Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine – August 2019

Perfect blend

Our idyllic seven-site Scottish tour is sure to leave you in high spirits

President: Thomas Coke, 8th Earl of Leicester

Chairman: Grenville Chamberlain OBE

Director General: Nick Lomas

Club contact details

For comprehensive contact details, see camc.com/contact

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Legal helpline 01275 378728

Gary Martin says:

Letters and emails we receive from you sometimes touch on the subject of caravan weights. With cars getting lighter and lighter, and with diesel and petrol cars to be replaced by hybrid and fully electrical-powered motors by 2040, it is becoming increasingly important that caravan makers look to the future.

Well, one designer is doing just that. Stephen Wheeler, founder of Wheelhome, which for 30-odd years has been producing ingenious lightweight micro-campers, has turned his attention to the trailer caravan. Stephen confesses to not “doing normal” and his new design is certainly different. To be more accurate, it is not like anything you’ve seen before. Described by Stephen as “the first

“To be more accurate, it is not like anything you’ve seen before ”

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

This month’s cover credit: Blackpool Pleasure Beach

two-berth caravan in the world designed specifically to be towed by hybrid, plug-in hybrid (such as the VW Golf GTE he uses) and pure electric cars”, Dashaway has an MRO (Mass in Running Order) of only 713kg and measures just 5ft 8in wide and 6ft 1in high (with roof lowered). It can also be towed by almost any small petrol/diesel car currently on the market, such as the Ford Fiesta or Suzuki Swift.

I believe that Dashaway is an important development in the world of touring caravans – turn to pages 86-88 for a full road test of this intelligent and unique creation.

Enjoy the issue!

Editorial Editor: Gary Martin

Deputy Editor: John Thynne

Assistant Editors: Stuart Egan, Stephen Hollis

Design: Michaela Easey

Postal address: Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine, East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 1UA

enquiries@camc.com

Club Magazine editorial: 01342 336640

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Business Development Manager: Ian Lea 01342 336753 ian.lea@camc.com

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Production Controller: Tara Erroll 01342 779371 tara.erroll@camc.com

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

the value of togetherness

YOUR XC60 AND EXCLUSIVE MEMBER BENEFITS

We believe in the power of working together. That’s why every detail of a Volvo, from its innovations to its design, is made to fit perfectly into your life. And also why we’ve partnered up with the Caravan and Motorhome Club to give you more. As a member, you can enjoy an exclusive £5,890 saving on our multi-award-winning SUV, the XC60 T5 R-Design FWD Automatic. And you can discover our full range of benefits that will help you make the most of your car.

VISIT CAMC.COM/VOLVO OR CALL THE VOLVO CAR BUSINESS CENTRE ON 03333 204 147

which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. **There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures. The CO2 figures shown, however, are based on the outgoing test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. Preliminary data. Please contact your retailer for latest information.

*Finance subject to status. Subject to availability at participating retailers only on vehicles ordered between 01/07/2019 and 30/09/2019. At the end of the agreement there are 3 options: (i) Renew: Part exchange the vehicle, (ii) Retain: Pay the Optional Final Payment to own the vehicle or (iii) Return the vehicle. Further charges may be made subject to the condition or mileage of the vehicle. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants must be 18 or over. Guarantee/Indemnity may be required. Santander Consumer (UK) PLC trading as Volvo Car Financial Services, RH1 1SR. Retail offer only. Excludes fleet operators and business users. Fuel consumption and CO2** figures for the Volvo XC60 T5 R-Design FWD Automatic, in MPG (l/100km): WLTP Combined 30.1 (9.4) – 34.0 (8.3). NEDC CO2 emissions 169 – 165g/km. Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving

26

Touring

A tour of famous Speyside and Highland whisky distilleries via a range of top Club sites

38 DIRECTORY UPDATES

Updates to your Sites Directory & Handbook

42 ACTIVITY BREAKS

Andrew Ditton and his dog Dougal enjoy a railway walk 46 FOREIGN TOURING

John Rawlings explores the cities of Rome, Pisa and Lucca during an Italian adventure

71 REGIONAL SITE SPOTLIGHT

We focus on a site in your area (you can see five different site articles on the Magazine App each month)

Tests

Suzuki Vitara AllGrip

Coral 670 DC

Regulars

7 DIRECTOR GENERAL’S VIEW

Nick Lomas talks about the iconic Airstream caravan –and explains how you can try one for yourself

11 YOUR PHOTOS

The best pictures from your touring adventures

25 THE CAMPERVAN COOK

Martin Dorey’s take on a French classic

55 LETTERS

Your comments and views

58 MEMBER OFFERS

Exclusive deals and discounts for Club members

62 COUNTRY MATTERS

The diminutive but fascinating stickleback

67 EVENTS DIARY

Pitching spots near public events

76 ASK YOUR CLUB

Damp checks on your caravan

78 PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Kitchenware which is ideal for touring

81 PRACTICAL

Advice on how to go off-grid

94 CROSSWORD

A chance to win Club gift tokens

97 FAMILY MATTERS

PLEASE RECYCLE RESPONSIBLY

The wrapping for this magazine is recyclable at larger supermarkets

Making – and then flying – your own kite from scratch

To advertise, call 01342 336817

How we are investing your money in the site network to improve facilities for families

Opinion

Nick Lomas says:

Whether or not you would actually want to own one (or could even afford to buy one), you can’t deny the appeal of an Airstream. There is no other caravan on the roads and campsites of the UK that is as instantly recognisable as the iconic ‘silver bullet’.

The Airstream has changed little in exterior looks since it was launched way back in the 1930s by Wally Byam, the US pioneer of the ‘travel trailer’ (that’s American for ‘caravan’), and the brand continues to go from strength to strength as it nears its century. Indeed, this cool and quirky caravan has seen film-makers, rock and pop stars, actors, technology companies and pioneers all clamour to be associated with it.

This magazine is also available at £2.29 (Google Play) or £2.99 (App Store) per issue to non-members who download the Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine app.

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.

Movie star Matthew McConaughey is a proud Airstream owner, pop queen Taylor Swift posed with one for a Vogue magazine photo shoot in 2017 and American socialite and model Kourtney Kardashian enjoyed a holiday in one last year. Closer to home, Club President, the 8th Earl of Leicester, has owned one since his 40th birthday – more of that in a future issue of this magazine.

Rock fans may have spotted not one, but two distinctive shiny Airstreams playing starring roles in Bohemian Rhapsody, the recent Oscar and BAFTA-winning biopic of Freddie Mercury and Queen. As well as the silver trailer seen backstage at Wembley Stadium for Live Aid before the band goes on stage to wow the crowd at the climax of the film, sharp-eyed viewers will have noticed a ‘silver bullet’ motorhome being used for scenes when the band is touring the US.

And if you have ever visited NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida, you will have no doubt seen the Airstream Astrovan motorhome that was used as a support vehicle for the early Space Shuttle missions.

Sticking to the space theme, one of the most famous photographs I can recall is of President Nixon speaking through the glass of an Airstream trailer quarantine vehicle to Apollo 11 heroes Buzz Aldrin, Neil Armstrong and Michael Collins on their return to Earth (50 years ago in July!).

“...channel your inner rock god, film star or astronaut and experience the glamour of an Airstream”

Although the Club can’t offer you a pitch on the moon, we can give you the chance to enjoy a holiday in an Airstream at a select few sites in the UK as part of our Experience Freedom brand’s glamping offering (as well as Airstreams, we have luxury glamping pods, yurts and camping pods).

The idea behind Experience Freedom is to encourage those people who have never stayed on a Club site – or considered caravanning – before to give it a try. Since we launched Experience Freedom in 2017, some 3,000 holiday nights have been booked (55% of these bookings from non-members), with the Airstreams proving a popular choice.

So, when will you channel your inner rock god, film star or astronaut and experience the glamour of an Airstream? Or treat family or friends for a special occasion?

Happy touring!

Keep the adventures rolling at the UK’s biggest leisure vehicle show. It’s the only place to see new for 2020 models under one roof and speak directly to the manufacturers behind the latest innovations. Improve your towing and manoeuvring skills with FREE tuition and get inspiration and advice ahead of your next adventure.

Tickets from £7.75 * WITH CODE CMC2

Parking Included, FREE Show Guide and FREE Entry for Kids*

To discover more and book your tickets, visit

YOUR PHOTOS

Your most memorable touring moments caught on camera

North Yorkshire

SALT OF THE EARTH

When you think of seaside resorts on the North Yorkshire coast, Scarborough and Whitby spring instantly to mind – but Saltburn-by-theSea, with its sandy beach, pier and cliff lift (one of the world’s oldest water-powered funiculars), is also worthy of your time. Nearest Club sites: White Water Park and The Howard, Rosedale Abbey. Chris Baldock

LOVELY LOOE

The small coastal town and fishing port of Looe on the south-east Cornish coast is a delightful place to stroll around, and out of season is so peaceful and quiet. The Club site of the same name

ON A HIGH

Motorhoming has allowed us to explore so much of the UK. Here we are parked up in the heart of the Highlands, our dog Teddy taking advantage of the break to stretch his legs. We lingered here awhile, soaking in the dramatic views and enjoying the complete tranquillity. Perfect bases from which to explore the Highlands include Brora, Bunree and Morvich Club sites.

Tony Morris

North-East Wales

DOUBLE DUCTS!

Chirk, on the Wales-England border, is a fascinating place to visit, not least for this scene where an aqueduct that carries the Llangollen Canal through the Ceiriog Valley stands right alongside a railway viaduct. The aqueduct, with its 10 arches, stands 70ft high and 710ft long. Designed by civil engineer Thomas Telford, it was completed nearly 220 years ago. Nearest Club site: Lady Margaret’s Park (1.7 miles).

Kevin Harding

North Yorkshire

TOURING TAILS

These two handsome chaps are Scamp and Rascal, standing in the shadow of Carn Llidi (a 594ft hill) above picturesque Whitesands Bay on the South-West Wales coast – the beach here is a Blue Flag standard, award-winning stretch of sand ideal for the touring family staying at St David’s Lleithyr Meadow Club site.

SWEET SHERRY

By day, Sheringham Boating Lake can be a hive of activity as youngsters (and those young at heart) play with their model boats – it’s fascinating to watch. By night, it’s a tranquil scene – made even more serene when sunsets are as eye-catching as this. Incleboro Fields and Seacroft Club sites are both less than four miles from Sheringham.

Jan Brown

HAVING A WHALE OF A TIME

Whitby’s famous Whale Bone Arch is a clue to the town’s whaling heritage. First erected way back in 1853, the original bones were replaced by a set donated to the North Yorkshire town by Norway in 1963 (the originals are now on display in the Whitby Archive Centre). The present bones are from Alaska and have been in situ for 16 years. Nearest Club site: North Yorkshire Moors (5.5 miles).

Ian Jefferson

BAY OF PLENTY

While following part of the stunning North Coast 500 en route to the Club’s Kinlochewe site, the light suddenly broke through the clouds to form a magical and spectacular scene over the beautiful and remote Gruinard Bay. Just wonderful.

Terry Pearson

FREE PRIZE DRAW: Send us a photo and you will be automatically entered into a free monthly draw to win some fantastic prizes! See camc.com/competitions for full prize draw terms and conditions

North-West Scotland

Pembrokeshire

Norfolk

Family values

Gary Martin recalls childhood motorhoming holidays and looks at how the Club is helping families to enjoy unforgettable UK breaks

School summer holidays for my younger brother Paul and I meant one thing – an adventure in mum and dad’s motorhome. Memories from those exciting breaks all over the UK – we toured Devon, Dorset, Nottinghamshire, north and south Wales, East Anglia and the Lake District in our Commer and Ford-based coachbuilts – are still vivid today, 35-40 years on. We look back on those holidays with great fondness and every time we reminisce about our experiences as a family, you simply can’t wipe the smiles from our faces!

Caravanning and motorhoming holidays are such an ideal way for families to enjoy quality time together in the great outdoors. That is why the Club invests so much time and effort into creating sites that are perfect for those of you with children.

Indeed, while all of our 160 sites welcome families, 106 boast specific child-friendly facilities – from super playgrounds to baby and toddler washrooms.

Let’s take a look at what’s on offer for families on our UK site network this summer...

PLAYGROUNDS

Since 2013 the Club has spent £1 million on on-site play equipment to help youngsters enjoy their holidays even more. Details of some of the larger investments are as follows...

n Earlier this year, we installed a 10-metre-high play tower (the highest on the network) at Scarborough West Ayton, North Yorkshire – this is sure to be a hit with your kids!

n We replaced the tired playground at Treamble Valley in Perranporth, Cornwall, with great

new equipment, including climbing towers, tunnels, swings and adventure trails.

n The playground at Ferry Meadows Club site in Peterborough was doubled in size in 2015, and now features jungle-themed climbing frames, swings, slides and tunnels. You’ll find a safe, enclosed games area on site, too.

In fact, some 96 of our UK sites now have playground facilities to enable your kids to let off steam, while 66 sites also offer recreational areas, giving youngsters somewhere safe to run around, play ball games and enjoy other activities.

MINI GOLF

Have you got a budding Tiger Woods or Rory McIlroy in your family? Then pack your putters and get into the swing of things on one of our seven on-site mini golf courses. Head for...

n River Valley Holiday Park Affiliated Site (AS), Hidden Valley Holiday Park AS and Knock Caravan and Camping Park AS – all in the Republic of Ireland

n Looe Club site and Wooda Farm Holiday Park AS – both in Cornwall

n Moreton-in-Marsh Club site in the Cotswolds

n Rookesbury Park Club site, Hampshire

TOURER EXPLORER SITES

A world of discovery and adventure awaits our younger members at 60 ‘Tourer Explorer’ sites, where children can turn into nature detectives, wellie wanderers, budding artists, bug collectors and treasure hunters – be sure to ask for both the activity booklets and the clue sheet for the hidden ‘Club Cache’ at site reception upon your arrival. All our Tourer

Explorer sites also have three giant games for you to play – have a go at Connect 4, dominoes and hoopla.

GAMES ROOMS/ENTERTAINMENT

Five of our sites, including Hillhead in Devon and Norfolk’s Seacroft, offer an entertainment complex, providing facilities such as swimming pools, restaurants and bars, while 15 sites have games rooms – great spaces for your kids to gather and continue to have fun when the sun isn’t shining. You’ll find table tennis and pool tables in some of these rooms.

BABY AND TODDLER WASHROOMS

We know how challenging it can be to keep babies and toddlers clean in the confines of a caravan or motorhome, which is why we provide baby/toddler washrooms with a small bath on 116 of our sites.

SAVE MONEY

n Kids stay free – not only do under-fives stay free on all Club sites, children aged 5-17 stay for just £1 per night on selected sites and dates.

See camc.com/kidsdiscounts

n Finally, don’t forget the savings you can make at hundreds of family attractions across the UK thanks to our exclusive Great Savings Guide –order your free guide at camc.com/ greatsavingsguide. We will help you make your money go further.

Scarborough

West Ayton

Opposite: Ferry Meadows

And now for something completely different...

NEC set for the big show

The Motorhome and Caravan Show 2019 will take place at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham from 15-20 October

The six-day show will feature hundreds of exhibitors from the touring industry, with all the big caravan, motorhome and accessory manufacturers showcasing their new models and products across the NEC’s halls.

The Club will be present as usual (at stand 7.2), so please do come and say hello. Our team will be happy to talk and answer queries – whether you have a technical question, if you’re thinking of taking a trip of a lifetime, or if you’d simply like to stop by for a chat about your favourite pastime. We will also be offering free 20-minute motorhome manoeuvring taster sessions – a great opportunity if you would like to build your confidence, learn new skills and get helpful tips from our qualified instructors.

Look out for more information in a future issue, as well as an exclusive ticket offer for Club members.

No... your eyes are not deceiving you and no magic is involved! This is the 3X from French company BeauEr. Featuring three telescopic modules, it increases in size from 4m² on the road to a more roomy 12m² on site. Imports will soon be available from Harrogate-based manufacturer

RP Motorhomes Ltd. The English company shares BeauEr’s interest in slide-out technology and – clearly – a passion for forward-thinking, innovative design. As the two side modules slide out, the floor and furniture unfold, and the caravan is ready to use within 60 seconds

(to the amazement, presumably, of any passers by).

BeauEr’s 3X caravan will be on display at the NEC show in October – see the story on this page for show details. However, if you’re keen to see more beforehand, we’ll be testing one in next month’s issue.

Division and Region AGMs

The Club has 10 Divisions and Regions covering the length and breadth of the UK and Ireland: the Irish, Scottish and Welsh Divisions, and the South East, South West, Northern Home Counties, Central, Anglia, West Central and Northern Regions. Each area is run by an elected committee of member volunteers, whose task is to facilitate discussion of Club matters and to try and solve any local, Club-related issues. Club members who would like to find out more are welcome to attend an Annual General Meeting (AGM) in their area. If you have any questions about an AGM’s location or facilities the Secretary of each Division or Region can help you – contact details can be found on the Club website in the ‘About Us’ section. Please find set out below a list of dates, times and locations of forthcoming AGMs.

Date/time of AGM Division/Region

Sat 12 Oct, 11am Welsh Division

Sat 12 Oct, 2pm Scottish Division

Sat 9 Nov, 2.30pm South East Region

Sat 9 Nov, 2.30pm West Central Region

Sat 16 Nov, 2pm South West Region

Location

The Golf Club, Builth Wells LD2 3NF

Dewars Centre, Glover St, Perth PH2 0TH

Tillingbourne School, Chilworth GU4 8NB

Rushbury Village Hall, Church Stretton SY6 7JD

Cobham Social Club, Broadstone, Wimbourne BH21 3DA

Sat 16 Nov, 3pm Northern Home Counties Region Edward Peake School, Biggleswade SG18 0EJ

Sun 17 Nov, 11am Anglia Region

Sat 30 Nov, 2.30pm Central Region

Sat 30 Nov, 2pm Northern Region

Hallowtree Scout Camp, Ipswich IP10 0JP

Kegworth Hotel, Kegworth, Derby DE74 2DF

Pontefract Racecourse, Pontefract WF8 4QD

Vote for your favourite CL

There’s still time to vote for your favourite Certificated Location (CL) in our annual CL of the Year awards – let us know which ones you love to visit!

