cover Caravan 01342 336610 Insurance (Devitts) Car/motorhome 0345 504 0334 Home/contents 0345 504 0335

Gary Martin says: Following four days of intense testing at Millbrook Proving Ground and hours poring over reams of technical data, we are delighted to announce the Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year results. Find out which cars triumphed in seven weight classes and special categories such as Electric Vehicles and Pick-up in the supplement that accompanies this issue.

Travel Service 01342 316101

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Red Pennant (Overseas Holiday Insurance) 01342 336633

Could your next towcar be within these pages?

Brochures on Club services 01342 327410 Technical advice 01342 336611 Club Magazine editorial 01342 336640 Legal helpline 01275 378728 Advertising enquiries General number 01342 336817 Commercial Manager Ian Lea 01342 336753 ian.lea@camc.com Commercial Executive Jason Clarke 01342 779368 jason.clarke@camc.com Commercial Executive Adam Johnson 01342 336742 adam.johnson@camc.com Production Controller Tara Erroll 01342 779371 tara.erroll@camc.com

OCTOBER 2021

Editions of your Club magazine – with lots of extra content – are also available via an app on iPhone/iPad and Android tablets and phones.

TOURING: YORKSHIRE SITES AND CLS ON TEST: SWIFT SPRITE COMPACT, AUTO-TRAIL GRANDE FRONTIER GF-70

President: Thomas Coke, 8th Earl of Leicester Chairman: Grenville Chamberlain OBE Director General: Nick Lomas

CARAVAN AND MOTORHOME CLUB MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2021

Digital Advertising Co-ordinator Vicky Powell 01342 779378 victoria.powell@camc.com

”

The competition, launched back in 1984, was designed to help members make an informed choice when choosing a new vehicle – could your next towcar be within these pages?

Elsewhere in this magazine you can see how Nick Harding gets on as he tests an A-class motorhome from Auto-Trail (p70-72), and Rob McCabe puts the diminutive Swift Sprite Compact caravan under the

MAGNETIC NORTH

COVER IMAGE:

Whitby Abbey, Whitby

Discover moors, dales and extraordinary coastline on a tour of North Yorkshire www.camc.com

MEMBER SAVINGS Discounts on motoring accessories and more PASS p1 Cover v6.indd 1

www.camc.com

microscope on pages 74-76.

Meanwhile, campervan enthusiasts will want to hear about updates to Adria s range within our new model news round-up on pages 67-68.

Once you have had your fill of vehicles motorised and towed, take your time to read Jonathan Manning s account of a seven-site tour of beautiful North Yorkshire, taking in spectacular waterfalls, dramatic moorland and wildlife-rich coastline (pages 24-33). The variety on offer in the British Isles never ceases to amaze – exemplified by the outstanding photographs you send to us each month. For a selection of the best turn to pages 8-11.

Enjoy the issue!

ESSENTIAL ADVICE Practical tips on water systems and tyre safety

English Heritage

SPECIAL GUESTS Top sites for spotting rare migratory birds 08/09/2021 08:52

October 2021 3

CONTENTS

8

Mark Wakefield

INSIDE THIS ISSUE OCTOBER 2021

TOURING

TESTS

24

70

35

38

56

UK SITES Jonathan Manning plots a seven-site tour across Yorkshire from Hawes to Bridlington DIRECTORY UPDATES Updates to your Sites Directory & Handbook FOREIGN TOURING Heidi Fuller-Love takes in the Route du Cidre in northern France ACTIVITY BREAKS Why Scotland is one of the best places in the world for sea kayaking

NEWS 13 20

42

74

SPECIALS 67

78

88

HEADLINES Club and industry updates SITES The latest from around the network OVERSEAS Plan your worldwide and European breaks

LOOK WHAT S NEW Nick Harding reveals changes to the Swift and Adria ranges for 2022 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING All the details ahead of the Club’s AGM in Chester CRAFTING IN THE COTSWOLDS Nick Harding takes a look at the history of the Arts and Crafts Movement in this beautiful area

REGULARS 7

42

8

46 51

4 October 2021

MOTORHOME Auto-Trail Grande Frontier GF-70 CARAVAN Swift Sprite Compact

DIRECTOR GENERAL’S VIEW Nick Lomas has high praise for Teesdale’s Barnard Castle YOUR PHOTOS A selection of images from your touring adventures MEMBER OFFERS Save money on motoring products LETTERS Your comments and views

60

PRODUCT SHOWCASE A selection of jackets to keep you dry this autumn 62 COUNTRY MATTERS David Chapman talks about the UK s importance to migratory birds 91 ASK YOUR CLUB Your technical questions answered 92 PRACTICAL Sammy Faircloth shares advice about water systems 95 PUZZLES Brainteasers for a tea or coffee break 98 CROSSWORD A chance to win great prizes 100 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS To advertise, call 01342 336817 114 TAIL LIGHTS The weird, wacky and wonderful world of touring 115 CYCLE ROUTE Jonathan Manning rides through the Yorkshire Wolds from Cayton Village Club site

62 www.camc.com

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odels!” m 2 2 0 2 r u o w ie v to “Be the first Tel: 01457 868011 glossopcaravans.co.uk E N D

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COMMENT DIRECTOR GENERAL

camc.com/enquiries The Caravan Club Limited, which trades as Caravan and Motorhome Club, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for general insurance and credit activities.

This magazine is also available free of charge as a page turner on the Club website and as an app via Google Play or the App Store. For nonmembers who download the Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine app, each issue costs £2.99.

Readers are asked to note that the Caravan and Motorhome Club cannot accept responsibility for the quality, safe delivery or operation of any products advertised or mentioned in this journal. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply any form of approval or recommendation. Advertisements or other inserted material are accepted subject to the approval of the publishers and their current terms and conditions.

The publishers will accept an advertisement or other inserted material only on the condition that the advertiser warrants that such advertisement does not in any way infringe copyright or contravene the provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act. All copy is subject to the approval of the publisher, who reserves the right to refuse, amend, withdraw or otherwise deal with advertisements submitted to it at its absolute discretion and without explanation.

All advertisements must comply with the British Code of Advertising Practice.

Mail order advertisers are required to state in advertisements addressed to the public, their true surname or full company name, together with the address from which the business is managed.

Calls to phone numbers starting 084 and 087 cost up to 7p per minute plus your service provider’s charge.

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OPINION Nick Lomas says:

This month, having hesitated a little, I have decided to write about Barnard Castle. It’s a very pretty town in Teesdale, north east England, known locally as ‘Barney’. The Club opened a site there in 2012, incorporating a number of sustainable energy features into the design; we have ground source heating for the buildings, for example.

The site was an instant hit with members, something we were not too surprised about given the convenient location, spectacular surrounding countryside and nearby walks and attractions. Thousands of visitors have enjoyed it over the years.

“

The site was an instant hit with members

”

It’s a 20-minute stroll into the town from the site. You can walk over the Silver Bridge footbridge – actually the Deepdale Aqueduct – across the River Tees and beside the castle itself. This lofty stone fortress stands high and proud over the riverside, in the care of English Heritage. When you arrive you’ll find a charming stone buttercross and streets scattered with tea shops, pubs, restaurants and interesting places to browse.

Across town, the Bowes Museum is a quite amazing venue, with a vast collection of artworks housed in a specially designed, incredibly grand building resembling a French chateau... with grounds to match.

If natural wonders are more your thing,

then High Force waterfall farther up into the hills, over 20m high and becoming frothing twin falls when the river is in full spate, is one of the most dramatic anywhere in the country. Esteemed visitors have included landscape painter J M W Turner. All around are pretty villages and walks leading to the vast open spaces of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Some years ago, the Club acquired an additional field next to the main site and it has now gained planning consent to extend. Work is already under way, so we hope to open this new area next season. It’s part of our ongoing programme to add more pitches to the network, giving members more places to stay. By popular demand, we are adding more serviced pitches too, and the site is staying open until the New Year.

Put Barney on your list. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed, and we are delighted that there will be even more spaces for members to stay there soon.

October 2021 7

SPECIAL MEMBER PICTURES

YOUR PHOTOS Your most memorable touring moments caught on camera

Hampshire

FLORAL TREAT Visitors to Englethwaite Hall Club site are greeted by this magnificent display, carefully put together by site managers Isobel and Phil.

Anne Steele

Cumbria

OLD FRIENDS IN THE NEW FOREST This was just outside the entrance to Black Knowl Club site. It’s our favourite site which we return to every year.

Sue Allen

Cornwall

Want to see your photo in a future issue? Send your images to camc.com/ inspiringadventures or tag us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using #inspiringadventures

LOVELY LIZARD

This is Mullion Harbour, The Lizard, Cornwall. The small hut in the harbour is now used by the local fishermen; we were staying at Higher Bochym Farm CL, a few miles away. We love Cornwall and try to seek out new places and walk the coastal paths to take in the fabulous views. (Nearest Club site: Marazion) Geoffrey Foster

8 October 2021

www.camc.com

Powys

LOUIS DRINKS IT IN This is our Dobermann, Louis, on our caravan tour to Scotland, at Altnaharra Club site.

Clare Ledger

FAN-TASTIC The view from the top of Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons on a clear day – definitely worth the climb!

(Nearest Club site: Brecon Beacons) Dave Mitchell

Hertfordshire

Highlands

WARE’S THIS? What a lovely scene!

Taken beside the River Lea in Ware.

(Nearest Club site: Commons Wood) Jan Brown

TRAIGH BON! Taken on our tour of the east coast of England and then up into Scotland.

All the sites we stayed at were either Club sites or CLs. Great fun! (Traigh Farm CL, Arisaig, pictured) Mark Wakefield Highlands

October 2021 9

SPECIAL MEMBER PICTURES Cumbria

Wiltshire

DOG TIRED? Myla the cavapoo takes a well-earned rest while walking the coastal path at St Bees Head David Finnegan

KENNET GET ANY BETTER? This idyllic picture was taken next to the Kennet and Avon Canal at Marsh Farm CL. A perfect spot for cycling as well as for visiting Bath, Dyrham Park, Westwood Manor, Farleigh Hungerford Castle and Great Chalfield Manor.

Judy and Alex Bailey

LOUNGING AROUND

Norfolk

FOLLOW THE LEADER

We had an unforgettable day watching the seals, watching us, at Horsey beach.

Pauline McBride

Somerset

This was the rather surprising view we were greeted with from our caravan window at Meadow Cottage CL near Wincanton!

Tony Burton

10 October 2021

www.camc.com

IN THE PINK We captured this beautiful sunset from Sizewell beach when staying nearby in our motorhome.

Jan Brown

Suffolk

Cornwall

PRIVATE BEACH Wendy and Bunty steered clear of the crowds in St Ives to find a peaceful spot all to themselves on Porthkidney Beach.

Roy Hill

Dumfries and Galloway

Lancashire

HIGH AND MIGHTY

When staying at New England Bay Club site, it’s worth a visit to Portpatrick where there is a lovely walk along the cliffs to Killantringan Lighthouse.

Eric Ness www.camc.com

EVENING RITUAL Watching the sunset from the sand dunes next to Southport Club site.

We did this every evening while we were there. Beautiful.

Kirsty Hudson October 2021 11

NEWS CLUB AND INDUSTRY

Headlines The latest stories from the touring world

Leon takes top spot

STOP DREAMING...

START PLANNING! We have some great news if you are planning a tour in Europe... you can book your winter holidays with us now, and pitches for our European sites for summer 2022 will be on sale from 12 October 2021!

The Club offers more than 300 overseas sites across 14 different countries – including 10 venues that are brand new to our network for 2022 – and each of them is hand-picked and inspected by our experienced team.

Our sites cover a wide range of destinations – from the much-loved resorts of France, Spain and Portugal to increasingly popular countries such as Slovenia, Croatia and the Czech Republic. There are sites with a range of facilities for families or smaller, quieter locations for those looking to get away from it all. Many are near great beaches, www.camc.com

Ford, Volvo, Porsche and SsangYong. You can read reports on all o the entries in this year s competition in the supplement enclosed with this issue of the Club magazine, and online at camc.com/towcar.

The Club was pleased to welcome Ian Levy, MP for Blyth Valley, to Old Hartley Club site in Tyne & Wear last month. Mr Levy – who is a keen tourer – is pictured here (left) with Site Manager Denise Gibson and Director General of the Caravan and Motorhome Club Nick Lomas.

Beautiful Dubrovnik in Croatia

Shutterstock/emperorcosar

The SEAT Leon Estate FR 1.5TSI 150PS has been named Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the ear 2022 it s the panish manu acturer s first overall triumph since 2015. or owcar o the ear the lu s prestigious annual competition, experienced judges rigorously test a selection of towcars at Millbrook Proving Ground, a vehicle testing facility in Bedfordshire. In addition to scooping the top prize, the spacious Leon Estate was named the winner in its class (Caravan Weight 1,100-1,200kg), with judges noting its impressive handling at higher speeds and on hilly, twisting roads.

Prizes were also awarded for other caravan weight classes, and for outstanding entries in the ollowing categories Electric Vehicles Plug-in y rid Vehicles amily owcar arge amily owcar and Pick-up lass and category wins were recorded by the likes of Škoda, Volkswagen, Nissan,

BLYTH VALLEY MP VISITS OLD HARTLEY

close to interesting historical locations and perfect for visits to major cities... whatever kind of holiday you are looking for, we will have somewhere that suits, and we can also help you to book your crossing. Members can save an average of 10% when booking Eurotunnel or ferries with the Club. Plus, when you book a crossing (ferry or Eurotunnel) with your site, you can benefit from exceptional package deals exclusive to members.

If you want to have more freedom and flexibility on your trips, you can book your crossing combined with our overseas site night vouchers to get great prices. Plan your perfect break using our new 2022 brochure* and our website – simply head to camc.com/overseas and start browsing. Look out for some suggestions for places to visit in the next issue of the magazine, too! *A digital brochure will be available online in October.

13

NEWS CLUB AND INDUSTRY

Check out our new Magazine APP!

Left to right: Andrew Ditton (with Dougal), Mark Sutcliffe and son Freddie

OUR FRIENDS ELECTRIC...

The Club supported two journalists and electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts, Mark Sutcliffe and Andrew Ditton, on a 135-mile road trip across the Pennines in August. The ‘Little Green Tour’ was designed to establish the towing credentials of pure electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles; the pair began their trip at Burrs Country Park Club site in Lancashire and finished at Cayton Village Club site on the Yorkshire coast, stopping at York Beechwood Grange along the way.

Along with technical experts from the Club, Mark and Andrew, who are both experienced caravanners (and regular Towcar of the Year judges), gathered data to measure the impact on the EVs’ range while towing, enabling them to calculate the logistics of recharging on the road and while on campsites. The mini tour has enabled the Club to acquire data on recharge speeds and to assess the practicalities of recharging en route at motorway service area fast chargers.

Mark, accompanied by his son Freddie, drove a Tesla Model 3 and towed a lightweight Bailey Discovery D4-2. Andrew, who was joined

by Jack Russell terrier Dougal, drove a Volvo XC40 Recharge plug-in hybrid T5 FWD and towed a Bailey Phoenix 440+.

Caravan and Motorhome Club Director General Nick Lomas, said: “We have been receiving an increasing number of enquiries about the technicalities and practicalities of towing with hybrid and electric vehicles.

Plug-in hybrids are already proving themselves as an excellent alternative to diesel – which has been the preferred powertrain for caravanners for the last two decades.

“Pure battery towcars remain something of a novelty among caravanners, but with the Government signalling an end to the sales of new internal combustion engine cars by 2030, it’s clear we will need to understand how to adapt to this new technology over the next few years”

SOUTH WEST CENTRES TO SERVE UP A TREAT South West Centres, a newly formed group based in England’s South-West, is holding its inaugural event next summer at Cirencester Park Club site. The rally will take place from 29 June to 5 July 2022 and will then run biennially.

All Club members are welcome to attend, and can stay for two days or the entire duration. Entertainment, including field games and activities such as craft and 14 October 2021

photography, will be provided for all ages.

The group hopes that those attending will make new friends and meet up with members from different Centres.

The rally has been scheduled to coincide with The Cotswold Show and Food Festival, which will be within walking distance of pitches. Cirencester Park is also a great base if you’d like to explore the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds.

Have you seen our new and improved Magazine App? We have updated it so that you can now read the articles you love more easily on a tablet or mobile device – and there are some fantastic extras too. You can choose to view pages exactly as you would in the printed magazine or, with a simple tap, open and scroll through articles in separate windows.

The new Magazine App also features interactive puzzles, so you can play sudoku and other games on your mobile device. You will also find regular video reviews of caravans, motorhomes, campervans and towcars along with an exclusive cycle route (and accompanying video) from a different Club site each month. For example, the October edition of the Magazine App features a video review of the Auto-Trail Grande Frontier GF-70, while Jonathan Manning cycles from Cayton Village Club site.

You can download the Magazine App for free from the Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS), and access an archive of issues going back to January 2018. Once you have downloaded an issue you will be able to enjoy it offline, meaning you can take a whole library of past magazines with you on tour.

If you have downloaded the Magazine App previously you just need to ‘update’ it to enjoy the improved version with extra features. If you haven't tried our Magazine App before then now’s the time.

www.camc.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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Learning new skills or refining old ones can be a lot of fun, especially in the case of learning or playing a musical instrument. But it is not just the fun factor, there are also well-recognised benefits for physical and mental wellbeing, too. Not only is playing a musical instrument great for health reasons, but it can keep the whole family entertained while away, making it the perfect travel companion.

There is extensive research that shows many health and wellbeing benefits from learning and playing a musical instrument. NHS England describes music as being able to “help reduce anxiety and depression, maintain speech and language skills, help at the end of life and enhance the quality of life.” Apart from the fulfilment of mastering a tune, studies have also revealed it can boost cognitive function and memory, as well as improve motor skills and arthritis.

Learning and playing a Casio keyboard is not only fun, it’s great for physical and mental wellbeing too So where does Casio fit in? Well, in 1980, Casio made music creation available to everyone, everywhere with the very first Casiotone portable keyboard. The CT-201 was the first electronic keyboard with full-size keys that anyone could afford. It launched a legacy of helping musicians of any age, budget, or skill level sound their

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Head over to www.casio.co.uk/ ct-s1 and use the code CARAVAN when you checkout. Offer expires December 2021 (while stocks last). Terms and conditions apply.

NEWS CLUB AND INDUSTRY

CLEAN AIR ZONES

A small number of members have recently reported receiving unexpected fines for driving within a Clean Air Zone (CAZ) in the city of Bath, which applies to certain vehicles. To read more about the CAZ in Bath, and to see a map, please visit beta.bathnes.gov.uk/ bath-clean-air-zone.

A CAZ is operating in Birmingham, while Portsmouth also has a CAZ, covering an area in the south-west of the city including the city centre where pollution is highest. Charges for certain vehicles driving in Portsmouth’s CAZ will apply from November 2021.

To find out more, and to pay the daily charge if it is applicable, please visit gov.uk/ clean-air-zones. (A separate service exists for London’s Low and Ultra Low Emission Zones.)

You recommend...

Stamford

Your views on a gem of a site in Lincolnshire “The site is very quiet and there are walks in the forest right from the site entrance and bike hire right next door if you want it.”

(Review date: July 2021) “Burghley House is well worth a visit as is Rockingham Castle. Stamford is great, with lots of independent shops and very nice cafes and a very useful M&S food hall. Rutland Water is great for walking or cycling... or just a lovely spot for a picnic. One of the most interesting aspects of our visit were the regular performances from the red kites which were clearly visible most days from the site – take your binoculars, they put on a good show.” (July 2021) “Just a short stay over the weekend, but felt fully refreshed afterwards.

We found the site staff friendly and informative and enjoyed our stay at this superb location.”

(July 2021)

Fineshade Wood (behind Stamford Club site) by Bex Pearson

Martin Siepmann/Alamy

Disposal of large items IRISH DIVISION REVEALS VENUE

All Club members are welcome to join the Irish Division at the next Irish National, which will be held from 14-19 April 2022 at Garron Tower, Carnlough, County Antrim.

Nestling in the green Glens of Antrim, Garron Tower sits above the Antrim Coast Road, looking out towards Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre. Originally built as a summer house for Lady Frances Anne Vane, Marchioness of Londonderry, it is now home to St Killian’s College (and formerly housed St MacNissi’s College).

The venue will be a great base should you wish to enjoy scenic north-east Antrim.

Further details about the Irish National and booking forms will be available soon from the Irish Division’s website at camc.ie.

16 October 2021

Unfortunately the Club is unable to process large items that are left on sites, such as awnings, inflatables, tents, furniture, metal or gas barbecues and electrical items. Extra costs are incurred when processing such items as non-standard waste rubbish clearance.

Avoiding expenses like this helps to keep site rates and membership fees down for everyone – so please do not leave large, unwanted objects behind when you set off from a Club site. (We appreciate that the vast majority of members already do take any unwanted items home.)

We encourage members to recycle or donate unwanted kit that is still serviceable – for example local Scouts, Girlguiding and Duke of Edinburgh groups may be able to make use of unwanted camping equipment that is still clean and functional. Here are some other organisations and websites to consider if you would like to donate items.

■ freecycle.org (most local communities have a Freecycle group, where unwanted items can be given away for free) ■ facebook.com (search for and join groups such as Outdoor Gear Exchange UK and Outdoor Kit Exchange) ■ homeless.org.uk (the charity Homeless Link provides a list of homeless shelters; your local shelter may accept donations) ■ giftyourgear.com (nationwide initiative that provides outdoor clothing and equipment to UK community organisations) ■ alpkit.com/pages/continuum (finds new homes for unwanted outdoor clothing and equipment) ■ cotswoldoutdoor.com/ recycle-my-gear.html (Cotswold Outdoor has partnered with recycling specialist SOEX)

WEST SURREY STEPS UP Some 36 vans arrived at Apps Court Farm in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey for West Surrey Centre’s ‘Sunbury Regatta and Fireworks’ rally in August.

Unfortunately the regatta and planned fireworks display was cancelled, but ralliers swiftly organised an impromptu charity weekend, with raffles, games and a bring-and-buy stall. A great time was had and £475 was raised for Surrey Air Ambulance.

Well done all!

SOMERSET ARTICLE In our September issue we recommended The Crown Inn, near Malthouse Farm CL in Somerset, but it has been brought to our attention that this pub is not open. Apologies for any confusion caused.

Alternative suggestions include The Basonbridge Inn, which is very close to the CL, and The Watchfield Inn, around half a mile away.

We are also pleased to report that Dunkeswell Heritage Centre, referred to in the same article, has reopened (Thursdays to Sundays, 11-4pm, until the end October in 2021). Please visit southwestairfields. co.uk for more information.

Many thanks to the members who got in touch with this information.

We’d love it if you could tell us, using our review partner Trustpilot, about your overall experience with the Club. Visit trustpilot.com, search for ‘Caravan and Motorhome Club’ and tell us what you think. Trustpilot rating correct at time of printing (8 Sept 2021) but may be subject to change.

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NEWS CLUB AND INDUSTRY

New models at Travelworld Erwin Hymer Centre Travelworld will be showcasing new motorhomes from major European manufacturers at its Stafford showroom in October.

Among the vehicles on display will be the Dethleffs Globetrotter XLi 7850EB, the revamped Carado i338, Hymer’s Grand Canyon S 4x4 CrossOver and Niesmann+ Bischoff’s iSmove.

You can register for the event, which takes place from 2-17 October, at motorhomes.co.uk/events/ the-luxury-model-launch-event.

SHOWTIME OCTOBER

1-3 Worcestershire: The Malvern Caravan Show, Three Counties Showground, Malvern (Warners Group, call 01778 391000 or see outandaboutlive.co.uk)

NOVEMBER

4-7 Aberdeenshire: Love Touring Expo, P&J Live, Aberdeen (Adventum Events, see lovetouringexpo.co.uk) Note: details subject to change and pre-registration may be required – please check websites and telephone event organisers in advance for up-to-date information.

MEMBER HELPS DOGS TRUST Club member Sharon Brown has written and published a children’s book inspired by a rescue dog from the Dogs Trust charity. Mitzee the Scribble Dog Goes to the Shops tells the story of a little girl called Amelie whose drawings magically come to life – perfect for little ones.

Copies cost £5.99 each (plus £2 p&p), with £1 from each sale being donated to the Dogs Trust. They can be ordered directly from Sharon by emailing sharonbrown200@btinternet.com.

GOLDEN GATHERING Three couples from the Caravan and Motorhome Club Singers celebrated their golden wedding anniversaries at Stratford Racecourse, during the group s irst rehearsal rally since lockdown. Members of the group shared cake and bubbly with Jan and Trevor Bonam, Renato and Lasairina Bondonno and Roger and Elaine Reading, who are pictured from left to right above. The Singers are currently preparing for next year’s National. If you would like to join or find out more please visit camc-singers.co.uk.

18 October 2021

PRICE CORRECTION In a recent article about seasonal pitches (p20, September 2021 issue) we stated that prices for seasonal pitches start from £3.55 per night. This figure was incorrect.

The correct figure quoted should have been £3.25 per night. If you would like to read more about seasonal pitches and apply please visit camc.com/seasonal.

FROM THE ARCHIVES Stories from the Club’s Collection The Caravan and Motorhome Club Collection at Beaulieu is home to an incredible archive relating to former Club member Bertram Hutchings, a prestigious caravan builder in Winchester from 1911 until the 1950s.

Photographs and a diary housed in the Collection chart the 1939 ‘Winchester Waggoners’ tour of Scotland.

The Winchester Waggoners was a group of Winchesterbased caravan owners, including Hutchings, and they toured northern Scotland over three weeks, mainly wild camping. The group took in the area around Fort William, where two inches of snow was recorded on 15 June, then Loch Shiel, Invermoriston, Loch Ness, Ullapool, Loch Broom, Cape Wrath and many places in between.

Hutchings and his outfit covered some of the 530 miles from Winchester to Fort William by rail. Starting out at Winchester at 11.30am on 6 June, he drove his Hillman Minx to Newark-on-Trent, where he joined the London North Eastern Railway, which placed the car in a covered carriage transport. At York, the car was then moved onto The Highlandman sleeper service, where, after an overnight journey north, Hutchings ate his breakfast while enjoying a view of Glencoe. Arriving at Fort William at

9.54am, he found his caravan, which had been sent by rail the previous week. Bertram’s notes on the costs of the journey are in his diary, with travel and transport costing £16 0s 10d; over £1,000 in today’s money.

Bertram Hutchings was a Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society and there is a stunning photographic record of this journey and his many other tours in the Club’s Collection. See highlights on Flickr at flickr.com/photos/camc_collection.

Nick Hargreaves

Bertram Hutchings’ Hillman Minx arrives by rail in Fort William

www.camc.com

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NEWS UK SITES

Touring 365 With 54 Club and Affiliated sites open all year – and others with extended opening dates – why not continue your touring adventures this autumn and winter? seasonal attractions like Christmas markets make for fantastic days out.

One of the great things about the Club is that you can stay at a selection of our sites all year

round, and we’ve picked seven here for you to consider. If you’re new to the pastime, and you haven’t yet had the chance to stay in your outfit during the colder months, you

Shutterstock/Lee Walker

We all love the warmer months, but the period from late autumn to early spring is just as great a time to get away, for different reasons. There’s less traffic on the road, for one thing, while

may be surprised to discover just how cosy it can be. Head to camc.com/oay to see a full list of sites that are open all year and to find some great advice on winter touring.