As most members are aware, CLs are small, five-outfit, privately-owned sites in diverse locations – such as working farms, pub grounds and fisheries. We want you to nominate your overall favourite, as well as the site you think is the ‘best newcomer’. Avon Bank Meadow CL (pictured) was named CL of the Year in 2018... will it prove to be as popular this year?

You can make your choices by visiting camc.com/clvote or by filling in the form that appeared on page 40 of the April 2019 issue of the magazine. The closing date is 29 September 2019

In brief

Following member feedback, we are pleased to offer an online ‘page turner’ version of the Club magazine, which is available at caravanclub.co.uk/ news-features/club-magazine/ archive (please log in to the website to view). At present all of this year’s issues are available and you can also download a PDF of the magazine if you wish to read offline.

A new range of bicycles has been designed with the over-65s in mind. Models in Islabikes’ ‘Icon’ range are lightweight, have low step-overs and very low gearing. The Ludlow-based company has previously enjoyed success designing and selling bikes for children – see islabikes.co.uk for details.

If you are visiting northern France this year, you may be interested in a new visitor centre near Arras, Pas-de-Calais (above), which is operated by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC). Officially opened by HRH The Princess Royal in June, The CWGC Experience offers a fascinating insight into the work that the organisation carries out in remembrance of the 1.7m Commonwealth war dead. To find out more about the CWGC and the new centre, please see cwgc.org.

Recent issues of the Club magazine have featured Dorset’s spectacular Jurassic Coast. We encourage our members to visit this coastline but please stay safe when doing so, particularly on or next to cliffs. For advice see jurassiccoast.org/ what-is-the-jurassic-coast/ staying-safe-and-enjoyingthe-coast and take note of local warning signs.

Join us at CarFest South

Don’t miss the opportunity to join us at CarFest South this summer. You can see an incredible line-up of cars and enjoy great performances by the likes of The Human League and Culture Club at this popular festival, while the Club-operated pop-up campsite has showers, toilets and EHU. CarFest South will take place at Laverstoke Park Farm in Hampshire from 23-25 August. As we went to press a limited number of pitches were still available so don’t delay if you’d like to go. For more information and to book your pitch please see camc.com/carfest. We hope to see you there!

Try a training course this year

Whether you are new to touring, in need of a refresher or looking to hone your skills, the Club’s training courses will help you to feel safe and comfortable behind the wheel. Our Practical Caravanning, Caravan Manoeuvring and Motorhome Manoeuvring courses are led by

friendly, experienced instructors and we have 16 different training locations across the UK – so there’s plenty of flexibility if you’re looking for an option close to home. To find out more about each course and venue, and to book a spot, please see camc.com/training

CASUAL CARAVAN INSTRUCTOR WANTED

Sparsholt College, Hampshire | £15.25 per hour including holiday pay

We are looking for an enthusiastic, experienced caravanner to teach course participants the practical elements of caravanning, from hitching up to reversing around an offside corner. The training courses normally take place at weekends at the Sparsholt campus in Hampshire. You will need to be competent in loading, towing and manoeuvring a caravan and ideally possess a recognised driving instructor qualification.

To discuss the role informally please contact Eileen Bolton on 01962 797429. The closing date for applications is 25 September 2019. Application packs are available from hr@sparsholt.ac.uk or by calling 01962 797438.

SHOWTIME

AUGUST

16-18 Worcestershire: The Western Motorhome Show, Three Counties Showground, Malvern (Warners Group, call 01778 391123 or see outandaboutlive.co.uk)

SEPTEMBER

6-8 Somerset: The South West Motorhome Show, Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet (Warners Group, details as above)

20-22 Lincolnshire: The Motorhome Show Season

Finale, Lincolnshire Showground, Lincoln (Warners Group, details as above)

27-29 Hampshire: Caravan and Motorhome Show, New Forest Showground, nr Lyndhurst (Apple Tree Exhibitions, call 01805 603943 or see appletree-exhibitions.co.uk)

Note: details subject to change –please telephone event organisers in advance for up-to-date info.

From The Archives: News from the Club’s Collection

In August, it will be 100 years since the Golden Arrow racer broke the world land speed record, and families visiting the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu and the Club’s New Forest site can take part in a range of fun and creative summer activities to commemorate the achievement.

Sponsored by the Caravan and Motorhome Club and the Shell Heritage Art Collection, the Creative Fun sessions will take place in the museum (Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays between 6-29 August, from 11am-3pm) and at New Forest Caravan and Motorhome Club Site (Wednesday 7, 14, 21 and 28 August, 2.30pm4.30pm). Activities will include speed-themed tasks and crafts. Creations can then be entered into the Creative Fun Competition for the chance to win great prizes. Remember Club members can get one third off the full admission price for up to four people via the Great Savings Guide – see camc.com/

greatsavingsguide for further information and terms and conditions. To find out more please visit nationalmotormuseum.org.uk/ learning/activities-and-outreach. Richard Noyce

Simply enter the size and weight of your motorhome or towing outfit and the Avtex Tourer Two 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.

Club Shop

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.

• Road Warnings

–Caravan / Motorhomes specific road warnings for bridge heights, weight limits, sharp curves, steep grades, narrow roads and more.

–Elevation map tool –be prepared for upcoming steep gradiants. Unlimited updates for Safety camera alerts.

• Find the right campgrounds and stopover places with Tourer Two EXCLUSIVE data bases

–Exclusive pre-loaded Caravan and Motorhome Club Site rich data bases including Certified Locations and Overseas Sites with detailed information.

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

–17,000 NKC customer rated campgroundsand stopover places in 38 countries.

–9,000 European campsites inspected by ACSI every year and search results based on amenities.

–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

Join the Big Butterfly Count

Michael Lister

It is with sadness that we report the passing of Geoffrey Michael Lister (known as Michael), who worked as a volunteer at the National for over 20 years with wife Margaret. Starting initially on gate duties, the couple were always the first to arrive and the last to leave the site, while more recently they organised the administration lines. Many will remember Michael’s kind and considerate manner, his love of people and his willingness to assist others.

For many years Michael and Margaret also helped with the Club’s Motorhome Design and Drive awards. During this period Michael earned the nickname ‘Mickey Blue Eyes’ on account of his sparkling blue irises. The couple were involved with the Lincolnshire Centre, organising rallies and looking after the teenage committee’s activities before later running rallies abroad in France and Spain for the Club, with great success.

Our condolences to Margaret, children Russell and Jayne, Michael’s grandchildren as well as other family members and friends.

Peter Lethbridge, Sr

It is with sadness that we report the death of Peter Lethbridge, Sr, who passed away in June aged 84. Many of our members will know Mr Lethbridge from their visits to Damage Barton Affiliated Site in Woolacombe, Devon, which has been owned and run by the Lethbridge family since 1962.

The Club sends its condolences to the family and all at Damage Barton at this sad time.

Sutton error

On page 14 of our July 2019 issue we stated that our ‘50% off midweek’ discount applies to Sutton-on-Sea Club site. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Apologies for any confusion caused. See camc.com and click on ‘Shop and offers’ for details of deals across the network.

Many Club members take part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch each year, but did you know that the Butterfly Conservation organisation holds a similar event?

The Big Butterfly Count is a nationwide survey that helps to assess the health of our environment. Launched in 2010, it has become the world’s biggest survey of butterflies and day-flying moths, with over 100,000 people taking part in 2018.

This year’s Big Butterfly Count began on 19 July and will finish on 11 August. If you would like to take part, all you need to do is spend 15 minutes counting and logging the butterflies you see at home, at school, at work or even on a touring site; or you can head for a field, forest or park.

More information can be found at bigbutterflycount.org/about, where

Magazine wrapper

We would like to thank members who have contacted us to discuss the environmental credentials of the wrapper we use to package the Club magazine.

As an outdoors leisure organisation we are very conscious of the environment and have, over the years, made a number of changes to how we do things to reduce environmental impact, including printing the magazine on paper that is not only from sustainable sources but is also recyclable. We are aware of potato starch and other bioplastics that could

you can also find links to an identification chart and a free app that makes surveying easy. n Club members are entitled to 50% off the first year of membership with Butterfly Conservation. If you would like to support the work of this charity by joining please see camc.com/ butterflyconservation for details.

You recommend…

National Trust properties near Club sites

n “Lanhydrock – possibly the best National Trust property we’ve visited.” (Club site: Camelford)

n “Baddesley Clinton (just down the M40) was well worth a visit. We went on a guide-led tour. Plenty of interesting facts but not long enough to make your brain switch off!” (Chapel Lane)

n “National Trust members will enjoy Kipling’s former home at Bateman’s in Burwash, Scotney Castle and Sissinghurst.” (Battle)

n “We visited a lovely National Trust place called Saltram House near Plymouth, great doggy-friendly place, loads of walks along the river and through woodland, set in 500 acres of land.” (Modbury)

be used to wrap the magazine, however the independent research available suggests that they are no better for the environment than our current wrapper. We will continue to work with our partners and suppliers to monitor the latest research.

On the MAGAZINE APP

n “You absolutely have to visit Chatsworth House and Gardens. It far outstrips any National Trust property we’ve ever been to.” (Chatsworth Park)

this month: more site features, video reviews of Suzuki’s Vitara, Wheelhome’s Dashaway and Adria’s Coral 670 DC, more on touring in Italy (see p46) and a cycle from Bath

Please be assured that the current wrap is 100% recyclable. Some

Leicestershire set for the next National

An architectural wonder overlooking the stunning Vale of Belvoir, Belvoir Castle (below) is the venue for next year’s National, and we look forward to welcoming members to the grounds of this magnificent stately home. As announced last issue, next year’s event will take place from 22-26 May –watch this space for more information!

n We would like to thank everybody who donated to the Chairman’s Charity at this year’s National. A total of £1,932 was raised for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, which will be rounded up to £2,000.

kerbside collections will accept the wrapper, along with other recyclable plastics, but you can also take it to supermarket plastic bag collection points and other centres operated by local authorities.

Dominic Crockford (pictured) was the winner of the Crossbreed Dog category at The National, and not Daniele Caffrill as stated in last month’s issue. Well done Dominic (and Rocky)!

Unlock the cash from your home

Request your FREE guide today… 0800 825 0032 or visit fluentlifetime.co.uk/camc

We’re here Mon 9am - 5:30pm, Tues to Thurs – 9am - 7pm, Fri 9am-5pm

If you’re a homeowner aged 55-95, you could unlock a tax-free cash lump sum from your home to give your retirement finances a boost. A lifetime mortgage will reduce the value of your estate and may affect your entitlement to means-tested benefits so it’s important to get impartial expert advice. At Fluent we are impartial and are able to deal with all lenders on the market.

You should think carefully before securing a loan against your home. This is a lifetime mortgage. To understand the features and risks ask for a personalised illustration. An initial consultation is free of charge and without obligation. For release of less than £25,000, our fees are 1.65% subject to a minimum of £995. For releases £25,000 or above, our fees are 1.65% subject to a minimum of £1495. Our fees are only payable should you proceed with Equity Release.

BOOK NOW Call 01342 327490, see the UK Sites app or visit camc.com/ beaches. Please call Affiliated Sites directly

Bucket (and spade) list

The UK is blessed with many beautiful beaches within easy reach of Club sites

1 Whitesands Bay, Pembrokeshire

One of the best surfing spots in the UK, you can combine a visit to this Blue Flag-standard swathe of sand with a walk along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path – a terrific day out.

Stay at: St David’s Lleithyr Meadow Club site, from £19.70*

2 Pembrey Beach, Carmarthenshire

This huge beach – another Welsh gem – is backed by dunes with extensive sandbars at either end, and it’s dog-friendly between May and September. Behind the dunes you’ll find The Saltings nature reserve and Pembrey Country Park.

Stay at: Pembrey Country Park Club site, from £24.00*

3 Porthkidney Sands, Cornwall

Close to St Ives and Hayle, this north-facing beach can stretch up to a mile out to sea at low tide – plenty of room for giant sandcastles, then. Dogs are welcome at all times.

Stay at: Marazion Club site, from £13.80*

4 Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall

Enjoy the feel of soft sand between your toes and take a dip in the turquoise sea at this secluded bay. The word ‘paradise’ springs to mind.

Stay at: Trevedra Farm AS, from £17.00*

5 Rhossili Bay, Gower Peninsula

This regular award-winner is a three-mile stretch of heaven. Fine, golden sand, the remains of a shipwreck, lovely cafés and an impressive clifftop walk to

Worm’s Head... it’s a must-see!

Stay at: Gowerton Club site, from £18.90*

6 Brean Sands, Somerset

Stretching from Brean Down to Burnham-on-Sea, around seven miles away, this vast, sweeping beach is perfect for a long walk. Dogs are allowed at all times but must be kept under control.

Stay at: Hurn Lane Club site, from £21.10*

7 Carradale Bay, Argyll and Bute Situated on the east coast of the Kintyre Peninsula, it’s just a short walk from your pitch to the beach (below). There are spectacular views across to Arran.

Stay at: Carradale Bay AS, from £28.00*

8 Luce Sands Beach, Dumfries and Galloway

At low tide, this dog-friendly beach extends for three miles from Sandhead. Luce Bay and Sands is designated a Special Area of Conservation thanks to its dune, seashore and seabed habitats.

Stay at: New England Bay Club site, from £13.50*

9 Scarborough North Bay, North Yorkshire

Take a break from the amusement arcades and ice-cream parlours at Scarborough’s wilder North Bay. It attracts surfers and jet-skiiers, while Peasholm Park and the Open Air Theatre are a short walk away.

Stay at: Scarborough West Ayton Club site, from £21.30*

10 Sutton-on-Sea Beach, Lincolnshire

Often much quieter than the sandy stretch to the north at Mablethorpe, this is a lovely spot for a day out. There are colourful huts and a clean, wide promenade, while a nearby children’s pool may tempt any little ones who are wary of paddling in the North Sea.

Stay at: Sutton-on-Sea Club site, from £20.20*

*Prices quoted are the lowest for one adult and a standard pitch per night in August 2019, except for the Carradale Bay price, which is based on two adults and an EHU pitch per night in August 2019. All sites have availability at the time of going to press.

In brief

Summer 2020

Don’t forget that you can now book your stays at UK Club sites a year in advance – so you can secure your pitches now for July and August 2020.

Crystal Palace

We are pleased to share the news that the lease at Crystal Palace Club site has been extended to 19 October 2020. Plans to redevelop the area have been temporarily postponed. There is a possibility that the lease will be extended further – we will let you know when we have any news to share.

Commons Wood

Commons Wood Club site follow reopens on 6 September 2019 following toilet block refurbishment.

Extended openings

Two popular Club sites have extended opening dates for the current touring season.

Hampshire site Black Knowl –within the beautiful New Forest – and Bladon Chains in Oxfordshire will both remain open until 3 January 2020

Shower time

Members staying at Kinlochewe Club site can take advantage of a recently completed dog and bicycle wash.

The Campervan Cook

Writer, cook and campervan owner Martin Dorey is an expert at rustling up tasty treats on tour. This month he plans a French adventure and a classic one-pot stew

I’m excited. More excited than usual, actually, if that were possible. After a year of travelling in Ireland, I am prepping myself, partner Lizzy and the van for a trip to the west coast of France. We are meeting up with my girls, Maggie and Charlotte, and three of their friends, for a week in the sun (mon dieu!) near La Rochelle. We’ve sorted out our European Health Insurance Cards and have travel and motorhome cover with the Club, which means we can be confident we’ll be looked after if anything happens. Essential items such as headlamp converters, warning triangle, hi-viz and spare bulb set are packed too. There’s loads of information on the Club website about preparing for your European travels (see caravanclub.co.uk/

The Cook recommends...

It’s been a while but the last time I visited La Vague on Avenue de la Plage in Benodet, it was excellent.

And as a main...

When in France you can’t go wrong with moules-frites, especially when the mussels (moules) are cooked with white wine and garlic. It’s like the French version of fish and chips. Take me there now!

MEMBER SINCE...

Campervanner Martin Dorey joined the Club in 2016

overseas-holidays/useful-information) – I recommend you take a look before embarking on your adventures.

Then there are the flip-flops, swimsuits, wetsuits, surfboards, kayaks and bikes. Have I forgotten anything? Of course – we’ll be travelling with our Camping Key Europe Card which comes free with our Red Pennant cover. It acts as a proof of identity on sites and gives access to a range of discounts (all I have to remember is where I stashed it). Now the hard work is over,

RECIPE No.19 Coq au Van!

Serves four

Ingredients

6 skinned and boned chicken thighs

the fun part is planning which sites to stay at while we wend our way down to the Île de Ré. With more than 180 sites bookable through the Club, we know we’ve plenty of options.

Our first night will more than likely be in the wonderful beach-side town of Benodet, on the south coast of Brittany. It’s got a great beach, fab restaurants and a really nice atmosphere. Can’t wait! I think I might even have an excuse to make my favourite one-pot stew, ‘Coq au Van’, when we get there!

CUT OUT AND KEEP RECIPES

250g smoked lardons or smoked bacon

2 large white onions

2 carrots

3 cloves of garlic

10 medium button mushrooms

½ bunch celery

6 small new potatoes

¾ bottle heavy red wine

1 chicken stock cube

1 pint water

A few sprigs of fresh thyme

1 bay leaf

Olive oil

1 heaped tbsp strong white flour

Seasoning

White crusty bread and butter to serve

Method

Puns aside, this is a classic. I’ve chosen to do it as simply as possible – save time and avoid faffing by roughly chopping and chucking it all in. It’ll be fine and all you’ll get is flavour, flavour and more flavour...

In your cookpot (over the fire or on the hob) brown the chicken with the lardons in a splash of olive oil for five minutes or so. Remove from the pot and put aside, leaving the juices. Add the carrots, onions, celery, garlic, bay leaf and thyme to the pot and soften for a few minutes, stirring from time to time. Add the stock cube and stir. Add the chicken and lardons to the veg and stir. Sprinkle the flour over the top and mix in well. Now add the wine and up the heat a bit. Bring to the boil, then add the water (just enough to cover everything) and bring to the boil again. Allow to simmer with the lid on for around 30 minutes. Add the mushrooms and potatoes and allow to simmer again for another 30-40 minutes. Serve with the crusty bread straight from the pot.