Edinburgh Why go?

There’s lots going on in the Scottish capital during the coming months, from the world-renowned Christmas market (14 Nov 2021-2 Jan 2022) to traditional Hogmanay and Burns Night events.

Southport

Poolsbrook Country Park

Why go?

Nearby Sheffield hosts England v Greece in the men’s Rugby League World Cup (Bramall Lane, 6 Nov).

Matches in the wheelchair tournament take place at EIS Sheffield throughout November.

Coniston, by David Stevenson

Coniston Park Coppice

Why go?

The Lake District can be crowded, but visit outside of the main touring season and you may just get one of the region’s many calm, stunningly beautiful spots all to yourself.

Abbey Wood

Why go?

Treat yourself to a London city break and get all of that Christmas shopping done in one fell swoop. From iconic retailers like Harrods, Selfridges and Hamleys to giant malls such as Westfield, the capital has the lot!

Bridlington

Why go?

Wrap up warm and take an invigorating winter walk along Bridlington’s famous promenade and beach. Then treat yourself to a brew – you’ll feel all the better for it!

Tredegar House Country Park

Why go?

The National Trust has reopened the state rooms at Tredegar House to the public. Discover why the Trust refers to them as “some of our most impressive spaces”.

20

Laurie Noble/Getty

Shutterstock/silvergull

Why go?

Make the trip to see Antony Gormley’s atmospheric Another Place sculptures in nearby Crosby... you may even catch one or two of the famous cast iron figures sporting Santa hats!

Extended opening dates

We're pleased to announce we've extended the opening dates at three more Club campsites: Burford, Norfolk Broads and Teesdale Barnard Castle. This means 25 Club and Affiliated campsites are open for longer, so you can pitch up throughout November or December, or even through to January! See camc.com/oay www.camc.com

Main and inset: safari tent at Southland on the Isle of Wight

Book Smart

Check well in advance if you re still able to travel and stay

TRY GLAMPING THIS AUTUMN Go glamping this autumn at stunning locations across the UK, including London, Brighton, the Lake District, the Cotswolds, the Isle of Wight, the North Yorkshire coast and the Surrey Hills!

Starting from just £39 per night*, we have a range of accommodation types on offer, each of which offers a different and unforgettable glamping experience. From rustic yurts, authentic safari tents and cosy camping pods to luxury glamping pods and cabins (some of which cater for a range of accessibility needs), we have a diverse selection to suit the size of your party and needs, and we consistently get great feedback!

Don’t forget, as a member you save 10% on glamping breaks all year round, and so do your friends and family when staying at the same time as you, whether you’re glamping or touring. You can now book stays right through to December 2022 with

Use our updated Late Availability checker to find last-minute pitches a low deposit of just 25%. Visit camc.com/experiencefreedom for more information. *Based on a midweek stay in a camping pod at Abbey Wood Club campsite on selected dates between 27 Sep-16 Dec 2021. A minimum stay of two nights applies.

Wi-Fi upgrade gathers pace As previously reported, we’re continuing to invest in our on-site Wi-Fi service to ensure a better connected experience for our members. Steady progress has been continuing throughout June and July, and despite some challenges we’re pleased to advise that a total of 24 locations have been upgraded. The result means faster connection speeds and a more reliable Wi-Fi provision.

We’ve also frozen our prices for 2021, so you can enjoy a better Wi-Fi service for the same price as last year at these sites. For a full update on the improvement project and for more information about our Wi-Fi provision in general, including prices and FAQs, please see camc.com/wifi. www.camc.com

Amend as soon as possible (for free) if your plans need to change

Thank you for booking smart!

We would like to thank members for supporting our Book Smart initiative this summer – it has enabled many people to find pitches at their preferred Club sites during a particularly busy time. Please do continue to follow the advice at camc.com/ booksmart and keep using our Late Availability checker at camc.com/ lateavailability.

We are exploring ways to make it even easier for you to plan your touring holidays in the future, looking in particular at cancellations and deposits. Watch this space!

Save on motorhome and campervan hire For a limited time only, Club members and their friends and family can save 10% on the cost of motorhome or campervan hire* with Spaceships Rentals. You’ll need to be quick, though, as the offer is valid for bookings made by 30 September 2021. The good news is there’s still a saving of 5% from 1 Oct 2021!

Spaceships Rentals offers a fantastic rental package that includes unlimited mileage, free additional drivers and 24/7 free roadside assistance. In addition, it has a dedicated, in-house customer support team and offers safe, contactless 24/7 pick-up and drop-off plus numerous optional extras including use of camping tables and chairs, airport transfers, etc. Vehicles can be picked up at London, Edinburgh and Dublin.

When booking with the Club and Spaceships Rentals, you’ll also receive a free Caravan and Motorhome Club bundle (worth more than £50), and, for a limited time only, pets go free, saving an extra £10 per day**.

BOOKING AND MORE INFORMATION

Head to camc.com/ spaceshipsrentals to find out more about Spaceships Rentals and the types of motorhomes and campervans on offer. Please ensure that you are logged into the Club website to see details of the offer.

When booking, please add your membership number in the box marked ‘Special requests or extra Info’ before completing the process. *This offer is exclusively available to Caravan and Motorhome Club members and their friends and family. The discount of 10% is valid for bookings made before 30 Sep 2021 and for travel between 1 Sep 2021 and 30 Nov 2021. **Pets Go Free offer valid for all bookings made before 30 Sep 2021 for travel before 31 Dec 2022.

October 2021 21

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NEWS UK SITES

HALLOWEEN HAUNTS Looking for a spooky day out this October?

Remember that Club members have access to discounts at many great attractions The Great Savings Guide, sponsored by MAYDAY UK Breakdown Cover, provided by Green Flag, contains discounts on attractions across the UK, some of which are decidedly creepy! It also enables you to make savings at cafés and restaurants, and with outdoor activity providers. Please visit camc.com/ greatsavingsguide for more details on all the offers mentioned as well as terms and conditions.

Mercat Tours, Edinburgh Mercat Tours offers a variety of ghost walks, ranging from child-friendly to adults-only evenings, bringing to life the haunting past of Scotland’s capital. Club members enjoy a 10% discount on pre-booked tickets.

Nearest Club site: Edinburgh

Blackpool Tower Dungeon

Lincolnshire Wolds Railway Don your most terrifying Halloween costumes and board the ghost train for a ghostly ride through the Lincolnshire countryside. With entertainment on board, you never know who you might encounter, so be prepared to jump!

Members save £1, subject to seat availability; a quiet coach is available.

Nearest Club site: Sutton-on-Sea Devil’s Bridge Falls, Ceredigion Summon your courage and visit a bridge that is said to have been built by the Devil himself! The reward for members is 20% off the entrance fee, some stunning views along nature trails and through gorges, and waterfalls that have been attracting visitors since the 18th century.

Nearest Club site: Gwern-Y-Bwlch

Above: Lincolnshire Wolds Railway Belo : evil s Bridge Falls Shutterstock/Davelees

The Dungeon, Blackpool Tower (and five other locations – see thedungeons.com) Descend into the dungeon, where you’ll encounter witches and torturers, get lost in a labyrinth, and serve your ‘punishment’ on the drop ride. It’s hilarious, fun and sometimes a bit frightening!

Members who pre-book can enjoy up to 15% discount.

Nearest Club site: Blackpool South

Mercat Tours Iain Masterton / Alamy

Peterhead Prison Museum, Aberdeenshire Billed as ‘Scotland’s Toughest Prison’, Peterhead was notorious for its poor conditions and gruelling regime. The prison museum, set on a six-acre site, offers a scary insight into the life of its prisoners and guards. You may also recognise it as a setting in the zombie film, Redcon-1. Club members get 10% off the cost of entry.

Nearest CL sites: Smithy Croft CL, Bridge House CL

oking, pre-bo Before offer a u ivid l visit ind mc.com/ ca page at haunts to en e w o hall your access nt d r iscou membe e cod

Don’t let a breakdown spoil your great day out! Our MAYDAY UK Breakdown Cover, provided by Green Flag, has been designed with the needs of our members in mind.

Find out more at camc.com/mayday.

www.camc.com

October 2021 23

TOURING UK SITES

GRAND DAYS OUT

Jonathan Manning discovers the best of Yorkshire’s dales, moors and coast on this seven-site adventure 24 October 2021

I

t’s only at the end of the cheesemaking demonstration at Wensleydale Creamery in the glorious Yorkshire Dales that our guide briefly mentions ‘Wallace and Gromit’, the Oscar-winning stop-motion pair famous for their association with the crumbly, white cheese.

Wensleydale was first mentioned in 1989’s A Grand Day Out, although Wallace

announced it as his preferred cheese in 1995’s A Close Shave.

Why, the guide asks, did the writers choose Wensleydale as Wallace’s favourite?

Was it something to do with its northern roots I wondered? Apparently it was actually due to the comedic value of a modelling-clay mouth stretched into a super-wide smile as it says “Wensleydale”, coupled of course with Peter Sallis’ glorious accent. Cheddar, www.camc.com

Thirsk, North Yorkshire

”

K7 Photography / Alamy

“

The moors and dales create the same sense of thrilling escape

BOOKING INFO For the latest details and opening information for all our sites, please see camc.com

on the other hand, requires more pursed lips to pronounce.

Campers staying at Hawes Club site are well placed for a visit to the creamery. But they also benefit from spectacular views to Wether Fell in the south and the limestone scar of Stag Fell to the north, and it’s no surprise to hear that walking is hugely popular among the members who visit. www.camc.com

“You can do a short walk to the waterfall at Hardraw or climb Wether Fell and walk along the ridge to Burtersett and be up in the fells for six hours,” says Site Manager Roger Schofield. “There are so many walks straight from the site.”

Campers Mike and Sue Powell are using the site as a base camp to join their daughters, who are hiking the Coast-to-Coast path. In

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

See camc.com for the latest site information and follow official guidelines at all times. We also recommend that you check with businesses/attractions that are listed regarding opening dates/restrictions.

October 2021 25

TOURING UK SITES From top: Wensleydale Creamery cheese shop; famous friends; waterfall on Gayle Beck, Hawes

1

Hawes A lovely green site with beautiful views across Wensleydale and an easy walk to the town.

Pitches: 119

Neil McAllister / Alamy

Club Site

Member view “The walks and bike rides are beautiful, and we’re looking forward to seeing the red squirrels at Snaizeholme.”

Mike and Sue Powell

Food & drink Green Dragon Inn, Bellow Hill, Hardraw, Hawes DL8 3LZ Contact: greendragonhardraw. com, 01969 667392

Culture

GRE

AT The Bowes Museum, SAVINGS G UI D E Barnard Castle DL12 8NP Contact: thebowes museum.org.uk, 01833 690606 Member offer available: camc.com/greatsavingsguide

Outdoor fun Hardraw Force, The Heritage Centre, Hardraw, Hawes, Leyburn DL8 3LZ Contact: hardrawforce.com, 01969 667572

For the family The Forbidden Corner, Tupgill Park Estate, Coverham, Middleham, Leyburn DL8 4TJ Contact: theforbiddencorner. co.uk, 01969 640638

26 October 2021

Paul Heaton / Alamy

Site view “Most people come for the walking, with fells all around, but Hawes is great, too, with lots of pubs and cafés and quirky shops.”

Roger Schofield

“

The bustling market town of Hawes has a first class selection of quirky shops

the meantime, they have been exploring Wensleydale by bike, pedalling to the waterfalls at Aysgarth and to pretty Semerwater. Committed road cyclists can test their climbing legs on the punishing ascent of the Buttertubs Pass, which featured in both the Tour de France and Tour de Yorkshire. Be warned, it’s a fearsome climb.

The five-minute stroll from the site into Hawes is much less taxing. The bustling little market town has a first class selection of quirky shops as well as a wide choice of cafes and pubs. In normal times, crowds mingle to watch the River Are crash below a stone bridge in the centre – it’s one of the most

”

photographed sights in the Yorkshire Dales – but a lengthy drought has reduced the river to a trickle. It has also taken the sting out of Hardraw Force, the tallest single fall in England, which is barely a mile from the Club site. Hardraw’s location at the back of a pub garden means there’s an entrance fee (which goes towards the maintenance of access routes) but it’s well worth a visit.

More impressive waterfalls on the River Ure thunder through Aysgarth, a short drive east, but my plan takes me north through Askrigg, where key scenes from the original James Herriot series All Creatures Great And Small were filmed. Truth be told, ‘plan’ is an www.camc.com

2

Richmond Hargill House Club Site

Mike Kipling Photography / Alamy

Scarborough from Cayton Bay

This multi-tiered site has captivating views to the south and very easy access from the A1 and A66.

Pitches: 61

Member view “We’ve been coming here for 40 years! We like trips into Richmond, to Northallerton on market day, and Mainsgill Farm Show just down the road is very nice.”

Norman and Joan Cummings

A.P.S. (UK ) / Alamy

Site view

Whitby, by Chris Baldoc

k

Aerial view of Richmond and its famous Castle

“The Station in Richmond has a cinema, brewery, café, ice cream parlour, bakery and chocolate shop.”

Janet and Phil Brownley

Food & drink The Angel Inn, 62 High St, Gilling West, Richmond DL10 5JW Contact: 01748 824304

Culture exaggeration, given that I had failed to spot the Yorkshire Dales Brewery’s beer garden on the way into Askrigg during my research, and the steep contours as the narrow road twists its way from Wensleydale to Swaledale. This is a dramatically beautiful route, but a challenging drive for a caravan or motorhome.

It’s a relief to arrive at Richmond Hargill House Club site, which could not be more conveniently located, close to the A66 dual carriageway that sits between the A1 and Cumbria. On the pitches closest to the road there’s no avoiding the rumble of traffic, but a little lower down this steeply tiered site it’s the far-reaching views south to High Moor and www.camc.com

Marske Moor that seize the attention. A bus stop just outside the gates offers an easy ride to Darlington or Richmond, a fine-looking stone town with handsome castle ruins perched above the broad River Swale. Site Manager Janet hands me a walking leaflet for the Richmond Drummer Boy Walk, a three-mile stroll which runs along the Swale. Gleeful squeals bounce along the river from bathers taking advantage of the unusually calm, shallow waters to splash in the sunshine.

RICH HISTORY

In addition to the castle, Richmond has defensive military connections in the form of

The Green Howards Museum, Trinity Church Square, Richmond DL10 4QN Contact: greenhowards.org.uk, 01748 826561

Outdoor fun Mainsgill Farm, East Layton, Richmond DL11 7PN Contact: mainsgillfarm.co.uk, 01325 718860

For the family Richmond Castle, Tower Street, Richmond DL10 4QW Contact: english-heritage.org.uk, 01748 822493

October 2021 27

Islandstock / Alamy

TOURING UK SITES

3

Park Nab near Kildale with the Cleveland Hills in the distance

Bank Head Farm Certificated Location

This hilltop grass paddock in a 340-acre farm offers a choice of views: arable fields, grazing pasture or woodland. Electric hook-up is available.

Contact: 01609 780277 Sites Directory & Handbook p490

Member view “It’s so nice that we’ve been here for three days and we haven’t left the site!”

David and Maureen Johnstone

Culture World of James Herriot, 23 Kirkgate, Thirsk YO7 1PL Contact: worldofjamesherriot. com, 01845 524234

Outdoor fun Thirsk Bird of Prey Centre, Sion Hill Hall, Kirby Wiske, Thirsk YO7 4EU Contact: falconrycentre. co.uk, 01845 587522 Member offer GREAT available: camc.com/ SAVINGS greatsavingsguide GUIDE

For the family Wensleydale Railway, Leeming Bar Station, Leases Road, Leeming Bar DL7 9AR Contact: wensleydale-railway. co.uk, 01677 425805

28 October 2021

Alamy Yorkshire Pic s /

Food & drink Bettys Café Tea Room, High Street, Northallerton DL7 8LF Contact: bettys.co.uk, 0800 4561919

Martin Williams

“Loads of people come back here who have been coming for years. There are great walks, plus Northallerton and Thirsk are nice market towns.”

Michael Hill

/ Alamy

Site view

Above: spectacular Whitby Abbey Right: the iconic Grand Hotel in the seaside town of Scarborough the Green Howards Regiment, celebrated in a fascinating and lovingly curated collection of artefacts in a museum on the market square.

Amid the flamboyant uniforms, feathered hats, lethal weaponry and lavish regimental silver are touching mementos of service life from ordinary soldiers who fought in India, in the Crimea, during the First World War and right up to the recent campaign in Afghanistan.

The glittering medals collection and accompanying accounts of gallantry are particularly humbling.

Picturesque Barnard Castle is just a short hop up the road from Richmond Hargill House but on this occasion I point the bonnet east and make brisk progress to my next stop, Bank Head Farm Certificated Location (CL), just outside Northallerton. The grass site

gazes over a valley with a beck at its foot and a magnificent bank of woodland on the far side, although bafflingly campers almost always orientate their outfits so that window views are of arable fields in the other direction, says owner Michael Hill. Either way, on a sunny afternoon it’s hard to think of a more perfect setting for a small site than this short-mowed paddock.

“Nearly everybody who comes says they’ll be back,” says Mike, and caravanner David Johnstone agrees. It’s his first visit, and three days in he is yet to leave the site, revelling in the peace and the views.

TOP DRAWS

Northallerton is another example of those irresistible market towns that North Yorkshire www.camc.com

4

North Yorkshire Moors Club Site

A beautiful spot in the National Park, with a mix of grass and hardstanding pitches, but no facilities block. It’s an easy drive to Whitby, or hike to the coast at Robin Hood’s Bay. Pitches: 90

Member view “We’ve used a scooter to visit Goathland and Grosmont. There are lots of little country lanes, single tracks with passing places, that you would not want to drive in a car or campervan.”

Richard and Jayne White

Site view

“

“There’s so much to do nearby, including walks, Whitby, and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.”

Karen and Kevin Greenwood

In the midst of this wilderness, the Club site emerges like a mirage

does so well, hosting busy markets every Wednesday and Saturday. For those who want to explore farther afield, the Joe Cornish Gallery on Zetland Street displays a portfolio of local landscape photos that are so spectacular it’s hard to imagine ever wanting to leave the county, while the famous Bettys Café Tea Room on the High Street strengthen’s Northallerton’s pull.

Just outside of town, Mount Grace Priory (free to English Heritage and National Trust members) offers a dreamy way to spend an afternoon. The ruins of the Carthusian priory are in remarkable shape, and there’s an intriguing reconstruction of a monk’s cell. The hermit-like monks lived in silence, praying, studying and tending to their small gardens, and while their confined living quarters might www.camc.com

”

be considered small and spartan, they will appear blissfully peaceful and spacious to anyone who has shared a caravan with lively young children. The priory also has 13 acres of gardens, bursting with flowers and water features, and a large house containing décor from the Arts and Crafts movement.

Mount Grace sits at the foot of the Cleveland Hills, the ‘bouncers’ that guard the entrance to the North York Moors. Beyond, the moors offer a markedly different landscape from the dales, but create the same sense of thrilling escape.

In the midst of this wilderness, North Yorkshire Moors Club site emerges like a mirage. It’s a stunning spot, sheltered by trees, with a boules pitch and crazy golf course for campers who want to stay on site, alongside the owls, woodpeckers, deer and hares that call this

Food & drink The Magpie Café, 14 Pier Road, Whitby YO21 3PU Contact: magpiecafe.co.uk, 01947 602058

Culture Whitby Abbey, Abbey Lane, Whitby YO22 4JT Contact: english-heritage.org.uk, 01947 603568

Outdoor fun Falling Foss Tea Garden, Falling Foss, Whitby YO22 5JD Contact: fallingfossteagarden. co.uk, 07723 477929

For the family The Endeavour Experience, Endeavour Wharf, Whitby YO21 1DN Contact: hmbarkendeavour. co.uk, 01947 600 511

October 2021 29

place home. The site has two very good dog walks, and managers Karen and Kevin Greenwood recommend a circular, three-mile ramble from the gate to Falling Foss waterfall, where a lovely tea room provides the energy to climb back up the valley to the site. The contours cancel out cake calories!

The remoteness and tranquillity of the site are at odds with the lively streets of Whitby, a striking seaside town that seemed to be thriving in a summer of staycations. The Gothic remains of Whitby Abbey – particularly spooky in the gloom of late evening – peer down on the town, but after Richmond Castle and Mount Grace Priory I’ve had enough of ruins, a decision that’s all the easier to make given the 199-step climb to get there.

Instead, I stick to the narrow lanes that twist through town, past jet, amber and jewellery shops, before enjoying a cool drink on board HM Bark Endeavour, a full-size replica of Captain James Cook’s ship that sailed to the Pacific and Australia. It’s the perfect aperitif before a takeaway cod and chips from the legendary Magpie Café.

5

Cayton Village Club Site

This large, recently refurbished site has excellent facilities and offers easy beach access.

Pitches: 201 Tent camping and glamping available here.

Member view “We love coming to the east coast, and this is a very pleasant site. The Farrier [see below] in the village is very nice.”

Pauline and Geoff Vardy

Site view “The village has a fish and chip shop, a couple of small shops and a very good pub, Cayton Bay is a big, quiet beach, and there are buses to Scarborough, Filey and Bridlington.”

Ryan Pickering

BAY OF PLENTY

Culture Scarborough Fair Collection, Flower of May Holiday Park, Lebberston Cliff, Scarborough YO11 3NU Contact: scarboroughfair collection.com, 01723 586698

Outdoor fun Peasholm Park, North Bay, Scarborough YO12 7TR Contact: peasholmpark.com, 01723 383636

For the family

GREAT

SAVINGS Sea Life, Scalby Mills Road, GUIDE Scarborough YO12 6RP Contact: visitsealife.com, 01723 373414 Member offer available: camc.com/greatsavingsguide

30 October 2021

Stock Photo

The Farrier, 89 Main Street, Cayton, Scarborough YO11 3RP Contact: the-farrier.co.uk, 01723 861432

Jack Cousin / Alamy

Food & drink

The coast road south is a pleasant drive through moorland to the Club’s Cayton Village site, close to Scarborough, where major refurbishment has included the installation of eye-catching facilities such as luxurious glamping pods and yurts, a football/basketball cage, and two superb washrooms. The site’s USP is its walking distance to Cayton Bay, although it’s a fair step for young children. Even on a sunny July day there’s space galore on the bay’s beach for sandcastles and games.

Scarborough ups the ante on Whitby, with an extensive coastline and abundant attractions. Peasholm Park is a surprise, a municipal park of lawns and lake with oriental-themed lanterns, bridges and even a pagoda on the island in its middle. Late into the evening families are still enjoying picnics and strolling through the park.

About six miles inland, Sawdon Heights CL offers the perfect counterpoint to Scarborough’s buzzing streets, for those who prefer a quieter pace of life. Set at the end of a long drive, this grass paddock boasts a shower and toilet. Walks radiate from its gate, and it’s cycling distance from world-class mountain biking at Dalby Forest, where a bike hire centre and graded

Colin Ward / Alamy

TOURING UK SITES

“

Whitby is a striking town that seems to be thriving

”

6

Sawdon Heights Certificated Location

This well-equipped CL, with shower and toilet, set on a gorgeous working farm, is within walking distance of the village pub.

Contact: 01723 859321 Sites Directory & Handbook p494

Owner View “Lots of campers come back regularly and we’ve made friends with many of them.

They enjoy the setting, the market towns of Pickering and Malton, the fantastic walks straight from the site, and the Moor to Sea Cycle Network of routes.”

Sue Dickinson

Food & drink Walkers Fish Restaurant, 17 Main Street, East Ayton, Scarborough YO13 9HJ Contact: walkersfishrestaurant. co.uk, 01723 864259

Culture Scarborough Castle, Castle Road, Scarborough YO11 1HY Contact: english-heritage.org.uk, 01723 372451

Outdoor fun Whitby, by Aman

Dalby Forest (mountain biking), Dalby Visitor Centre, Low Dalby, Thornton-Le-Dale, Pickering YO18 7LT Contact: forestryengland.uk, 01751 460295

da Green

For the family Above: 199 steps to Whitby Abbey Far left: fishing boats at Scarborough

www.camc.com

Go Ape, Dalby Forest, Low Dalby, Thornton Le Dale YO18 7LT Contact: goape.co.uk, 01603 895500 Member offer available: camc.com/ GREAT SAVINGS greatsavingsguide GUIDE

October 2021 31

TOURING UK SITES

Bempton Cliffs, by Jan Brown

7

Bridlington Club Site

A large, immaculately maintained site, with a golf course nearby as well as the superb beaches of Bridlington.

Pitches: 149 Tent camping available here.

Member view “We’ve visited here about a dozen times. There are perfect walks in every direction – the best is North Landing and the circuit of Flamborough Head and Danes Dyke. We love seeing the puffins at Bempton, too.”

Steve Atkinson

Site view “The coastal path to Sewerby Hall and Bridlington, or the other way to Flamborough is very popular, and there are loads of seaside attractions and amusements in ‘Brid’.”

Anne and Michael Cozens

Food & drink The Old Forge, 30 Main Street, Sewerby YO15 1EQ Contact: theoldforgesewerby. co.uk, 01262 601111

Culture Sewerby Hall & Gardens, Sewerby, Bridlington YO15 1ED Contact: sewerbyhall.co.uk, 01262 673769

Outdoor fun RSPB Bempton Cliffs, Cliff Lane, Bridlington YO15 1JF Contact: rspb.org.uk, 01262 422212

For the family Bridlington Animal Park, Covert Lane, Carnaby, Bridlington YO15 3QF Contact: bridlingtonanimal park.co.uk, 01262 673653

32 October 2021

“

The coastline attracts an array of seabirds

trails make it easy for riders of all levels to explore the vast plantation.

Continuing southwards, the coastline from Scarborough via Filey to Bridlington attracts a fabulous array of seabirds, especially at Bempton Cliffs, where an RSPB reserve keeps a watchful eye on the half a million puffins, gannets and guillemots that nest precariously on the chalk rock face. The cliffs continue to Flamborough Head, dominated by its whitewashed lighthouse, and for those with the time there’s a hugely enjoyable coastal walk around the point.

It’s only a couple of miles farther to Bridlington Club site, nestled in a peaceful spot a short bus ride from the town. For those who prefer to cook, Assistant Site Manager Michael Cozens recommends the harbourside fishmongers for seafood fresh from the port’s trawlers and crabbing boats.

Bridlington – ‘Brid’ to its friends – has everything a resort needs, including the horizon-to-horizon North Beach and South Beach, amusements, and the Lilliputian Bondville Model Village, with its 200-plus

”

miniature buildings. While the sea-facing resort side of Brid is its primary draw, it’s definitely worth a detour inland to the Old Town, where the characterful High Street is sufficiently unspoiled to have served as the backdrop to 2016’s Dad’s Army film.

Even closer to the site is Sewerby Hall and Gardens, whose 50 acres cover every base for holidaymakers; a single ticket secures access to the Edwardian country house, formal

www.camc.com

Illustration: Louise Turpin

gardens, parkland and a zoo. A more cultured visitor might leave with their camera’s memory card filled with photos of furniture (from the Victoria and Albert Museum), or the kaleidoscope of colours in the Walled Garden, but I can’t resist the Humboldt penguins as they dive for fish at feeding time.