MALT TEASER

Do you have to be a whisky drinker to enjoy a malt whisky tour? “Not necessarily,” says Andrew Ditton after his seven-site Scottish adventure...

Culloden Moor

Club Site

Full-facility site offering mostly hardstanding pitches and a children’s play area. The forest next door means plenty of walking opportunities.

Pitches: 77 | Open: 15 Mar-4 Nov 2019

Member view

“We’ve found the site to be spacious , open and reasonably quiet. Harrison (age 11) loves the play area!”

Richard, Jen, Madelaine, Amelie, Harrison and Hugo Dalton, caravanners

Site staff view

“While we get a lot of North Coast 500 visitors, a lot of members use this site as a base and take days out from here to places like Cawdor Castle. Out unique location means we offer countryside, city, and coast!”

Lisa and Keith Jeffs

Food & drink

The Mustard Seed, 16 Fraser Street, Inverness IV1 1DW

Contact: mustardseedrestaurant.co.uk, 01463 220220

“As a fan of all things Scottish, I jumped at the opportunity to find out a little more about this liquid gold”

Inverness Victorian Market, Academy Street, Inverness IV1 1JN

Contact: thevictorianmarket.com, 01463 710524 Culture

Outdoor fun

Inverness Kart Raceway, Fairways Business Park, Sir Walter Scott Drive, Inverness IV2 6AA

Contact: invernesskartraceway.co.uk, 01463 717055

Member offer available: camc.com/ greatsavingsguide

For the family

Inverness Leisure (pool), Bught Lane, Inverness IV3 5SS

Contact: highlifehighland.com/il/ swimming-pool, 01463 667500

Whisky is an indelible feature of Scotland’s heritage. The Scottish Gaelic word for whisky is ‘uisge beatha’, which translates as ‘the water of life’ in English. Nowadays, the life that whisky breathes into Scotland is far-reaching, thanks to its positive effect on both the Scottish economy and tourism.

You don’t have to be a whisky drinker to appreciate and enjoy learning about the hugely important place the spirit holds in Scotland’s culture. As a fan of all things Scottish, I jumped at the opportunity to find out a little more about this liquid gold on a seven-site tour. Along the way

I’d be visiting a diverse selection of Club sites, Affiliated Sites and Certificated Locations.

ENTRY POINT

If your knowledge of whisky is a little sketchy then there is no better place to start a tour than Inverness, known as ‘The Gateway to the Highlands’. It’s also a great place to visit if you would like a Scottish history primer.

Culloden Moor Club site lies a few miles to the east of the city, and it is a favourite with members who are starting or finishing the hugely popular North Coast 500 route. The site

Blending at Strathisla Distillery

also seems to be a magnet for those from the Highlands and Islands seeking a taste of the hustle and bustle of the city.

It’s a full-facility affair set in a glorious hillside location, with an adjoining forest; the woodland is handy for dog owners who can breathe in gulps of pine-infused fresh air while going for a walk. Motorhomers – and whisky drinkers – will be pleased to learn of the hourly bus service from the site into Inverness.

This first port of call is in the geographical centre of my tour, which may seem unusual, but it’s because Inverness plays host to an event called

‘The Whisky Experience’, and this really is the best place to begin, particularly for novices. It takes place at 7pm in MacGregor’s Bar on Monday and Thursday nights, and booking is essential.

THE KNOWLEDGE

While tasting sessions at distilleries can sometimes feel a little rushed, The Whisky Experience is a leisurely two-hour affair, in which participants are offered five different malts to sample. Hosting the evening that I attended was Bruce MacGregor, the affable owner of the bar and member of Scottish

The Steadings at the Grouse and Trout 2

Certificated Location

Rural adults-only CL attached to a country hotel and restaurant, offering fully-serviced harstanding pitches and superb views.

Open: 1 Mar-30 Nov 2019

Contact: 01808 521314

Sites Directory & Handbook p526

Site view

“Our CL is very popular with motorhomers, especially those doing the North Coast 500. As an adults-only CL we offer a quiet environment... and we offer a cosy bar for members to while away the evening, and restaurant meals for those who don’t wish to cook. Members definitely come here to be pampered! We attract a lot of walkers who enjoy the challenging hills in the area.”

David and Mary Allen

The Camerons Tea Room and Farm Shop, B852, Inverness IV2 6YA

Contact: lochnesscottage.com, 01456 486572

Food & drink Culture

Urquhart Castle, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6XJ

Contact: historicenvironment.scot/visit-aplace/places/urquhart-castle, 01456 450551

Outdoor fun

RSPB Loch Ruthven, B851, Croachy IV2 6UA

Contact: rspb.org.uk/reserves-andevents/reserves-a-z/loch-ruthven, 01463 715000

For the family

Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, Drumnadrochit, Loch Ness IV63 6TU

Contact: lochness.com, 01456 450573

Crocs

Crocs

folk super-group Blazin’ Fiddles. With entertaining storytelling, talented playing and the help of fellow musician Calum, Bruce took us through the five different whiskies one by one. It was the most informative and entertaining evening you could wish for – and a true cèilidh.

DID YOU KNOW?

You can find the most up-to-date details of the featured sites on the Club website. Alternatively, turn to the relevant pages in your Sites Directory

Inevitably, the stories featured the Battle of Culloden, the final confrontation of the Jacobite rising of 1745. Bruce highly recommended a visit to the Culloden Battlefield, which lies but a mile and a half from the Club site.

Here you’ll find a superb, interesting visitor centre which explains the background to the

conflict and what happened during the clash. You’ll certainly come away with a deeper understanding of Scottish history.

Another ‘must-do’ activity while you’re staying at Culloden Moor is dolphinspotting at Chanonry Point on the Black Isle. Despite being just a few miles from the site as the crow flies, it takes about 45 minutes to drive there, and as of 2018 parking charges are applicable. I would not recommend taking a large motorhome there; free-of-charge and more spacious car parks are available in Fortrose, but they are a bit of a hike away.

“It was the most informative and entertaining evening you could wish for – and a true cèilidh”

Grantown-on-Spey 3

Affiliated Site

Full-facility Affiliated Site offering mostly hardstanding pitches in a variety of screened pitching areas. There is direct access to the Dava Way.

Pitches: 128 | Open: all year

Tent camping available

Member view

“The site is very well run and the staff are lovely. It’s in a beautiful setting, and it’s really handy to be able to walk into town and not need the car.”

Richard and Sue Francis, caravanners

Site view

“The site is very popular with couples, and with families during the school holidays. People visit mainly for the walking and the cycling, as well as doing the Whisky Trail and fishing for salmon.”

Helen and Graham Wise

Food & drink

Grantown East: Highland Heritage and Cultural Centre, Grantown-on-Spey (East Railway Station) PH26 3AD

Contact: grantowneast.com, 01479 816262

Culture

Outdoor fun

Strathspey Railway, Aviemore Station, Dalfaber Road, Aviemore PH22 1PY

Contact: strathspeyrailway.co.uk, 01479 810725

Member offer available: camc.com/ greatsavingsguide

For the family

Landmark Forest Adventure Park, Carrbridge PH23 3AJ

Contact: landmarkpark.co.uk, 01479 841613

Cawdor Castle and Gardens, Cawdor, Nairn, IV12 5RD

Clockwise from above: Strathisla Distillery; the city of Inverness, with Ness Bridge in the foreground; MacGregor’s Bar in Inverness hosts the fascinating ‘Whisky Experience’ twice a week

Leon Harris

Huntly Castle

Affiliated Site

There are grass and hardstanding pitches that are arranged into family-friendly areas (centred around adventure playgrounds) and adult-only areas.

Pitches: 59 | Open: 29 Mar-27 Oct 2019

Tent camping available

Member view

“We’ve been caravanning over 40 years, and we come here for the peace and quiet of the adult-only section. We like the fact that you can walk into town where there are plenty of places for coffee and lunch.”

Alisdair and Anne Gray, caravanners

Site staff view

“Our site appeals to both couples and families, especially those doing the recently-conceived ‘North-East 250’ route.

The area is teeming with wildlife: deer, woodpeckers, and owls, and then otters and kingfishers on the adjacent river.”

Helen Shuttleworth

Food & drink

A Taste of Speyside, 10 Balvenie Street, Dufftown, Keith AB55 4AB

Contact: atasteofspeyside.com, 01340 820860

Huntly Castle, Castle Avenue, Huntly AB54 4SH

Contact: historicenvironment.scot/ visit-a-place/places/huntly-castle, 01466 793191 Culture

Outdoor fun

Portsoy Harbour, Shore Street, Portsoy AB45 2RX

“See the amount of skill and raw energy that goes into the creation of each cask”

NESS ADDRESS

Culloden Moor Club site is a good base for exploring Loch Ness, but The Steadings at The Grouse and Trout CL is even closer. Proprietors David and Mary have set up what could be described as a ‘boutique’ adults-only CL next to their country hotel, a short distance from the quieter south/east side of the loch. It’s an ideal place to go and spoil yourselves for a couple of days, with an adjoining bar and restaurant.

I came across a great resource that helped me plan the start of my tour: the Malt Whisky Trail website (maltwhiskytrail.com) which features locations within the ‘Speyside’ whisky region. Here you will not only find information about distilleries to visit, but also associated businesses that you might not have previously considered. For example, an essential stage of the whiskymaking process is maturing the spirit in casks, from which the liquid gathers much of its flavour and colour. As a result, I decided to check out the Speyside Cooperage near Dufftown.

smooth, palatable whiskies, there are distilleries galore here that welcome visitors, and many are within easy reach of Grantown-on-Spey AS.

However, I found the Speyside Cooperage to be a great place to start. Here you’ll gain an appreciation of the whisky cask, and see the amount of work, skill, and raw energy that go into the creation or the recycling of each and every one. Outside, the sight of thousands and thousands of casks stacked over a vast area is one to behold.

As well as sampling some of the woodland walks and cycling trails at Grantown-on-Spey AS, another essential day out is a visit to the Strathspey Railway (strathspeyrailway.co.uk). The active can cycle from the site to Broomhill Station in about half an hour (be warned, the road can be quite busy), but I took advantage of the motorhomefriendly free parking. Tugged along behind a steam locomotive, the trip to Aviemore and back is delightful. Afternoon tea (bookable) is available on board most days, and every month there is a special Whisky Tasting Train; see the website for details.

Contact: hnoc.nordicski.co.uk, 01466 794428 For the family

Huntly Nordic and Outdoor Centre, Hill of Haugh, Huntly AB54 4SH

Close by is Grantown-on-Spey Caravan Park, a super-smart, all-singing, all-dancing Affiliated Site just 10 minutes’ walk from the town of the same name, and adjacent to the Dava Way and other woodland walks.

The strath (valley) of Spey is the most renowned whisky-producing area in Scotland. Famed for its

By now it was time to get to a distillery proper, and few are better set up for visitors than world-famous Glenfiddich, just three miles from the cooperage. The ‘Explorers Tour’ offers a fascinating look at the distillery, taking you through the whisky-making process from the malting of the barley to the bottling of the spirit.

Hemis / Alamy

Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness

5

Sunnybrae

Certificated Location

Friendly CL commanding stunning views over the Moray Firth. EHU to every pitch, part hardstanding, and free Wi-Fi.

Open: all year | Contact: 01542 488276 Sites Directory & Handbook p527

Member view

“While it’s a compact CL, it’s very nice indeed. We give the owners 15/10 – they are so welcoming and friendly. The views from the pitch are fantastic, and we feel the pitch fees offer great value.”

John and Joyce Walker, caravanners

Site view

“We took over and re-opened the CL four years ago after some investment, and we quickly gained a lot of repeat visitors. Most people come for the peace and quiet, and motorhomers love that there are buses to Elgin and Aberdeen every 30 minutes.”

Food & drink

Cullen Bay Hotel, Cullen, Moray AB56 4XA Contact: cullenbayhotel.com, 01542 840432

Culture

Duff House, Banff AB45 3SX

Contact: historicenvironment.scot/ visit-a-place/places/duff-house, 01261 818181

Outdoor fun

RSPB Troup Head, Banff AB45 3JJ

Contact: rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/ reserves-a-z/troup-head, 01346 532017

For the family

Scottish Dolphin Centre, Spey Bay, Moray IV32 7PJ

This tour is currently not fully accessible to wheelchair users (diversions can be made though, so call ahead for advice), but the creation of a new Visitor Centre opening in 2020 should improve things.

Naturally, the tour concludes with a tutored nosing and tasting of three malts. If you’re driving, you are instead offered a miniature to take home with you to enjoy later.

The next site on my itinerary was Huntly Castle AS in Huntly, a few miles south-east of the handsome town of Keith. This well-equipped site is arranged into family-friendly and adult-only pitching areas. Proximity to the town and the adjacent riverside walk make this another site popular with motorhomers.

After a pleasant morning spent wandering into Huntly for a cup of coffee and slice of naughtiness, I set off on a beautiful drive to Keith for a 2 o’clock date at the Strathisla Distillery. The tour here was a little different; I was going to tackle ‘The Blending Experience’.

Mike Deering and Brenda Young

Contact: dolphincentre.whales.org, 01343 820339

After an interesting overview of the oldest – and most picturesque – operating distillery in the area, we were taken into a vault inside the warehouse, where non-drivers could sample full drams of some very special whiskies. We drivers were thoughtfully given a set of empty miniature bottles

Illustration: Louise Turpin

and a funnel, so that we could decant our samples and take them home.

After the tasting, the real fun started in the Blending Room, which looks like a cross between an upmarket bar and a chemistry lab.

from left: Clan

memorial on the Culloden Battlefield;

Distillery samples; salmon leaping in the Falls of Shin; inside Glenfiddich Distillery

Drumbhan 6

Certificated Location

Rural CL on a croft with EHU, hardstanding pads and sweeping views from most pitches. Poultry on site. Call ahead for advice if you have a large outfit. Open: all year

Contact: 01863 766144

Sites Directory and Handbook p525

DID YOU KNOW?

You can book Club site pitches via the UK Sites app, at camc. com/searchandbook or by calling our Advance Booking Service on 01342 327490

Please call Affiliated Sites (AS) directly

The non-drivers definitely had the better deal, as they could mix and taste their blends before bottling them. The rest of us had to guess how it would turn out before creating our blends and taking home the results in a 20cl bottle.

To conclude a fantastic afternoon, we retired to the bar for mocktails, coffee, or, for those inclined, yet more whisky. It was £60 for the tour, and I thought it was outstanding value.

At weekends ‘The Whisky Train’ runs between Dufftown and Keith, meaning you can combine distillery visits with a journey on a heritage diesel train. It’s worth the trip to Dufftown station to sample one of the many tempting cakes at ‘The Sidings Cafe’, a quirky and friendly place that makes good use of two static carriages.

Continuing on, a sea view was enjoyed at Sunnybrae CL, near Buckie. Offering vistas over of the Moray Firth from every pitch, and the ability to walk into the charming fishing village of

Findochty in about 15 minutes, Sunnybrae is well worth a stop.

I then headed north for Brora Club site, but stopped for a couple of days at Drumbhan, another relaxed CL not far from Bonar Bridge. Here you have the opportunity to visit two more distilleries: Balblair and Glenmorangie, both of which are within the ‘Highland’ whisky region. A tour of the former comes highly recommended by the CL owner Russell Smith, but I fancied some outdoor time.

BIKE AT BALBLAIR

Nearby Balblair Forest offers waymarked mountain biking and walking trails. What attracted me was the 3km ‘blue’ mountain bike route, which combined uphill forest road fun with a swooping singletrack downhill return. More experienced mountain bikers might prefer the 7km ‘black’, while walkers are offered two short trails graded as ‘strenuous,’ no doubt due to the climbs involved.

Just up the road from Balblair Forest lie the Falls of Shin, famous for the leaping salmon making their way back upstream. Although I was a little early in the season, my patience was rewarded with

Member view

“We’re doing the NC500. I recommend taking the ‘Bonar Bridge Loop’ and visiting the countryside centre at Lairg, which we really enjoyed. The CL offers a fab view and a friendly owner.”

Martin Howell, campervanner

Site view

“Our CL is popular with couples and dog owners who enjoy the good mix of low-level forestry and upland walks in the area; we lend out our maps for this. There’s lots of wildlife here too: pheasants, chaffinches, and siskins to name a few.”

Russell Smith

Food & drink

Mac & Wild, Falls of Shin, Achany, by Lairg IV27 4EE

Contact: macandwild.com/mac-wilddevonshire-square/falls-of-shin-2, 01549 402888

Tain Museum (aka Tain Through Time), Tower Street, Tain IV19 1DY Contact: tainmuseum.org.uk, 01862 894089 Member offer available: camc.com/ greatsavingsguide Culture

The Big Shoot (clay pigeon shooting), via A837 (location details supplied on booking)

Contact: thebigshoot.co.uk

Member offer available: camc.com/ greatsavingsguide Outdoor fun

For the family

Falls of Shin, Achany Glen, Lairg IV27 4EE

Contact: fallsofshin.co.uk, 01549 402231

Clockwise

Mackintosh

Strathisla

Chanonry/Alamy

Brora

Club Site

Popular site offering both grass and hardstanding pitches, and just 100 yards away from a glorious sandy beach.

Pitches: 54 | Open: 22 Mar-4 Nov 2019

Tent camping available

“We are doing the North Coast 500 and this is a convenient place to stop. It’s wild and beautiful; we love the open space, stunning skies, and expansive beach.”

Graham and Angie Woodcock, motorhomers

Site view

“Our site is very popular with members doing the North Coast 500. Its unique location makes it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, golfers, walkers, and cyclists. Direct access to the beach is a real draw.”

the sight of two salmon leaping, but it was the dog-friendly Mac and Wild Cafe Restaurant at the Visitor Centre that thrilled just as much – good food, friendly service and an uplifting atmosphere.

Deborah and John Rhodes

Food & drink

Cocoa Skye, London House, Station Square, Brora KW9 6QJ

Contact: 01408 621954

Culture

Brora Heritage Centre, Coal Pit Road, Fascally, Brora, KW9 6LE Contact: 01408 622024

Outdoor fun

Highland Wildcat Mountain Bike Trails, Golspie

Contact: highlandwildcat.com, info@highlandwildcat.com

For the family

Sutherland Swimming Pool, Back Road, Golspie KW10 6RW

Contact: highlifehighland.com/golspie, 01408 633437

Brora Club site sits on the North Coast 500 scenic route, and visiting members enjoy the local wildlife, including the Arctic terns that nest in the nearby dunes. A hundred yards or so from the site, they border an enormous sandy beach, and there’s also a town with a rich industrial history to explore. It is certainly worth calling in at the Brora Heritage Centre (free to visit) to find out more. I had a wonderful chat with the custodian who was a mine of fascinating local information and snippets, and she really brought my visit to life. Again, the parking is motorhome-friendly!

Keeping with the theme of whisky, the Clynelish Distillery lies a mere half-hour walk from the Club site, although it might take a little longer to wobble home after one of its three tours. This is a long-standing distillery, and while you possibly might not have heard of its single malt, you might just have heard of one of Clynelish’s most famous blends: Johnnie Walker.

Throughout my whisky-themed holiday, it became very clear from all sides that, while single malts are eminently appealing, blends can be just

as good, if not better, and should not be overlooked. “Look upon a single malt as a musician,” said one of my tour guides. “On their own they play sweet music and can be appreciated solo. But if you carefully blend a few of them together you get an orchestra, offering a much more complex and richer sound.” I’ll drink to that. Slàinte mhath!

All distilleries offer take-away samples for drivers in place of on-site tasters. Please drink responsibly.

MEMBER SINCE...

Caravanner Andrew Ditton joined the Club in 1987

Cycling | Moray Coast Ride

You’ll get a soul-cleansing blast of sea air on this 14-mile ride along the National Cycle Network between Cullen and Garmouth, taking in historic fishing settlements and commanding views of the Moray Firth as you go. From Cullen, follow the old railway path over the impressive viaduct and pass through the villages of Portknockie and Findochty, before veering inland towards Buckie. The upper reaches of the River Spey herald the end of the ride. Route plan: sustrans.org.uk/ncn/map/route/ moray-coast-ride

Member view

Brora Heritage Centre

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 – check with the CL owner before booking.

NOTE: CL entries are identified by a unique reference/map number in the 2019/20 Sites Directory & Handbook They are listed here using the same number, unless otherwise shown.

NEW CLS

ENGLAND DERBYSHIRE

ASHBOURNE (4.5m N) – Tissington Caravan and Motorhome Site, Mr Edward and Miss Kathryn Carr, Town Head Farm, Tissington, Ashbourne DE6 1RA. 07967 814844; 07970 486111; tissingtoncl@gmail. com. 53.070043, -1.738197. OAY; 1 acre; adv bkg req; dogs; some sl pitches; levelling blocks req; hdstdng; grass; 16A; peaceful; views; info rm; dog walk fr site; public trans in 1m; town, shop & pub in 1m; coarse fishing, golf & watersports in 5m; fr £15 (pitch + 2 ad).

DORSET

BRIDPORT (7.7m NW) – Greenacres Marshwood, Mrs Zoe Cassidy, Greenslades B&B, Marshwood, Bridport DT6 5QB. 01297 678400; 07929 010978; zoe.cassidy@ me.com; greenacresbnb.co.uk. 50.794649, -2.877117. OAY; 1.5 acres; adults only; adv bkg req; dogs; some sl pitches; levelling blocks req; grass; max o’fit length: 14mtrs; peaceful; views; lawned; wkg fm; B&B; self catering acc; pub in 1m; fr £8 (pitch + 2 ad).

LANCASHIRE

POULTON-LE-FYLDE (8.4m NNE)

– May Tree CL, Mr Jon and Mrs Sarah Clegg, May Tree Lane, Pilling, Preston PR3 6DE. 01253 790457; 07792 190810; sarahlowcockclegg@ yahoo.co.uk. 53.913786, -2.925336. 1 Mar-30 Sep; 1 acre; adults only; adv bkg req; dogs; battery charging; grass; peaceful; views; lawned; wkg fm; dog walk fr site; public trans in 1m; game & coarse fishing, golf, watersports within 5m; sandy beach in 2.7m; fr £10 (pitch + all occ).

LINCOLNSHIRE

LINCOLN (10m SE) – Barff Farm Fenside, Mr Gary and Mrs Michelle Kitchener, Fen Lane, Metheringham, Lincoln LN4 3AQ. 01526 322124; shell_gaz@hotmail. co.uk. 53.148714, -0.379597. Open 1 Mar-31 Oct; 0.5 acres; dogs; hdstdng; grass; 16A; peaceful; pub on site; views; wc (exc); gaz; rest; dog walk fr site; town, shop & pub in 1m; coarse fishing & golf in 5m; fr £15 (pitch + 2 ad).

NORFOLK

HOLT (5m E) – Russdenill Lodge, Mr Russell & Mrs Denise Green, Osier Lane, West Beckham, Holt NR25 6PL. 01263 823530; 07741 209506; deegreen2011@yahoo. co.uk. 52.903824, 1.181542. OAY; 0.5 acre; adults only; adv bkg req; dogs; grass; peaceful; lawned; town & pub in 1m; coarse fishing & golf in 5m; shgl beach in 4m; fr £8 (pitch + 2 ad).

WALES

ANGLESEY

LLANGEFNI (1.8m ENE) – Llys Y Wenol, Mr David and Mrs Gwen Parry, Clai Cerrig, Lon Cae Cwta, Llangefni LL77 7SD. 07876 205753; gwenoliad@gmail.com. 53.263595, -4.28979. OAY; 1 acre; dogs; hdstdng; grass; 16A; max o’fit length: 13mtrs; peaceful; views; lawned; wkg fm; Wi-Fi; dog walk fr site; public trans in 1m; town, shop & pub in 1m; game & coarse fishing, golf, watersports & sandy beach in 5m; fr £15 (pitch + 2 ad).

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 with a pub symbol are located on the site of a public house – some have a pub located nearby (up to three miles away), so please check with the owner before visiting. CL reference number refers to the Directory 716 BUNTINGFORD – Shaw Green Farm. Correct price: from £13.

Please remember that CLs are privately-owned businesses. If you make a booking and subsequently don’t show up, a 20% loss will be incurred by the CL owner if that pitch cannot be resold. So, if you have to cancel your booking, please give the CL owner as much notice as possible. CL owners have individual cancellation policies so charges may be incurred if you cancel or don’t turn up. Routes – an important note. Routes provided by autoroutes or satellite navigation systems may

777 SANDWICH – Delf Nursery. Add mobile: 07791 583659. 816 CLITHEROE – Bank Top Farm. New tel nos: 01200 440260 and 07816 953699 (Robert and Janet).

904 GRANTHAM – Mill Farm. Correction: No drive over waste disposal point at this site.

960 SKEGNESS – The Willows. This CL does take dogs.

1141 STALHAM – Holly Farm. This CL does take dogs.

1212 NOTTINGHAM – Criftin Farm. New email: info@ criftinenterprisecentre.com.

1317 SHREWSBURY – Wrekin View Caravan Site. Now has serviced pitches.

1345 FROME – Alice Street Farm. New email: clivevincent444@ gmail.com.

1725 FILEY – Saxon House Farm. Correct price: from £9. 1913 LARGS – South Whittlieburn Farm. New owner: Katie LindsayBrown. New email: katie@ whittlieburn.co.uk.

1985 SOUTH RONALDSAY –Pool Farmhouse. This CL is now adults only.

2170 FISHGUARD – Newton Cross. Add tel numbers: 01348 840080 and 07413 685481.

May Magazine STRATFORDUPON-AVON – Upper Goldicot Farm. Correct tel: 01789 740052.

CLOSURES

The following CLs have closed since publication of the Directory 2019/20 and the July 2019 issue of the magazine unless otherwise stated.

6 PENSFORD – Richard Hill, Chew Valley Fruit Farm

747 DARTFORD – Mr D Broomfield, Manor Farm

748 DARTFORD – Mrs D Broomfield, Nurstead Hill Farm

791 TONBRIDGE – Mr W Love, Newbridge Park

829 KIRKHAM – Duncan Gee, Birley Arms

983 SUTTON-ON-SEA – Mrs Lesley Justice, Crawcroft

1061 FAKENHAM – Mrs J Tuddenham, Greenacres

1099 KING’S LYNN – C Dade, Clear View

1132 NORWICH – Mrs P Hammond, The Old Stracey 1168 WESTON-SUPER-MARE –Mr and Mrs P Wallington, Home Farm

1324 BRIDGWATER – Mrs C A Bawden, Manor Farm

1508 BATTLE – Miss M A Cain, Irelands Farm

1556 HAYWARDS HEATH – Mrs A Uridge, Great Bentley Farm

1881 OTLEY – Paul and Rose Grange, Greengates Farm

1968 ISLE OF SKYE – Mrs M Martin, Glen Hinnisdal

1990 PERTH – Ms H Mackenzie, Cromwellpark House

2106 ABERDARON – Mrs C O Williams, Bodernabwy 2190 MILFORD HAVEN –

Mrs H John, Upper Bushford 2243 WELSHPOOL – Mr P Wilson, Severn Lodge

2255 LLANRHIDIAN –

B Williams, Perriswood Archery and Falconry Centre

include roads unsuitable for vehicles towing trailers or caravans. There may also be specific weight, width or height restrictions. For caravan-friendly local routes to Club sites, CLs and commercial sites, we would advise using the standard directions published in the Sites Directory & Handbook and on our website. The reference numbers on this page relate to the 2019/20 edition of the Sites Directory & Handbook

eye35.pix / Alamy

West Bay, Bridport

Celebrating a Double Caravan-iversary

Grab a couple of cakes and a trailer-full of candles, because this year’s a double celebration. Not only is it 100 years since the first motorised caravan hit the road, it’s also the 40th anniversary of MAYDAY UK Breakdown Cover.

So, as the cake and candles make their way to us (we hope), we thought we’d take a nostalgic look back.

From the early days of caravanning, to MAYDAY’s first customer, through to today’s digital age, it’s been a great journey.

1919: where there’s a Bill there’s a way

A century ago, Bill Riley Senior and his son Bill Junior, became a part of Birmingham’s Eccles Motor Transport Company team. There, the first ever prototypes of an Eccles caravan and motorhome were created.

Their work changed the world of caravanning forever, and paved the way for the vehicles we all love today. So, when our cake does finally arrive, we’ll be raising a slice to Bill and Bill.

1979: a memorable first customer

MAYDAY UK Breakdown launched on the morning of 1 May 1979 with its first customer, Jack Armstrong. Thankfully, Jack knew exactly what to do when he had an accident, because he’d helped develop the service!

Jack was Director of Membership Services at the Club and he developed MAYDAY with Ernest Smith of National Breakdown (now ‘Green Flag’).

Some say it was his commitment to the service that led to Jack requesting MAYDAY’s help. But really, his Audi just skidded on a muddy country road and he went into a ditch.

1997 onwards: things get digital

In 1997 the Caravan and Motorhome Club website launched, to the soothing sound of dial-up modems all over the country. Since then, the Club has continued to go from strength-to-strength, especially online.

The Club has always connected members with the best sites across the country. So, in January 2012, they took connectivity further and launched ‘Club Together’.

This online community let Club members chat, share advice and ask questions at any time, and it’s still growing every day.

Looking back, this last century has been all about connectivity. 1919 saw the two Bills connect caravanning with the masses. 1979 saw Green Flag and the Caravan and Motorhome Club connect for the first time. And since 1997, we’ve been more connected with the UK caravan and motorhome community than ever.

For 40 years, MAYDAY UK Breakdown has been the breakdown service designed especially for caravaners and motorhomers. So, whatever your vehicle, take a look at MAYDAY’s three levels of cover, starting at just £72 a year for Roadside & Recovery, today.

Now, where’s that cake…

Railway walking LET’S GO...

Andrew Ditton lets off steam in the stunning North York Moors National Park

Who doesn’t love a steam railway? The smell of the smoke, the sound of the pistons moving, the power of the locomotives, the gentle swaying as the coaches make that familiar ‘clickety clack’ sound on the rails… it’s magic! Adding a relaxing and uplifting walk through a lush green valley puts the cherry on an already delicious cake.

This particular railway adventure starts at The Howard, Rosedale Abbey Club site, a delightful, members-only oasis about 10 miles from Pickering in North Yorkshire. It’s essential you bring your own facilities to this amenity block-free site, and it’s also crucial that you follow the directions in the Sites Directory and Handbook so that you don’t come a cropper on the adjacent Chimney Bank. With a gradient of 1 in 3, it is the steepest public road in the UK; you wouldn’t want to bring an A-Class down there.

The area is rich in mining and railway history, the iron ore mines of the 19th century playing a crucial role during the Industrial Revolution. There are walks aplenty close to the site along the beds of disused railways, but my plan was to incorporate a steam train journey into the day as well.

Pickering is the southern terminus of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR), a not-for-profit organisation run by volunteers (Whitby is at the other end of the line). Motorhome-friendly parking is available at

Pickering station and costs £5 for the day – head to the ‘long stay’ section.

My dog Dougal and I quickly settled into a beautifully restored Mark 1 coach, and we were transported back to the 1970s before we had even left the station. As our planned walk was in Goathland we had to travel in the front three coaches. This meant we got to hear the steam locomotive puff, pant, whistle and clank as it worked hard hauling its train up gradients.

There are few sounds more beautiful than a steam train puffing its way up an incline, the smell wafting by as you feast on great views out of the window. The cottages and trees visible on the outskirts of Pickering soon gave way to magnificent moorland as the train snaked its way through the National Park.

On board, a helpful Train Guide told us how we would find the beginning of the ‘Rail Trail’, a signposted three-and-a-half mile walk down the old railway line. After alighting at Goathland’s delightful period station we walked up the hill into the village, made famous as the set of ‘Aidensfield’ in the Heartbeat television series.

I don’t know about you, but I can’t walk on an empty stomach. Fortunately, Goathland Tea Rooms and Gifts welcomed Dougal in a special seating area, and there was plenty of veggie, vegan and gluten-free choice on the

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway takes in magnificent views

Danielrao

“A carpet of forget-menots added a soothing blue backdrop to the rich tapestry of spring colours”

home to numerous wild flowers...; ...and artworks; travel back in style

varied menu. Dougal even received a free sausage, showing that this establishment is not just dog tolerant, it’s truly dog friendly.

The Rail Trail follows the bed of the long-gone original line between Goathland and Grosmont (‘Grow-mont’). Built in 1836 by ‘the’ George Stephenson, the line was originally a horse-drawn tramway, later upgraded to take steam locomotives. However, the locos could only go as far as Beck Hole station, from where the wagons were drawn by rope up the steep incline to Goathland. In 1865 a new line – the one now used by the NYMR –was built, allowing direct train access between Whitby and Pickering.

Beginning in Goathland means taking advantage of the gradient and going downhill. At first, the descent on the original ‘wagon way’ is on a small embankment, and then it cuts through the shelter of trees. Our walk was in May, and the proliferation of wild garlic that lined the path filled the air with its sweet-yetpervasive fragrance.

At the base of the incline, close to the site of Beck Hole station, lies the Beck Hole Apple Orchard Project, where the apple trees were showing off delightful displays of blossom. A carpet of forget-me-nots added a soothing blue backdrop to the rich tapestry of spring colours. Along the route we also enjoyed an abundance of greater stitchwort, wood sorrel, primroses and bluebells.

A small river follows the path, busily babbling its way down the valley. This really is a walk to lift the spirits, whatever the season.

We saw plenty of interesting railway architecture, such as the remains of bridges, or repurposed railway cottages. Art could also be found. My particular favourite was a bench, out of which the fores of two beautiful coach horses were carved one end, and the backs of two passengers in a wagon the other.

There were no stiles to climb over, just gates to pass through, so fit wheelchair users (or those using powered wheelchairs with a decent battery) can enjoy the Rail Trail, too. However, you might need an assisting push for the short, sharp incline just before Grosmont. No tea tastes sweeter than the cuppa that marks the end of a good walk, and the refreshment rooms at Grosmont station came up trumps with a cup of Yorkshire’s finest. As we flopped down into the springy seat of the carriage back to Pickering it was uplifting to hear the steam engine huff and puff its way up the hill that we had just walked down. Enjoying a walk in combination with a ride on a steam train really does make for a grand day out.

WHERE TO STAY

The Howard, Rosedale Abbey Caravan and Motorhome Club Site. Information about sites can be found online and in your new Sites Directory & Handbook.

VALE OF RHEIDOL RAILWAY

This narrow-gauge railway transports you through spectacular Welsh countryside. Info: rheidolrailway.co.uk

Stay at: Shawsmead Club site

AVON VALLEY RAILWAY

A three-mile stretch of track is preserved by enthusiastic volunteers. Info: avonvalleyrailway.co.uk

Stay at: Baltic Wharf Club site

THE STRATHSPEY RAILWAY

A vintage steam ride through the Highlands –as featured in this month’s main touring article. Info: strathspeyrailway.co.uk

Stay at: Grantown-on-Spey AS

*Terms and conditions apply. See camc. com/greatsavingsguide for information.

Clockwise from above: Andrew and Dougal stretch their legs; the Rail Trail is

STAR

draws

It’s not just the rich and famous who are attracted to Italy. John Rawlings is the latest visitor to fall for its tranquil lakes, spectacular castles and captivating cultural hotspots

Ididn’t know Tom Cruise had also been to the little town of Bracciano, near Rome. It turns out the Mission Impossible star was married to fellow actor Katie Holmes at the spectacular Odescalchi Castle back in 2006.

Overlooking beautiful Lake Bracciano, the 15thcentury fortress dominates the area. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the building – which once acted as a refuge for Pope Sixtus IV during a plague epidemic – taking in its sumptuous rooms, artworks and fabulous examples of medieval weaponry.