As they waddle and comically cock their heads, they look like extras from those Wallace and Gromit films, and as I wind up the steadies one last time I picture them saying, in a broad Yorkshire Peter Sallis accent, “Cracking tour, Gromit.”

Cycling | Hawes

North of Scarborough, by Andrew Martin

Take in the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales on two wheels on a challenging 12-mile circular ride from Hawes Club site. The route is all on road and includes some long, steep climbs as it passes through Wensleydale and skirts the shores of Semerwater. A full description of the route with directions is available in the June 2021 edition of our Magazine App which members can download for free from the App Store or Google Play. There is also an accompanying video on our YouTube channel, while you can download the route to your GPS device by following Caravan and Motorhome Club on Strava and going to strava.com/ activities/5354060169.

Hawes, by Sandra Jones

www.camc.com

October 2021 33

What could be better than a hassle-free, perfectly level motorhome in seconds?

Automatic levelling systems have fast become THE ‘must have’ motorhome accessory.

We provide the high quality HPC Hydraulic Self-Levelling System at a competitive price.

This system works to provide the convenience of a level and stable motorhome in less than 90 seconds, leaving you free to do anything else.

Benefits of the HPC Hydraulic SelfLevelling System: • Level in just 90 seconds • Lightweight just 40Kgs • Aluminium anodised jacks will not rust • Easily change a tyre or fit snow chains • Smart phone app control • Modern touch screen operation panel • 4 different level settings (level 1, level 2, tank drain, stabilise) • No rocking on the suspension • 12V or 24V • Intelligent diagnostic history logging • Take the weight off the wheels • Doesn’t get stuck in the mud • Lift up to 30 tonnes • Maintenance free for 5 years (oil change)

Having a level motorhome means you won’t have any more shower drainage issues, uneven cooking surfaces, and no rocking if windy or from walking around the motorhome.

It also avoids the problem of driving up ramps and sinking the driven wheels into the mud.

Through this system, you can choose from four different levelling positions (level 1, level 2, tank drain, and stabilise), benefiting from a touch-screen control panel, as well as manual adjustments to extend and retract. You can even download a special smart phone app to control it through a touch of a button.

The HPC motorhome automatic levelling system is extremely light weight, featuring jacks made from anodised aluminium.

It also features an emergency pump handle, so you can be sure never to find yourself stuck in a tricky situation with

your motorhome.

Manual mode in the control panel (or on the app) simplifies activities such as changing a wheel, fitting snow chains, or operating the system from outside for any other reasons.

For more information or to arrange to see our demonstration vehicle, simply contact a member of our team directly.

We will be pleased to advise how you could benefit from our HPC fully automatic motorhome levelling system.

Available from:

LNB Towbars & Vehicle Extras Ltd. www.lnbtowbars.co.uk | 0117 969 4955

SGM Towing www.sgmtowing.co.uk | 02920 236 121

Glide-Rite Products www.glide-rite.com | 0151 638 8002

Hedley Towing Centre www.hedley-towbars.co.uk | 0191 386 3972

Jacksons Leisure Satellites www.jacksonsuk.com | 01924 848 966 The Motorhome Depot www.tmdmotorhomes.com | 01527 656 50

Newport Caravans www.newportcaravans.com | 01633 843 066

UK Distributors of HPC Hydraulic Self-Levelling System

1151-1152 Aztec West Business Park, Almondsbury, Bristol, BS32 4TF ! 0117 9694955 ! sales@lnbleisure.co.uk

TOURING CERTIFICATED LOCATIONS

CL SITES UPDATES CL SITES

Also see the CL section of the Club website (camc.com) for the most up-to-date details on all CLs. Pitch fees may be subject to variation – please check with the CL owner before booking.

NOTE: CL entries are identified by a reference/map number in the 2021/22 Sites Directory & Handbook.

They are listed here using the same number, unless otherwise specified.

NEW CLS ENGLAND

BRISTOL

BRISTOL (13.7m S) – Old Mills CL, Margaret Dover and Damian Hollingbery, Old Mills Lane, Paulton, Bristol BS39 7ST. 07814 755937; damianhollingbery@hotmail.co.uk.

172:ST649552; 51.295482, -2.504763.

Open 1 Mar-31 Oct; 1.5 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; price fr £12 (pitch + all occ).

CHESHIRE

CHESTER (4.3m NW) – Burton’s Acre, Mrs Jenny Harding, Green Farm, Lodge Lane, Saughall, Chester CH1 6JL. 07852 331623; jenharding@live.co.uk.

117:SJ363706; 53.229276, -2.954813.

Open 1 Mar-30 Nov; 1 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; 16A; lawned; wkg fm; dog walk fr site; public trans, town, shop & pub in 1m; price fr £17 (pitch + 2 ad).

CORNWALL

PENZANCE (5.8m SW) – Banns Cottage, Mr David and Mrs Sarah Talbot, No Mans Land, St Buryan, Penzance TR19 6EL. 07592 913246; 01736 810830; bannscottage@ gmail.com. 203:SW402268; 50.084692, -5.633046. Open 1 Mar-30 Nov; 2 acres; dogs; grass; peaceful; dog walk fr site; public trans, town, shop & pub in 1m; golf, watersports & sandy beach in 5m; price fr £12 (pitch + 2 ad).

EAST SUSSEX RYE (2.6m N) – Iden Coach House, Mr Paul and Brenda Abrams, Wittersham Road, Iden, Rye TN31 7XB. 01797 280118; 07309 763394; idencoachhouse@btinternet.com; idencoachhouse.co.uk. www.camc.com

189:TQ917242; 50.984479, 0.729648.

Open 1 Mar- 31 Oct; 1.5 acres; adults only; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; 16A; peaceful; lawned; self catering accom; WiFi; public trans, town, shop & pub in 1m; coarse fishing, golf, watersports & sandy beach in 5m; price fr £20 (pitch + all occ).

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

AUST (9.5m NE) – Golden Valley House, Mr Victor and Mrs Catherine Harding, Oldbury Naite, Oldburyon-Severn BS35 1RH. 07730 600452 (evenings). 172:ST622938; 51.641809, -2.546466. Open 1 Mar-31 Oct; 1 acre; adults only; dogs; adv bkg req; 16A; peaceful; views; lawned; dog walk fr site; public trans, town, shop & pub in 1m; watersports in 5m; price fr £18 (pitch + all occ).

HEREFORDSHIRE

ROSS-ON-WYE (6.7m ENE) – Dymock Wood (formerly Haywood Farm), Mr Peter and Mrs Rosemary Metcalfe, Swagwater Lane, Gorsley, Ross-On-Wye HR9 7EB. 01989 720672; 07768 816902; info@ haywoodfarm.co.uk; haywoodfarm. co.uk. 162:SO680267; 51.938465, -2.466779. Open 1 Apr-31 Oct; 0.5 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; unfenced water; hdstdng; grass; 10A; ideal for families; comm site adj; views; wc (sh); shwr (sh); disabled facs; info rm; dog walk fr site; public trans & pub in 1m; golf in 5m; price fr £22.50 (pitch + all occ).

KENT

MAIDSTONE (10m SE) – Neverend Farm Barns, Mr John and Mrs Rebecca Gilham, Pye Corner, Ulcombe, Maidstone ME17 1EF. 07845 006070; rlgilham@gmail.com.

189:TQ849483; 51.204051, 0.646686.

OAY; 1 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; hdstdng; grass; 16A; peaceful; views; lawned; public trans, town & pub in 1m; game fishing & golf in 5m; price fr £15 (pitch + all occ).

NORFOLK

WYMONDHAM (5.9m S) –The Stables, Mr Paul and Mrs Sue Townsend, Common Road, Forncett St Peter NR16 1LQ. 01953 308280; 07900 496127; thestablesforncett@ gmail.com. 144:TM131946; 52.508389, 1.139137. OAY; 0.75 acre; dogs; adv

bkg req; grass; 16A; peaceful; views; lawned; WC (exc); shwr (exc); disabled facs; lndry; gas; info rm; dog walk fr site; public trans, town, shop & pub in 1m; price fr £20 (pitch + all occ).

SHROPSHIRE

MARKET DRAYTON (1.8m NW) – Longslow Caravan Site, Mr Philippe and Mrs Penny Le Toquin, High View, Longslow, Market Drayton TF9 3QY. 07400 039988; 07401 557918; penny@ ppmt.org. 127:SJ656351; 52.912434, -2.511799. Open 1 Mar-31 Oct; 1 acre; dogs; grass; 16A; peaceful; views; lawned; dog walk fr site; town, shop & pub in 1m; golf in 5m; price fr £15 (pitch + 2 ad).

STAFFORDSHIRE

GAILEY (3.7m NW) – Wenlock Bank, Mr Kevin Gough, Lapley ST19 9QE. 07976 171238; wenlockbank@gmail. com. 127:SJ863133; 52.717341, -2.202944. Open 1 Mar-30 Nov;1 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; enhanced grass pitch (EHU with drinking water); 16A; peaceful; views; lawned; wc (exc); public trans, town, shop & pub in 1m; price fr £17 (pitch + 2 ad).

WALES

GWYNEDD

CAERNARFON (12.9m SSW) – Cappas Lywd, Mrs Christine Beavis, Caernarfon LL54 5LB. 07483 155569; 01286 660682; garejclynnog@ yahoo.co.uk. 123;SH382469; 52.99431, -4.414909. Open 1 Mar-30 Nov; 1 acre; dogs; grass; 16A; price fr £17 (pitch + 2ad).

SCOTLAND

HIGHLANDS

NEWTONMORE (6.4m SW) – Laggan CL, Mr Stevie and Mrs Joan Chalmers, Tigh an Each, Balgowan, Laggan, Newtonmore PH20 1BS. 01528 985050; 07782 212745; stevie@ lagganglamping.co.uk; lagganglamping.co.uk.

35:NN538943; 57.01993, -4.24363.

OAY; 0.5 acres; adults only; dogs; enhanced hdstdng pitches – EHU with water and grey waste disp; 16A; peaceful; views; lawned; wkg fm; B&B; storage facs; self catering accom; WiFi; dog walk fr site; town, shop & pub in 1m; golf, watersports & sandy beach in 5m; price fr £15 (pitch + all occ).

UPDATES

IMPORTANT: Nightly fees may differ from those published in the Directory due to a change of facilities or ownership. It is therefore essential to confirm current fees when enquiring or making a booking. Not all CLs accompanied by a pub symbol in the Directory are located on the site of a public house – some are near to a pub (up to three miles away), so please check with the owner before visiting.

240 KENDAL – Mosergh Farm Caravan Site. New tel: 01539 823274.

599 BROCKENHURST – Valesmoor Farm. New email: info@ valesmoorventures.co.uk.

708 BIDDENDEN – Roland House.

Correction: no shared WC available.

789 GARSTANG – Broadgate Farm.

New owners: Roger and Claire Clark.

01995602402/07796857492 after 6pm; c.clark189@icloud.com. Corrected coordinates 53.905554, -2.685296.

885 LINCOLN – The Railway Inn. New email: therailwayinn.thorpe@gmail.com.

907 MARKET RASEN – Beechcroft.

Does not have hardstanding.

996 CROMER – Wood View. Mobile added: 07974 265053.

1146 COBRIDGE – Bingfield Combe.

EHU now available.

1268 BATH – Avon Valley Farm.

Site now has EHU and OAY. 1350 LEEK – Little Brookhouse Farm. New owner Pam Moseley.

07929 080115; littlebrookhouse holidays@hotmail.com.

1498 CHICHESTER – Bird Pond Nursery. New owner: Paul Lambert.

01243 641212.

1586 BEWDLEY– The Bumbles. New email: andycoop26@gmail.com.

1668 FILEY – Diamond Wood. Now Adult Only.

1734 RICHMOND – Spring Thyme.

Correction: No laundry available.

1837 TARBERT – Corran Farm. New tel: 01880 740216.

1920 PERTH – Fernlea. New owner Brue Macaulay. 07969 517255.

2113 MILFORD HAVEN – Lower Hasguard Farm.New email: b.hymers@btconnect.com.

2188 CHIRK – Halton Farm. Toilet facilities not available.

July Magazine DORNOCH – The Old School House. Now has EHU. August Magazine FRAMLINGHAM – Waterpump CL. Price per night now £15. Motorhomes only.

October 2021 35

UNLOCK FREEDOM TURN ON ADVENTURE !

Save up to £135 on Raleigh bikes and electric bikes

Visit camc.com/raleigh for details.Terms and conditions apply.

FOREIGN TOURING FRANCE

1

Le Brévedent (Site ref: N01)

This laid-back campsite has its own restaurant overlooking a fishing lake. Surrounded by orchards, it is within easy reach of Bayeux, Caen and other attractions.

Site view “Visitors will find plenty to do here – they can follow the cider route but there is also the cheese route which takes you to sample our local food.”

Raphael Bony, owner

Food & drink Crêperie La Chandeleur, 30 Rue de la Gare, 14100 Lisieux Contact: creperielachandeleur14.fr, 0033 2 31 31 22 22

Culture

Julien FROMENTIN /Getty

Basilique Sainte-Thérèse de Lisieux, Lisieux Contact: therese-de-lisieux. catholique.fr, 0033 2 31 48 55 00

Outdoor fun Golf Barrière Deauville, Deauville Contact: hotelsbarriere.com, 0033 2 31 14 24 24

For the family Schlumberger Museum, Crèvecoeur Castle, 14340 Crèvecoeur-en-Auge Contact: chateaudecrevecoeur. com, 0033 231 630 245

38 October 2021

A toast to Normandy Heidi Fuller-Love heads to northern France to sample delicious calvados and the breathtaking Cotentin Peninsula

A

s we pulled into Le Brévedent, our campsite near the town of Lisieux, sunshine flickered on the site’s mirror-calm fishing lake, and the surrounding apple trees fluttered against a sky as blue as a peacock’s feathers.

This friendly little site, just 16 miles or so from some of Normandy’s best beaches, was the perfect starting point for our five-day trip exploring a beautiful region.

Huge fans of calvados – the brandy for which this part of the world is famed – we intended to follow parts of the ‘Route du Cidre’ (The Cider Route), which meanders through lush countryside that inspired artists ranging from Cézanne to Magritte, visiting the area’s orchards and distilleries.

We would then head on to the wild yet beautiful Cotentin Peninsula with its far-reaching views and unspoiled beaches.

APPLE START

Legend has it that Basque sailors brought cider to Normandy in the 6th century. But it was a further thousand years before aristocrat Gilles de Gouberville distilled cider to create the region’s celebrated apple brandy.

Our main destination was Cambremer, but we made a detour to Crèvecœur-en-Auge, a tiny hamlet boasting a moated castle. This is home to a fascinating interactive museum dedicated to the Schlumbergers, engineering brothers who revolutionised the mining industry during the 1920s.

With its zebra-striped, half-timbered houses clustered around an ancient church, Cambremer is home to the Calvados Pierre www.camc.com

Alamy/Andia

PLEASE FOLLOW OFFICIAL TRAVEL RULES AT ALL TIMES – SEE GOV.UK/FOREIGNTRAVEL-ADVICE

2

Anse du Brick (Site ref:N14))

This gloriously picturesque campsite has great views over the sandy beaches and glittering sea of the Cotentin Peninsula.

Site view “Our guests should visit the Musée de la Mer [La Cité de la Mer] at Cherbourg, a world class maritime museum built on the site of the former transatlantic terminal, and Tatihou, an island, accessible on foot at low tide and home to some beautiful gardens and the UNESCO listed Vauban tower.”

Food & drink Calvados Père Magloire

Laurie Noble/Getty

14130 Pont-l’Evêque Contact: calvados-experience. com, 0033 2 31 64 30 31 Goury and La Hague Lighthouse, Cotentin Peninsula

Huet distillery. Here we spent several happy hours observing the wood-burning stills and exploring sweet-scented cellars packed with barrels. We then sampled refreshing ciders and the punch-packing calvados that the Pierre Huet family has been making here since 1865.

We enjoyed a long lazy lunch in the Crêperie des Jardins du Pays d’Auge, next door to the distillery. After a few cheese-and-ham buckwheat ‘galettes’, followed by apple-stuffed ‘Crêpes Normandes’, we waddled out to explore the village’s gloriously scented gardens.

On another afternoon we made for the E Graindorge fromagerie, where we learned all about the creamy, nut-flavoured Livarot cheese that was first made here by monks some 700 years ago. We then doubled back for a tasting session at the Dupont distillery near the pretty village of Victot-Pontfol. On the final day of our stay in the area, we headed for Beuvron-enwww.camc.com

Auge. Classed as one of France’s ‘plus beaux’ villages, this charming hamlet’s flower-decked streets are lined with half-timbered houses and chic boutiques selling handicrafts, antiques and curios. Afterwards, a sumptuous dinner of cider-infused pâté and apple pie at cosy family-run restaurant Le Pavé d’Auge.

CHIC TO CHIC

Famed for its racecourses, casinos and American film festival, Deauville, our next stop, thronged with chic Parisians. An easy two-and-a-half hour’s drive from the French capital, this elegant seaside town with its golden sands and 1920s boardwalk (complete with bathing huts) was once a favourite retreat for the great and good, including Winston Churchill and Coco Chanel.

We wandered Les Planches (the boardwalk), where more modern stars come to meet and

Culture Le Mémorial de Caen, Esplanade Général Eisenhower, CS 55026, 14050 Caen Cedex 4 Contact: normandy.memorialcaen.com

Outdoor fun Jardin Botanique de Vauville, 14 Route des Fontaines, 50440, Vauville, La Hague Contact: jardin-vauville.fr, 0033 2 33 10 00 00

For the family Gatteville Lighthouse, 25c la Route du Phare, 50760 Gatteville-le-Phare Contact: en.normandie-tourisme.fr

October 2021 39

Atout Franc e

Atout Franc e

Louise Turpin

Illustration: Louise Turpin

FOREIGN TOURING FRANCE

From top: pommeau is made from apple juice and brandy; apple barrel at harvest time; military graves in Normandy

40 October 2021

mingle during September’s festival, before peeking inside the magnificent Casino Barrière Deauville with its glittering chandeliers and gilt and scarlet décor.

From here, we made our leisurely way westwards along the coast to Caen. As dusk fell, we parked near the Orne River and spent a peaceful night at Chez Laurence du Tilly, a charming little B&B in the centre of a web of alleys in the city’s old town.

After a hearty breakfast of fresh fruit, local cheese and strong coffee we headed out to explore the capital of the Calvados region.

Caen is a university town and the streets throng with life. We enjoyed the climb through narrow streets lined with chic boutiques to visit the castle of William the Conqueror, who was born in nearby Falaise.

An impressive feat of military architecture, the castle is now home to a museum boasting fascinating exhibits about life in Normandy past and present. From here we strolled along the Rue de Geôle (stopping off at Gaillon bakery to buy slabs of local puff pastry treat, ‘Brasillé’) and then hiked across town to Caen’s Memorial Museum. Just a stone’s throw from the D-Day beaches, this informative and sometimes heartbreaking museum covers the themes of modern warfare and world peace, and kept us enthralled for several hours.

By now we were hungry once again.

Although we weren’t brave enough to order

local speciality ‘tripes à la mode de Caen’ for lunch, we did enjoy Caen’s ‘joue de bœuf’ beef dish cooked with cider, onions and spices at cosy restaurant Le Bouchon du Vaugueux.

On our way to our final campsite at the tip of the Cotentin Peninsula, we stopped off to see the magnificent, 70-metre-long Bayeux Tapestry, and were astounded to learn that King Harold’s famous arrow in the eye was actually added to the tapestry during 18th-century restoration work!

That night we pitched up at Anse du Brick, a beautifully landscaped site with grassy pitches looking out over soft sands. Up early the following morning we ended our five-day odyssey with a very special pilgrimage to Gold Beach, about an hour-and-a-half’s drive to the east, where 25,000 men of the British 50th Division – including my own father – landed on 6 June 1944. Remembering my father’s tales of that terrible day, I offered up a silent prayer of thanks to the brave troops who fought so hard for the freedom that we enjoy today.

MEMBER SINCE...

Motorhomer Heidi Fuller-Love joined the Club in 2017

www.camc.com

TOURING OVERSEAS TRAVEL

AMERICAN

Duration/type: 25 days/independent motorhome tour Departs: May-Sep 2022 and 2023 Price: from £4,889pp for a September 2022 departure based on two sharing Price includes: flights from the UK to Los Angeles, all transfers, three nights in a centrally located hotel in Los Angeles including breakfast, 20 nights at pre-booked campgrounds, Cruise America Compact RV for 21 days including unlimited mileage, personal kits including sleeping bags, towels and pillows, vehicle provision kits including cutlery and crockery, plus a road book with travel tips, local info and driving itinerary

Above: Yosemite National Park Inset: Big Sur Below: cable car in San Francisco

Whether you enjoy wide expanses of wilderness, sparkling cities or spectacular seascapes – we have an independent motorhome tour for you in the United States

California Calling Experience the bright lights of Hollywood and Las Vegas, take in the magnificent cliffs of Yosemite National Park and explore exhilarating San Francisco on this antastic motorhome tour o America s olden tate e e thrown in a taste o Arizona and Nevada for good measure!)

Following your flight to Los Angeles you have a chance to unwind and look around this fascinating city – why not visit Venice Beach or do a spot of shopping on odeo ri e t s then o to pick up your motorhome before heading eastwards for Joshua Tree National Park, home to

rugged rock formations and desert landscapes. Your journey then takes you to Kingman, a city on the legendary Route 66 in Arizona – make sure you visit the museum dedicated to America s most famous highway.

On the eighth day of your odyssey you head northwards to the spectacular city of Las Vegas. This will be your home for two nights so why not take the opportunity to have a flutter on the gaming tables or take in a show? You could even book a helicopter flight over the iconic Grand Canyon!

Back on the road you set out for Calico – now a ghost town it made its name in the late 1800s California Silver Rush – before stopping for two nights in Sequoia National Park. Look out for the famed General Sherman Tree; with a circumference of 31m and measuring over 83m in height it is one of the largest living organisms on earth and is believed to be between 2,300 and 2,700 years old. t s then on to osemite ational Park in the Sierra Nevada mountains – home to more ancient sequoias, the towering Bridalveil Fall and the Half Dome and El Capitan rock formations.

here s still plenty to see as you head into the final leg of your adventure. To the west lies San Francisco, where no visit would be complete without a trip to the famed prison island of Alcatraz. You could also consider hiring a bicycle and pedalling along the waterfront, across the Golden Gate Bridge and down to the seaside town of Sausalito, a popular spot for artists with a thriving houseboat community.

Next you point your motorhome in the direction of Moss Landing, which boasts hundreds of bird species as well as seals and otters that can be spotted on a nature cruise. Continuing your journey along Monterey Bay, you can experience scenic 17 Mile Drive along the Pacific coast before taking California Highway 1 southwards.

Having passed through the rugged and mountainous Big Sur, you arrive in Morro Bay, a wildlife-rich region of lagoons and saltwater marsh. here s a inal treat on the itinerary as you head to Los Angeles once again – the great beaches, impressive restaurants and stylish white stucco buildings of Santa Barbara. What a great place to finish your American adventure!

For information on these tours and others, please visit camc.com/worldwide or call 01342 488059 42 October 2021

www.camc.com

independence When you’re ready to explore again, we’ll be with you every step of the way. We offer no Club cancellation or amendment fees, Covid refund*, and ABTA and ATOL** bonded financial protection on our Worldwide holiday range. Find out more at: camc.com/ worldwide * Covers holiday cancellations in line with FCDO advice.

T&Cs apply * ATOL bonding only applies to flightinclusive holidays from our Worldwide holidays range

Main image: Monument Valley Insets from left: Colorado River; Bryce Canyon

America’s National Parks From the bright lights of Las Vegas to the majestic Grand Canyon and stunning vistas in every direction, this is an unforgettable 22-day motorhome tour.

Your adventure starts upon landing in neon-lit Las Vegas.

After settling in at your hotel, explore the famous Strip and enjoy the thrills of a city that is like no other – there is something for every taste: world-class live performances, shopping, light shows, and a host of ways to relax after your flight.

On your fourth day, you will be transferred to the motorhome depot and, after a full orientation session, leave Vegas behind for the desert. After stopping at the Hoover Dam, a exceptional feat of engineering, you will head south towards the old silver mining town of Chloride, where you’ll get a real sense of life in the Old West. If you’re lucky, you might catch a staged gun fight!

From there you’ll join the famous Route 66 and enjoy a breathtaking journey through the Aquarius and

Juniper Mountains to the Grand Canyon, without which no tour of this area would be complete. There are many ways to enjoy this natural wonder; early risers will enjoy a stunning sunrise over the valley, and you can hike or take a helicopter flight to appreciate it in full.

Next on the itinerary is a trip to Lake Powell, where the much-photographed Antelope Canyon is not to be missed. An early start is then advised to catch the sunrise at Monument Valley, famous for its monolithic sandstone rocks and the backdrop to many a western film. A tour with a Navajo guide is a great way to learn more about the myths of this magical landscape.

On Day 12 you’ll enjoy wall-to-wall scenery en route to Moab, gateway to the Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Adventure junkies have the chance to explore in 4×4 Jeeps or on white water rafts down the Colorado River.

Geology buffs will be keen to explore Capitol Reef National Park, home to the remarkable Waterpocket Fold, a warp in the Earth’s crust formed over 50 million years ago. The next day you’ll hit the Highway 12 National Scenic Byway across Utah to Bryce Canyon – truly, a drive to write home about. After marvelling at the spire-like rock formations, your tour will take you to Zion National Park, where the shifting light on the canyons is a sight to behold, and you may catch a glimpse of a mountain lion.

Returning to Las Vegas for your flight home, you’ll have time for a detour to see the red sandstone outcrops of Valley of the Fire State Park – and to bid a final farewell to the incredible landscapes of this very special corner of America.

Duration/type: 22 days/independent motorhome tour Departs: Apr-Oct 2022 and 2023 Price: from £4,129pp based on two sharing Price includes: return flights, all transfers, three nights’ 4-star hotel accommodation in Las Vegas, 17 nights in pre-booked campgrounds in sought-after areas, Cruise America C19 Compact Motorhome hire for 18 days and personalised road book

For information on these tours and others, please visit camc.com/worldwide or call 01342 488059 www.camc.com

October 2021 43

TOURING OVERSEAS TRAVEL

leoks/shutterstock

River Loire, Blois, France

GRAND TOURS The Club is hosting no fewer than 13 tours across Europe during 2022, in locations as diverse as France, Portugal, Slovenia, Croatia and the Netherlands. Many of these are booking up fast, so if you are interested there is no time to waste (there were only a few spots left on the Oberammergau Passion Play 2022 holiday as we went to press). e e put the spotlight on a ew favourites below, but see the Club website for details of all our tours...

CYCLING IN THE LOIRE

Using the excellent Camping Les Saules as a base, guests on this tour will enjoy cycling excursions to the Château de Villesavin and nearby Max Vauché chocolaterie, the beautiful town of Blois and the Château de Troussay. You will also be treated to an organised coach trip to Amboise and boat trip on the Loire, while there is plenty of time to unwind or explore at your leisure.