If you don’t want to go inside the castle, just wander through the quaint streets in the old town surrounding it, and eventually you’ll find the viewpoint over the lake, from which you can see the other two settlements on its shores –Trevignano Romano and Anguillara Sabazia. Sadly I wasn’t staying in the sumptuous castle,

but I found a fitting substitute – which also offers fine views over the water – in Camping Roma Flash, about 2.5 miles outside town. This was my first site on a two-stop tour that would take in Italy’s capital as well as the Tuscan cities of Pisa and Lucca.

I chose to walk into the centre of Bracciano, but a regular minibus from the site (costing €1 per person each way) will take the strain off weary legs.

Like me, a large number of people use Roma Flash as a base for visiting the capital, which is just a one hour ride on the train from Bracciano. Ask about a ‘BIRG’ ticket in the shop/café at the station (rather than a buying a standard return from the ticket machine), as it covers Metro and bus travel in the capital as well. While you’re there, act like a local and order an espresso (just 90c) to give you a boost for a busy day ahead!

CAPITAL IDEA

Rome is an unforgettable city which could easily fill a week of your time. If you are on a tighter schedule, my top tip is to get there early. I caught the 7.05am minibus from the campsite to Bracciano and was on a train just after 7.30am. There were already long queues at the Colosseum when I arrived there shortly before 9am. But it was worth every minute of the wait – it’s one of those wonders of the world that you can’t quite believe you’re seeing with your own eyes. This breathtaking structure was completed in AD80, and you can sense what the atmosphere must have been like as 70,000 spectators gasped and cheered during gladiatorial skirmishes and mock sea battles. But the Colosseum represented just the start of an unforgettable visit packed with incredible sights.

DID YOU KNOW?

You can book the featured sites by calling 01342 316101 or visiting camc.com/ overseas. For further info, see p234 and p235 of the Venture Abroad 2019 brochure

Roma Flash (Y16)

Situated on the shore of Lake Bracciano, this site has a shop, bar and pizzeria overlooking the water. Other facilities include a swimming pool and tennis courts.

Touring pitches: 170

Open: 1 Apr-30 Sep 2019

Visitor view

“We found this site convenient for Rome, as long as you don’t want to go in every day. It was more peaceful than the busy site we stayed at last year nearer the city.”

Linda and Barry Frost

Site view

“We have guests from all over Europe who like to visit Rome, see the castle and military museum in Bracciano, or cycle round the lake (36km).”

Elide Giovannini

It’s only a short walk from here to the imposing Altar of the Fatherland. This imposing monument to Vittorio Emanuele II – the late-19th century king of Italy – was ‘only’ finished in 1935, so is quite a recent building compared to many of the famous structures in Rome, such as the nearby Forum. However, it is impressive for its sheer scale and houses a museum dedicated to the unification of Italy. And the panoramic views of the city from the terrace are worth the visit alone.

My favourite building in the capital was the Pantheon. Built around 125AD as a Roman temple, it boasts an incredible domed ceiling. As I walked in, a stream of sunlight beamed down from the opening in the centre of the roof, creating an almost spiritual spotlight on the sculptures and art. Another highlight was the Vatican and St Peter’s

Basilica. Like the Pantheon, the basilica is free

to enter, but expect a long queue to get through security. Note that shoulders should be covered, men must wear long trousers and women’s skirts should extend below the knee. For an extra-special view of the wonderfully ornate interior, you can pay to climb the dome itself.

Rome made a huge impression on me but it was nice to return to the calm of the campsite and its lakeside views.

Next on the agenda was a trip to the aforementioned town of Trevignano Romano. Here you will find numerous restaurants along the water’s edge, and when I visited on a Sunday, there was a busy market taking place, with stalls selling local arts and crafts.

Food & drink

Ristorante Paradiso sul Golfo, 74 Viale Giuseppe Garibaldi, 00069 Trevignano Romano Contact: 0039 6 999 9119

Culture

Castello Odescalchi di Bracciano, 14 Piazza Mazzini, 00062 Bracciano

Contact: odescalchi.it, 0039 6 9980 2379

Outdoor fun

Abseiling at Castello Odescalchi di Bracciano Contact: recovery-energy.it

For the family

Italian Air Force Museum, Via Circumlacuale, 00062, Vigna di Valle Contact: aeronautica.difesa.it, 0039 6 9988 7509

Main image: beautiful Lake Bracciano

Below: Pisa’s Cathedral and Leaning Tower (left) and the Trevi Fountain in Rome

La Valle Agricampeggio (Y20)

A small, terraced, family-run site with swimming pool and a very friendly welcome. It is convenient for the motorway and visiting Lucca and Pisa.

Touring pitches: 21

Open: 23 Mar-12 Nov 2019

Visitor view

“We have enjoyed staying here. We have already visited Lucca and thought it was beautiful with its old buildings, streets and churches.”

Carla Boske

Site view

“Most of our guests come to visit Pisa and Lucca, and for the wine in Tuscany. My family has owned this campsite for four years and we redeveloped it last winter so access to all pitches is easier. We are very proud to sell our own honey and wine that we produce locally.”

Luca Bindani

Food & drink

Antica Osteria di Meati, 1237 Via per Gattaiola e Meati, 55100 Lucca

Contact: 0039 583 510373

Culture

Torre a Cenaia Agricultural Estate (wine, craft beer and cooking experience), 55 Via Livornese, 56040 Cenaia

Contact: torreacenaia.it, 0039 50 643739

Outdoor fun

The small Etrusco-Romano museum, which houses artefacts from the 8th to 6th centuries BC, is well worth a visit, while it was lovely to wander through the charming old town and see the 16thcentury church of Santa Maria Assunta (only open at weekends).

DID YOU KNOW?

The Club offers overseas holiday insurance specially designed for caravanners and motorhomers – call 01342 336633 for a quote

during construction in 1173 and wasn’t finished until 1399? And that it’s actually the free-standing bell tower of Pisa Cathedral? And that there are 207 intricately carved columns around its eight floors? Neither did I.

Contact: 0039 583 493787

For the family

Biciclette Poli (cycle around the city walls of Lucca), 42 Piazza Santa Maria, 55100 Lucca

My next stop-over destination was the La Valle Agricampeggio campsite, about a four-hour drive northwards in the shade of the Pisa Hills. This proved to be the perfect base from which to visit both Pisa and the lesser-known Tuscan city of Lucca.

The latter is about five miles away, the main attraction being the Renaissance-era walls that encircle the old town. It’s a beautiful place filled with ornately decorated churches, cobbled streets, shops and restaurants. Make sure you visit the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, the site of a former Roman amphitheatre. Lucca also has a highly unusual feature – the 45m high Guinigi Tower which has trees growing in its rooftop garden.

L’Arca di Noè (small stables with farm), Via della Polveriera Nave, 55100 Lucca

Contact: 0039 335 658 5974

Just a 20-minute drive to the south of the campsite, Pisa is of course most famous for its lopsided tower. Situated on the Piazza del Duomo (which contains many other architectural marvels), it truly is a sight to behold. Did you know it actually started to lean

But one thing I do know for certain is that I will be returning very soon to continue my far-too-brief Tuscan adventure.

With thanks to Laika Caravans, Via Certaldese 41/A, San Casciano in Val di Pesa, 50026 Firenze; laika.it for the loan of the motorhome of Pisa Cathedral? And that

MEMBER SINCE...

Motorhomer John Rawlings joined the Club in 2009

Illustration: Louise Turpin

ROCKIE ROADS

The Club’s independent motorhome tour of Western Canada is the sweetest of treats...

Drive through vast expanses of beautiful scenery, see grizzly bears and other fascinating creatures in their natural environment and explore the cosmopolitan city of Calgary during an experience like no other. The Club’s Canadian Rockies independent motorhome tour allows you to enjoy the freedom of the open road in one of the most spectacular regions on the planet – why don’t you indulge your adventurous side?

THE CANADIAN ROCKIES INDEPENDENT TOUR

Duration/type: 22-day independent motorhome tour

Departure and price: May to September 2020 from £3,065 per person (based on two sharing)

Price includes: return flights from the UK to Calgary, outfit hire, two nights in a 4-star hotel in Calgary including breakfast, transfers, 18 nights pre-booked campgrounds, personalised road book

DETAILS

Having had the chance to experience Calgary’s cool restaurants, music venues, views from the Tower Observation Deck and more, you will be transferred to the motorhome depot for an orientation session. Before long you’ll be on your way to Banff National Park in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Here you will have the chance to soak up some of

the most breathtaking scenery in the world, including views over Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. You could opt to take a boat trip or ride aboard the Banff Gondola which overlooks six mountain ranges and the fabulous Bow Valley.

Next you embark on one of the most scenic drives in the world, as you follow the spectacular Icefields Parkway towards Jasper National Park against a backdrop of waterfalls, lakes and glaciers. (You will also have the chance to take a trip onto the Athabasca Glacier aboard an all-terrain ‘ice explorer’ vehicle).

Jasper is your home for three nights – you could consider a cruise on Maligne Lake to Spirit Island, a gentle hike through the meadows or a soak in Miette Hot Springs.

As you approach the mid-point of your Canadian odyssey you take the

Yellowhead South Highway past Mount Robson – the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies at 12,972ft.

It’s then on via the alpine village of Sun Peaks to picturesque Whistler, where you’ll be spoiled for choice in terms of adventure options. Will you go bear-watching in Blackcomb, ride the awe-inspiring Peak 2 Peak Gondola, hike around the picturesque lakes or take a guided tour of the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre?

Your next destination is ‘Penticton’, which translates as ‘a place to stay forever’. Never has a place name been so apt! Discover the region’s wineries, relax on lakeside beaches or stroll around the colourful farmers’ markets.

The final leg of this trip of a lifetime takes you through the Thompson Okanagan region

towards Revelstoke. On your way you could sample fresh apple pie at Davison Orchards in Vernon – the wider area is known as ‘Apple Country’ – or stop at scenic Sicamous on Shuswap Lake.

As your journey draws to a close, stretch your legs on a short, self-guided walk along the Giant Cedars Boardwalk Trail in Mount Revelstoke National Park and marvel at the huge trees estimated to be more than 500 years old.

HIGHLIGHTS

Calgary, Banff and Jasper National Parks, drive the Icefield Parkway and Yellowhead South Highway, see Mount Robson – the highest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, chance to see bears in their natural habitat, Whistler, wineries of the Okanagan Valley, Yoho National Park

SOUTHERN AFRICA

LATE SAVINGS

Book one of these escorted motorhome tours of Southern Africa by 16 August 2019 and save £200 per person*

Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience on one of the Club’s escorted motorhome tours in Southern Africa. This month we are

offering readers the chance to save £200 per person* on two of our adventures – A Tale of Three Countries (which takes in the

A TALE OF THREE COUNTRIES

Duration/type: 33-day escorted motorhome tour

Departures and prices: 7 Nov 2019 was £5,999 per person, NOW £5,799 per person /7 Jan 2020 was £6,199 per person, NOW £5,999 per person (based on two sharing)

Price includes: outfit hire, return flights from the UK to Namibia,

all transfers, local guides, welcome dinner, two nights in a 4-star hotel including breakfast, 27 nights at pre-booked powered sites, boat cruise in Walvis Bay, game drives in Etosha National Park, two nights at the David Livingstone Safari Lodge in Zambia including breakfast, guided game drive and cruise in Chobe National Park

HIGHLIGHTS

The deserts of Sossusvlei, seal and dolphin cruise in Walvis Bay, Twyfelfontein UNESCO World Heritage Site, guided game drives in Etosha National Park, Damaraland, The Caprivi Strip, Livingstone and Victoria Falls, game drive and game cruise in Chobe National Park, the Makgadikgadi Pan and the Okavango Delta

wonders of Namibia, Zambia and Botswana – including breathtaking Victoria Falls) and Roads of the Rainbow Nation, an incredible

South African experience taking you from Johannesburg to Cape Town. Call 01342 779349 or visit camc.com/southernafrica.

ROADS OF THE RAINBOW NATION

Duration/type: 38-day escorted motorhome tour

Departure and price: 29 Sep 2019 was £4,999 per person, NOW £4,799 per person (based on two sharing)

Price includes: outfit hire, flights from the UK to South Africa, all transfers, local guides, four nights’ hotel accommodation including breakfast, 31 nights at pre-booked powered sites, full-day guided game drive in Kruger National Park, hippo and croc

cruise, guided game drive in Addo Elephant National Park and the Featherbed Eco Experience in Knysna

HIGHLIGHTS

The Panorama Route, game drive in Kruger National Park, Swaziland, Hluhluwe iMfolozi National Park, hippo and croc cruise on Lake St Lucia, KwaZulu-Natal and the Battlefields, game drive in Addo Elephant Park, the Garden Route, Cape Winelands, Cape Town and Table Mountain Park, and

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

*Selected departures only. Offer applies to new bookings made for ‘A Tale of Three Countries’ departing 7 Nov 2019/7 Jan 2020 and ‘Roads of the Rainbow Nation’ departing 29 Sep 2019. Subject to availability. Based on two adults sharing one motorhome. A minimum deposit of £500pp will be required. Book by 16 August 2019.

BREAK TIME!

There’s still time to book a last-minute break this August and September, with many European sites offering special deals

Pays de la Loire, France

LA YOLE (A23)

A pool complex, shop, bar, restaurant and organised entertainment (in high season) make La Yole the perfect family holiday destination. The seaside resort of Saint-Jean-de-Monts and its sandy beaches are nearby, while Nantes – and its beautiful cathedral – is about an hour’s drive to the north. The island of Noirmoutier – where you will find a host of walking and cycling trails as well as the Sébastopol Polder Nature Reserve – is about 50 minutes away. Special offer: stay seven nights for the price of six. Valid for stays started and completed between 26 August and 21 September 2019.

Paris, France

CAMPING DE PARIS (P18)

Located on the banks of the Seine, this site is perfect for excursions into the capital. Iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe are within easy reach while, closer to home, the Bois de Boulogne is perfect for daytime walks. Horse racing fans will be drawn to the famous Paris Longchamp course which hosts Thursday-evening events during the summer season.

Languedoc-Roussillon, France

MA PRAIRIE (C05)

This friendly site, which features a large pool area with slides and sports pitch, has been run by the same family for the past 30 years. Close to the Mediterranean coast, there are huge expanses of sandy beach just a few minutes’ drive away, while a day trip to Perpignan is highly recommended. If you fancy travelling further afield, the Spanish border is less than an hour’s drive away. Special offer: stay seven nights for the price of six or stay 20 nights for the price of 15. Valid for stays started and completed between 26 August and 21 September 2019.

Midi-Pyrénées, France

LES RIVAGES (D20)

Set in the heart of the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park, Les Rivages is a great destination for lovers of the great outdoors. A footpath from the site leads to the town of Millau, where you can gaze in awe at the record-breaking 343m-high viaduct over the Tarn Valley. Millau also hosts an evening market on Mondays, where visitors have the opportunity to purchase a range of local delicacies. On-site facilities include tennis, badminton and volleyball courts.

Special offer: stay seven nights for the price of six. Valid for stays started and completed between 28 August and 30 September.

MARJAL GUARDAMAR (W07)

First-class facilities at this site on the Costa Blanca include a large pool complex with slides and whirlpool, a wellness centre, gym, beauty salon and restaurants. There are plenty of options for daytrippers – Alicante, the capital of the region of the same name, boasts the Castle of Santa Barbara and the spectacular Basilica of St Mary, while Cartagena features numerous ancient sites, including the restored Roman theatre of Carthago Nova.

Special offer: stay seven nights for the price of six. Valid for stays completed by 7 September.

• Watch one programme and record another on any platform Digital TV or Satellite TV at the same time

• Watch a DVD and record a TV programme at the same time

• Timer record from programme guide –Pause / Playback live TV

• Instant record on Digital TV or Satellite TV to USB or HDD (not included)

• DVB-T2 /S2 Tuners

• Frameless design, edge-to-edge HD viewing

• Ultra-wide viewing angle

• One button tuning

• 12v / 24v / mains

Letters

Your chance to have your say.

The writer of our star letter will receive copies of our three-edition overseas touring guides

Send your letters to Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine, East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 1UA.

Alternatively, email us at enquiries@camc.com or magazine@camc.com. Apologies, but due to the quantity of post we receive, we are no longer able to send acknowledgements on receipt of letters. If your letter is not intended for publication, please email or write to the appropriate department (eg Emergency Services, Finance, Insurance, Technical, Travel Services, Sites Operations etc) – see camc.com/contact for further details.

enquiries@ camc.com

In searching for inspiration for something ‘different’ to celebrate our joint birthdays (we are both in our mid 60s), we came across the article by Andrew Ditton in the November issue of the Club magazine recommending the caving experience at Wild Wookey.

Andrew’s article described, in great detail, the various contortions required to undertake this but, undaunted by the thoughts of claustrophobia and vertigo, we booked up. Neither of us had ever done anything like it before, so we were certainly going to be outside our comfort zone!

When the day came we threw ourselves into it wholeheartedly, abseiling down a 100ft drop,

National success

This year we attended The National for the first time and all I can say is ‘what a spectacle!’

Driving over the hill on the Ragley Hall Estate and seeing all the ’vans and marquees in the valley below was quite breathtaking. The organisation was very impressive and the volunteer marshals were all so friendly and informative.

Within 30 minutes of arriving at our pitch we were at the arena

squeezing through narrow spaces, crossing an underground lake on a small boat and then finishing with a zip wire descent in the rain. We both had issues along the way. I dipped my foot into the lagoon, getting a wellie full of water, while Philip had to be ‘rescued’ by instructor Chris when he slipped and couldn’t get back up onto the rope ladder properly! Chris was very understanding and patient and had been taking photos all the way around the route – these appeared on the Wild Wookey Facebook within a few hours.

All in all it was a one-off adventure and we were both glad that we had undertaken it – and we both got a Certificate of Survival to

and continued to be amazed at the scale of the event. The entertainment was excellent, both in terms of the quality and the range of things to see and do.

We thoroughly enjoyed the whole weekend and will definitely be attending next year.

One final comment must be to congratulate Robin, who was the compère for the weekend. He was there in all weathers with his trusty radio mic and always had a smile and a cheery word. Well done to you all. Martin Bird, West Yorkshire

confirm we had done it! Needless to say we were both a bit battered and bruised the following morning but we wanted to say a big ‘thank you’ to Andrew for alerting us to this adventure, which made our birthdays all the more memorable. Philip Robinson and Kim Chapman, West Norfolk

A real Andy-man

I am new to caravanning and recently spent a week at Hunter’s Moon Club site in Dorset. On my morning of departure I was unable to get my ’van electrics to hook up to my car. Several members tried to help but to no avail. Then up stepped Andy who took a look and concluded that the pins were out of alignment. With the help of some pliers he eventually got it to move, refitted it and I was on my way. He really did go the extra mile, so thanks again Andy, you are a star. If Andy is typical of Club members I am so glad I joined.

On speaking to a staff member I was told that they sell a special realigning tool for £2.20 which I bought at once.

G Kendrick, via email

No escape!

I read with great interest the correspondence relating to methods for keeping clothes hangers on the rail when in transit.

We have caravanned for more than 30 years, travelling all over the UK and Europe with six different

Hole lot of fun

Ragley Hall and The National

caravans and we have never experienced this phenomenon. I considered all possible reasons for this, including location and design of wardrobes, towing speeds and sleeping policemen, but finally I was led to the inevitable conclusion that my wife takes so many clothes on our trips and they are so tightly packed in the wardrobe that it is impossible for them to escape!

John Bellwood, via email

Under pressure

Having just returned from Orkney, I was amused to read about the experience of Jill and John Marsh of reversing on to the ferry at Gills Bay (Letters, June). Reversing on to ferries is often required when touring in the Outer Hebrides. Once I recall a lady throwing her hands up, giving the ferryman her keys and saying, “You drive it on!”

Jenny Jones, via email

Write all about it!

Having received this year’s Touring France from the Club prior to our holiday, my wife was marking the sites we have previously visited and remarked that a number of them are not in this year’s edition while many others have not been updated for a few years.

The 2015 book had 636 pages, this year’s has only 456. ”People are not sending in reviews, just like you“, she correctly stated. I admit that I assumed other people would send in the latest reviews so didn’t bother. The result is that the number of campsites listed is falling in a publication we rely heavily on so I have bucked my ideas up and sent in seven reports on sites we have visited this year.

If you use these publications, please send in the reports so that others can benefit from your experience. Don’t assume someone else has done it.

Pete Williams, Walsall

Editor’s note: Thanks for your note Mr Williams. Other members can post their overseas site reports by visiting camc.com/europereport.

Wish list

My first experience of touring was in the mid-1950s in Cornwall – my parents learned a lot about how to

occupy two children in a cramped caravan during wetter weeks away!

Fast forward 50 years and my wife and I were given a very small, very old caravan and it was like stepping back in time, although it was far more luxurious than the one I remember from childhood. There had been some improvements over the years like the replacement of gas lights with electric ones, pumped water (hot and cold) and an indoor toilet. These are distinct advantages but the main layout remained basically unchanged with heavy foam mattresses on the front bed that had to be manhandled and bedding put away every morning.

Several years ago a member wrote a letter to the Club mentioning the time and effort required in making up the double bed each day and the lack of comfort of the bench seats when in living room configuration (two points I agree with). He proposed having proper chairs and a fixed bed instead. Alas this inspired suggestion seems to have fallen on stony ground.

When contemplating buying a replacement caravan after the demise of our wonderful old one, the advice I was given was to get the smallest you can make do with as it is easier to manoeuvre/store, lighter to

tow and cheaper to buy. So a smaller fixed island double bed configuration would definitely be our choice. Washrooms need to be en-suite and as roomy as possible and while the modern caravan kitchen designs look good, more worktop surface would make life easier.

Lastly and perhaps most importantly is the lounge. We spend more time inside our caravan these days so this area should be as comfortable as possible. To me that doesn’t mean sitting on a bench seat with no lumbar support and a backrest that cuts in under your shoulder blades! My suggestion would be to do away with the unwanted front beds altogether and replace them with a table and chairs.

If these ideas were taken on board the result would be a spacious, bright, well-appointed caravan for two, around 20 feet long weighing under 1,300kg (which would also mean a cheaper and more fuel efficient towcar) costing between £18,000-£20,000.

Maybe these are just the musings of a cantankerous older couple but surely it would be worth asking potential owners to see if these ideas would be popular?

Peter and Victoria Jones, via email

Touring tips

My wife Ann and I are very much enjoying the current [June] edition of the Club magazine here in France and, in particular, the article ‘Taking the Plunge’ by John Rankin. Like John, we have a Coachman caravan and wanted to pass on our own tips to those who are new to caravanning.

We have replaced the standard hard jockey wheel with a pneumatic one which we feel works much better when on a soft or gravel surface. Another good

Magic clamp

Your ‘Jockey club’ article in the June edition (Ask Your Club) sparked a couple of painful memories.

My last caravan had a habit of dropping the jockey wheel on to the road whilst in motion, usually at the most inconvenient place and time like the M25 at rush hour.

To solve this I invested in a car exhaust clamp from Halfords (other stores are available!). With this slipped over the jockey wheel shaft (above) and tightened before setting off it is almost guaranteed to stop this problem.

Just keep the relevant spanner to hand to do the job and it takes a couple of minutes.

Peter Cansick, via email

Many thanks

My wife and I along with four friends attended the recent National at Ragley Hall. Unfortunately, not long after arriving, my wife Pat was taken ill. The first aid team was called and they responded immediately.

idea is a set of four wooden blocks which are placed under the corner steadies, particularly on soft ground. These came from a spare piece of spare timber so cost nothing! Finally, an essential piece of equipment, particularly in hot climes, is a cool box for the beers and those wines that are best served chilled! Unfortunately, the Coachman Vision 450 doesn’t have an external electricity point so we run a cable from inside the caravan.

Tony and Ann Cowan, Durham

Pat was taken to Redditch Hospital from where she was transferred to Worcestershire Royal Hospital but unfortunately took a serious turn for the worse and passed away.

I cannot give enough praise to the first aid team together with our friends, Brian and Janet Peel, for the help that they gave me during this most harrowing period. I would also like to thank Mervyn and Maureen Pegg for their emotional support.

I have been told that the local area representative called round but I did not hear her at the door. Hopefully she will see this letter and get my appreciation for her concern.

R Bicheno, via email

John Rankin’s outfit

Say ‘HELLO’ to the additions to the STATUS and VISION PLUS family

For almost 30 years we have been supplying you with innovative, British designed and manufactured market leading products.

In 1992 we launched the first STATUS antenna and it’s been the market leading brand ever since. Here’s what’s new for 2019...

STATUS 270

STATUS 570

Now in its third generation since its launch in 2001 and still the industry’s No.1 fitted directional antenna; each evolution improving on the previous adding additional features and enhanced levels of performance. Designed and manufactured in the UK! MRP £154.45 to £180.45

Our latest design of omni-directional antenna is a compact, lightweight, streamlined design utilising our latest most powerful dipole array. Our most discrete antenna to date, designed and manufactured in the UK! MRP £88.95

NEW NEW

VISION PLUS TVs

Drawing on our years of experience, our latest 18.5” & 21.5” 12 volt TVs combine both satellite and terrestrial tuners with excellent viewing angles, picture quality and lightweight design. They’re great value and made in the UK! MRP £279.00 to £289.00

Available at all good caravan and motorhome accessory shops

...keeping you in the picture

TV WALL BRACKETS

Incorporating our unique Quick Release TV Plate, the InTransit Lock and locking arms, we now offer a bespoke range of four strong, lightweight, fibre reinforced polymer TV brackets. All conceived, designed and manufactured here in Nottingham and aimed specifically at our mobile market. MRP £19.95 to £33.95

Vision Plus

Members have saved an average of £4,987 with Mercedes-Benz between 1 January and 31 May 2019

Savings available with Mercedes-Benz

SAVE ON RALEIGH BIKES

(AND GET A FREE BICYCLE HELMET)

Raleigh has a long history of producing high quality bicycles for people of all ages. Whether you need a hybrid, folding, commuter or kids’ bike – or are searching for the latest electric model – Raleigh has the machine for you.

Caravan and Motorhome Club members can take advantage of an Affinity Scheme offer from Mercedes-Benz, under which they can purchase the latest models at great prices. Whether you’re looking for the perfect family SUV or a sporty two-seater, Mercedes-Benz provides an exciting collection of cars to meet your needs. All Affinity packages can be tailored to suit your requirements on mileage, contract length and purchasing. See camc.com/mercedesbenz for details. SAVE 10% ON DOG BEDS AND ACCESSORIES

Club members can save 10% on all Raleigh bikes and receive a free helmet. Visit camc.com/ raleigh for details.

UP TO 30% OFF SELECTED CANON PRODUCTS

Whether you’re enjoying the great outdoors, visiting cultural gems or spending time with friends and family, a Canon camera is perfect for catching those precious holiday moments. Club members are entitled to discounts of up to 25% on selected Canon cameras, including the popular PowerShot SX740. You’re also eligible for 30% off Canon accessories, 15% discounts on lenses and up to 26% off printers. Find out more at camc.com/canon

Did you know that it is International Dog Day on 26 August? Why not treat your four-legged friend to a stylish, luxury dog bed from Ivy & Duke? The company offers a range of products designed with portability and comfort in mind. Find out how to get a 10% discount at camc.com/ivyandduke

15% DISCOUNT WITH MOUNTAIN WAREHOUSE

As a Club member you can claim 15% off your in-store and online orders with Mountain Warehouse – and that’s on top of savings on items that are already reduced. Mountain Warehouse has a great new line-up of casual summer clothing – Country to Coast – and offers a wide range of jackets, trousers, fleeces, footwear and more. Access your discount code by visiting camc.com/mountainwarehouse

5% OFF AVTEX PRODUCTS

As many members will be aware, Avtex specialises in visual and navigational technology for the touring industry – producing sat-navs, sound bars, TVs and more. Club members can enjoy a 5% discount on Avtex products such as the new and improved Tourer Two sat-nav, which includes a Dual-Core processor for enhanced performance and Trailer’s Park’s database of 8,500 free motorhome parking places across Western Europe. See camc.com/avtex for details.

DISCOVER A TUDOR LOVE STORY

Your Great Savings Guide 2019 includes hundreds of money-saving offers for attractions and experiences across the UK, such as Anne Hathaway's Cottage and Gardens near Stratford-upon-Avon in Warwickshire.

Here, you can find out about the courtship between William Shakespeare and his future bride, exploring the Hathaway family’s 500-year-old cottage (which contains original furniture) and nine acres of beautiful gardens, orchards and woodland.

Download your Great Savings Guide voucher online at camc.com/ greatsavingsguide and receive a 30% discount on the ‘Full Story Ticket’ (which grants access to Anne Hathaway's Cottage and four more Shakespeare-related venues).

ESSILOR LENSES

50% OFF SECOND PAIR

Lens manufacturer Essilor believes passionately in correcting and protecting vision. Essilor lens stockists throughout the UK are offering Club members discounts on top brands such as Varilux, Essilor Road Pilot, Transitions, Crizal, Xperio and Eyezen when purchasing more than one pair. Choose any varifocal or single vision lens designs and get the cheapest pair for half price. Visit camc.com/essilor for more information.

Stick in

Found in muddy rivers and ponds, the diminutive stickleback is a predatory fish. David Chapman casts his expert eye in its direction

the mud

AUGUST LOOK OUT FOR

When exploring ponds and riversides, keep an eye out for...

n The purple-loosestrife, which has tall flower spikes and likes damp ground

n The banded demoiselle – a type of damselfly that likes slow-moving rather than still water

n An increase in the grey heron population, boosted by youngsters born in the spring

Clockwise from right: male banded demoiselle; young grey heron; purple-loosestrife

The small river in our valley flooded last year creating pools in the dips and hollows among the willow and oak trees. Surrounded by rushes, these shallow areas of still water became a magnet to frogs which began their spawning activity in late winter at the height of the flooding.

We watched their progress daily and enjoyed seeing the eggs develop into tiny tadpoles. On warm days they massed together into a sea of squirming black jelly on shallow underwater banks where they thrived in the spring sunshine. However, the sunshine also brought with it a threat. Their pool had already become isolated from the main river and every day it shrank in size and depth. The tadpoles were in a race against time. I hoped they might develop legs and escape before the pool dried out completely.

A couple of weeks went by and it was clear the tadpoles were dying in small, isolated muddy puddles. We were due to go away for a couple of weeks in the motorhome and feared the pools would dry up completely while we were on our travels so we decided to act. With net and bucket in hand we set about rescuing as many tadpoles as possible*.

While saving tadpoles we also found a lot of stickleback fish that had become trapped. These

are fascinating creatures which, incidentally, prey on tadpoles as well as aquatic invertebrates and smaller fish.

Our common stickleback is known as the ‘three-spined stickleback’ because it usually has three spines along its back, between its head and its dorsal fin. Some individuals have two or four spines but the spine closer/closest to the dorsal fin is usually smaller than the other(s).

Sticklebacks are common in the UK and are mostly found in well-vegetated rivers and ponds with muddy bottoms. In spring and summer the males develop an attractive orange-red throat and blue-ish eyes ready to begin a fascinating series of events that leads to spawning.

ELABORATE COURTSHIP

The first task is for the male to make a nest in the muddy vegetation at the bottom of the river or pool. He then attracts a female by performing an elaborate courtship dance in front of her. In response she might lay as many as 400 eggs in his nest which he then fertilises externally before standing guard for about four weeks.

This level of parental care is exceptional and the sociable nature of the stickleback, aka the ‘tiddler’ because of its small size (up to 7cm), continues through the latter summer and winter

“In spring and summer the males develop an attractive orange-red throat”

months when they often gather together in shoals for safety.

The stickleback is a highly-adaptable species. Those that are found in ponds and lakes are sedentary but some of those that spawn in rivers are known to migrate out to sea in winter. Their ability to cope with water of varying levels of salinity is exceptional.

Through the summer we continued to keep an eye on our tadpoles and sticklebacks. Some of the tadpoles made it to the point where they developed legs and disappeared into the surrounding countryside – many were probably eaten by the sticklebacks, but at least they had a fighting chance.

*As a rule you should not move creatures or plants from one pond or river to another because there is a risk of spreading disease and introducing non-native species to unsuitable environments. We were able to save the tadpoles and sticklebacks by moving them a very short distance to a larger pool just a few frog-hops away.

MEMBER SINCE...

Motorhomer David Chapman joined the Club in 2000

Great value break in Somerset

√ DOG FRIENDLY CAMP-SITE dire straits tribute

Four nights away from £38*

FOUR NIGHTS OF FREE CLASSIC ROCK THEMED MUSIC UNLIMITED ENTRY TO THE EXHIBITION AREA LORRAINE CROSBY (OF MEATLOAF) Bruce Springsteen tribute

S of accessories

Events diary

Need inspiration for a fantastic day out while staying on a Caravan and Motorhome Club site? Then look no further than this selection of events taking place near our sites in October 2019

12-13 OCTOBER

Autumn Extravaganza

Incorporating the ‘Fine Food Festival’, this event at Great Comp Garden near Sevenoaks in Kent is a treat for the senses. Guests can wander through seven acres of beautiful gardens and sample or buy produce from the likes of Copper Rivet Distillery, Winterdale Cheese and Simply Ice Cream. Kent Fine Foods’ Matthew Kearsey-Lawson will be showcasing exhibitors’ products in his Cookery Theatre.

Web: greatcompgarden.co.uk

Club site: Daleacres

“Wander through seven acres of beautiful gardens”

3-6 OCTOBER

The Northern Antiques Fair

Harrogate Convention Centre is the venue for this exciting event. Browse the wares of 40 exhibitors selling everything from classic oil paintings, watercolours, maps, clocks and watches to examples of 20th century design. Items for sale range from the “very affordable” to those commanding “six-figure sums”. The fair’s nominated charity for 2019 is Dementia Forward.

Web: northernfair.com

Club site: Knaresborough

5-6 OCTOBER

Anything Goes at Churnet Valley Railway

Churnet Valley Railway’s annual gala will see an assortment of engines puffing down the line from Froghall to Cheddleton. As the event’s name suggests, this is the chance to see locomotives that don’t normally get a run-out. Visitors will have the chance to see how engines and carriages are cared for, while the tea rooms at the termini will hold barbecues.

Web: churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk

Club site: Royal Vale

6 OCTOBER

Cardiff University/Cardiff Half Marathon

Starting at the iconic castle, this event takes runners past historic buildings and through beautiful scenery. Landmarks include Penarth Marina,

For further details of events near Club sites, see camc.com

the Norwegian Church, the Wales Millennium Centre and Roath Park Lake. Head for Wales’ spectacular capital to cheer them along – a spectator guide can be found on the event website. Why not indulge in a spot of sightseeing after the race?

Web: cardiffhalfmarathon.co.uk

Club site: Tredegar House CP

19 OCTOBER

Licence to Thrill:The Music of Bond James Bond, or 007 as he’s known, is a legendary figure in modern cinema. But arguably just as famous are the soundtracks that accompany his movies.This is your chance to hear the London Concert Orchestra performing music from the likes of Goldfinger, Diamonds are Forever and A View to a Kill at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall.

Web: usherhall.co.uk

Club site: Edinburgh

FrancineRaymond

Alamy

Events diary

...Alternatively, why not pitch up on a temporary site? These enable you to attend a wide variety of exciting events and meet up with likeminded members. Please book in advance where possible

9-11 AUGUST

Retrofestival

The second Retrofestival of the year is held at Newbury Showground in Berkshire, and is a celebration of all things from the 1960s to the ’90s –including vehicles, fashion and music. The temporary site, with hook-ups, is on the showground – access to the site is based on each person having a valid festival weekend ticket.