Duration/type: 10 nights/escorted caravan or motorhome Dates: 2-12 July 2022

WINES OF ALSACE

This 14-night tour will give you the chance to learn about the intricacies of wine production, including soil types and grape varieties, as well as ample opportunity to taste the finished product! After arriving at your base (Camping Pierre de

Coubertin) you will meet fellow members for drinks and dinner at a nearby restaurant. As well as excursions to the likes of Zellenberg one o the pearls o the winegrowing region) and wine cellars in Barr and Riquewihr, guests on this tour will enjoy a steam train ride, Rhine boat trip and more.

Duration/type: 14 nights/escorted caravan or motorhome Dates: 16-30 June 2022

AVEYRON DISCOVERY

Combining wonderful culture and gastronomy, the Aveyron Discovery Tour offers you the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the French lifestyle. Having arrived at Camping les Genêts you will enjoy a welcome meal and have the chance to meet your fellow travellers. Highlights of this 17-night experience include visits to the Aire du Viaduc (site of the tallest bridge in the world), the abbey in Conques (with its contemporary stained glass windows by renowned artist Pierre Soulages), the Roquefort cheese caves and the 11th-century Peyrebrune Tower.

Duration/type: 17 nights/escorted caravan or motorhome Dates: 2-18 June 2022

you along one o ermany s oldest trade routes – the Romantische trasse or omantic oad A ter a couple of nights in the Netherlands, during which you will have the chance to meet your fellow travellers, you will experience the delights of the wine-growing region of Rudesheim and a cruise along the Rhine. Further highlights include a visit to the fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein and a trip to the dramatic AlspiX observation deck which extends 24m out from the cliff face near Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

PLEASE FOLLOW OFFICIAL TRAVEL GUIDELINES AND SEE CAMC.COM FOR FURTHER ADVICE

Find out more at: camc.com/confidence

To see our full line-up of European tours, head to camc.com/ european-tours.

Prices were not available when this issue went to press, but you will be able to find these at the website address above.

Members can also book crossings and other sites (if needed) with the Club.

Far left from top: Aire du Viaduc, Millau, France; historic Conques, France Below: Rudesheim am Rhein Shutterstock/Aliaksandr Antanovich

Shutterstock/Stephen Bridger

Shutterstock/UldisZile

Let the Club guide you on a journey of European discovery

ROMANTIC ROAD

Stopping at several fantastic campsites, this 20-night tour takes

To find out about all of our European tours visit camc.com/european-tours 44 October 2021

www.camc.com

MEMBER OFFERS SPECIAL DEALS

SAVE WITH THE CLUB As we head into October and Tyre Safety Month, check out this fantastic selection of safety-related offers, products and courses

FREE SAFETY CHECK AND 5% OFF TYRES National Tyres and Autocare is offering you a number of special deals including: ■ Free safety check – this comprehensive 20-minute service covers your vehicle’s tyres, exhausts, batteries, brakes and shock absorbers.

■ 5% off tyres – save on top brands including Bridgestone, Pirelli, Dunlop, Continental, Goodyear and Michelin, as well as mid-range alternatives such as Avon, Firestone and Yokohama.

Visit camc.com/nationaltyres for more details.

SAVE 20% WITH TYREPAL Whatever your vehicle, TyrePal has a system that will monitor your tyre pressures. The company’s TC215B unit is designed for caravans and other towed vehicles, while the latest Solar Colour Pro is perfect for cars, motorhomes and campervans.

TyrePal systems continuously monitor the pressures and temperatures of a vehicle’s tyres, giving clear visual and audible alerts should anything go wrong.

Find more information see camc.com/tyrepal.

“We attached a TyrePal system to our motorhome.

This summer [2018] we were travelling on a busy single carriageway in Ireland. The alarm went off so I pulled over. Air was escaping from the rear offside [tyre] and the monitor told me the pressure had dropped from 65 to 40 psi. Within minutes the tyre was completely flat. The device saved us from having to deal with a flat in the middle of the road or, worse maybe, having a shredded tyre. It doesn’t bear thinking about!”

R D Wilson, Club member

SAVE 5% ON COVER AND INSURANCE*

We want to make sure that whether you’re new to touring or have been enjoying the lifestyle for years, you feel safe while driving your outfit. The Club runs caravan and motorhome courses overseen by expert trainers who will pass on their in-depth knowledge, including advice on everyday safety checks. And as a bonus, when you complete a training course you’ll receive a 5% discount if you cover your caravan, or insure your car or motorhome, with us. Find out more at camc.com/courses. *Available on Club Caravan Cover for all courses, and on Motorhome and Car Insurance for all courses except B+E Licence course. Valid for new policies or at next renewal of an existing policy, upon completion of the course.

GREAT DEALS ACROSS THE VOLVO RANGE

Volvo has a reputation for offering high levels of safety, with the S60, V60, XC40, XC60 and XC90 all receiving TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS awards from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. So far this year members have saved £7,321.87 on average when buying a new Volvo. See what you could save by visiting camc.com/volvo.

Terms and conditions apply to all member offers and Club Shop purchases – see camc.com/memberoffers and shop.camc.com for details 46 October 2021

www.camc.com

CLUB SHOP

Members save up to 10% on all products available at shop.camc.com using promo code CS-0218-PRIMA.

MILENCO WHEELBOLT INDICATORS The highly visible directional arrows on these caravan wheelnut indicators help you see immediately if a wheel bolt has worked loose– so you can make a quick safety check before you set off. Especially designed for alloy wheels, they fit all Al-Ko or BPW standard wheel bolts.

MILENCO STACKA TYRE SAVERS TWIN PACK Prolong the life of your tyres and prevent sinking on soft ground with a pair of Milenco Tyre Savers.

The curved surface of the product cups your wheels to stop your tyres from settling into a flattened shape and helps prevent hazardous flat spots from developing. They can be used when your caravan or motorhome is in storage or standing for a long period of time. There is a capacity of 1,500kg per wheel (ie a 6,000kg motorhome or 3,000kg caravan).

IMPORTANT Tyres and wheels are safety-critical. Please ensure that any tyre-related products are correctly fitted and if in doubt consult with your local specialist tyre fitter or Approved Workshop Scheme member – approvedworkshops. co.uk.

FIX AND GO REPAIR KIT Repair a tyre in many emergencies quickly and easily with the Fix and Go Kit. The kit features a powerful 12V tyre compressor and a 450ml particle gel tyre sealant bottle. No tools or puncture-fixing skills are required. The tyre sealant simply pumps directly through the valve using the power of the air compressor for rapid puncture repair. The water-based solution is environmentally friendly, non-toxic, non-corrosive and safe for use with all TPMS systems. It is ideal for sealing punctures up to 6mm and is designed to last for 125 miles so you can safely get home or to a garage where the particle gel sealant can be washed out to allow for full tyre repair.

WSL TORQUE WRENCH The WSL Torque Wrench enables you to deliver a precise torque with a safe and secure clamping force. This heavyduty calibrated kit is great for preventing wheel detachments by ensuring the correct wheel fixing torque is used, without risk of overtightening which can damage wheels or fixings.

KOJACK SINGLE AXLE HYDRAULIC JACK & LEVELLING SET The KoJack Hydraulic Jack 2,000kg is a great piece of maintenance kit for your travels. The powerful 3-tier hydraulic bottle jack connects into the dedicated safe anchor points, which are attached to your chassis, to give a robust lift so you can change, check or repair your tyres anywhere on the road. The brackets bolt into pre-existing holes that are standard on most Al-Ko and BPW chassis.

KoJack has full TUV CE accreditation and a safe working load (SWL) of 2,000kg. Features integrated spirit levels so, wherever you park your caravan, you can always have the perfect pitch.

Terms and conditions apply to all member offers and Club Shop purchases – see camc.com/memberoffers and shop.camc.com for details www.camc.com

October 2021

47

SPECIAL: ADVERTISING FEATURE

MAYDAY’s guide to breakdown cover on your doorstep We know finding the right breakdown cover for your vehicle can be a challenge. With so many options on the market, types of products, and complex language, there’s a sense of achievement when you’ve found the cover to suit your needs.

With MAYDAY, we aim to keep our members on track by providing cover that suits their needs, and is easy to use.

That’s why we’re demystifying everything to do with Home Call breakdown cover, to help you be prepared when it comes to finding the right breakdown provider for you.

What is Home Call?

We’re most likely to think we’d break down while we’re out and about, but we know many of our members experience a breakdown while they’re at home, which can be terribly frustrating if you’re in a rush. Home Call cover, very simply, provides members with MAYDAY cover if they’ve broken down on their doorstep or within a of a mile of their home.

FOR MORE INFOMATION Call 0345 246 0730 or visit camc.com/MAYDAY

Are breakdowns at home always covered?

Cover for breakdowns that occur at home isn’t always automatically included, so we suggest that you double check with your provider if you want that extra level of cover, and peace of mind. It’s also worth noting that different providers have different limitations on how they offer breakdown cover ‘at home’.

Some providers may only cover you if the breakdown is actually at your home, whereas others might cover you even if you’re a short distance away from home. And there may be different limits on how far you’ll be taken to a garage should the need arise. Make sure you keep an eye on this to ensure you’re not disappointed with your level of cover if you do break down close to home.

What should I do if I break down at home?

Breaking down at home is no different to breaking down away from home. If anything, it should hopefully make the experience slightly less unpleasant, as you

can retreat back into the house for a cup of tea while you wait for your breakdown provider to reach you.

As with any other breakdown, you simply phone your provider ( number can usually be found online or on your policy documents) , report your breakdown, and they’ll take care of the rest.

How can MAYDAY UK Breakdown Cover help?

Great news! With our Premium UK and Premium UK Plus cover levels, Home Call is automatically included.

This means that with cover starting from just £105 per year, you can o complete peace of mind you’re covered on your doorstep and within o mile of your home.

Even better, we’ve recently upgraded Home Call so there’s recovery for you, your passengers and your vehicle to a local garage or single destination within 25 miles of where the breakdown happened. So even if your vehicle goes kaput, your plans for the rest of the day don’t have to!

PROVIDED BY

A sample MAYDAY UK Breakdown Cover policy booklet including the limitations and exclusions that apply is available upon request.

Caravan and Motorhome Club is a trading name of The Caravan Club Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for general insurance and credit activities. MAYDAY UK Breakdown Cover is provided by Green Flag and underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, both part of the same group. Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No.1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority

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Letters

Your chance to have your say. The writer of our Star Letter will receive a copy of our fantastic new Touring Europe guide STAR LETTER

In 1970 we purchased our first caravan. I think it cost £80 and was a Bluebird. It had few mod cons... gas mantles, no pump for water, but did include a feature I have scarcely seen since – a fixed bed that let down from the end of the caravan which could be put away for the day, fully made-up: an excellent idea. We towed this van up to Yorkshire with a Rover 60, mistakenly thinking it was up to the job when it had scarcely enough power for itself let alone a fairly heavy caravan. We found ourself in a queue on Sutton Bank (now forbidden to caravans). There was no way we could start after a stop, even after my wife and children got out. We had to unhook in the middle of the road, turn the van through 180° manually, and do a three-point turn with the car. We could almost hear the curses of the motorists behind us!

We took this van to Italy with scarcely a loss (except the jockey wheel in Bologna), and it served the five of us (three young boys) well for many years. On one occasion someone attacked it with an axe when it was sitting quietly at the end of our garden, which left it in a sorry state. So we splashed out £200 for a Sprite. Apart from the lack of a let-down bed, it was much more sophisticated with a pump for the water! That caravan we took to France and left there in a barn. We later heard that it was commandeered as cheap accommodation for tourists by an avaricious neighbour.

Caravan number three was a 1960s Thomson T Line, and it too had a pump (not an electrical one though). We travelled to Slovenia in this caravan as our son had bought a house over there. The towcar was a Škoda Fabia, and it scarcely missed a beat, even in a stop-start situation on a steep hill in Wurzberg. We made it, of course, and put the caravan to bed in a barn in Slovenia, where it remains.

Our fourth and current caravan is a1998 Abbey Vogue 416. It has everything... an electric pump, heater, hot water etc, etc. But, as yet, no interesting anecdotes!

David Frost, via email www.camc.com

Send your letters to: enquiries@camc. com or magazine@ camc.com.

Please note: Star Letter prize will be posted as soon as possible.

SCOTTISH ODYSSEY SMALL BUT MIGHTY

A TALE OF FOUR CARAVANS

CORRESPONDENCE YOUR VIEWS

I wanted to make members aware of two Certificated Locations which deserve special praise. The first is Water Buffalo Farm which is just outside Yeovil in a lovely area of Somerset. They have a shop selling produce from the farm such as cooking oils, ice cream and water buffalo steaks and they are all very nice. The second is just outside Bideford and is called Pyewell Farm. [Gazing at] The views over North Devon while sitting under your awning, sipping your wine, is to fully relax. Both these sites deserve a pat on the back.

Two days after [motorhome] Bertie the Bürstner’s 10th birthday we set off on another trip to Scotland, stopping at the wonderful Kendal Club site with its lush, full trees and secluded glades overlooking the River Kent.

The next day we stopped for a humid night at the Maragowan Club site in Killin, a small village near Loch Tay. A nice evening walk to the Falls of Dochart, a beautiful set of cascading waterfalls along the river of the same name, rounded off a long, yet rewarding, day on the road.

Our third day marked the beginning of our trip westward towards the Kintyre Peninsula. It may seem like a long way round the peninsula on the safer A-road via Campbeltown but the stunning blue skies and views over to some of the islands of the Inner Hebrides [Jura and Islay] certainly made it worth it. After a fun drive navigating hairpin bends on a short stretch of B-road we arrived at Carradale Bay. Coincidentally, a few days before leaving home, the July edition of the Club magazine had dropped through the door featuring this very site, and what a site it is!

A short walk to the stunning beach and the two days tra elling and hundreds o miles were all worthwhile! Our golden retriever, Khora, who isn t keen on tra elling certainly thought it was a great holiday spot. After a fantastic week, we started the long journey home, stopping off at the very welcoming Strathclyde Country Park Club site. Over 1,000 miles travelled, keep going Bertie. Looking forward to the next visit to Scotland.

Diane, Louise, Anna and Khora, via email

Colin Mew, via email Editor s note: Thank you Colin. There is a vast selection of privately-owned, five-outfit sites across the country To find out more see camc.com/cls.

October 2021 51

CORRESPONDENCE YOUR VIEWS

STARTING A NEW TRADITION Our family usually gets together at Christmas, but due to Covid and me being diagnosed with cancer this was not possible. However, when my Club magazine was delivered in December, I decided to send messages to our daughter and her family and our son and his family to ask if they would like to join us at Troutbeck Head in August. They agreed, so we booked a pitch for our caravan and two glamping cabins. It gave us something to look forward to through what was a tough year. We had a

brilliant week and the weather was kind. Everyone enjoyed themselves and appreciated each other’s company. I believe this could have started a new trend for many years to come hopefully.

Ken and Sue Pickering, via email Editor s note: lad you had such a ood time en and ue we look forward to welcomin you ack soon

UNICORN SIGHTING!

We will be shortly be taking possession of our 2022 Bailey Unicorn Vigo, and my wife, Helen, has been busy making screen print cushions showing her impression of the new caravan and our Volvo.

Chris Valentine, via email

A pleasant surprise What a surprise to receive a parcel from the Club having recently achie ed 0 years mem ership So after all of our enjoyable years of touring the UK, all over the Continent and Scandinavia, including the Arctic Circle, we can begin to slow down a bit. We towed with a caravan from 1979 until 1999, when we changed to a small motorhome who we called am ler adly owing to health 52 October 2021

and age, we only tour the UK, which we always enjoy. The finely crafted wooden emblem has pride of place on our mantel shelf, while I will wear my ‘gold’ 50 years membership badge with pride. By the way, we still have our reliable Rambler – so we all grow old together. Thanks for many happy years with the Club.

Peter and Evelyn Brown, Hinckley www.camc.com

PEDAL POWER SEEING THE LIGHT

After three nights at a private site and three nights at a delightful but basic CL, arriving at Blackpool South Club site with a full range of WCs and showers was utter luxury. However, the very bright wash block lights were permanently on. On newer sites, such buildings have been built with rooflights but clearly this wouldn’t be practical for older sites.

Assuming the Club is working towards reducing energy usage, are there plans to introduce simpler measures in these cases, such as low-energy lights activated by movements sensors?

Dave & Mo Mytton, via email Estates epartment s note: We are definitely taking steps to reduce our ener y usa e throu h li htin on our Clu sites. ll new uilds and refur ishments are fitted with all- E li htin controlled y /movement sensors. lso, whenever an old li ht fittin fails, we replace with E . here possi le, toilet locks currently on switched li htin are ein chan ed to /movement sensors. nfortunately, a few of the older locks are currently not wired in a way that can support controls. This will eventually e rectified. www.camc.com

When I unwrapped the August edition of the magazine I was delighted to see that my favourite touring area featured in your main article. The last three Club sites to which I have taken my tiny Eriba caravan were all there: Malvern Hills, Cirencester, and Harbury Fields.

While I may not visit all the attractions mentioned, there are always lovely places to visit within easy cycling distance. From Harbury Fields, my most recent destination, I rode to Burton Dassett Hills, Edge Hill and Draycote Water reservoir. I joined ukulele friends at a canal-side inn at Napton on the Hill, called in on my sister in Coventry and had lunch out with an old school friend. I met some lovely people on site, who were so kind when I had to wait for Green Flag to sort out my tow hitch.

I have lots of memories from the other sites, too. It goes to prove that you can have a great holiday without a sea view!

Sue Lonsdale, via email

FANTASTIC SERVICE My wife, Lynn, and I have just returned from a four-night stay at Brighton Club site. Just seven miles into our journey home on the A27, I had no option but to drive over an obstruction in the road. It turned out to be an exhaust pipe and silencer, which hit the bottom of the car, pulled the electric lead out and caused a puncture on the caravan. We limped to a lay-by and wondered what to do. Remembering the letters I had read in the Club magazine about the Club’s wonderful staff, we phoned the site, but as it was after 8pm the office had closed. We unhitched, put the hitch lock on, set the security and returned to the Club site.

Within minutes of calling the emergency mobile number, Paul and Donna arrived and opened the office. They contacted a caravan engineer and Paul set off in his own car to pick him up and then drive him to the lay-by where, between them, they changed the wheel by torchlight. As the lights were not working, Paul followed us back to the site then drove the caravan engineer home again. By 9am the next morning the caravan engineer arrived having had a new tyre fitted, then changed the wheel again, rewired the electric plug, checked the underside of the car and caravan and we were on the road again by 10am.

What amazing service by the Club’s staff, Paul and Donna – so helpful and far beyond the call of duty. We shall certainly be joining Mayday but also ensuring, wherever possible, we use Club sites. If there is an award for ‘staff members of the year’, Paul and Donna get our nomination.

Keith Surry, Wiltshire October 2021 53

CORRESPONDENCE YOUR VIEWS

ESSEX ADVENTURES

WHO NEEDS TECH? We are site managers at Bladon Chains Club site and we recently had a family staying with us which included two lovely young lads. In this day and age of endless technology, tablets and smartphones, it was so wonderful to see them using their skills and intelligence to create an incredible den. They built it completely from scratch using the logs and fallen branches found in our wooded dog walking area. We thought therefore deserves to be applauded. Good, old-fashioned fun it may be, but the boys had a fantastic time building it whilst being out in the fresh air....and not a phone or tablet in sight!

Nick and Sarah Aris, Bladon Chains

While my wife and I were working we spent many weekends on rallies, but once retired spent some four summer months touring France for a number of years, drifting away from the rally scene.

Then along came the virus where we were only able to get away to Great Yarmouth Racecourse Club site once in 2020. So what to do for 2021? We decided not to travel too far from our home in Colchester, so opened up the sites map, hoping to find a Club site in Essex, to find that there are none.

So for the first time in some 30 years of membership we looked at Certificated Locations, and with some trepidation booked onto The Paddock at Halstead. What a lovely surprise – the pitches were along a fence with views across a field and a large lake.

Our next adventure was to the relatively new Black Barn CL at Framlingham, where the location is ideal for a short walk into the town.

We have stayed at Sunfield Farm, in Woodbridge, with its wonderful views across the countryside, Dannemora, close to Southminster, to explore the Dengie Peninsula, Holly Oak Farm, near Thaxted, laid out on a lovely lawned area and well situated for visits to Saffron Walden, Thaxted and Finchingfield.

Stanstead Hall, in Hitcham, is another lovely site where on arrival you are greeted by the resident geese and ducks! So although Essex does not have any Club sites, the CLs more than make up for it.

Patrick and Theresa Coyne, via email Editor s note: lad you are en oyin the C s, atrick and Theresa. hile they are outside the county order, Cam rid e Cherry inton, shrid e arm, Commons ood and ey ood Clu sites are within reach of Esse attractions.

Your mag needs you!

We would love to hear about your previous adventures and plans for the future!

Please email us at magazine@camc.com.

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Behind us all the way...

Caravan and motorhome manufacturer Bailey is extremely proud of its long association with the Club’s Towcar of the Year competition As the UK’s premier event of its type, this competition not only supplies caravan owners with important information on potential new towcars, but also provides a practical examination of Bailey’s product performance.

In addition to supplying the caravans used in the competition, the Bristol-based manufacturer fields a technical support team, which includes representatives from chassis manufacturer Al-Ko Kober, to work at the event.

During the exhaustive four-day test, the caravans are taken on several hundred circuits of 54 October 2021

the Millbrook Proving Ground, consisting of many laps of the high-speed circular track and demanding hill route. Throughout this period, Bailey ensures that its caravans remain in a road-safe condition and that each unit is correctly matched to the relevant tow vehicle.

Working at Millbrook, Bailey has first-hand experience of the lengths to which the Caravan and Motorhome Club goes to ensure that each car entered in the competition is examined thoroughly and fairly. From the initial scrutineering, through the outfit preparation

stages, assessment of ‘caravanability’ and on to the actual driving/towing itself, every aspect of performance is tested rigorously to arrive at the final result.

Simon Howard, Marketing Director of Bailey of Bristol, said: “We have really enjoyed playing our part in this prestigious event over the past two decades. The collective effort which goes into ensuring every entrant is tested both thoroughly and fairly during the competition makes this the definitive guide for a potential new towcar purchase.”

www.camc.com

NE W Simply enter the size and weight of your motorhome or towing outfit and the Avtex Tourer Two (Caravan and Motorhome Club Edition) with its new advanced Dual Core Processor will guide you to your destination avoiding height, width and weight restricted roads.

Providing you with route warnings such as sharp bends or steep hills, the Avtex Tourer Two will even advise you of traffic jams and offer alternate routes when available.

Satellite Navigation for Caravans & Motorhomes • 7” Frameless Display (pinch-to-zoom) • New Dual Core processor for complete enhanced performance • Enhanced Specific routing for Caravans & Motorhomes – Customised routes created for the size and weight of your caravan or motorhome.

– Camper specific speed limits tailored to your vehicle.

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– Trailer’s Park’s database of 8,500 of cost-free motorhome parking places across Western Europe (NEW).

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– Get information about prices, facilities, terrain, maximum number of places and more and filter by amenities. Contains pictures of most of the sites.

– Easily pan the map to search for Campgrounds (NEW.) – Shows camp sites, rest areas, attractions or fuel stations up ahead and milestones along your route.

• Free European map updates via PC, Mac or WiFi • Free Digital Traffic • Hands-free features include Bluetooth® calling, smart notifications and voice-activated navigation • Navigate Complex Interchanges with “spoken turn-by-turn” directions and active lane guidance • TripAdvisor Travel POIs with ratings • BC™30 and BC™40 Wireless Backup Camera compatible

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ACTIVITY BREAKS SEA KAYAKING

Crest of a Sea kayaking in Wester Ross

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The water temperature, even in July, remains resolutely perishing

56 October 2021

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Info: A half-day sea kayaking trip costs £45 with Mountain & Sea Guides (applecross. uk.com/msg, 01520 722734) Stay: Kinlochewe Club site

wave Jonathan Manning finds some unexpected company after taking to the sea in north west Scotland

Alamy/Gary Cook

W

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ell there’s a creek, a paddle, and if the wind and waves pick up it won’t take a Catchphrase champion to rearrange the words into a well known saying. This is Applecross on the north-west coast of Scotland. Across the Inner Sound lies the Isle of Raasay and, beyond, the spiky shards of Skye’s Cuillin Hills poke into the clouds. Yesterday’s glassy millpond is now distinctly rippled; and the flags flying above the slipway snap in the breeze.

With its islands and sea lochs, this area regularly features in ‘top 10’ lists of the best places in the world to go sea kayaking.

But while the waters may be turquoise and the sandy beaches are sparkling white, the water temperature, even in July, remains resolutely perishing – cold enough to add shock to the panic of a capsize.

It’s not a destination for novices to try a DIY paddle, so we (me, my wife, two sons and daughter) have signed up for a morning’s guided expedition. Our guide, Chris Hingley, offers no choice in the colour of kayak that we’ll paddle, but I’m glad that mine is hi-vis yellow - easier for the coastguard helicopter to spot if the world (or boat) turns upside down.

Trussed up in buoyancy aids and with spraydecks drooping from our waists, the five of us hang on Chris’ every word as we practise twisting and pulling our paddles through an imaginary ocean.

As we clamber into the kayaks and start paddling for real, these fluid strokes and easy rhythms instantly go to pot. The nose of the October 2021 57

ACTIVITY BREAKS SEA KAYAKING

BOOK

PADDLE POINTS

Three more sea kayaking destinations

ON TH E

A PP

ANGLESEY North Wales Sea Kayaking Go on a Discovery Day (£90pp) – learn some basic techniques then explore the coastline of Anglesey, looking out for seals, porpoises, guillemots, razorbills, gannets, puffins and more.

Info: northwalessea kayaking.co.uk Stay: Penrhos Club site

YORKSHIRE Bay Watersports Visit the caves and coves of Flamborough’s North Landing and Thornwick Bay or embark on the Scarborough Bay to Bay adventure. Tours cost from £40 per person. Lessons also available.

Info: bay-watersports.co.uk Stay: Bridlington Club site

DEVON OSKC Watersports Follow an experienced guide on a two-hour tour of idyllic beaches and caves near Combe Martin, hotspots for watching dolphins, porpoises and seals (£45).

Info: oskcwatersports.co.uk Stay: Ilfracombe Club site

58 October 2021

Jonathan and family paddled on the spectacular Inner Sound near Applecross kayak spins one way, a modest wave prompts an alarming wobble, and drips of chilly water race down the paddle and up my sleeves.

STAR ATTRACTION

“Watch out for starfish,” cautions Chris. In this crystal clear sea it’s tempting to lean over the side of the kayak to take a closer look at the seabed, but it doesn’t take much to bend too far and end up with a watery close-up.

In the lee of the land we practise turning one way then another, the wind and tide rendering us as unruly as herded cats, before it’s time to head further into the Inner Sound.

We’ve canoed on a river and paddled on a lake, but we’re a family of novices when it comes to kayaking in salt water.

Chris leads the way, gracefully slicing through the waves while maintaining a steady commentary of coaching tips and encouragement. I am piloting a single kayak but the rest of the family is split across two tandem kayaks – uncapsizable, apparently.

My vessel is a needle of brightly coloured fibreglass in an unsteady ocean, and my ambition of staying dry seems optimistic as we paddle beyond the headland. As the waves get rougher, the kayak rises and falls like a bucking bronco, although a more honest assessment would see the ripples as no taller than the furrows of a ploughed field.

“When the weather is bad we drive down the coast and stay in a sheltered cove,” says Chris. This, apparently, isn’t bad weather, although it’s enough to make the nose of my boat obey the tide rather than my paddle strokes. Dropping the ‘skeg’ – a type of plastic fin or keel – helps enormously, but I’m still envious of the extra buoyancy and ballast of the two-person kayaks. My broad-shouldered sons appear to be pulling their blades through the sea like proverbial hot knives through butter. Chris also works as a tree surgeon, and wielding a chainsaw clearly has benefits in terms of upper body strength – my keyboard-honed arm muscles find this heavy going.

Drifting into a sheltered bay, we pull our kayaks together to create a makeshift raft and ask Chris for a five-minute snack break. His surprise suggests that we really shouldn’t need to stop just yet! Bobbing on the gentle swell, I scour the sky for eagles and the cliffs for Arctic terns and skuas, but fail to spot any birds. I do, however, see a deserted beach of white sand framed by piles of dark seaweed, against a backdrop of Skye’s saw-tooth mountains...

And then a scream. Or perhaps a squeal.

Fortunately, no one has overturned, but a seal has popped its head out of the water just a few metres away. It’s behind me, but by the time I’ve manoeuvred my kayak the right way round, it has dipped back below the waves.

But then another appears, and another, too, their inquisitive eyes and wide foreheads making them look for all the world like Labradors. This is their environment; they curl, dive and resurface with a grace that would turn a synchronised swimmer green with envy. To watch the seals close-up in their natural habitat is magical, and for a few wonderful minutes we’re their centre of attention, the tourists turned tourist attraction, before they vanish as quickly as they appeared.

It’s an exaggeration to say the seals saved the holiday – Wester Ross is a magnificent destination, but there were times when selling north-west Scotland as a fun destination to teenagers had proved challenging. Yet the encounter with these magnificent creatures had become a valuable centrepiece of this tour, a memory for the family archive. Long after we’d beached our kayaks and dried off, we talked about the seals, how close they swam to us and how, for a few precious, privileged moments, we shared their watery kingdom.

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE RAINCOATS

Raining champions Jane McGowan checks out a selection of wet-weather kit

EcoSplash Fleece Lined Jacket This EcoSplash children’s jacket is designed to be ultra-waterproof and breathable, while it boasts the company’s usual environmental credentials.

Its fun and funky outer should help protect your youngster on both wet and windy days, and it has a range of well thought-out touches – notably a fleece lining (which extends to the hood), taped seams and reflective zip pulls and print for increased visibility as the nights draw in. Available in a range of colours and sizes, this jacket would make a lovely addition to your child’s autumn wardrobe.

RRP: £47 Sizes: 18 months to 11 years Colours: blue, enchanted, cosmic, quetzal Contact: muddypuddles.com, 01299 407150

Patagonia Men’s Triolet

Alexey Filatov / Alamy Stock Photo

Designed for tough conditions, Patagonia’s Triolet jacket promises to withstand heavy snow, driving wind and rain. Made from Gore-Tex fabric with a ‘100% recycled polyester face’, it boasts five handy pockets – two zipped at the chest, two lined hand-warmer slots, and an interior ‘catch all’ compartment – a reflector section to aid visibility, an adjustable hood complete with laminated visor and ventilated sections to boost comfort and ease of movement.

RRP: £325 Sizes: XS-XXL Colours: black, textile green, classic navy, Andes blue, sandhill rust, purple Contact: eu.patagonia.com

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The North Face Women’s Paradiso Jacket

Rab Men’s Kinetic Alpine 2.0 Waterproof Jacket

Made from a waterproof and breathable fabric, the North Face Paradiso jacket is designed to allow you to remain active in inclement conditions. It has elasticated cuffs to help keep the drips out, while an adjustable hood and hand-warmer pockets add to this lightweight item’s comfort credentials.

RRP: £129 (£89 at Cotswold Outdoor at the time of going to press) Size: XS-XL Colour: navy Contact: thenorthface.co.uk, cotswoldoutdoor.com

Designed to allow maximum freedom of movement while simultaneously offering protection from the elements, this jacket is aimed at walkers, hikers and climbers. The Kinetic Alpine 2.0 is made using ‘Stretch Knit Proflex’ – a flexible, waterproof, breathable fabric constructed from recycled materials.

A helmet-compatible hood, water-resistant zips and adjustable hood, hem and cuffs add to this jacket’s appeal.

RRP: £225 Sizes: S-XXL Colours: nightfall blue, ascent red, acid, beluga Contact: rab.equipment/uk

Mountain Warehouse Seasons Printed Kids’ Water Resistant Padded Jacket Part of Mountain Warehouse’s ‘Back to School’ range, this fun jacket comes in a variety of bright colours and patterns and is made from 100% polyester. Designed to withstand autumnal showers, it features lightweight microfibre padding for comfort, while the elasticated hood and zip-up collar should keep them cosy in the playground and beyond.

Look out for good deals online.

RRP: £49.99 (was available at a special price of £24.99 at time of going to press) Sizes: ages 2-13 Colours: lilac, bright pink, camouflage, petrol Contact: mountainware house.com

Regatta Nardia Women’s Waterproof Jacket Made from waterproof and breathable Isotex 5,000 ER ME MB G fabric, this stylish jacket SAVIN LE AB AVAIL features numerous useful touches such as two hand-warmer pockets, a concealed, adjustable hood, adjustable waist cord and studded cuffs to keep out any draughts.

Practical yet fashionable, the Nardia is perfect for those of you who like to look stylish in the great outdoors.

RRP: £70 (member price via shop.camc.com £26.99 (normal Prima Leisure price £29.99); see website for terms and conditions) Size: 12-16 Colours: navy, green Contact: regatta.com

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COUNTRY MATTERS MIGRATION

Special guests David Chapman explains why Britain is so important for migrating birds

F Whinchat

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or many birdwatchers around the country, autumn is the least predictable and most exciting time of year. It is now that millions of birds will be journeying thousands of miles from their breeding grounds to their wintering grounds, and we may catch sight of some rare visitors.

In Britain we are incredibly well placed to witness a small part of this massive global movement. We say goodbye to our summer visitors, such as the swallow, swift and martin, but welcome our winter visitors from the north and east; birds such as redwings, fieldfares, geese, ducks and swans all come here in huge numbers. These are the predictable migrants; every year they do the same thing, arriving and departing at almost exactly the same time.

As well as the predictable, we sometimes see scarce migrants, which neither breed nor winter with us, but pop in on their way elsewhere. The number of these birds depends on the weather conditions at the time they make their migration.

Imagine being a bird in Scandinavia in September or October. You know it’s time to head south for Africa to avoid the harsh winter climate. After a spell of bad weather, a window of opportunity arrives with high pressure settling over the north of Norway.

The skies are clear so you can see the stars to help you navigate, and the

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We are incredibly well placed to witness a small part of this massive global movement

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The wryneck is an autumnal visitor

SPECIAL SITES

Locations for migrant bird spotting Trevedra Farm Club site is close to the valleys of West Cornwall (best locations include Porthgwarra and Cot Valley); East Fleet Farm AS is close to Portland Bill (right); Fairlight Wood Club site is near Dungeness (far left); Incleboro Fields Club site is close to Blakeney Point; Skegness Sands AS is close to Gibraltar Point; Bridlington Club site is within walking distance of Flamborough Head (left).

August 2021 63

COUNTRY MATTERS MIGRATION

LOOK OUT FOR AUTUMN ■ Land-based migrants (roughly ordered from reasonably common to quite scarce): whinchat, redstart, pied flycatcher, tree pipit, lesser whitethroat, firecrest, ring ouzel, yellow-browed warbler, Lapland bunting, wryneck, bluethroat, barred warbler, red-backed shrike.

■ Rarer, but annual, migrants: melodious warbler, icterine warbler, Radde’s warbler, booted warbler, Pallas’s warbler, subalpine warbler, red-throated pipit, Richard’s pipit, common rosefinch, rose-coloured starling.

■ Mega-rarities: these are, by their nature, completely unpredictable, so it would be futile to make a list. If you find something you can’t identify, make extensive notes abouts its size, shape, plumage and behaviour and try to take some photos. Ask for advice from local birders or contact your county bird group or local RSPB group for advice.

Top: firecrest Above: male red backed shrike

64 October 2021

The Scilly Isles can attract very rare birdlife

wind falls light from the north-east, which should help you on your way.

You head south out over the North Sea, but then the wind starts blowing from the east or south-east, so you decide to go with the flow rather than fight against it. The sky begins to lighten, a new day is dawning and you see a bank of low cloud. To carry on flying through the cloud without navigational aids would be dangerous, but then you spot a strip of land and choose to rest there.

The chances are that, under ideal conditions such as these (from our point of view), there might be thousands of birds making the same decisions, and many of them will land on the east coast of Britain. We refer to a mass incidence of birds arriving together like this as a ‘fall of migrants’.

HAPPY LANDINGS

The biggest falls occur in September and October along the east coast at favoured locations such as Flamborough Head, Spurn Point, Gibraltar Point and the north Norfolk coast, for example at Blakeney Point.

The south coast of England tends to see more arrivals in spring than autumn as birds fly in from across the Channel, but places such as Dungeness, Portland Bill, Prawle Point and West Cornwall see a decent number of scarce migrants in the autumn as well. Presumably some of the birds that entered Britain from the east are a little nervous when faced with another sea crossing, so pause for refuelling before setting off further south.

Special mention should be given to the islands around Britain’s coast. The Shetland Islands can be a real hotspot for autumnal bird migration.

Among them, Fair Isle has the best reputation, but any of the Shetland or Orkney islands can play host to a large number of migrants,

including some rare or very rare species. Far away to the south-west, the Scilly Isles are not as well known for attracting huge falls of birds, but they do see some astonishingly rare ones, particularly in October.

As we head towards late October, most of the regular migrants will be well on their way, and this is the time that we see some ‘mega-rarities’ – species that might never have been recorded in the UK before or only visit very occasionally.

Some of them are blown across the Atlantic from America, and others might come from Asia, depending in part upon wind direction.

That’s what is so amazing about autumn in Britain: we might find a bird that should be on its way from North to South America sitting in the same bush as another that should be flying from Siberia to Africa. There might even be a scattering of scarce migrants making their way from Scandinavia to southern Europe for good measure. Of course, we need to be prepared for the fact that we might find none of the above!

Why is the UK so special for migration? Well, there are many factors which contribute to this including our latitude, geographical location, the fact that we are an island and because we ’enjoy’ unpredictable autumnal weather patterns.

You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy the spectacle – just get out with a pair of binoculars and see what you can find. If you can’t visit one of the hotspots mentioned here, then choose another coastal location, preferably on a headland. Birds are always more active first thing in the morning, and don’t be afraid to ask ‘birders’ what they have seen; everyone is happy to share their sightings.

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SPECIAL NEW MODEL NEWS Basecamp 6

SWIFT STARTERS Nick Harding reports on new models and a series of upgrades from the Yorkshire manufacturer

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wift Group has unveiled a bold line-up for the 2022 season.

Where touring caravans are concerned, ‘Conqueror’ returns as a premium, four-model series, while the Cottinghambased manufacturer’s motorhome portfolio is enhanced by completely revamped flagship Kon-Tikis.

The standard-width Conquerors lack for little, with Alde heating, dual-hinged Dometic fridges, Swift Command (on-board monitoring system), on-board fresh water tanks and more as standard. Meanwhile, the Elegance models (all of which are extra-wide for 2022) are pushed even further upmarket, with underfloor heating among the upgrades.

At the other end of the tourer spectrum, there’s an all-new, slimline Sprite Compact (with an ultra-low MTPLM of 1,094kg) as well as a six-berth Basecamp that, at 6.6m long, is the largest yet.

There’s also a new addition to the mid-market Challenger range – the wide-bodied X860 has an L-shaped lounge, rear island bed and mid-washroom. Swift’s motorhome offering for 2022 totals some 26 www.camc.com

models, all based on Fiat’s Ducato van or chassis-cab.

Kon-Tiki accounts for seven models – three tag axles, four singles – boasting 100W solar panels, Aguti fold-away travel seats, electric height-adjustable tables, electric drop-down beds, 5G Wi-Fi connectivity, Alde heating (all model-specific) and more as standard.

The Select range is extended to include four Compact coachbuilts (two at 6m and two at 6.36m in length). One new layout is the C500, featuring a rear, U-shaped lounge that converts to two single beds or a double. The five, family-friendly Edge coachbuilts benefit from a makeover that starts with new iron grey cabs and wider habitation doors.

Look out also for the usual exterior and interior trim, and kit upgrades across all caravan and motorhome ranges.

Caravans and motorhomes can be viewed during the company’s Swift Live virtual event this September.

Above: Conqueror 560 Below: Kon-Tiki 764 interior; Kon-Tiki 784

Find out more at swiftgroup.co.uk.

67

SPECIAL NEW MODEL NEWS Axess 600 SL

All-new Adrias Nick Harding checks out the latest developments from the Slovenian company

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wo new flagship Alpina caravans and a Sonic Supreme 700 DC A-class motorhome with island double bed spearhead Adria’s line-up for 2022.

The 2.46m-wide Alpina Mississippi and Colorado feature a transverse island double bed and two single beds respectively – with both models benefitting from long, U-shaped front lounges with corner headrests. Sticking with caravans, a four-berth Action, the 391 PH, complete with drop-down double bed, will accompany the existing, two-berth 361 LT. The four premium Adora models and the quartet of entry-level

Axess 600 SL bedroom

68 October 2021

Alteas from the current season remain, detail changes including new soft furnishings.

Where motorhomes are concerned, Adria talks about a “new generation” of Coral and Matrix models, and a “new design” Axess range.

The latter includes the Matrix Axess 600 SL with drop-down double bed and settees that adapt to forward-facing travel seats.

There’s also a reintroduction of the Coral XL overcab coachbuilt, capable of accommodating up to six people for travel, or seven for sleeping.

There are two models here: the transverse bed 600 DP, and the 670 DK with rear bunk beds.

The narrow-bodied Compact coachbuilt range continues, with all four models now only available in Adria’s highest-level Supreme trim.

Alpina Mississippi

The Twin van conversions are available in Supreme and Sports variants and a choice of eight different exterior colours. Adria is also testing the market with the Sports 640 SG. It is a high-top van conversion with elevating roof, but with a versatile rear area that includes removable bed sections as well as canvas storage bags.

Details of a new, top-of-the-range, Mercedes-based Super Sonic A-class are set to be announced next spring.

Adria’s 2022 portfolio will be touring dealerships around the country until the end of November. Prices are to be confirmed.

Find out more at adria.co.uk.

Alpina Mississippi lounge

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MOTORHOME TEST AUTO-TRAIL GRANDE FRONTIER GF-70

GRANDE UNVEILING Auto-Trail has unwrapped a new trio of A-class motorhomes. Nick Harding puts the two-berth GF-70, the smallest of the three, to the test

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uite a looker, eh? Meet the Grande Frontier GF-70, the first of a trio A-class models designed and built in the United Kingdom by Auto-Trail. This is a prototype, so do be aware that there may well be some detail changes when it comes to full production versions.

BUILD QUALITY

Auto-Trail (which is part of the influential French Trigano Group) is building the Grande Frontiers at its state-of-the-art premises near Grimsby. Excuse the pun, but it’s done a Grande job. The GF-70 has all-GRP bodywork and immediately scores over any imported rivals by having its cab and habitation doors on the offside and nearside respectively. Note, also, the integrated awning, an earlier Auto-Trail innovation, while the flush-fitting side windows and black alloy wheels add further style to a neatly proportioned unit.

Auto-Trail’s five-year habitation warranty is exceptional; its body integrity back-up matches this, and there’s the option to extend it to 10 years. Driving 70 October 2021

licences allowing, it’s also worth considering the free chassis upgrade to 3,650kg, upping the payload to a more respectable 380kg.

DRIVING

Few believe me when I say A-class motorhomes are often easier to drive than their coachbuilt counterparts.

For a start, there’s that panoramic windscreen and you soon learn exactly where your leading edges are,.

Meanwhile, the coach-style mirrors give great views along each side and beyond. It’s actually no wider than a typical low-profile coachbuilt motorhome using a chassis-cab base.

The 160bhp engine should prove sufficient for most folk in terms of power and delivery. There will always be the temptation to trade up to 180bhp, while the nine-speed automatic transmission option would be great if it weren’t for the £3,354 premium. The GF-70’s Fiat cowl with Al-Ko chassis underpinnings means a pliant ride. Economy? I had four days of relaxed driving and reckoned on registering miles per gallon figures in the mid-20s.

Auto-Trail has done a particularly good job in the www.camc.com

TECHNICAL

Price

£77,744 on the road as tested Engine

2.3-litre Euro 6d Power

160bhp (119kW) @ 1,500rpm Torque

Above: twin settees in a spacious lounge Left: L-shaped kitchen is well equipped and offers lots of storage

295lbft (400Nm) @ 1,500rpm Transmission

Six-speed manual, FWD MRO

3,270kg (64.37cwt)

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MTPLM

The GF-70 boasts a generous amount of elbow room

cab, adapting the Fiat dashboard to the wider expanse of bodywork around it. Air-conditioning is standard on production models, while the Xzent touchscreen system extends to a reversing camera, sat-nav etc.

Motorhome Wi-Fi is also here, while, should the worse happen, it is possible to track your vehicle using the Auto-Trail Connect system (with an annual subscription to pay).

NIGHT-TIME

DAYTIME

KITCHEN

The GF-70 boasts a generous amount of elbow room throughout. The lounge is particularly spacious, comprising inward-facing settees (the offside is the longer of the two) and a free-standing table with its own dedicated locker. There is also the facility to easily swivel both cab seats. The black leather upholstery you can see here is a £1,399 extra.

Luxury is everywhere – like the Alde central heating system and media pack that includes a 21.5in Avtex TV tucked discreetly behind a tambour door. There’s abundant storage throughout, including large overhead lockers, settee bases, double-doored wardrobe, etc. www.camc.com

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The drop-down bed over the cab area is a given in A-class motorhomes. The GF-70 bed is manually operated, but it’s counter-balanced to make things easy, and there is a decent enough 6ft 1in x 4ft 7in one-piece mattress. There’s quite some curve to the roofline and it’s a real bonus not to have to pack away the bedding before retiring the bed.

Auto-Trail kitchens are generally up there with the best. Here you get three gas rings, an electric hotplate and separate grill and oven. There’s also a microwave oven, but its location directly over the hob won’t appeal to everyone. The slim storage locker for the microwave’s glass plate and/or sink’s loose chopping board is a neat touch.

Other storage includes two drawers, slide-out chrome racking and overhead lockers (including crockery racks) – again, it’s comprehensive.

The central rooflight also features a two-way electric fan, while a 142-litre/15-litre fridge/freezer, with automatic energy selection, occupies the nearside.

3,500kg (68.89cwt) User payload

230kg (4.53cwt) Overall length

22ft 7in (6.93m) Overall width

7ft 7in (2.35m) Overall height

10ft (3.04m) Max internal height

6ft 5in (1.96m) Fuel/tank/econ

Diesel/19.8 gals (90 litres)/ 28-34mpg Figures from manu acturer s literature

To read more vehicle reviews and see video tests, visit camc.com/blog October 2021 71

MOTORHOME TEST AUTO-TRAIL GRANDE FRONTIER GF-70

From left: habitation door on UK nearside: plenty of room in the washroom; USB point beside light

RATINGS

80%

BUILD QUALITY

80%

DRIVING

78%

DAYTIME

75%

NIGHT-TIME

76%

KITCHEN

70%

WASHROOM

80%

DETAILS

77%

OVERALL

Just a couple of small points: the location of the mixer tap makes it easy to turn on accidentally; and there is just the one mains socket to hand.

WASHROOM

If a big shower cubicle is a priority, have a look through the folding doors here. However, this room lacks a window (not great for ventilation) and, while the shower has a riser bar, even at its highest setting the showerhead is rather low. And there’s just the one plughole. There are plenty of pluses, however. Water is delivered powerfully (thanks, Alde), lighting is good and, although the whole washroom is not quite full-width, there’s a full-height, exterior-access locker on the nearside.

The fixed basin is a reasonable size and there’s a Thetford swivel-bowl toilet. Meanwhile, lockers and open shelves abound.

DETAILS

Vehicle supplied for testing by: Auto-Trail VR Trigano House, Genesis Way, Europarc, Grimsby, Lincolnshire DN37 9TU Contact: auto-trail. co.uk, 01472 571000 72 October 2021

This motorhome is absolutely packed with nice touches, from the 100W solar panel on the roof to the internal catch for the gas locker. There’s also the waste bin, key tray and branded umbrella on the habitation door as well as an auto-retracting electric step.

Further luxuries include ambient lighting strips, with dimmable function, over and under the upper lockers; an illuminated wardrobe; stalk lights with dual power levels (and USB ports in their bases) over each cab seat; and removable floor carpets in sensible sections. The list goes on and on.

VERDICT Auto-Trail’s reach into parts of the market where rival UK manufacturers seem fearful to tread is relentless. The UK-friendliness of its Grande Frontiers bodes well for sales, and I do like the more compact nature of the GF-70. It’s definitely happier as a two-berth (although you might want to opt for two more travel seats). Touring life can definitely be Grande.

You can insure this motorhome with the Club for £795.86 per year. See camc.com/insurance or call 01342 336610 for further details

Quote (correct as of 3 September 2021) is for the model tested worth £77,744 with factory-fitted alarm and immobiliser, and a working tracker fitted as a compulsory requirement. Based on 55-year-old male living in Sheffield, with a maximum no claims bonus (unprotected) coming from a vehicle of similar value/experience, who has no accidents, claims or convictions and keeps the vehicle on a drive, 3,000 miles a year, with £500 damage, fire and theft excess. Subject to underwriting. The Club’s Motorhome Insurance is arranged for the Club by Devitt Insurance Services Limited, Insurance Brokers. Caravan and Motorhome Club is a trading name of The Caravan Club Limited. The Caravan Club Limited and Devitt Insurance Services Limited are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

www.camc.com

Motorhome and Campervan Insurance when you need it

9 10

of customers renewed* With our award winning cover, our members come back to us year after year. Over 90% of customers renewed between 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021.

Get yourself award winning cover visit camc.com/insurance or call 0345 504 0334 for a quote today.

Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Motorhome and Campervan Insurance is arranged for the Club by Devitt Insurance Services Limited. Caravan and Motorhome Club is a trading name of The Caravan Club Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for general insurance and credit activities. *Based on renewals data supplied by Devitt Insurance Services for the period 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021 (90.9% overall).

TEST SWIFT SPRITE COMPACT

GREAT AND SMALL Rob McCabe sizes up a diminutive new model from the Swift stable and reckons it has big appeal

W

ith demand for caravans at never-before-seen levels, UK manufacturers could probably knock out models using mismatched, ill-fitting upholstery, leave a big hole where the fridge should be to save a bit of weight and paint the outside dark brown – and they’d still sell out.

Thankfully, they are instead responding to the situation by creating new models to suit areas where there is demand – and a fine example is the brand-new Swift Sprite Compact, which is shorter than even the dinky Xplore 304 and weighs under 1,100kg when laden to the max. Caravanning newcomers whose first priority is (lack of) weight, perhaps due to owning a small hatchback or being restricted by their driving licence, will be attracted – especially when they see that the upholstery fits like a glove and that the fridge is securely in place.

BUILD QUALITY

The Swift Group’s SMART construction method results in a timber-free body, so there’s nothing to rot, even if water does get in (and a six-year body warranty, 74 October 2021

extendable to 10 years, says it won’t). The GRP outer skin gives a pleasingly smooth, fresh look, enhanced by this year’s graphics.

Indoors, all is well – buttery-smooth blinds and flyscreens, reassuringly hefty locker catches, goodquality carpentry, while lockers and hatches are neat and tidy inside. Good job!

TOWING

Towing doesn’t get any easier than this. The Compact’s lack of girth is a boon for negotiating busy high streets, not to mention the sometimes teeth-suckingly narrow lanes on the approach to the more bucolic CLs. And although a motorised mover may still be worthwhile for manoeuvring into tight spaces – between a garden wall and the side of your house, say – it’s delightfully easy to move around by hand when pitched on site.

At just 1,094kg fully laden, the smallest Sprite won’t make much of a dent in the 3,500kg maximum train weight limit that applies to you if you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997.

DAYTIME

Many smaller and/or entry-level caravans make do with a little flip-up shelf under the front window – so www.camc.com

TECHNICAL

Price

£18,195 (plus dealer-applied OTR charge) Beds

Front double: 6ft × 4ft 7in (or two singles 5ft 11in × 2ft 2in) Heating

Truma blown-air Fridge/freezer

Dometic fridgefreezer Toilet

Thetford electric flush MRO

980kg (19.29cwt) MTPLM

1,094kg (21.53cwt) User payload

114kg (2.24cwt) Overall length

17ft 7in (5.36m) Overall width

6ft 8in (2.03m) Overall height

8ft 6in (2.58m) full marks for the proper chest, including an extendable section that sits flush with the rest of it when pulled out. It’s an attractive bit of furniture.

On the whole, the Compact’s interior is a nice place to be, thanks to the co-ordinated décor that includes two attractive, well-fitting carpet sections.

The pale-coloured doors on the wardrobe and the big overhead kitchen locker contrast with the wood-look finish elsewhere, which is a cool design touch.

There’s little chance of avoiding feet/leg clashes with whoever’s sitting opposite you in the lounge – which I state merely as a fact, not a criticism. In a caravan this narrow, something’s got to give! Despite this, it’s a very comfy space, although you’ll need to go shopping to bolster the standard ration of two scatter cushions.

While the built-in stereo with aux and USB connectivity is great, the placement of the speakers is baffling. There’s one on each side of the lounge, on the underside of the overhead lockers – so, seated on the sofa, all you can hear is the sound coming from the speaker directly above your head. There’s a dedicated TV viewing station on the nearside dresser, which also hosts a pair of USB inputs. There www.camc.com

Max headroom

Clockwise from above: lounge seats are comfortable; chest with table-top extended; small but well-equipped kitchen at the rear are four more USB sockets in the lounge – in marked contrast to the dearth of main sockets (there are just two of those in the whole caravan).

There’s not a lot of real estate for the Truma blown-air heating system to warm up, but it does the job quickly and quietly on either gas or mains.

NIGHT-TIME

Well-engineered slats whoosh out to complete the base for the front double, with snug-fitting upholstery sections providing a firmly luxurious mattress that stays securely in place. At 5ft 11in, I could stretch out and be perfectly comfortable – six-footers should get down to the forecourt and try it for size, but there’s plenty of width to accommodate lying at a slight angle without bashing ankles with your partner. The Sprite’s spaceframe furniture allows for the fitment of full-width hatches that give straightforward access to both seat lockers – really handy when it comes to retrieving and putting away bedding.