Temporary site open: 8-12 August

Contact: Stuart on 07813 254260 or email berkshirecc@gmail.com – go to berkshirecentrecaravanclub.co.uk for bookings (a non-returnable £50 deposit required on receipt of booking)

10-11 AUGUST

Driffield Steam and Vintage Rally

Driffield Showground in EastYorkshire opens its gates to steam engines, vintage cars, motorbikes and tractors, plus steam and electric organs for a fun family weekend.The temporary site is on the showground.

Temporary site open: 7-11 August

Contact: Trevor Brooks on 01482 355636/07885 932387

10-11 AUGUST

Sunbury Amateur Regatta

The temporary site at Apps Court Farm, just two miles from Hampton Court Palace and next to Sunbury Lock, is the ideal venue from which to enjoy this longstanding rowing event. As well as the competitive action on theThames there will be an illuminated flotilla and a firework display.This weekend also sees the West Surrey Centre celebrate its 60th birthday – live entertainment, bingo, cream teas, a tuck shop, a licensed bar and a burger bar will make it an event to remember.

Temporary site open: 8-12 August

Contact: RogerTupper on 01252 871573 or email westsurreysec@ hotmail.co.uk

29 AUGUST-1 SEPTEMBER

Bournemouth Air Festival

Action in the sky, on the ground and on the water awaits visitors to the ‘UK’s biggest air festival’ on the Dorset coast. There will also be plenty of night-time entertainment along the 1.4 miles of promenade between Boscombe and Bournemouth piers,

including a firework display. The temporary site at St Peter’s School in Southbourne is a short walk from Southbourne beach, an ideal location from which to watch the action. Please note: no dogs on site.

Temporary site open: 26 August1 September

Contact: Keith and RosemaryTagg on 01202 433396/07745 225396 or email rosemary.tagg@virginmedia.com

21-22 SEPTEMBER

Kop Hill Climb

A must for motorsport enthusiasts, the Kop Hill Climb at Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire, celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. Watch more than 250 cars and bikes from all eras make their way up the famous hill climb. You can also gain a close-up view of the vehicles in the paddock, see hand-built karts competing in the Soapbox Challenge, listen to live music, browse the trade stands and enjoy hot food and a beer tent. The temporary site is within walking distance of the event – there

are no toilet facilities nor hook-ups.

Temporary site open: 20-22 September

Contact: Colin Henderson on 07808 839795 or email honrallysecretary@ middxcc.co.uk

21-22 SEPTEMBER

Sywell Classic: Pistons & Props

Historic cars and motorbikes, classic planes and vintage music combine to create an extravaganza at Sywell Aerodrome in Northampton. On the ground, watch iconic F1 cars, hot rods, dragsters and motorbikes in action, then look up to the skies to see breathtaking aerial displays and acrobatics. Add live music, a vintage fun fair and a shopping village into the mix, and there is something for everyone. The temporary site on the aerodrome boasts toilet blocks and hook-ups.

Temporary site open: 20-23 September

Contact: Sandie and Alan Evans on 01767 640263/07887 541762 or email sandiejevans@gmail.com

“On the ground, watch iconic F1 cars, hot rods, dragsters and motorbikes in action...”

from left: Bournemouth hosts a big air festival;

21-22 SEPTEMBER

The Royal County of Berkshire Show

Held at Newbury Showground, this traditional county show gives you the chance to see a variety of livestock. You will also find a craft tent, a food fayre, a vast array of trade stands and lots of ‘Have-a-Go’ activities for the whole family to try – from an assault course and crazy golf to circus skills and archery. Horse lovers will, er, love the equine section, while the event will showcase a variety of rural working crafts. The temporary site is within walking distance of the show. Temporary site open: 19-23 September

Contact: Stuart on 07813 254260, email berkshirecc@googlemail.com or download a booking form from berkshirecentrecaravanclub.co.uk

22-29 SEPTEMBER

UCI Road World Championships

Elite cycling comes to Yorkshire for the 92nd UCI Road World Championships. See the sport’s biggest names compete in time

trials and road races. Starting in Leeds, the 284.5km men’s road race will evoke memories of the epic opening stage of the 2014 Tour de France. The riders will tackle iconic climbs like Buttertubs Pass and Grinton Moor, before completing seven laps of a circuit in Harrogate and crossing the line on The Stray. Ripon, Northallerton, Richmond and Doncaster will also host starts of races. The temporary site is at Knaresborough – a £5 deposit will secure your pitch. Temporary site open: 22-29 September

Contact: email rallysecmw@gmail. com or visit midwestyorjshirecc.net

See camc.com/centres and p100 of this issue for more centre information and coverage

Clockwise

the UCI Road World Championships come to Yorkshire this September; Classics at Sywell

Stage1: Handset shows which side is NOT level.

Stage4: Automatic cornersteadies descend and level the caravan front to back.

Stage2: Place the ramp on the side which is low.

Stage3: Press finding level. Caravan moves up the ramp&levelslefttoright.

SPOTLIGHT ON:

Ashridge Farm

This small Hertfordshire site is a great location for a short break or stop-over

Hertfordshire is sometimes overlooked as a destination, with many passing through in favour of London or coastal options. However, a stay at Ashridge Farm proves the area is a wonderful holiday location, whether you are looking to explore or simply unwind.

Accommodating 39 vehicles, this compact, tree-lined Club site is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a more tranquil touring experience. A dog walk leads directly from the entrance to the pretty village of Ashwell, where you will find a selection of independent shops, two impressive churches and access to an assortment of picturesque walking routes – not to mention several top-notch pubs.

The village skyline is dominated by the spire of St Mary’s, and the church is well worth a visit, not least because ancient Latin graffiti relating to the plague and Great Fire of London can be found throughout the building.

From the High Street, it’s a short stroll to Ashwell Springs – a Site of Special Scientific

You can book Club site pitches via the UK Sites app, at camc. com/searchandbook or by calling our Advance Booking Service on 01342 327490. Please call Affiliated Sites (AS) directly

Interest spanning 0.3 hectares and comprising a group of freshwater springs that source the River Cam. Apparently, the site is very important for a number of invertebrates, particularly flatworms.

The village is also home to a ‘lock-up gaol’, one of only four left in the county – and it still has its original wooden door and iron grille. According

to local legend, the authorities abandoned the cell in the early years of the 20th century, after one prisoner – Amos Pammeter – tunnelled his way out and headed home to bed.

Further afield is Baldock – a market town founded by the Knights Templar, a powerful Catholic military order, in the 1140s.

Ashwell Springs

Letchworth Garden City Town Hall

Ashridge Farm

Club Site

Situated close to the A1, Ashridge Farm makes an ideal destination whether you are looking for a stopover spot or a short break. This peaceful site provides a mix of grass and hardstanding pitches. Pitches: 39 | Open: all year

Member view

“It is quiet, very clean and tidy. The staff do an excellent job. The site is ideally located for visiting many interesting places such as the Shuttleworth Collection, Wimpole Hall and, of course, the Imperial War Museum at Duxford.” HEDAVE1, caravanner

Member view

“Lovely and peaceful, friendly, clean, everything we could wish for. Easy walk into the village for shops, pubs and eating.” Moggs 13, motorhomer

Food

& drink

The Three Tuns, 6 High Street, Ashwell SG7 5NL

Contact: threetunsashwell.com, 01462 743131

Culture

Wimpole Estate, Arrington, Royston SG8 0BW

Contact: nationaltrust.org.uk, 01223 206000

“The museum is a living testament to the bravery and sacrifice of airmen of the past”

During subsequent centuries, its position on the main thoroughfare between London and the north meant the town became an important resting place for travellers, and many coaching inns and alehouses sprung up, as well as several breweries.

Today, it is a thriving town with a nice mix of cafes, galleries and attractive architecture. You can also travel directly to Kings Cross and to Cambridge from its station, should you fancy going further afield.

Battle of Britain Air Show takes place in September (tickets must be purchased in advance from iwm.org.uk), showcasing the likes of the Bremont Great War Display Team, a B-17G Flying Fortress from the film Memphis Belle, and a flypast featuring a Hawker Hurricane and Supermarine Spitfire.

Karting Nation, 2 Pixmore Avenue, Letchworth Garden City SG6 1JS

Contact: kartingnation.co.uk

Member offer available: camc.com/ greatsavingsguide Outdoor fun

For the family

Stotfold Watermill & Nature Reserve, Mill Lane, Stotfold SG5 4NU

Contact: stotfoldmill.com, 01462 734541

Also consider a scenic cycle ride that runs from Baldock to Ashwell then on to Wallington before looping back to Baldock. Largely traffic free (although it does get busier when crossing the A505), this 13-mile ride follows a fairly relaxed route that can be done on most leisure bikes. See cycle-route.com for more information.

If you’re interested in military history or aviation (or both), a trip to the Imperial War Museum Duxford is a must. As well as boasting a seriously impressive array of aircraft, the museum is a living testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the airmen of the past. The Duxford

A trip in the opposite direction takes you to Letchworth, the country’s first ‘garden city’. Designed to combat the effects of mass industrialisation, the late 19th-century concept of the garden city aimed to combine the benefits of rural and urban living and was the brainchild of social reformer Ebenezer Howard.

Letchworth influenced the design of ‘new towns’ both at home and abroad, including nearby Welwyn Garden City and the Australian capital of Canberra. Today Letchworth is home to several community-inspired museums, as well as a popular park.

Architecture ancient and modern, scenic cycles and relaxing rambles – with a taste of Britain’s aeronautical history thrown in. What more could you ask for from a touring break?

Right: St Mary’s Church, Ashwell Below: a Hawker Hurricane and a Supermarine Spitfire flying in formation

Nick Whittle / Alamy

Peter Moulton / Alamy GREAT SAVINGS GUIDE

National Trust Images/Andrew Butler

We love selling Auto-Sleepers because people love buying them which says it all about this quality British brand.

So, once again, we’re running Auto-Sleepers August. You know how it goes - buy an Auto-Sleeper in August for an AMAZING deal. There are no gimmicks - just tell us what you want and if we can, we will. If we can’t, we’ll tell you what we can do and then it’s up to you.

Make your dream a reality this August

Ask your Club

The Club’s technical team answers your pressing questions

Damp checks

QWhen my ’van was serviced this year, the workshop said it no longer carries out full damp checks – surely that isn’t right?

AA damp check has been part of a standard caravan or motorhome service for many years. Traditionally, this measured the level of moisture in the largely wooden structure, with values above 15% needing further investigation or rectification. Lower readings were not a concern, as they simply indicated the normal level of moisture in natural materials like wood.

As construction methods have changed, however, it has become more challenging for workshops to assess damp. Several manufacturers have replaced some or all of the wood in their structures with alternatives such as metal, plastic or composites, which do not retain water in the same way, and are generally not vulnerable to deterioration by rotting.

Some manufacturers use impermeable plastic wall linings which prevent a basic damp meter from ‘seeing’ the inner wall structure. If you try to measure the apparent damp in such structures with the wrong tool, what you’ll actually tend to pick up is surface condensation, not interior damp. It’s not uncommon these days for a damp assessment to combine measurements in some areas (often with a sophisticated meter which can see through the surface coating of the wall) with a visual inspection in others.

Keeping track of the various areas of different models of caravan and motorhome that can be damp-checked for a given year of manufacture could be tricky, especially for smaller workshops. In some models, the whole structure should still be checked with a damp meter, while in others it’s the walls and roof but not the floor. Sometimes it’s just the floor.

Thankfully, members of the Approved Workshop Scheme (AWS) have access to detailed guidance covering the major manufacturers of caravans and motorhomes. Clearly, manufacturers will keep the workshops of their dealer networks informed too. If your servicing is done outside the AWS and away from a main dealer workshop, it could be worthwhile asking the workshop you have chosen whether it has the

Modern caravans may not feature any ‘natural’ materials such as wood

necessary specific knowledge of the requirements for your model.

It’s also worth noting that while water ingress problems tend to be less widespread and often less damaging than they were 20 years ago, they do still occur. Failures of the main body seams are less common, with the main issues being leaks around windows, doors and rooflights. This is still a topic which both owners and service agents need to watch out for.

Please address your questions to: Technical Information, Caravan and Motorhome Club, East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 1UA

...and quote your membership number

DINING OUT

Jane McGowan looks at a tasty selection of products to help you enjoy your food and drink while away on tour

Halfords Stainless Steel Whistling Kettle

This superlight yet resilient 1.7-litre kettle should be an essential part of any caravanner’s or motorhomer’s kitchen kit. Made from stainless steel, it comfortably holds up to four mugs full of water and features an insulated handle which can be folded down for easy storage. Once the water has reached boiling point a loud whistling sound is emitted. The spout cover is nice and snug, preventing any hot liquid from escaping easily. Great value!

RRP: £8

Contact: halfords.com; 0345 504 5353

Stylish and colourful, this set contains pairs of dinner plates, side plates, bowls and mugs. Aside from their practical benefits (the items are dishwasher safe, lightweight and heat-retaining), these products also boast some fine green credentials – they are made from 65% bamboo fibre, 20% melamine and 15% corn flour, and are packaged in 100% recyclable material. The designs can be mixed and matched providing a stylish touch to your touring table. Save 10% on this product from Club Shop.

RRP: £13.99 (pre-discount)

Colours: blue sky, green clover, linear, polka ochre

Contact: shop.camc.com; 0344 326 4000

Using just 700W, this energy-efficient toaster has been designed specifically for use in a caravan or motorhome. The compact Swiss Luxx features a stop button, auto pop-up, browning control and auto cut-off, and importantly weighs in at under a kilo. The Swiss Lux range also features a matching low-wattage kettle – both are available in a white or stainless steel finish. Save 10% on this

shop.camc.com; 0344 326 4000

Prima Bamboo 8-Piece Dinner Set for Two

Stored in a substantial mesh drawstring pouch, these high-quality utensils would make a fabulous addition to your motorhome or caravan kitchen. Comprising a whisk, serving spoon, fish slice and pasta spoon, all feature brightly-coloured, easy-grip handles. Each item measures 32cm long and weighs 1kg – ideal for storing for in the vehicle. Made from a durable nylon and thermoplastic rubber (TPR), the utensils are dishwasher safe.

RRP: £16 Contact:

Suitable for camping or al fresco dining, this handy 2-litre jug with lid comes complete with four stackable tumblers – one yellow, one blue, one pink and one turquoise, adding a touch of summer colour. When not in use, the tumblers can be stored in the jug. It’s great value at £3.99 and can buy other matching items, such as a cooler tote bag and picnic mat.

RRP: £3.99

Contact: robertdyas.co.uk; 0800 707 6677

This quality, robust set of 13 pots and pans can be used on any hob or in the oven, and utilised to store leftovers in the fridge, as they are supplied with plastic lids. Stackable and dishwasher safe, they come with detachable handles, making them easy to store in a caravan or motorhome cupboard. At £270 they aren’t cheap, but Club members can take advantage of a 50% saving by visiting camc.com/ memberoffers.

RRP: £270 – but as a Club member you pay just £135

Contact: camc.com/tefal

Outwell Almada Utensil Set

Pitcher Jug & Coloured Tumbler Set Tefal Ingenio Stainless Steel

DID YOU KNOW?

The ‘Practical Advice’ section of the Club website contains a wealth of expert information. See camc.com/advice

IOFF-GRID

reference

Sammy Faircloth offers advice on touring without electricity and using your on-board facilities

love the freedom that caravanning offers and particularly enjoy visiting remote, peaceful sites in the UK where you don’t have access to electric hook-up or toilet/washroom facilities. However, going ‘off grid’ (which basically means using your on-board services) can present some challenges. With this in mind, we decided to see how we would cope by going ‘back to basics’ for six days. Our destination was the idyllic Lyndor Certificated Location. Set on the banks of the River Wye, it offers access to the Wye Valley Walk and was just 15 miles away from the Forest of Dean and its

cycling opportunities. It ticked all the boxes we needed for an active family break.

LEISURE BATTERY

The key to a successful off-grid adventure is a good-quality, fully-charged leisure battery, usually of at least 100Ah capacity. The National Caravan Council has introduced a Verified Leisure Battery Scheme, which gives consumers confidence that the battery they buy is “fit for purpose and will perform as advertised”. Verified batteries are labelled as follows:

Category A – “Batteries with a higher storage capacity for people who frequently use their touring caravan or motorhome away from an electrical hook-up.”

Category B – “Aimed at those who frequently use sites with hook-up facilities, but require a greater battery capacity to operate devices such as motor movers.”

Category C – “For users that require a lower capacity battery to cover basic operation of their habitation equipment for short periods away from an electrical hook-up.”

Lyndor CL near Ross-on-Wye is perfect for an active family getaway

In order to assess the charge status of a leisure battery I would recommend investing in a voltmeter. To gain an accurate result, turn off all 12V appliances before taking a reading. The table below gives a rough guide to the charge status of your battery. Voltmeter reading Approx

12.4V

12.2V

12V or under Discharged

If cost is no object, lithium-ion leisure batteries give even better performance for off-grid use.

To ensure that our charge was at a reasonable level, we connected a 50W solar panel and charge controller to our leisure battery. Fortunately, the weather was fairly sunny and, being June, we also had plenty of daylight hours available. Every day we took a reading and found we had more than enough energy in the leisure battery.

(Please note that performance between charges deteriorates as a battery gets older.)

Clockwise from bottom right: use solar power to boost a leisure battery; Gaslow bottles can be filled up at many service stations and LPG outlets; solar showers are handy for getting mud off kids before they go in the shower; barbecues are popular in our family; at a canoe launch site near to Lyndor CL; there are plenty of safe cycle ways in the Forest of Dean; a solar charge controller regulates the power fed into the leisure battery

GAS

If you aren’t connected to a site electricity supply, you will almost certainly use more gas than usual – so check that you have enough before leaving home.

While a lack of hook-up shouldn’t make a great deal of difference in the cookery department (unless you usually opt for the electric hotplate or microwave in preference to the gas hob or oven), remember to pack a kettle that can be used on the gas hob. To save power, consider doing some cooking on the barbecue – always a winner in our family!

Most fridges have a gas-powered option, so switch to gas when you arrive on site. I would recommend pre-cooling your fridge before leaving home.