6ft 5in (1.95m) Figures taken from manufacturer’s literature

“

Full marks for the proper chest, including an extendable section that sits flush

”

October 2021 75

TEST SWIFT SPRITE COMPACT

Clockwise from above: double bed made up; shower area is well lit; bigger than you would expect from the outside

RATINGS

91%

BUILD QUALITY

96%

TOWING

83%

DAYTIME

80%

NIGHT-TIME

86%

KITCHEN

91%

WASHROOM

82%

LIGHTING

87%

OVERALL

With thanks to: Vehicle supplied for testing by Swift Group, Cottingham, East Yorkshire HU16 4JX (swiftgroup.co.uk)

KITCHEN

The end kitchen may be small but it looks great, with the slate-coloured worktop and glossy-black appliances contrasting well with the stainless steel sink. The nicely-fitted microwave bolsters the three-burner gas hob, small oven and grill, and storage is exceptional – the deep, low-level cupboard is huge.

The lack of work surface is mitigated by the nearside dresser top, which is substantial enough to be used at serving-up time, even if your telly’s in place there.

There’s plenty of daylight and ventilation in the kitchen area: as well as the rear window, there’s a small, wide-opening sunroof overhead.

WASHROOM

Given that the washroom is compressed into the offside rear corner, it feels surprisingly spacious.

Open the pleasingly substantial door and it immediately looks more than the sum of its parts. With the wraparound curtain in play, the shower is a good size and benefits from its own mixer tap. Condensation worries are banished by a proper, wide-opening sunroof, rather than the more workaday skylight often seen in smaller washrooms, and there’s also an opaque window served by a blind and flyscreen.

Storage is bountiful for two, with the cupboard under the washbasin complemented by a big, deep shelf along the rear wall. The mirror is usefully big too. There’s lots to like here.

LIGHTING

The light switches are nice and tactile to use and the lighting itself is decent, but there are a couple of shortcomings. The lounge is served by four flush-fitting reading lamps and LED strips above the overhead lockers, leaving it lacking a little in terms of firepower; and, although the hob is illuminated by two flush-fitters, another one over the sink wouldn’t have gone amiss. The washroom does best of all, with a really smart-looking, touch-tooperate ceiling lamp. Above-locker LEDs run from front to back to add a nice glow of an evening.

VERDICT The commendable thing about this small Sprite is that its small-ness doesn’t make you feel that you’re having to compromise on anything very much. It’s delightfully presented, comfortable to live in and thoughtfully equipped.

You can cover this caravan with the Club for £327.99* per year. See camc.com/caravancover or call 01342 336610 for further details

*Based on Standard cover on a new-for-old cover basis, with a cover limit of £18,500 (caravan and equipment), £500 contents cover and £200 voluntary excess. Includes 4+ years no claims discount (not protected). Subject to underwriting – a copy of the cover wording is available on request. Caravan and Motorhome Club is a trading name of The Caravan Club Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for general insurance and credit activities.

76 October 2021

www.camc.com

Caravan Cover when you need it

From just

£69 a year ^

With our award winning Caravan Cover, our members come back to us year after year. Nearly 89% of all cover holders renewed between 1st July 2020 to 30th June 2021* Plus we have been voted by our members to be The Best Caravan Cover Provider, every year for the last 3 years.

See what our award winning cover can do visit camc.com/caravancover or call 01342 488 338 for a quote today.

Caravan Cover is provided directly by the Caravan and Motorhome Club. ^£69 based on £3,500 limit of cover for caravan and equipment, £1,000 limit of cover for contents and £200 excess with 4 years+ NCD. For full details of cover offered, including limitations and exclusions that apply, please refer to the cover documents. *Nearly 89% of all cover holders renewed is based on renewals data 1st July 2020 to 30th June 2021 (88.8%)

CLUB REPORT ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Annual General Meeting of The Caravan Club Ltd (trading as the Caravan and Motorhome Club) will be held at 2pm on Saturday 23 October 2021 at the Pavilion Suite, The Racecourse, Chester CH1 2LY. As stated in the Notice in the July issue of the Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine, notices of motion and nominations for office had to be received no later than Saturday, 28 August 2021 in order to comply with Bye-Laws 16, 17 and 18.

N D J Lomas Director General 1 September 2021 Due to the successful use of remote technology last year to deliver the AGM virtually to members, it is intended that the meeting will again be available to view online for those who are not attending in person.

Please keep checking our website for the latest information about the event (camc.com/agm) and to see how you can view the meeting online. As in previous years, full members will be able to vote on the motions by proxy, electronically, in advance of the meeting.

Proxy voting goes live on 1 October and full members are advised that proxy forms must

be lodged by midnight on 21 October using the secure online form, details of which will be sent at the end of September to all those full members with a registered email address.

The email, with individual voting credentials, will be sent from elections@mivoice.com.

You may wish to save the email address to your contacts to avoid the email being redirected to your junk folder. This will be followed by a reminder email on 12 October.

Mi-Voice, which is part of Democracy Technology, is the Electoral Services Company running the process on our behalf.

Any member information used by Mi-Voice is being handled in accordance with the Club’s strict data security protocols.

The summary Financial Statements for 2020 are published on pages 84 to 88. The full Statements are available online at camc.com and to full members, free of charge, by emailing governance@camc.com. The account of last year’s AGM was published in the December 2020 Magazine and can also be found, along with the full minutes of the meeting, in the ‘About Us’ area on the Club’s website and by visiting camc.com/agm.

for a three-year term. e. Vice-Chairman: to elect David Turner* for a two-year term. f. Treasurer: to re-elect Christopher Macgowan* for a one-year term. g. Executive Committee: to re-elect Gordon Smart* for a three-year term. h. Executive Committee: to elect Ann Marie Ward* for a three-year term.

6. Club Council: to approve up to 30 members, nominated by the Executive Committee, to serve on Club Council: Phillip Aldridge, Engineer; Robin Blackford, Training Manager (Retired); David S Brookes, Musician; Rev’d Canon Hazel Charlton, Club Chaplain; Alex Davidson, Sales & Marketing Manager UK & Ireland; Helen Drew, Accountant; Dr Malcolm Finney, NHS Manager (Retired); Paul Funnell, Business Owner; Lynn George, European

Chief Operations Director, Insurance (Retired); Bruce Gibson, Managing Director Stockbroking Company & Caravan Site Owner (Retired); Alastair Greene, Chartered Surveyor; Prof Adrian Hobbs CBE, Transport Safety Adviser; Brian Condell, Electronic Engineer; John Morgan, NHS Manager; Charles Patrick, Motor Industry Manager; Sandy Pattulo, Engineering Service Manager; Dr David Pettinger, System Engineer; James Porter, Teacher (semi-retired); Andy Ronaldson, Business Strategy Lecturer; Sue Southwell, Regulatory Analyst (Retired); Katie Tompkin, Insurance Industry; Tim Webster, Company Managing Director (Retired).

7. Any other notified business.

AGENDA 1. Chairman’s Annual Report.

2. Treasurer’s Financial Report: to approve and adopt the Statement of Accounts for 2020 and the Reports of the Executive Committee and the Auditors thereon (see pages 84 and 86 for the summary).

3. Auditors: to approve the re-appointment of Dixon Wilson and agree that the fixing of their remuneration be left to the Executive Committee.

4. Director General’s Report.

5. Elections: a. President: to re-elect The Earl of Leicester for a one-year term. b. Vice-President: to re-elect Michael Drayton for a three-year term. c. Chairman: to re-elect Grenville Chamberlain* for a one-year term. d. Vice-Chairman: to elect Mark Sinclair-Watson*

78 October 2021

*See biographical notes on page 79.

wwww.camc.com

BIOGRAPHICAL NOTES ON MEMBERS NOMINATED FOR OFFICE AND COMMITTEE GRENVILLE CHAMBERLAIN

Sharratt. Grenville was appointed Chairman of the Club in 2007 and chairs the Executive Committee.

Grenville loves his motorhome and, when he can, spends much of his time travelling across the country with his family, attending Club events and supporting

members. He is very pleased to see so many new members joining the Club with their caravans, motorhomes and campervans since the pandemic, and enjoying the great outdoors through the pastime that he is so passionate about.

MARK SINCLAIR-WATSON

Mark is a lover of the great outdoors and has been caravanning with his family for many years, frequenting Club sites, CLs and rallies. He is looking forward to helping the Club continue to grow and would like to encourage young

families to experience the joys of caravanning. Over the next 10 years, he expects that the Club will need to keep up with alternative energy sources for sites and vehicles in the interests of sustainability.

DAVID TURNER

Macgowan. David joined the Club in 1988 and was co-opted to the Executive Committee in 2017. He is a caravan owner and has always been a great supporter of local Centres. He is very keen to see the recent surge in membership numbers maintained with new

members encouraged to join their local Centre and experience rallying. All rallies are different but they are an economical way for young families to holiday, meet fellow Club members and visit new and interesting places.

CHRISTOPHER MACGOWAN

Christopher has held the position of Club Treasurer since 2011 and chairs the Finance and Management Committee. He has kept a watchful eye over the Club accounts, particularly throughout the challenging year that the Club has just experienced as a result of the

pandemic. Now that the restrictions are largely lifted, he loves to be spotted out and about in his motorhome at some of his favourite beauty spots across the UK, and is looking forward to the time when he and fellow Club members will be able to travel more freely overseas.

GORDON SMART

Aberdeenshire but now living in Leicestershire, Gordon’s earliest memory of caravanning is a trip to Loch Ness at the age of five. Having toured extensively in the UK and Europe, he still enjoys touring around Scotland in his own caravan. His travels make him well

placed as a member of the Sites and Accommodation Users Committee. Gordon takes a keen interest in the world of caravanning as a whole and recognises that the Club will need to adapt and develop new ideas to maintain its standing within the leisure market.

ANN MARIE WARD

been a member of the Sites and Accommodation Users Committee since 2018. When not caravanning and visiting Club sites, she is a keen golfer and bridge player. As a member of the Executive, Ann Marie hopes to help facilitate the delivery of a suite of sustainable and inclusive accommodation at the Club that

continues to be attractive to members old and new. She recommends that members should familiarise themselves with the Club website which contains a wealth of information that will enhance their membership experience and generate savings that more than match the membership fee!

CHAIRMAN TO BE RE-ELECTED FOR A ONE-YEAR PERIOD (Agenda Item 5c) Grenville Chamberlain OBE has been proposed by Malcolm Groves and seconded by Barry

VICE-CHAIRMAN TO BE ELECTED FOR A THREE-YEAR PERIOD (Agenda Item 5d) Mark Sinclair-Watson has been proposed by Janet Moore and seconded by Gordon Smart.

VICE-CHAIRMAN TO BE ELECTED FOR A TWO-YEAR PERIOD (Agenda Item 5e) David Turner has been proposed

by Grenville Chamberlain and seconded by Christopher

TREASURER TO BE RE-ELECTED FOR A ONE-YEAR PERIOD (Agenda Item 5f) Christopher Macgowan OBE has been proposed by Edward Baxter and seconded by Alison Woodhams.

MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TO BE RE-ELECTED FOR A THREE-YEAR PERIOD (Agenda Item 5g) Gordon Smart has been proposed

by Mark Sinclair-Watson and seconded by John Lefley. Born in

MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TO BE ELECTED FOR A THREE-YEAR PERIOD (Agenda Item 5h) Ann Marie Ward has been proposed

by Grenville Chamberlain and seconded by Janet Moore. Ann Marie joined the Club in 2013 and has www.camc.com

October 2021 79

CLUB REPORT ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

CLUB PERFORMANCE REVIEW 2020 The year 2020 was a very difficult trading year due to the pandemic restrictions on opening and on travel. While revenue was substantially down, resulting in a £10m deficit, and investment and discretionary spend was necessarily delayed, cash was managed extremely well such that business continuity was assured.

It was also the year that the Club responded to an unprecedented and unfolding pandemic crisis in a truly remarkable and positive fashion.

Very early on, in January 2020, the Club recognised the potential for a pandemic and by February had commissioned a project to enable full remote working for all functions, including the Contact Centre at head office, at breakneck speed. This was even before a single case of what was to be later named Covid-19 had been reported in the UK. At the end of March 2020 the country went into its first lockdown, and our staff were already at home with their home office set-ups, computers and phones in place and fully operational, providing seamless continuity of service. Importantly, the Contact Centre was able to support members with all of their requirements throughout the pandemic.

There is no question it was to become a very difficult and uncertain year for the Club, members, country and indeed the world. Facing such uncertainty we set about describing a number of possible scenarios that could play out over the next few years, described as ‘BounceBack’, ‘Bumpy Road’ and ‘Long Hard Haul’.

Each scenario took a different view on the evolution of the pandemic and the possible

It was a tough year for everyone – but members still managed to have some fun!

80 October 2021

impacts of government restrictions and members’ propensity and ability to travel. For each scenario we devised a response plan of discretionary cost savings, appropriate levels of investment, and our operational response with the objective of ensuring security of cash and business continuity over the next three years.

Cash is crucial in such situations, and we therefore had a plan to avoid running out of cash no matter how bad the pandemic became, giving confidence and direction to staff under all scenarios. We then used the projections based on these scenarios to approach our long-term bankers and to secure a £20m revolving credit facility on good terms should it be needed. So far, a sort of combination ‘bumpy bounce-back’ has transpired and, pleasingly, as a result of our actions, we have had no need to draw on this cash facility, so this remains intact as a robust buffer moving to 2022 and beyond.

In 2020 the Club recorded a deficit of £10m, a dramatic fall from a £4m surplus in 2019, which was driven by the net impacts of the pandemic totalling c£14m. The Club was already in a strong financial position and because of the mitigating actions taken and the diversity of revenue streams that it enjoys, the Club remains financially sound. In fact the Club is performing well under very challenging circumstances and is recovering well.

CLUB’S FINANCIAL RESULTS 2020 Revenue was down £36m year on year to £82m due to the net impact of the pandemic. Sites felt the biggest and most serious impact, down £22.2m to

£35.2m, due to lockdowns between March and July 2020 and again in the autumn shoulder period, together with tier restrictions in different areas of the country. Membership revenue was up £0.4m at £16.5m, having held up well in the first half considering the huge uncertainties and lockdowns, and in the second half re-emerging with a strong surge fuelled by a staycation boom which saw the new membership numbers reach record levels. We would like to thank members for their supportº.

Insurance and Financial Services put in another very strong, solid performance, down only £0.3m to £24.1m; despite some significant loss of business from Mayday and Red Pennant due to the pandemic, Caravan Cover and Motorhome Insurance was remarkably resilient and successful, underlining the importance of diversity underpinning the financial strength of the Club.

Travel, was of course, severely impacted by travel restrictions, down £12.7m to £4.1m. As well as huge operational challenges to help stranded members get home, there were also requests for refunds, all of which were honoured by the Club.

Marketing revenues were also down £1.3m to £1.8m as events and rallies, including the National, were cancelled, along with training courses and ancillary services.

In terms of Club surplus, the strong £4m positive result in 2019 has dropped to a £10m deficit in 2020, a total year-on-year fall of £14m. Sites were down £9.7m to £0.4m, on a revenue shortfall, as mentioned, of £22.2m. Cost mitigations of £12.5m included furlough receipts, grants and rates relief.

Our Covid Secure operations have also led the industry and provided immense reassurance to staff and members alike.

The Club benefitted from taking a courageous stand to open every site it could for as long as it could for the July to September period in particular. Membership surplus was solidly up £0.6m to £14.8m, aided by the record-breaking resurgence in the second half of the year.

Insurance and Financial Services contributed a strong and stable performance up £0.3m to £10.8m, assisted by claims savings in the year due to lockdown and net of other residual costs from major floodings in the previous year. Travel’s bottom line was only down £0.8m relative to the £12.7m revenue shortfall, reflecting strong control on costs and the high variable cost and low net margin nature of this business.

In terms of cash balances, the original budget for 2020 was £34.3m, a normal level historically for the Club. During March 2020, our worst case scenario was indicating a potential overdraft of £8.3m, a negative swing of £42.6m, largely caused www.camc.com

by site closures and uncertainty at the time about the availability of reliefs and government support.

As stated above, cash is very important in these situations, so we made this a focus of our financial management activity during the remainder of 2020, as well as securing access to additional credit. Key initiatives included: curtailment of discretionary expenditure; halting all but critical IT projects, such as ramping up web resilience; halting site developments to which the Club had not already committed; a discounted Site Night Voucher Scheme, which raised £6.8m; and applying for all applicable government support, such as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme furlough and business reliefs and grants. Our approach was to protect members’ interests by protecting the Club’s capabilities and its staff, preserving employment, experience and resilience and avoiding, as far as possible, redundancies.

The effect of these initiatives, together with reopening for a good part of the peak period, contributed to the Club successfully managing cash to a closing position of £38.5m.

Consolidated net assets ended the year at £128m, down £15m, with cash of £38m, current assets of £49m and net current assets of £16m, which remains a very strong position despite the impact of the pandemic, largely down to the strength of the Club in terms of cash generation and retained liquidity.

REVENUE AT A GLANCE SOURCES OF REVENUE IN 2020

Club Sites – 43.1% Financial Services – 29.4% Travel Services – 5.0% Member Subscriptions – 20.1% Advertising & Marketing Services – 2.2%

INVESTING IN CLUB SITES AND CAPABILITIES Total investment in 2020 of £9.3m was lower than the £10.6m in 2019, itself a low investment cash recovery year, but was some £8m lower than planned due to the pandemic mitigation measures. Notable investments included: Cayton Village full redevelopment; Penrhos toilet block and site refurbishments, Troutbeck Head Experience Freedom glamping pods; further necessary site works; Booking Capability IT programme; homeworking infrastructure; and critical IT spend to provide continuity and remain in support.

OTHER NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS Every year the Club sets standards for leading marketing, customer service and health and safety initiatives, receiving accolades from industry forums. However, 2020 presented very different challenges for the Club and it responded accordingly. Examples include: establishing an industry-leading Covid Secure site operation, shared with the CL network and AS operators; delivering full remote working capability to staff and providing full continuity of service; innovative www.camc.com

Glen Etive, within reach of Bunree and North Ledaig Club sites, by Tracey Cormack

October 2021 81

CLUB REPORT ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

cash mitigation measures; and returning the whole benefits of the hospitality VAT reduction to members. All this resulted in the Club continuing to achieve world-class Net Promoter Scores for member and guest satisfaction.

OUTLOOK FOR 2021 When the budget was agreed for 2021, we could not be sure about further lockdowns and restrictions or government reliefs, so we based our plans on a normal trading year, again recognising a range of possible scenarios.

Being immediately locked down in Q1 2021 with sites closed and ongoing travel restrictions did not help the plan, though it probably happened at the least worst time o the year The continuity of furlough, grants and rates reliefs and the continued strong support of our membership, followed by a staycation surge on reopening, means that despite losing substantial revenue in Q1 we are net ahead of our budgets at

the half-year point. Even with the majority of April impacted and the Easter period missed completely, the strength of forward bookings is sufficiently strong. The likelihood of remaining open in the peak summer season looked ever more certain as this report was compiled, which gives us real hope and expectation that 2021 will see a marked turnaround in performance, and maybe break a few records.

Looking forward, it’s good to know that our investment rebound is going to be supported by strong cash flow and reserves as well as a credit facility buffer. It enables the Club to face the future with courage and determination to make the most of a difficult and uncertain time, and to emerge stronger for the benefit of members. With forward bookings at record levels, strong site occupancy and membership likely to reach an unprecedented high this year, there is room for plenty of optimism and much to look forward to.

SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT This financial statement is a summary of information in the audited annual accounts of The Caravan Club Limited, trading as ‘Caravan and Motorhome Club’, for the year ended 31 December 2020. A copy of the full annual accounts is available online at camc.com and to Full Members, free of charge, by emailing governance@camc.com.

SUMMARY DIRECTORS’ REPORT The information contained in the Club Performance review comprises the Summary Directors’ Report.

The Directors consider that the Group has adequate resources to continue operations for the foreseeable future.

Accordingly, the going concern basis has continued to be adopted in preparing the Annual Report and Accounts.

Approved by the Executive Committee on 21 May 2021 and signed on its behalf by: G J Chamberlain (Chairman), C J Macgowan (Hon Treasurer) and N D J Lomas (as Company Secretary).

Unwinding at Longleat Club site in August 2020

EXTRACT FROM THE FULL INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT We have audited the financial statements of The Caravan Club Limited for the year ended 31 December 2020 which are summarised in this Summary Financial Statement. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

This report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company

www.camc.com

and the Company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

RESPECTIVE RESPONSIBILITIES OF DIRECTORS AND AUDITOR

The Members of the Executive Committee, the Directors, are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. Our responsibility is to audit and express an opinion on the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland). Those standards require us to comply with the Auditing Practices Board’s (APB’s) Ethical Standards for Auditors to the financial statements.

OPINION ON THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

In our opinion the financial statements: ■ give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s and the Company’s affairs as at 31 December 2020 and of the Group’s surplus for the year then ended; ■ have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and ■ have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

Dixon Wilson, Statutory Auditor London

October 2021 83

CLUB REPORT ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT Total 31 December 2020 £ 000

Total 31 December 2019 £ 000

81,671 (49,528) 32,143 (43,938) 5,179 (6,616) (3,024) 153 7 (2,864) (9,480) (509)

117,817 (74,181) 43,636 (39,047)

(9,989)

4,166

2020 £ 000

2019 £ 000

(9,989) (5,240) (15,229)

(4,166) 571 4,737

2020 £ 000

2019 £ 000

11 120,139 120,150

123 125,572 125,695

29 10,300 38,527 48,856

73 12,309 37,745 50,127

Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year Net current assets Total assets less current liabilities Provisions for liabilities Net assets

(33,036) 15,820 135,970 (7,872) 128,098

(29,322) 20,805 146,500 (3,173) 143,327

Capital and reserves Share premium reserve Sites investment reserve Revenue account Total equity

18 106,000 22,080 128,098

18 106,000 37,309 143,327

Consolidated Revenue Account Revenue Operating expenses Gross surplus Administrative expenses Other operating income Operating surplus/(deficit) Material expenses arising from the pandemic Other interest receivable and similar income Interest payable and similar charges Surplus/(deficit) before tax Taxation Surplus/(deficit) for the financial year

4,589 268 (20) 248 4,837 (671)

The above results were derived from continuing operations.

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income Surplus/(deficit) for the year Remeasurement gain on defined benefit pension schemes Total comprehensive income for the year

Consolidated Balance Sheet Fixed assets Intangible assets Tangible assets

Current assets Stocks Debtors Cash at bank and in hand

84 October 2021

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CLUB REPORT ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS 2020 £ 000

2019 £ 000

(9,989)

4,166

11,808 544 (153) (7) 509 2,712

10,954 – (268) 20 671 15,543

44 1,954 3,676 37 (568) 7,855 (416) 7,439

37 (742) 2,177 (1,025) 1,045 17,035 (640) 16,395

Cash flows from investing activities Interest received Acquisitions of property plant and equipment Proceeds from sale of property plant and equipment Acquisition of subsidiary, net of cash acquired Net cash flows from investing activities Cash flows from financing activities Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December

153 (6,815) 8 – (6,654) (3) 782 37,745 38,527

268 (10,916) 2 – (10,646) – 5,749 31,996 37,745

Revenue account – analysis of income and expenditure of the Club

2020 £ 000

2019 £ 000

Membership Services Club subscriptions Operating costs and allocated overheads Net contribution

16,449 (3,111) 13,338

16,042 (2,964) 13,078

Club UK Sites Site fees and other income Operating costs and allocated overheads Net contribution

40,339 (50,483) (10,145)

57,431 (60,009) (2578)

Financial services Premium income and other income Operating costs and allocated overheads Net contribution

24,026 (16,249) 7,777

24,393 (18,034) 6,359

Overseas Travel Services Income from bookings Operating costs and allocated overheads Net contribution

3,367 (7,667) (4,300)

14,794 (17,845) (3,051)

Marketing Services, including the Club Magazine Magazine advertising, The National and other income Operating costs and allocated overheads Net contribution Unallocated central costs

1,824 (13,179) (11,355) (2,143)

3,069 (14,163) (11,094) (978)

Operating (Deficit)/Surplus for the year

(6,828)

1,736

Cash flows from operating activities Surplus/(deficit) for the year Adjustments to cash flows from non-cash items Depreciation and amortisation Deficit/(surplus) on disposal of fixed assets Interest receivable Interest payable Taxation Working capital adjustments Decrease in stocks Increase in debtors Increase in creditors Decrease in retirement benefit obligation net of actuarial changes Increase in provisions Cash generated from operations Taxes paid Net cash flow from operating activities

86 October 2021

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Maintenance heroes Club Shop

Get your fix at Club Shop Taking care of your outfit is important to ensure longevity, but it doesn’t have to be hard work. These best-selling hero products will ensure your vehicle stays clean and well-maintained, inside and out, whether in storage or on the road.

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Upgrade your tired jockey wheel with the ultimate in safety, ergonomics, and performance. KARTT have designed this jockey wheel with feedback from the Club to create a secure, hard-wearing, and high quality product.

£59.40 for members

Suitable for all Alde heating systems, G13 can be used to top-up existing fluids, providing 5-year protection. After the first 2 years, Alde recommends replacing the antifreeze in the system with the G13 formula.

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£9.89 for members

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New Concentrated Duo Tank Cleaner deep-cleans to prolong the lifespan of your waste-holding and grey water tank. Thetford’s essential seal lubricant and maintenance spray should be used regularly on all locker door and toilet seals.

Achieve a dazzling deep clean with our exclusive Fenwicks Caravan Cleaner and Bobby Dazzler bundle, and restore scratched acrylic windows with the magic of Windowize polish.

Buy online now at: shop.camc.com Club Shop offers are subject to change at any time and are available while stocks last.

SPECIAL COTSWOLDS

Nick Harding heads for the Cotswolds to learn more about the Arts and Crafts movement

H

ave nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.”

Those are the words of William Morris, the Victorian polymath credited as one of the key influences behind the Arts and Crafts movement, which has its roots well and truly in the Cotswolds.

Arts and Crafts was a design trend that developed in the British Isles in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, before flourishing in Europe, North America and, eventually, the rest of the world. Initially, an eclectic group of artists and craftspeople wanted to see more art as well as ‘usefulness’ in everyday objects, a reaction to the increasingly popular mass production route. You can get more of an overview by visiting theartstory.org/ movement/arts-and-crafts.

The Club has more than its fair share of sites and Certificated Locations in the Cotswolds, so it’s easy to find out more about the region’s association with the influential movement during a tour – many buildings in the area have links to Arts and Crafts.

Meanwhile busy marketplaces display the works of a new generation of talented, pioneering makers.

The first day of our tour was 12 April 2021... the first day in England that we could visit campsites this year. On arrival at Burford Club site, we (partner Lin, dog Bonnie and I) were pleasantly surprised to find that we had

88 October 2021

beaten the crowds. Encouraged by Site Managers Anne and Martyn Wragg – “Lots of people come here to find out about the Arts and Crafts movement” – we started to plan our schedule for the week.

Potential highlights of our stay included a visit to Owlpen Manor – which enjoys a fantastic setting in a valley to the south of Stroud and Gloucester, and is home to impressive Arts and Crafts furniture and fittings – through to Kelmscott Manor, near Lechlade, the rural retreat of Morris himself. Sadly these outings weren’t possible on this occasion as Kelmscott was still closed for renovation and Owlpen not yet ready for visitors (both venues are due to be receiving guests again in 2022 – see sal.org.uk and owlpen.com for further information) Luckily, it was easy to find alternative ‘crafts’-related entertainment nearby, at Lechlade Craft Barn. Conditions allowing, it offers a fantastic variety of courses to the public – perfect if you have been inspired to learn a new skill while in the area.

Jennie Turner-Maskell, who works there, told us: “All courses are one-offs, half a day or one day. We get lots of people who are visiting the area and just want to do something different. Mosaics is one of our most popular.

Also, woodblock printing, Japanese embroidery, needle felting. We generally provide everything and make sure everyone goes away with a finished item.”

That was enough incentive for Lin, who enjoyed a Japanese embroidery class.

cotswolds.com

LEGACY

The William Morris Society

AN ENDURING

Main: Owlpen Manor is home to impressive Arts and Crafts furniture Above from the top: William Morris, design for the Oxford Union ceiling, pencil and watercolour, 1875; mosaic making... and Japanese embroidery at Lechlade Craft Barn; Burford Club site

TimGainey/Alamy The William Morris Society

“

The Arts and Crafts movement has its roots well and truly in the Cotswolds

”

William Morris, photographed by Emery Walker, 1889

BARN STORMER

Moving on, we were booked for a further two nights at the intriguingly named Wolds End Farm CL, near Chipping Campden. Despite the moniker, it was an easy walk into the town from the site, but before reaching the centre we turned off for Court Barn. What a wonderful place to build on our understanding of the Arts and Crafts movement, especially the part played in it by Charles ‘CR’ Ashbee.

Court Barn was founded in 2007 by a group of dedicated local people to tell the story of the Guild of Handicraft – some 50 craftsfolk and their families who left East London to build a community in Chipping Campden, under Ashbee’s patronage.

To describe him as an architect, designer, entrepreneur and social reformer is to give only part of the picture. He excelled in metalwork, textile design, furniture and jewellery, and was a leading light in the www.camc.com

world of Arts and Crafts. The interactive museum is housed in what was originally a threshing barn – the slit windows are for ventilation and not, as you might think, so inhabitants could shoot arrows at their enemies! As an aside, you might be interested to hear about the origin of the term ‘threshold’: the lower part of the doors of a threshing barn would be blocked off to prevent any thresh escaping.

Less than 10 minutes’ walk away from Court Barn is the original Guild of Handicraft building, where you can still see silversmiths at work.

BROAD APPEAL

We spent the final day of our visit in and around beautiful Broadway – often referred to as the 'jewel of the Cotswolds'. This is home to the Gordon Russell Museum, and I urge you to pay a visit. Born in 1892, Russell was influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement

and went on to become one of the 20th century’s most influential designers, founding the Council for Industrial Design (later the Design Council). The museum charts his incredible influence as a designer, manufacturer and educationalist over the course of six decades.

Sadly we had only scratched the surface of this truly lovely part of the country. As we headed home, suitably inspired, William Morris’ famous quote came to mind: “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” We caravanners and motorhomers are clearly cut from the same cloth...

MEMBER SINCE… Motorhomer, caravanner and occasional tent camper Nick Harding joined the Club in 2002.

October 2021 89

PRACTICAL Q&A

ASK YOUR CLUB Time to re-tyre?

The Club’s technical team answers your pressing questions

October is Tyre Safety Month. With so many newcomers to touring this year and many older leisure vehicles on the road as a result of high demand and ongoing supply problems, it seems timely to recap on the essentials.

Q A

What tyres do leisure vehicles need?

Caravans generally use car or heavier-duty ‘commercial’ grade (‘C’ suffix, eg 195/70R15C) tyres which are otherwise typically used on vans. Tyres must be a suitable size and have appropriate load and speed ratings.

All but the smallest motorhomes use commercial grade tyres, but many use an optional variation of these with a ‘CP’ suffix (eg 215/70R15CP), indicating that they are optimised for motorhome use, particularly in respect of load carrying capacity.

Specifications required should be in the handbook and are often marked on the weight plate for recent models. Always replace with new tyres of the same specification if possible.

For older models (particularly caravans), original specifications may no longer be available. For advice on suitable equivalents, contact the Club’s Technical Advice service (contact details below right).

Q A

What’s the correct inflation pressure?

Optimum pressures are usually based on loading – the greater the load, the higher the pressure.

Most caravans usually operate at or near full load, so recommended pressures in the handbook or elsewhere are based on that. Some motorhomes have much more

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generous payloads, giving a range of viable operating loads and front/rear axle variations.

Handbook and tyre label figures are usually for maximum load and perhaps ‘typical’ load.

Ideally, though, take the vehicle laden as you usually use it to a weighbridge, establish the front and rear axle loads, then use the optimum pressures for those loads.

Ride comfort in particular may suffer if inflation pressures are too high, but note that CP-rated tyres are often recommended to be used at 5.5bar (80psi) on the rear axle to give maximum load carrying capability. Many owners find this is too hard and adjust rear pressures to a more conventional figure based on actual axle loading.

TyreSafe’s website (tyresafe. org) has useful calculators for caravan and motorhome tyre pressures. If you use weighbridge figures for the axle weights instead of the specified maximum axle loads, these will give load-optimised pressures for lighter loading conditions.

The Club’s Technical Advice service can also help with tyre pressure advice.

Q A

When should tyres be replaced?

ge-related deterioration and periods of stationary winter storage increase risk of failure significantly – caravans rarely do sufficient mileage to wear tyres out beforehand.

Hence it’s strongly recommended to change

Punctures can always occur but good care will minimise the risk of other tyre problems

caravan tyres at five years old and never use them beyond seven years. Sometimes there’s appreciable delay between tyres being manufactured and fitted, which is when the longer period of use can apply.

When buying a second-hand caravan, check the age(s) of the tyres and always replace them if you are in any doubt over age or condition. Tyres usually have a four-digit date code indicating week and year of manufacture – eg ‘2118’ signifies week 21 of 2018.

With motorhomes, it’s harder to generalise. A frequentlyused vehicle will wear tyres broadly as a car does. One stored for much of the year may need an approach more like a caravan. For all vehicles, regularly check treads for wear, sidewalls for cracking and the whole tyre for any cuts, lumps or bumps. In the event of any concerns, seek professional advice and anticipate a need to replace the tyre.

Four-digit date code shows when the tyre was made

Please address your questions to:

Technical Information, Email: technical@camc.com Tel: 01342 336611 ...and quote your membership number

camc.com/advice October 2021 91

PRACTICAL WATER SUPPLY

WATER

WORLD

You can see more tips from the Club at camc.com/ advice

Sammy Faircloth takes a look at caravan and motorhome water systems

T

here are many ways to bring water into your leisure vehicle, and supply systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated. While most owners make use of a portable water container (such as an Aquaroll), some caravans and most motorhomes are fitted with a tank.

On some sites you will find pitches equipped with private taps. In such cases you can use a ‘water hook-up’ (such as Whale’s ‘Watermaster Mains’ kit) to ‘plumb in’ your van for the duration of your stay.

Alternatively you could take advantage of a mains water adaptor kit. A hose is connected from the mains water supply to the water container and a float inside said container opens a valve to top it up as needed (it works in a similar way to the float in your toilet cistern at home. Here I take a look at a few aspects of your water system and offer a few tips along the way...

92 October 2021

Main picture: it s a chore but someone has to do it

WATER CONTAINERS AND TANKS

Various forms of container are available for fresh or waste (sometimes referred to as ‘grey’) water. Plastic jerry cans and rolling water barrels, like the popular Aquaroll, are often used for fresh water, while trolley-type containers that slide under your vehicle (such as the Wastemaster) are good for waste water. I have even seen people use a bucket for waste water – not ideal as nasty smells are not contained.

Motorhome onboard fresh/waste water tanks are often hidden discreetly under the floor and accessible via an internal service hatch. These tanks can be filled or emptied at the motorhome service points found on Club sites.

Although caravans are less likely to boast onboard fresh water tanks, you can find them in certain Bailey, Buccaneer and Compass ranges. To avoid instability you shouldn’t travel with a full tank while towing – and, of course, water takes up valuable payload.

bove: hale s atermaster Mains kit allo s you to connect from the mains ater supply directly to the caravan

PUMP SYSTEMS

There are two types of pumps – submersible and diaphragm – and both require a 12V supply. Most caravan water supplies work with a submersible pump, which is carefully lowered into the fresh water container, then plugged into the water inlet on the side of the caravan. Trapped air bubbles can affect the operation of your pump, so it is a good idea to occasionally swish the unit around in the water container (below water level) to release them.

You will usually find a diaphragm pump installed within the living area in a higher-spec caravan. Once on site, you simply connect a short length of hose from the external inlet to your water container. Diaphragm pumps are well www.camc.com

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engineered (some companies offer a repair service) and usually achieve a decent flow rate. However, they are more costly than submersible pumps and can be very noisy. Grit can damage the tiny pistons that create the water flow and the special filter has to be checked and cleaned periodically.

PUMP SWITCHES

The electric motors fitted in water pumps need something to spur them into action.

In most cases, this work is done by miniature switches mounted in the taps and the shower controls. As you turn the tap, two things happen: the water channel opens up and the microswitch is triggered, starting the motor.

If damp gets into the casing, the switch may stop working. Some tap assemblies have to be replaced in their entirety when this happens (which may involve removing the sink), but most taps are www.camc.com

8

designed so that faulty microswitches can be replaced fairly easily.

Some leisure vehicles feature a pressuresensitive switch that detects when a tap is opened and then responds by setting the pump into action. In diaphragm pumps this is usually inside the casing. Alternatively, it is possible to have a standalone pressure switch coupled up within the supply pipe that serves the tap.

CLEANING PRODUCTS

It is wise to sterilise the pipes and fresh water container/tank at the start of every season (or after any extended period of lack of use).

Tests on water systems show that the most likely contaminations will cause respiratory infections, not stomach upsets as might be expected. So you are vulnerable even if you just breathe in contaminated water vapour while washing or washing up.

Various cleansing products are available, and the sterilising procedure can be as

1. Mains water adaptor kits are perfect for serviced pitches 2.A waste water container should ideally sit below the waste water outlets to prevent blockages 3. Plastic jerry cans are fairly ‘old school’ and can be heavy to carry 4. Air bubbles sometimes prevent a pump from working, so swing it around in the water container below the water level to release them 5. In a motorhome there is usually an internal hatch for servicing onboard water tanks 6. Most Club sites feature motorhome service points where you can fill up with fresh water and dump your waste water 7. Some taps contain microswitches that can be replaced if they become faulty 8. There are numerous water system cleaning products on the market

“

It is wise to sterilise the pipes and fresh water container/tank

”

simple as drawing a solution through the system from the fresh water container. Always check the label to ensure that your chosen product is safe to use on the fresh water container/ tank/water heater etc.

Waste water systems also need a good clean, normally at the end of a season, and there are plenty of cleaners out there that help eradicate germs and remove nasty smells.

October 2021 93

Memories are better shared Created together, remembered forever

£10 Get your

Bedruthan Steps, Cornwall near Carnewas Farm Certificated Location Campsite

Receive a £10 Club voucher for every friend you recommend.

Invite enough friends and it could pay for your next trip away together, helping you create those lifetime memories!

Find out more at: www.camc.com/friend

voucher for each friend you refer

PUZZLES BRAINTEASERS

FUTOSHIKI

HOW TO PLAY

Fill the blank squares so that each row and colum contains the numbers 1 to 5. Use the given numbers and the symbols that tell you if the number in the square is larger (>) or smaller (<) than the number next to it.

Solution

WORD WHEEL Can you find the hidden word using all nine provided letters? For those seeking an extra challenge, try to find as many words as you can that use the centre letter.

Solution: BOULEVARD www.camc.com

October 2021 95

PUZZLES BRAINTEASERS

CODE WORD HOW TO PLAY This puzzle has no clues in the conventional sense. Instead, every different number printed in the main grid represents a different letter (with the same number always representing the same letter, of course). For example, if 8 turns out to be a ‘V’, you can write in V wherever a square contains 8.

Solution 96 October 2021

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F £7 £9 F 9 9 .96 .95 T O ST NO D RI CT W AY LY £ LIM 19 .

99 ITE D ST OC K

80 %

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Pack of 4 Stylish Jumpers only £19.99

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Lightweight yet super warm, these four Maxi-Comfort Microfleeces are the perfect all-year-round garments to be worn as an outer layer on milder days, or as a comfortable mid-layer that sits neatly under your jacket for when it’s bitingly cold. Durability and 100% versatility guaranteed!

Created from only the finest quality, ultrasoft microfleece with anti-pilling properties, your Maxi-Comforts also have a smart, contrasting zip-up funnel neck and offer

plenty of thermal insulation. If you’re not 100% snug and satisfied, you can have your money back.

Now available in four classic colours, each microfleece is finished off with a smart, embroidered motif, giving a modern edge to a timeless design that you’re sure to love wearing. A must have in every man’s wardrobe, ALL four Maxi-Comforts are yours today for just £19.99 – a saving of £79.96.

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Atlas For Men complies with the Consumer Contract Regulations; you have the legal right to cancel and return your order within 14 days of receipt. For more information and full terms & conditions, visit our website. Offer applies to UK customers only. For details on how we look after your data please see our privacy policy www.atlasformen.co.uk/about/useful-information/privacy-policy.aspx or request a copy from our customer service team. Delivery normally within 5-7 working days. Offer ends 23 October 2021, subject to availability.

UK F21 PAD 1 34729 - SEP 2021 - Atlasformen SAS - French company with a capital of €1 659 866 - R.C.S Paris B 449 149 038 - 87-89 rue La Boétie - 75008 Paris - France - Our Customer Service Team is available on: 0333 336 0852 (call charges vary according to service provider) from Monday to Friday from 8am to 5:30pm, Saturday from 9am to 5pm, and Sunday from 10am to 4pm. - www.atlasformen.co.uk - Photo credit: I. J-L, S. Gazeaud, P-O. Doury, Fotolia - non-contractual photographs.

PUZZLE CROSSWORD

CROSSWORD £90 in Club gift tokens to be won

£50 in Club gift tokens will be won by the sender of the first correct solution opened on Friday 22 October 2021. Four runners-up will each receive £10 Club gift tokens.

Due to the current situation, please clearly photograph/scan your answer grid and email to crossword@camc.com. Please do not include any other correspondence with your entry.

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NAME: ADDRESS:

POSTCODE:

98 October 2021

DOWN 1 Firm or difficult (4) 2 Term for elves, leprechauns and pixies in folklore (6,6) 3 Mildly depressed (4) 4 Girl (4) 5 Way over the top (10) 6 Unrelenting (10) 7 Outlast a welcome (8) 8 Playthings (4) 9 Currency of Mexico (4) 10 Precautionary harness (6,4) 14 Erroneous (9) 15 Female pig (3) 17 A dark, thick substance or to damage a reputation (3) 20 hip s waiter (7) 21 Disrespectful behaviour (9) 22 Arise (3,2) 23 Player of a role (5) 27 Money lender (4,5) 32 Having fragrance (7) 33 Moment when help is required (2,4,2,4) 34 Skilfully contrived (9) 35 Placenta (10) 36 Hernia support (4) 37 Diaper (5) 38 The finished article (3,7) 39 Curious (10) 42 Stagnate (8) 46 Measure of spirits (3) 48 Finish (3) 52 Disfigurement (4) 53 Breed of racehorse (4) 54 Thus or therefore (4) 55 An excessive supply (4) 56 Heavenly body (4)

For full terms and conditions of entry, please visit our website at camc.com/competitions

MEMBERSHIP NUMBER:

September solution: Across: 1 Pipe 3 Quake 10 Delta 12 Raft 13 Plasma 14 Crime 15 Lockjaw 16 Snack 17 Noon 19 Leap 21 Sweatshirt 24 Less 27 Tumour 28 Vanilla 30 Unseen 31 Clad 33 Bill 34 Fell 35 Kerb 38 Casual 39 Diluted 40 Beaker 42 Tuba

ACROSS 1 Commotion (10) 6 Extinguish (3,3) 11 Musical show (5) 12 Completely drench (8) 13 Anguish (8) 16 Make as new again (7) 18 Extraterrestrials (6) 19 Dull pain (4) 20 Pivot or rotate (5) 22 Dinner sauce (5) 24 Imitate (3) 25 Day before (3) 26 Indolently slipshod (8) 28 Appellation of rank (5) 29 Pile (4) 30 Book of maps (5) 31 Mutual cooperation over individualism (4,6) 35 Turnout (10) 39 Edition of a magazine (5) 40 Clothes (4) 41 Punch (5) 42 Blood feud (8) 43 Male cat (3) 44 Fruit pastry (3) 45 Corroded (5) 47 Scraped up leaves (5) 49 Woodwind instrument (4) 50 A repeat performance (6) 51 A jot of time (7) 54 Tension and irritability (8) 57 Kidnapper (8) 58 Ornamental headdress (5) 59 Bosom (6) 60 House-to-house (4-2-4)

44 All-purpose 47 Iris 48 Wait 52 Block 54 Carport 55 Large 57 Rustic 58 Tune 59 Manna 60 Holly 61 Shed Down: 1 Pops 2 Prawn 3 Quack 4 Abridge 5 Enter 6 Adult 7 Banjo 8 Brownie 9 Stern 11 Locker 18 Blot

grid B

20 Proud 21 Scribble 22 Tank 23 Hill 25 Shear 26 Gullible 28 Valid 29 Ahead 32 Least 35 Khaki 36 Slip 37 Star 41 Rust 43 Butcher 45 Lagoon 46 Overall 48 Waste 49 Tramp 50 Steam 51 Blush 52 Berry 53 Catch 56 Acid

AUGUST WINNERS £50 first prize: Jenny Long, West Sussex £10 r-up: Mr J Wandless, Derbyshire; Paul Tilney, Co Durham; Joyce Pegg, Glamorgan; MK Taylor, Carmarthenshire.

Please note: prizes will be posted as soon as possible.

Take a photo or scan your answers and send to crossword@camc.com with the subject heading ctober ross ord .

Please do not include any other correspondence with your entry

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Dealer Marketplace brought to you by the Caravan and Motorhome Club

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Motorhome Dealer Group is a multi-award winning family owned business with outlets in Hampshire and Dorset.

We have more than 80 price checked motorhomes and campervans for sale at our twin site located in St. Leonards, near Ringwood, Hampshire: Countrywide Motorhomes and the VW Kamper Centre.

Three Counties Motorhomes in Poole, Dorset, deals with all vehicle hand-overs, servicing and repairs.

Countrywide Motorhomes Main A31, 215 Ringwood Rd, St. Leonards, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 2QB Tel: 01202 881089 Prices from £20,000 to over £60,000.

All vehicles supplied with a National Warranty. We are a Family owned business, run by motohome enthusiasts, and stock everything from two berth compacts to six berth family models.

VW Kamper Centre 215 Ringwood Road, St. Leonards, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 2QB Tel: 01202 855531

Coachbuilt, Low Profile and A-Class motorhomes. Campervans and Conversions, all types and sizes. Part-ex always welcome, best prices paid. We follow all the latest government guidelines to ensure you can Browse & Buy Safely.

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TAIL LIGHTS

Your observations on the fun and unusual world of touring

Always on safari Tony and Sophie Peek had to smile when they saw ‘Martha the Zebra motorhome’ (Tail Lights, August issue) as they had recently bestowed a similar zebra theme

on their Swift Basecamp! Tony and Sophie have visited – and love – Africa, and their unique design gets great comments wherever they go.

If you see something unusual on a Club site, CL or while you’re out and about, please send a picture to magazine@ camc.com or tag @candm club on Instagram and we’ll print the best

MOTLEY FLEW

Say hello to Motley, a trained free-flying macaw. He is often seen in the Peak District but recently travelled north to Balbirnie Park Club site with owner Chloe.

Site Manager Jo Barker got in touch to tell us that Motley enjoyed a bit of an adventure upon arrival at the site. After being spooked by a motor mover, he took off on a three-hour jaunt around Markinch and Glenrothes, with a search party formed in order to find him. Motley was spotted at a roundabout later that evening telling a (presumably bemused) lady that he loved her... one of his favourite expressions being “I love you”!

You can see stunning videos and pictures of Motley on Instagram @ motleys_adventurez.

114 October 2021

SUNNY DELIGHTS

How high do your sunflowers grow? We were impressed by two magnificent efforts that were sent to the magazine. Pictured on the left are flowers grown by Eileen Randall, Technical Advisor at the Club, who is hopeful that a prince will climb them and rescue her from her tower! It looks like the site staff at Bearsted have benefitted from some of south-east England’s summer sunshine, too. Over 4m and counting at the time they contacted us... but how high have yours grown this summer?

Hide and squeak Chris Huntington left this painted rock mouse behind at a Certificated Location in Devon. We won’t tell you which one, as it would be fun if another member discovered it, but we’ll give you a clue: the nearest Club site to the CL is Start Bay. As Chris jokes, it’s possible that it may have already set off for Mousehole.

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TAIL LIGHTS

Your observations on the fun and unusual world of touring

THAT’S ONE GIANT STEP

This photo was sent in by Lisa Birt, who jokes: “We are always playing around with the camera, thinking of new things to do.” That poor caravan!

Pitched up, minding its own business, and then CRUNCH...

WEIGHT A MINUTE...

This highly questionable outfit pairing was spotted by Eric Needham in Kirkenes, a town in the north east

of Norway. We’re not sure about the weight of the static unit, but the weather conditions can‘t be helping.

HOLIDAY LET

FEELING PECKISH?

Crumbs! Here‘s the most exclusive table at Broadway Club site – though it‘ s exclusively for visitors of the feathered variety, rather than Club members. Thank you to Peter Lee for the picture.

Thanks to Joyce Dunford for sharing this photo of her old family caravan – a converted glider from the 1950s. Joyce takes up the tale: “My parents used to let it out at a public house at Marshwood. People used to love it and came back year after year. My father had it wired for electric (which was produced from an engine!), and it had plumbing.

It had to have a fence around it to stop the chicken, goats and sheep getting in.

My sisters and I loved it when it wasn’t let so we could sleep in it. I remember the grey army blankets and how coarse the material was.”

If you see something unusual while you’re out and about, please send a picture to magazine@camc. com and we’ll print the best

WHEN IS A TOWER NOT A TOWER?

When is a tower not a tower? When it’s Golspie Tower, apparently. Now, we wouldn’t ordinarily condone graffiti, but clearly the person who made the addition to this sign was left feeling let-down, and simply wanted to ensure that no-one else experienced a similar disappointment. According to the Highland Historic Environment Record website it was a farm tower, and the earliest menti on of it is from the 16th century. The sign caught the eye of Joe Mclaughlin, who spotted it while on a cycle and walk from Brora Club site.

October 2021

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CYCLING YORKSHIRE

What a

wonderful WOLD

Jonathan Manning enjoys the best of both worlds on a peaceful route that visits a stunning beach and passes through beautiful countryside inland

I The roads are mostly quiet and offer superb views of the countryside

October 2021

t’s a wrench to leave the café at Hunmanby Gap, where clifftop tables overlook an epic sweep of of beach. The view across five miles of sand, from Filey down to Reighton (as well as the coffee and cake!) are just a few of the highlights of this ride through the North Yorkshire Wolds from Cayton Village Club site. It offers a chance to dip your toes in the North Sea, before pedalling through the rolling chalk hills and valleys of the wonderful Wolds.

The route follows National Cycle Routes 1 and 166 (Yorkshire Wolds Cycle Route), taking advantage of the quietest roads in the area to explore the pretty countryside.

It’s a peaceful rural landscape of grazing pasture and arable crops, and it’s worth paying attention to any barley you see growing in the

fields. Much of the harvest goes to two very appealing local businesses: the Spirit of Yorkshire distillery, in Hunmanby, produces whisky from barley grown on its own farm; and Wold Top Brewery creates award-winning beers using its own home grown barley. The route passes the gateways to each drinks producers and both offer guided (pre-booked) tours along with a shop selling their wares, so whatever your tipple there’s a chance to raise a glass at the end of the ride.

DIRECTIONS From Cayton Village Club site turn right and at the end of the road turn left, signposted to Filey. In 90m turn right on to Station Road. Continue on this road to Folkton to reach a T-junction.

1

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11 10

ABOUT THE ROUTE Start/finish: Cayton Village Club site, Mill Lane, Cayton Bay, Scarborough YO11 3NN. Distance: 23 miles/36.8km.

Time: 3 hours.

Level: Fitter cyclists and e-bike riders – some of the hills are long and steep.

Terrain: Asphalt all the way.

Landscape: Pretty Wolds countryside plus the fabulous beach at Hunmanby Gap. Refreshments: Excellent seasonal café at Hunmanby Gap; Foxhound Inn, Flixton.

12

The Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine recommends the use of Ordnance Survey maps – your ideal passport to navigating Britain

© Crown copyright 2021 Ordnance Survey Media 051/18

The sprawling stretch of sand at Hunmanby Gap

by Christine Smith

Horseshoe Inn on the left, then turn right along Sheepdyke Lane, passing Pinfold Nursing home on the right. Continue to a T-junction.

10.7km – Turn left at the T-junction, following the sign for Yorkshire Wolds Way 1. Continue for 1.2km to a large roundabout and take the second exit, signposted to Reighton and Hunmanby Gap. Turn left immediately after the roundabout, signposted to Hunmanby Gap only, and continue to the beach (and café). Then retrace the route back to the T-junction.

14.6km – Turn left at the T-junction, signposted to Reighton. Continue for 1.8km into Reighton, then turn right on St Helen’s Lane, passing the red phone box on the left. Continue under a bridge to reach an offset crossroads.

17km – Turn right at the crossroads, and continue for 1.9km, crossing the railway line and then reaching a roundabout.

19.8k – Turn left at the roundabout, along New Road, signposted to Burton Fleming, Wold Newton and Driffield. Continue for almost 4km to reach a crossroads.

23.7k – Turn right at the crossroads, signposted to Fordon. In Fordon, turn right to Flixton and Scarborough. Continue for 5km to reach a T-junction with the A1039.

31.2k – Just before the T-junction turn right on to Back Lane, and in 500m turn right on to the A1039. Continue for 1km into Folkton, then turn left, signposted to Folkton and Clayton. Stay on this road for 4km to reach a T-junction in Clayton. Turn left at the junction and then right along Mill Lane to return to the Club site.

4

5

6 7 2

4.4km – Turn left at the T-junction, following National Cycle Route 1, and in 550m turn right signposted to Hunmanby and Bridlington. Continue into Hunmanby, go straight over a small roundabout, and in 100m look out for a turn on the left.

9.2km – Turn left, following the sign for Bridlington National Cycle Route 1 and to Filey. Continue downhill for 600m, passing the

3

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8 9

DOWNLOAD THIS ROUTE AND OTHERS TO YOUR GPS DEVICE FROM OUR STRAVA PAGE: STRAVA. COM/ATHLETES/ 27202656

October 2021

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Every year, Dogs Trust cares for around 14,000 dogs in one of our 21 rehoming centres in the UK. We never put down a healthy dog. By leaving a gift in your Will, your love of dogs can live on and help us make the world a better place for them.

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Here for you, whenever you need us.

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A sample MAYDAY UK Breakdown Cover policy booklet including the limitations and exclusions that apply is available upon request. Caravan and Motorhome Club is a trading name of The Caravan Club Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for general insurance and credit activities.

HOT SEAT Stylish Leon Estate clinches overall title

32

CARS RATED INSIDE

Our experts assess entries in seven weight classes

39th staging of the industry’s premier towcar competition

Supplement sponsored

by Bailey of Bristol

TOWCAR OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2022

WINNER’S CIRCLE

SEAT Leon builds on last years success to become overall Towcar of the Year

Boasting a mixture of agility, composure, comfort and great ‘caravanability’, the SEAT Leon Estate FR 1.5TSI 150PS has triumphed in our 2022 Towcar of the Year competition.

The SEAT impressed assessors during last year’s event (held ‘virtually’ due to coronavirus restrictions), claiming victory in the ‘Caravan Weight 1,100-1,200kg’ Class.

But it went one better this July, seeing off all comers to clinch the overall title.

2 Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2022

On a welcome return to Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire, a total of 32 vehicles were put through their paces over the course of four days. The cars were split into seven weight ‘Classes’ depending on their towing limits and their abilities were put to the test on a circuit that included steep hills, a high-speed bowl and braking/ acceleration tests. As well as towing and general performance, each car’s ‘caravanability’ was examined – how easy

was it to pack kit into the boot, was a spare wheel provided and was technical data easily accessible? Prizes were also awarded for outstanding vehicles in the following categories: ‘Electric Vehicles’, ‘Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles’, ‘Family Towcar’, ‘Large Family Towcar’ and ‘Pick-up’.

Every one of the cars entered is evaluated over the following pages. For more information, including technical data, please head to camc.com/towcar. www.camc.com

Behind us all the way...

SPONSOR MESSAGE

Caravan and motorhome manufacturer Bailey is extremely proud of its long association with the Club’s Towcar of the Year competition As the UK’s premier event of its type, this competition not only supplies caravan owners with important information on potential new towcars, but also provides a practical examination of Bailey’s product performance.

In addition to supplying the caravans used in the competition, the Bristol-based manufacturer fields a technical support team, which includes representatives from chassis manufacturer Al-Ko Kober, to work at the event.

During the exhaustive four-day test, the caravans are taken on several hundred circuits of

www.camc.com

the Millbrook Proving Ground, consisting of many laps of the high-speed circular track and demanding hill route. Throughout this period, Bailey ensures that its caravans remain in a road-safe condition and that each unit is correctly matched to the relevant tow vehicle.

Working at Millbrook, Bailey has first-hand experience of the lengths to which the Caravan and Motorhome Club goes to ensure that each car entered in the competition is examined thoroughly and fairly. From the initial scrutineering, through the outfit preparation

stages, assessment of ‘caravanability’ and on to the actual driving/towing itself, every aspect of performance is tested rigorously to arrive at the final result.

Simon Howard, Marketing Director of Bailey of Bristol, said: “We have really enjoyed playing our part in this prestigious event over the past two decades. The collective effort which goes into ensuring every entrant is tested both thoroughly and fairly during the competition makes this the definitive guide for a potential new towcar purchase.”

Towcar of the Year 2022 Caravan and Motorhome Club 3

TOWCAR OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2022

CONTENTS

CLASS 1 CARAVAN WEIGHT UNDER 1,100KG

CLASS 1

Caravan Weight Under 1,100kg – page 4

CLASS 2

Caravan Weight 1,100-1,200kg – page 5

CLASS 3

Caravan Weight 1,200-1,300kg – page 6

“

Both car and caravan were totally unflappable

”

CLASS 4

Caravan Weight 1,300-1,400kg – page 7

CLASS 5

Caravan Weight 1,400-1,500kg – page 10

CLASS 6

Caravan Weight 1,500-1,700kg – page 12

CLASS 7

xxx

Class Winner and Electric Vehicles Winner ŠKODA

ENYAQ IV 80 LOUNGE 82 KWH 204 PS DSG

£41,265* MODEL RANGE**: £39,350 - £42,900 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,000KG

This category was perhaps the most interesting in the entire

competition as it consisted of two fully electric vehicles.

The Škoda Enyaq iV 80 just edged it. The judges were impressed by its turn of pace and stoic hauling ability. Both car and caravan were totally unflappable at motorway speeds and handling and comfort were sublime.

The Enyaq is a great family SUV, and has a decent range of 331 miles unhitched. That range will be reduced while towing, but as better battery technology evolves, and a greater number of easy-toxxx use, fast-charging stations appear, range anxiety will hopefully become a thing of the past.

Caravan Weight over 1,700kg – page 13

VOLKSWAGEN

ID.4 77KWH PRO PERFORMANCE 204PS

£46,370* MODEL RANGE**: £34,650 - £55,540 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1 ,000KG

KEY INFORMATION *Price as assessed including towing equipment and options beneficial to towing. **Standard model price range. ***Based on 85% of cars kerbweight (Clubs recommended towing limit) or manufacturers towing limit – whichever figure is lower.

4 Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2022

It was a close run thing between these two very competent electric cars, and the ID.4 also won the hearts of the driving judges.

Impressive stability at high speeds and ease of manoeuvring at lower speeds were highly praised.

However, slightly less sharp brakes lost the Volkswagen marks and it didn’t quite make the cut with the caravanability judges, who could only fit half the allocated load into the boot.

A range of 332 miles unhitched will be adequate for most.

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CLASS 2 CARAVAN WEIGHT 1,100-1,200KG

Class Winner and overall Towcar of the Year SEAT

LEON ESTATE FR 1.5TSI 150PS

£29,210* MODEL RANGE**: £22,455 - £30,800 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,199KG

The Leon won its class in our virtual competition last year – and it has gone one better this time, claiming the overall Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year title.

The Leon is a great all-round family estate. The judges loved the spritely, 1.5-litre TSi petrol engine, which worked well with the 7-speed auto gearbox. On the faster sections of the route it remained calm and composed, while on hilly, twistier roads it felt agile, the engine coping really well with the inclines.

There’s plenty of room on offer and the cabin is comfortable; however, the Volkswagen-inspired tech does take a little getting used to.

The decent-sized boot impressed the caravanability judges, accommodating all our touring equipment.

“

On hilly, twistier roads it felt agile

”

ŠKODA

xxx

OCTAVIA SE L ESTATE 1.5 TSI 150PS 6G MAN

£27,430* MODEL RANGE**: £22,245 - £37,515 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,198KG

Although it was stable enough when towing, the Škoda Octavia proved a little disappointing in

RENAULT

ALL-NEW CAPTUR S-EDITION TCE 140

£24,350* MODEL RANGE**: £18,295 - £30,995 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,113KG

The Captur is a good-looking small family car with plenty of room on offer and a sliding rear bench.

www.camc.com

this guise, lacking any real sparkle. The ride was comfortable but the car didn’t live up to expectations on the hill section or the handbrake test.

There was slippage when pulling away on the steep incline and, even in the dry, you needed too many revs to get it to move.

However, it struggled a bit when towing. There was more movement in both the car and van than wanted, especially at cruising speeds, and the 1.3-litre petrol engine felt sluggish when accelerating.

The manual gearbox had to be worked hard on inclines and the Renault scrabbled for traction on the hill start.

Towcar of the Year 2022 Caravan and Motorhome Club 5

TOWCAR OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2022 CLASS 3 CARAVAN WEIGHT 1,200-1,300KG

Class Winner

“

Nicely weighted and precise steering offered reassurance

VOLKSWAGEN

GOLF R-LINE 2.0 TDI 150PS DSG

£31,890*

”

MODEL RANGE**: £23,510 - £40,130 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,240KG

The Golf still has what it takes to be a fantastic towcar, and saw off the competition in this class. The caravan sat behind obediently and didn’t step out of line even at higher speeds, while a smooth and comfortable ride was delivered at lower speeds.

The Golf exhibited great control through twists and turns.

The nicely weighted and precise steering offered reassurance, and the DSG gearbox provided seamless changes. That reliable 2.0TDi engine won’t leave you floundering either; it boasted a 40-60mph sprint time of just 7.8 seconds.

The caravanability judges praised the Volkswagen for good access to tools and its failed bulb warning.

Overly complicated tech was the only bone of contention with the judges in what otherwise was a supremely competent all-rounder.

SSANGYONG

P KORANDO 1.5 ULTIMATE PETROL

£29,745* MODEL RANGE**: £19,999 - £31,995 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,299KG

The Korando has done well in the past, but it fell a little short in some areas this year. While the 1.5-litre petrol engine is willing enough, coping well with hills, the gearbox let it down as it jerkily hunted for gears. On the faster roads, the steering felt vague and the ride choppy. It did, however,

SUBARU

XV 2.0I SE PREMIUM CVT E-BOXER

£34,599* MODEL RANGE**: £31,680 - £33,680 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,270KG

Now with mild hybrid technology, the Subaru XV is a reasonable

CUPRA

FORMENTOR V2 1.5TSI 150PS

£31,900* MODEL RANGE**: £27,745 - £42,990 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,243KG

I’m sure there are caravanners out there who want a hot-hatch as an everyday car that also has the ability to tow – but the judges

take all the caravanning equipment, but the boot would need to be emptied to access tools and sealant.

towcar. The electric motor should help initial acceleration but the car is let down by its often laboured CVT gearbox. Even using the ‘manual’ paddles, it runs out of torque on steeper inclines. That said, it’s a solid little crossover that delivers a decent ride.

weren’t sure the Cupra fitted the bill. The hard ride isn’t conducive to comfortable towing and, while the Formentor’s engine was powerful enough, the combination did get ruffled at higher speeds. At lower speeds tyre noise was intrusive. A small boot and poor visibility (the rear window is on the small side) also scored negatively.

6 Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2022

www.camc.com

CLASS 4 CARAVAN WEIGHT 1,300-1,400KG

“

Class Winner

Its boot took all our caravanning kit with ease

NISSAN

QASHQAI TEKNA+ (XTRONIC)

£36,738*

”

MODEL RANGE**: £23,535 - £38,545 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,330KG

A firm caravanner’s favourite, the Nissan Qashqai just pipped the reigning champ to this class win.

When introduced in 2007, the Qashqai arrived at the beginning of the crossover/SUV boom, and it has proved itself a competent towcar ever since. This Qashqai Tekna+ has a 1.3-litre petrol engine offering 154bhp and a CVT gearbox, which Nissan has stepped to avoid high rev noise.

It’s a good all-round towcar, although the steering does feel a little light at times and it’s definitely happier cruising on the motorway than it is on twistier roads. Its flexible (and now bigger) boot managed to take all our caravanning kit with ease.

ŠKODA

SUPERB SE L ESTATE 2.0 TDI 150PS DSG

£34,330* MODEL RANGE**: £27,695 - £43,840 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,399KG

Last year’s overall champion was pushed into silver position in this category. While it remains strong in most areas, it was marked down on this occasion for its poor performance on the hill starts, and the lack of AWD made a real difference as it struggled to pull away smoothly. That said, it’s still a massively impressive, stable and comfortable towcar.

PREVIOUS WINNERS 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995

Citroën BX 16 TRS Volvo 360 GLE Ford Sierra XR 4x4 Renault 21 GTS Vauxhall Senator 3.0i CD Vauxhall Cavalier SRi Vauxhall Cavalier 4x4 2.0i Rover 416 GTi 16v Volvo 940 SE Turbo Vauxhall Calibra Turbo 4x4 Citroën Xantia 1.9 TD VSX Renault Laguna RT 2.0

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1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

Vauxhall Vectra 2.0i 16v Peugeot 406 GLX Dt 2.1 Citroën Xantia V6 Exclusive Audi A6 Avant 2.5 TDi SEAT Toledo V5 Volkswagen Golf V6 4MOTION Peugeot 406 2.2 GTX HDi Est Škoda Superb V6 2.5 TDI Elegance Subaru Forester 2.0 XT Mazda6 2.0-D Estate TS2 Kia Sorento 2.5 CRDi XE Volvo V50 D5 Sport

2008 2009 2010 2011

2012 2013 2014

2015 2016

Ford Mondeo Titanium X Estate Škoda Superb 2.0 TDI Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0TDI Škoda Superb Estate Elegance 2.0 TDI CR Volkswagen Jetta Sport 2.0TDI DSG Volkswagen Jetta Sport 2.0TDI DSG Škoda Superb Elegance Estate 2.2 TDI DSG 4x4 SEAT Leon ST FR 2.0 TDI Land Rover Discovery HSE Lux

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

Volkswagen Passat Estate Alltrack 2.0TDI SCR 4MOTION Škoda Kodiaq SE L 2.0 TDI 4x4 DSG Volvo XC60 D5 PowerPulse AWD R-Design Volvo XC40 D4 AWD R-Design Pro Škoda Superb Estate SE L Executive 2.0 TDI 150PS DSG

Towcar of the Year 2022 Caravan and Motorhome Club 7

TOWCAR OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2022

Behind the scenes No stone is left unturned at Towcar of the Year. Here’s a taster of what goes on during the course of four gruelling days...

8 Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2022

www.camc.com

From left: preparing the towing mirrors; ballasting each caravan; checking noseweights

“

We made a welcome return to Millbrook Proving Ground

”

From far left to right: cars... then caravans arrive at Millbrook; a bit of fine adjustment; heading off on a test circuit; the challenging hill climb

www.camc.com

Towcar of the Year 2022 Caravan and Motorhome Club 9

TOWCAR OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2022 CLASS 5 CARAVAN WEIGHT 1,400-1,500KG

“

Not only does it look great... it makes a fine towcar too

”

Class Winner VOLKSWAGEN

ARTEON SHOOTING BRAKE R-LINE 2.0 TDI 200PS DSG

£45,362* MODEL RANGE**: £35,545 - £52,585 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,403KG

Want something a little different sitting on your drive? Well take a

look at the Arteon Shooting Brake. Not only does it look great with its swooping lines, it makes a fine towcar too.

The 2.0-litre TDi engine and 7-speed DSG gearbox proves to be the perfect partnership when it comes to towing and, in this guise with 200PS (197bhp) of

power on offer, it really is a corker of a car.

Stability and comfort at all speeds were highly praised, as was the composed drive. On the twistier sections the nicely weighted steering and sharp handling instilled confidence.

The massive boot (565 litres) took

SUBARU

OUTBACK 2.5I FIELD

£37,696* MODEL RANGE**: £33,995 - £39,495 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,462KG

The Outback has a more powerful 2.5-litre engine than its Forester sibling and this made all the difference. The car remained

SUBARU

FORESTER 2.0I XE PREMIUM E-BOXER HYBRID

£39,387* MODEL RANGE**: £36,360 - £39,360 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,498KG

The Forester struggled in this competition – its 2.0-litre engine

all our equipment with ease, and a decent noseweight of 90kg scored valuable points.

Taller drivers (over 6ft) may struggle for head room but there’s plenty of space for passengers to relax in the rear. Visibility is good despite the sloping roofline, as was the tight turning circle.

comfortable at speed, and felt safe and stable. (Even at lower speeds it was surprisingly good, with little bounce or tugging from the van.)

Hill starts were reasonable and, once on the move, the Outback was reasonably agile and nimble. The CVT gearbox is still not the best for towing, even in manual mode.

was underwhelming and it struggled to pick up the pace.

Meanwhile, the steering felt vague, and at speed there was too much movement in the van.

However, it held well on the hill start and brakes and visibility were praised.

10 Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2022

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MEET THE TEAM

Family Towcar Winner FORD

KUGA ST-LINE X DIESEL MHEV

£35,630* MODEL RANGE**: £26,445 - £38,995 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,428KG

The Kuga is a great family SUV that also has super towing credentials. The 2.0-litre engine, offering 150PS (148bhp) of power and 370Nm of torque proved to be a real crowd-pleaser, while its 6-speed manual gearbox was a delight.

Acceleration was rapid enough and the

“

It’s a practical family car too

Ford reached cruising speeds quickly and quietly. Once there, stability and comfort while towing were exemplary. You’ll also be happy just pootling at town speeds in the Kuga, encountering very little movement from either car or van.

It’s a practical family car too, with sliding and reclining rear seats, easy to locate Isofix fixings and a nearly flat floor, so everyone gets plenty of foot space.

”

Selected from the world of motoring and caravanning journalism, our experienced driving judges spend four days putting the towcar entries through their paces. Heres a quick introduction...

Mark Sutcliffe – a regular Towcar judge and former editor of Which Caravan

Lesley Harris – experienced car tester and the Club magazines towcar reviewer

Clare Kelly – longtime caravanner and editor of Caravan magazine

Andrew Ditton – a Club member since 1987 and former Tow Car Tester for Caravan magazine

VOLKSWAGEN

TIGUAN ELEGANCE 2.0 TDI 4MOTION 150PS DSG

£38,440* MODEL RANGE**: £25,455 - £45,560 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,459KG

The Tiguan proved a little disappointing – the bouncy and unsettled ride at lower

speeds was not anticipated, and it didn’t improve much with speed. While the 2.0TDi engine and DSG gearbox worked well, the Tiguan just didn’t have the level of body control expected.

Interior comfort, braking and visibility were praised, but even with the rear seats slid forward it couldn’t accommodate all the equipment.

Dan Cartwright – a passionate caravan advocate since 1989, Dan founded Caravan Times in 2010 and is its chief car tester

Technical judges Deborah Black and Greg Potter from the Clubs Events Committee measured the cars’ acceleration and braking capabilities using specialised apparatus.

Our caravanability judges Keith and Caroline Rogers spend hours checking whether each car will accommodate a typical caravanners kit, as well as access to such things as spare wheels, towing electrics and technical information.

www.camc.com

Towcar of the Year 2022 Caravan and Motorhome Club 11

TOWCAR OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2022 CLASS 6 CARAVAN WEIGHT 1,500 – 1,700KG

Class Winner VOLVO

XC40 RECHARGE PURE ELECTRIC AWD

£51,125* MODEL RANGE**: £49,950 - £56,700 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,500KG

The Volvo XC40 has been a regular class winner since 2019 (clinching the overall trophy in the 2020 competition), so the XC40 pure electric’s victory here was no great surprise.

Hats off to Volvo for producing an electric car that not only has a really decent towing weight, but

combines stunning performance with safe and stable hauling ability.

Acceleration is rapid – our judges recorded a blistering 7.4sec sprint to 60mph and an equally impressive 3.4sec for the 40-60 dash. All delivered seamlessly.

Volvo claims the car has a 259 mile range on a full charge, with 80% being achieved in just 40 minutes on a fast charge. Mileage will obviously decrease while towing, but as technology progresses hopefully soon you will be able to take your caravan further afield.

MAZDA

CX-5 2.2 184PS AWD SPORT AUTO DIESEL

KIA

SORENTO 2.2 CRDI ‘3’

£37,165*

£43,135*

MODEL RANGE**: £27,545 - £37,185 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,545KG

While the CX-5 looks great and is a fine solo car, it struggled in the towing department.

In theory the 2.2-litre diesel engine with its 184PS (182bhp) should have stormed round the circuit, but it felt decidedly sluggish, and at town speeds the car was pitchy and uncomfortable.

On the inclines and faster routes the six-speed automatic gearbox struggling to find the correct gear while towing its caravan. On the positive side, the Mazda coped well with hill starts and load space and visibility were praised.

MODEL RANGE**: £39,360 - £47,610 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,661KG

SEAT

TARRACO FR SPORT 2.0TDI 200PS 4DRIVE

£42,551* MODEL RANGE**: £29,155 - £41,200 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,552KG

The Tarraco, the largest vehicle in SEAT’s SUV stable, is a really competent towcar. Offering four-wheel drive and a flexible array of seven seats, it’s a great family choice too.

12 Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2022

Again, the 2.0TDi engine and 7-speed DSG combination worked well, doing a sterling job of hauling the large van round the circuit. Refined and nicely balanced, the Tarraco is fun to drive, there’s little body roll and it’s nimble on the twistier roads too.

It was very happy towing at motorway speeds and just as handy at 30mph and under.

The Kia Sorento – another firm favourite in the caravanning world – left our judges a little underwhelmed.

It certainly looks the part and has a decent towing capacity, but it fell short in several areas. The ride was described as “wallowy” by one judge and nerviness through corners and high-speed sections resulted in the caravan feeling twitchy and unstable. At lower speed, it was uncomfortably bumpy too. However, the Kia was praised for its load space, comfortable seats and general visibility.

www.camc.com

“

The Ford reaches cruising speeds quickly

”

Large Family Towcar Winner FORD

S-MAX FHEV ST-LINE

£39,885* MODEL RANGE**: £33,335 - £43,010 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,560KG

Can you believe the S-Max was first introduced way back in 2006 and is still going strong? Strong enough, in fact, to beat off some tough opposition and win the Large Family Towcar category.

In FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) guise the S-Max has a 2.5-litre petrol engine and an AC synchronous electric motor, which produces 190PS (187bhp) of

VOLVO

XC40 RECHARGE PLUG-IN HYBRID T5 FWD

£43,195* MODEL RANGE**: £37,375 - £43,095 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,540KG

It was interesting to have two XC40s in the same category, and see how differently they behaved.

This plug-in version, with its 1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine

power channelled through the CVT transmission.

And it all works really well.

There is the characteristic CVT wheeze when the car is pushed hard, but it’s not too noisy or intrusive. The Ford reaches cruising speeds quickly and, once there, it’s stable. Even in the crosswinds, it wasn’t fazed.

Round the twistier routes it was refined and fluid, with sufficient heft to keep its large, multi-berth caravan in check through corners.

The S-Max offers great family flexibility, with masses of space in five-seat mode.

and 82bhp electric motor, definitely isn’t as engaging to drive as its ‘pure electric’ stablemate. There was more movement in the van than expected, and it didn’t feel as planted as its sibling either. The car’s attitude when hitched and the quality of the cabin were praised, as was easy access to technical data in the handbook.

CLASS 7 CARAVAN WEIGHT OVER 1,700KG

Class Winner PORSCHE

CAYENNE E-HYBRID 8-SPEED TIPTRONIC S

£78,713* MODEL RANGE**: £63,230 - £129,370 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 2,015KG

Porsche entered the competition for the first time – and walked away with a class win thanks to the highly capable Cayenne E-Hybrid.

The Cayenne delivered jaw-dropping performance, hauling its large twin-axled caravan with ease. Pop it in Sport mode, and it becomes a real driver’s car. Taut and lively steering, together with a wonderfully controlled chassis, left our judges in no doubt that the Cayenne is a seriously good towing vehicle.

The V6 3.0-litre engine, aided by a 100kW electric motor, proved to be more than capable of dealing with any inclines, and there was a smooth transmission between the power supplies.

The beautifully crafted interior and boot space were also commended by the judges, however you will need to make room for the charging leads.

www.camc.com

Towcar of the Year 2022 Caravan and Motorhome Club 13

TOWCAR OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2022 CLASS 7 CARAVAN WEIGHT OVER 1,700KG (CONTINUED)

Plug In Hybrid Vehicles Winner VOLVO

V60 RECHARGE PLUG-IN HYBRID T6 AWD

£47,000* MODEL RANGE**: £45,825 - £52,200 CARAVAN WEIGHT:*** 1,764KG

A returning podium topper from last year’s virtual event, the V60 Recharge has claimed another top prize – in the newly created Plug In Hybrid Vehicles category.

The Volvo is a great example of

VOLVO

V90 RECHARGE PLUG-IN HYBRID T6 AWD

£58,700* MODEL RANGE**: £56,025 - £56,800 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,785KG

Driving cars back to back can really highlight their differences.

Compared with its V60 sibling, the V90 was disappointing in

VOLKSWAGEN

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES TRANSPORTER KOMBI 150PS

£42,631* MODEL RANGE**: FROM £37,890 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,798KG

If you need to carry lots of kit and passengers – or both – the Transporter could be worth a look.

how a hybrid can be stylish and a competent towcar, and you’ll be impressed with its ability to haul a large family van without hassle.

Acceleration is enhanced by the hybrid boost, getting you up to cruising speeds quickly and efficiently. Once there, the ride and handling are sublime – great road holding and lovely steering input make the V60 a delight to drive.

many aspects of this towing test. It pitched and tugged at lower speeds, and felt unstable at relatively low cruising speeds too. Similarly the engine felt lacklustre and underpowered. However, driver ergonomics were praised, as was the V90’s ability to accommodate all our caravan equipment.

The caravan sat behind very securely, even at speed; however, the manual gearbox and manual handbrake did give cause for concern on the hill start.

Visibility was praised, as was the clear layout of the dash, with its easy-to-use buttons and physical dials, although cab noise came in for some criticism.

ISUZU

D-MAX V-CROSS AUTOMATIC

£39,856* MODEL RANGE**: £25,134 - £39,244 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,789KG

It was a close-run thing between the D-Max and SsangYong P Musso for the Pick-Up category win, with the 14 Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2022

Isuzu ultimately settling for silver.

Like its rival, it’s a solid workhorse.

There’s a fair amount of bounciness, but it pulls the caravan along well and is reasonably comfortable. Hills were dealt with easily.

However, the gearbox holds onto the gears for too long, contributing to a noisy drive. www.camc.com

LAND ROVER

DISCOVERY HSE R-DYNAMIC D300

£70,185* MODEL RANGE**: £53,655 - £68,050 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 2,071KG

Pick-Up Winner SSANGYONG

P MUSSO RHINO AUTO

£36,840* MODEL RANGE**: £26,760 - £36,360 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,921KG

The SsangYong Musso has been a contender for the Pick-Up win for a few years, narrowly missing out on the top spot. However, this is its year!

The long wheelbase Rhino is a genuine workhorse, offering bags of towing ability and excellent stability. The ride was a bit choppy (expected from an unladen pick-up) and acceleration isn’t going to set any hearts racing – but what you get for a very attractive price is an honest, no-fuss towcar.

The double cab is big enough to accommodate five adults with ease, and there’s room for all your caravanning kit.

It has been around for over 40 years but the Disco is still a firm favourite with the caravan fraternity, and still provides a benchmark in this heavyweight class. All-round ability, performance and refinement make it a hard act to beat.

Tugging at lower speeds was soon forgotten, as it easily accelerated up to cruising speed. Solid and reliable, it has a superb engine, with good boot space in five-seat set-up.

VOLVO

XC90 B5 (MILD-HYBRID DIESEL) AWD

£57,410* MODEL RANGE**: £56,135 - £69,810 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,845KG

The Volvo XC90 has plenty going for it. It provided a nice supple ride and great towing ability at all speeds. It’s not as unshakeable as the Land Rover Discovery, for example, and its acceleration isn’t earthshattering – but it’s, quiet, refined and beautifully built. More flexible than rivals, it offers individual rear sliding seats so you can improve either luggage or leg space.

LAND ROVER

DEFENDER 110 D300 MHEV

£63,215* MODEL RANGE**: £43,315 - £82,870 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,975KG

The styling of the Land Rover split the judges but it’s certainly a capable towcar. The mighty 3.0-litre

6-cylinder engine with mild hybrid tech and all-wheel drive make light work of the steepest inclines but stability at lower speed was disappointingly bouncy and pitchy.

The deceptively large boot space took all the test load. “Rivals the Disco for sheer pulling power,” said one judge.

SSANGYONG

P REXTON 2.2 DIESEL ULTIMATE AUTOMATIC

£41,460* MODEL RANGE**: £37,995 - £40,665 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,917KG

The Rexton is a capable towcar and offers good value for money if you want to haul a large van. www.camc.com

However, it’s not the most refined vehicle with ride and handling a bit ponderous.

Additionally, the gruff engine note is intrusive and could be quite wearing on a longer journey.

A good-sized boot is a positive, along with the seven seats, but plugging in the electrics proved very awkward.

Towcar of the Year 2022 Caravan and Motorhome Club 15

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