We tend to plan our ‘off-grid’ trips for the summer to avoid wasting power on heating. But it can sometimes get a little chilly at night, so we use the gas setting on our heating system to stay warm.

WASHROOM

There are no toilet facilities at the Lyndor site so our washroom was called into service. We found we needed to fill up the fresh water container and empty

the grey waste more regularly, while trips to the chemical waste point to empty the toilet cassette were more frequent. Running the water heater on gas allowed us to have perfectly hot showers. (Remember to check the water situation before you get in the shower – my son found we had run out to his cost!). As a back-up, we have a solar shower on stand-by to get the worst mud off the kids!

LIGHTS

Camping in June meant we didn’t need to use the lights anywhere near as much as we would have in winter. To take the strain off the battery, use the minimum number of lights necessary and replace all bulbs with LEDs – they use up a lot less power. As a back-up, pack a few torches or LED lights.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Caravanning or motorhoming off-grid can take you to some magical, remote places – and can even save you some money. Just for the record, Lyndor does have electric hook-ups – but we chose not to use them (the owner had a spare leisure battery waiting in the wings, too – but we didn’t need it).

MadeintheUK

LIGHT SHOW

Own a small tourer? Then put this crossover on your ‘to-test’ list, says Lesley Harris

Over the years the Suzuki Vitara has morphed from a chunky off-roader into a stylish compact crossover. It is an ever-evolving market, and the latest incarnation of the Vitara includes subtle styling tweaks, new engines and even more tech and safety equipment than before. While its light weight will mean you are limited in your choice of caravan, members owning smaller tourers, teardrops and trailer tents should certainly give it consideration. Let’s take a closer look.

The hallmark clamshell bonnet and redesigned grille are bordered by LED headlamps, while a new-look bumper (which aids aerodynamics)

houses the fog lights and LED running lights. Muscular lines flow over the wheel arches, while the Range Rover Evoque-like roofline gives the Vitara a very pleasing look. Two new dual-tone colours have been added to the palette for 2019, giving buyers plenty of choice.

COMFORT

Moving inside, the materials don’t feel of a particularly high quality – hard plastics are used throughout – but you do get a sense of it being well

Seats and steering wheel can be adjusted for rake and reach, while rear passengers have enough space to remain comfortable – even the sloping roofline doesn’t eat into headroom. My only gripe would be that the central front cubby sits too far back, hampering rear middle-seat leg room.

DRIVING

The Vitara SZ-T is available with a choice of engines – a 1.4-litre Boosterjet and this threecylinder 1.0-litre Boosterjet, which puts out 109bhp @ 5,500rpm and 170Nm of torque.

Now it may be small, but this turbocharged unit is flexible enough to give you plenty of punch when you need it. Power is delivered through a five-speed manual gearbox – a six-speed auto is available but only on two-wheel-drive variants.

seven-inch touchscreen

sat-nav and DAB radio the Vitara also has MirrorLink

Our test car came with Suzuki’s AllGrip 4WD system that will certainly help you out in muddy or snowy conditions.

It’s Suzuki’s aim to make the Vitara as much fun as the Swift Sport. As a previous owner of the latter, I was keen to give this car a try. Obviously, the Vitara is taller than the Swift, so it rolls a little more in corners and it’s not as agile, but what it does have is the ‘fun factor’. There’s a Sports mode

Far left: the Vitara is now a stylish compact crossover

Clockwise from below: 7in touchscreen; boot has a wide opening and flat load lip; rear passengers have enough space to remain comfortable; the dash has a clean, uncluttered feel

too, adding resistance to the steering and sharpening throttle response.

Town driving was easy – a high seating position means you have a great view of the road ahead. In fact, large windows offer brilliant all-round visibility. The light, easy steering and standard rear parking camera mean it’s a breeze to park, too.

On twistier B-roads the Vitara offered good levels of grip and was enjoyable to drive. On the motorways it kept pace nicely with the traffic and rode well, even over our less-than-perfect roads. As a bonus there’s very little road or wind noise, so the cabin is a quiet and calm place to be.

What impressed me most about this Vitara (with the AllGrip system) was the amount of kit on board: blind-spot monitor, hill descent, hill hold, lane-departure warning and prevention, adaptive cruise control, speed-sign recognition, 17in alloys, privacy glass – the list really does go on… and on.

TOWING

The Vitara’s kerbweight is 1,160kg, which, applying the Club’s (85%) guidelines, means you should tow no more than 986kg with it. Towing with a 1.0-litre car a few years ago would have been unthinkable – but thanks to new technology,

Price as tested

£21,599

Insurance

Group 12

Club insurance

The Club’s Car Insurance is tailored to the needs of members using our 25 plus years of know-how. We guarantee to beat your renewal premium by at least £25*.

Engine

998cc, 3-cyl

Boosterjet petrol

Power

109bhp (81kW)

@5,500rpm

Torque

125lb ft (169Nm)

@ 2,000rpm

Transmission

5-speed manual

Spare wheel

Sealant

Kerbweight

1,160kg (85%= 986kg)

Gross vehicle weight

1,730kg

Gross train weight

2,930kg

Noseweight limit

75kg

Towing equipment

Towbar, wiring and fitting, £570

Figures from manufacturers’ literature unless specified

Fuel/tank/econ

Petrol/47 litres (10.34 gal)/39.6mpg solo/27.5mpg towing CO

*Premium Saving Guarantee. Subject to proof of existing renewal, including cover and price (eg a copy of your renewal notice), when cover is on a like-forlike basis. Please note, terms and conditions, eg excess(es), may vary from your current insurer. Courtesy car is subject to availability. Subject to terms and conditions and the Insurer’s acceptance of the Risk. The Club’s Car 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.

smaller-capacity engines can produce as much power as older, larger, less economical ones.

DID YOU KNOW?

We guarantee to beat your insurance renewal premium by £25*. See camc.com/ insurance or call 0345 504 0334 to get your quote

And I was pleasantly surprised by the test vehicle, which hauled a small caravan more than competently. There was no tugging or pitching, and although it did struggle on the steeper inclines, it motored along very happily on the flat. It wasn’t even flustered when overtaking large lorries on the motorway.

The Vitara has a reasonable-sized boot, which is a good square shape and has a wide opening. A flat load lip makes life even easier.

VERDICT

If you have a smaller form of living accommmodation on tow, the Suzuki Vitara is a practical, reasonably-priced, stylish SUV that shouldn’t be overlooked. It comes with plenty of kit and, although the interior isn’t luxurious, it’s well built and should cope with the wear and tear of everyday family life well.

Light details: rear above and front below

With thanks to

Chichester Caravans, Uckfield, for the loan of Towcar Test caravans. See chichester-caravans. co.uk, call 01825 764151 or email: uckfield@ chichester-caravans.co.uk.

ONE OF A KIND

Rob McCabe gets acquainted with an ingenious micro tourer that is like no other on the market

Idon’t do normal,” Wheelhome boss Stephen Wheeler told me. Blimey, he’s not wrong. His latest creation, the Dashaway, looks nothing like a normal caravan and doesn’t behave like one either. It’s marketed as an ‘e-caravan’ because of its ‘future-proof’ ability to be towed by hybrid or even fully-electric vehicles, and also because its solar panel and on-board inverter allow it to provide ‘mains’ power – without hooking up.

It may be tiny, but there are some big ideas here – as we’re about to find out.

BUILD QUALITY

Stephen Wheeler’s stock-in-trade is ingenuity (he’s picked up praise aplenty for his small camper conversions over the years), and there’s no shortage of it here.

The Dashaway’s core body is a glassfibre commercial trailer, adapted radically by unique panelling that incorporates the ‘Podrant’, the electrically-operated extension that glides out

to create the space for the double bed. When not in use, it tucks away into the slimline interior of the caravan. The pop-up roof is also electrically operated – pushing a button brings into play a muscular hydraulic strut at the front.

There are two built-in bike racks, one running along each sidewall. Because of this cunning positioning, they have zero impact on stability or aerodynamics. Setting up the Dashaway or getting it ready for towing takes just a couple of minutes – and if the electrics ever decided to down tools, there’s a manual override. The furniture inside is all reassuringly chunky, and the various portable table tops and shelving fit snugly into their respective slots.

TOWING

It’s pretty sobering to think that future generations of caravanners will be unable to buy a new petrol- or diesel-engined car. The government recently announced that they’ll

be banned from 2040, when all new vehicles must have zero emissions.

In the years leading up to that, there will clearly be ever-increasing numbers of hybrid and fully-electric cars on the UK’s roads – and it is this market that the Dashaway e-caravan serves. Currently, however, some of these cars have incredibly modest maximum towing weights – although the hybrid VW Golf GTE that Stephen tows with enjoys a 1,500kg limit.

The massive, custom-designed, flexible solar panel that takes up almost all of the roof space charges the caravan’s auxiliary batteries, so nothing is taken from the car battery to operate the fridge and the LED lights.

And it goes without saying that, with an MRO of just over 700kg, the little Wheelhome can be towed by just about any ‘normal’ small car, too. With careful loading, you’d be able to keep within the 750kg limit that some vehicles are saddled with.

Clockwise from opposite: the Dashaway set up on site, with hybrid car connected to its exterior socket; narrow profile makes for straightforward towing; the interior is ingeniously designed – here is the kitchen with compressor fridge to the right

TECHNICAL

£24,768 inc UKwide delivery

There’s no built-in stabiliser – hardly a surprise on a caravan that sits so low, and which is so narrow there’s not even any need for towing mirrors – but a motorised mover is standard. This allows owners to ‘walk’ the Dashaway into a tight garage, say, and to fine-tune positioning on site.

DAYTIME

Even with the Podrant deployed and the roof raised, there’s only so much living space you can magic up in something as small as this – not everyone could get by with the slightly enclosed ambience of the interior, not helped by having just one little window to look out of when seated. That said, the attractive leather/suede double seat is plush and comfortable, and even with the neat, slide-on tables in place at mealtimes, there’s still enough room for someone to wander (okay, step) over to the fridge to fetch another beer.

Beds

Double: 6ft 5in × 4ft 5in; or 1 x single 6ft 5in × 2ft 9in

Heating

Compact blownair heater

Fridge/freezer

Compressor

fridge

Toilet

Porta-Potti

MRO

713kg (14.03cwt)

MTPLM

1,000kg (19.68cwt)

User payload

287kg (5.65cwt)

Overall length

19ft 3in (5.87m)

Overall width

5ft 8in (1.72m)

Overall height

6ft 1in (1.84m)

roof lowered

Max internal height

7ft (2.13m)

and

Please see quote provided in the ’Did you know?’ roundel on this page*

*Based on standard new-for-old cover, cover limit of £25,000 (caravan and equipment), £500 contents cover and £100 voluntary excess. Includes security discounts of 15% for Al-Ko ATC, 15% for Al-Ko Diamond Standard wheel lock(s) and 10% for alarm with tilt sensor. Includes 4 + years no claims discount (not protected). Legal protection is an optional extra charged at £9.75 for the year. Subject to underwriting – a copy of the cover wording, including benefits, limitations and exclusions that apply, 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.

DID YOU KNOW?

There are two big ventilation panels in the canvas sides of the roof extension and, when their covers are unzipped, a lot of welcome daylight gets in. I left them unzipped during a fairly heavy downpour and no rain infiltrated, although you’d probably need to close them some of the way during prolonged bad weather.

You can cover this caravan with the Club for £306.07* per year. Please see camc.com/ insurance or call 01342 336610 for further details

You do have the option of an awning – an inflatable Kampa – which takes minutes to erect and, as you can see from the photograph, makes a big difference to the amount of living space. I have to say, it feels a bit odd plugging in a kettle and a phone charger when you’re not even connected to a hook-up. Just flick the switch to turn on the inverter – which converts 12V electricity to 220V – and away you go. You can connect to the site’s power supply in

the usual way should you wish, but I never bothered for the four days I spent with the caravan. (Even in the cloudy, rainy early summer of the UK, there was enough sunlight to keep both solar panels operating efficiently.)

There’s a double mains socket inside – with a useful pair of USB ports – and a single socket outside, which Stephen uses to charge up his plug-in hybrid Golf.

You may have noticed there’s been no mention of gas. Well, there’s a very good reason for that – there isn’t any! Here’s a caravan that can be used independently of gas or mains hook-up – quite a thought.

There’s a surprising amount of storage – every square inch of space is made to pay its way. The cleverest examples of this can be found beneath the flush-fitting covers on the kitchen surface.

Figures from manufacturer’s literature.

Clockwise from left: comfy bed for two...; ...transformed back into day mode; handy tables; induction hob; Dashaway looks cute from every exterior angle; the clever Podrant; portable toilet

One gives access to a waste bin, the other a laundry bag, both concealed behind the compact exterior cover on the front of the caravan.

There’s even a wardrobe – the hatch on the wall behind the sofa backrest opens to reveal some useful hanging space – while one of the floor-level cupboards by the kitchen gives a home to the standard-fit electric fan heater.

NIGHT-TIME

Extending the Podrant gives you the lower section of the double bed, plus somewhere to stash your bedding and any other bits and pieces during the day. There’s minimal effort involved in making up the bed – just flip out the support leg and relocate the seat backrest. It’s a comfy mattress too, and there’s a drop-down shelf you can leave in place to give an overnight home to paperbacks, specs, phones and the like. If you’re having a solo couple of nights away, there’s even the option of making a single bed, the advantage being that you get a little bit more floorspace.

KITCHEN

An induction hob in a caravan – that’s certainly a first for me. We do have one at home, though, and the same benefits apply here – ease of cleaning, sleek good looks and adjustability that rivals gas. If you’re using the hob (just one ring) via the inverter, the inverter fan stays on the whole time because of the relatively high power usage involved (the rest of the time, its operation is silent). There’s also a compact microwave and a mini conventional oven/grill. The Waeco compressor fridge is very neatly installed. The sink is served by a cold-water-only tap – with no shower on board, a water heater would add weight and expense for very little benefit. If you do need a spot of hot water, the kettle or a pan on the hob will quickly oblige.

WASHROOM

Er, no. A floor-level cupboard in the kitchen area discreetly conceals a portable loo – and there is space for it to be used with the bed made up, even if the most likely (and most dignified!) overnight home for it would be in the awning.

LIGHTING

An LED strip serves the kitchen, there’s another further back on the ceiling and one more on the nearside by the bed that serves as a reading light. They all give decently strong, white illumination, although a little table lamp would provide a warmer ambience in the evenings.

VERDICT

There really is nothing quite like this, so it’s not the easiest caravan to sum up. Ultimately, though, it achieves what it sets out to do really well, and its creator deserves credit for producing a sturdy, well-thought-out tourer that’s already geared up for a future free of fossil fuels.

With

563227)

thanks to Vehicle supplied for testing by Wheelhome, K7, Frieze Hall Farm, Coxtie Green Road, South Weald, Essex CM14 5RE (wheelhome.co.uk, 01277

Protection

Family

New

Transportation

TICKLED PINK

Slovenian manufacturer Adria has been represented in the UK for something like half a century now. Its caravans are more popular than those imported by any other brand and it has had a pretty good stab at motorhomes, too, with a portfolio that starts with van conversions and goes all the way through to A-classes.

Centre stage here is the 7.5m-long Coral 670 DC, one of a series of low-profile coachbuilt models offered with ‘Axess’, ‘Plus’ and ‘Supreme’ specification levels. This Plus version starts at £61,325 but extras such as ‘Pack 2’ (£2,590, includes front fog lights, passenger airbag, traction system, leather steering wheel, etc), a £3,060 ‘Luxury Pack’ (Fiat spare wheel, steering wheel controls, central cup holder, awning), £1,560 150bhp engine upgrade, £490 solar panel, £1,530 habitation air conditioning,

£890 cab metallic paint and £275 bedding set take it to more than £70,000.

BUILD QUALITY

Adria boasts a state-of-the-art production plant in Novo Mesto, and has long used tough polyester (GRP) as the exterior skin for its products. It feels particularly solid outside and in – the only surprise is that the company only offers a two-year warranty for the habitation side of its work (the bodywork has a 10-year back-up, transferable for the first seven years).

DRIVING

Fiat’s sure-footed Ducato underpins the Coral 670 DC, and the upgrade to a 150bhp engine here (standard size is 130bhp) improves the overall quality of the driving experience.

T here are four travel seats, but it’s a mixed report in this department. The facility to transport two extra passengers behind the cab is to be applauded, but converting the settees to individual travel seats isn’t straightforward. It involves a fair amount of cushion-switching and the result is a forward-facing seat with three-point belt on the nearside and a rear-facing unit with lap restraint on the off. There’s no window on the latter side although there’s a ‘media wall’ into which you can plug your devices.

DAYTIME

The Coral has a pleasing lack of straight edges, its sleek interior providing plenty for style enthusiasts to comment upon.

The daytime arrangement of twin short settees either side of a sturdy, adjustable, fixed

Clockwise from top right: the table set up for dinner; table-top hinges to allow for easy cab access; rear island bed is a real highlight; build quality is of a high calibre

pedestal-leg table works well. The gloss white table-top itself is hinged in the middle and can be easily tipped out of the way if you need access to the cab. Meanwhile, the cab seats swivel seamlessly, and there is a nice flat floor throughout the living area.

The light tones of the furnishings and double sunroof arrangement overhead provide a lovely bright and airy environment – it creates the effect of spaciousness. However, there’s a darker upholstery option for those who might feel pale colours will soon show the marks.

NIGHT-TIME

The rear island bed is a terrific highlight – it can even be raised or lowered electrically via a switch in the garage. Angled wardrobes increase the available width of the sleeping area and there’s

TECHNICAL R ATINGS

Price as tested £71,720 OTR Caravan and Motorhome Club Insurance

Please see quote provided in the ’Did you know?’ roundel on opposite page*

150bhp (112kW) @ 3,600rpm Torque 280lb ft (380Nm) @ 1,500rpm Transmission 6-speed manual, FWD

Figures from manufacturer’s literature.

*Quote is for model as tested worth £71,720. Based on 50-year-old banker living in Sheffield, with a maximum no claims bonus coming from a vehicle of a similar value/experience, who has no accidents, claims or convictions and keeps the vehicle on a drive, 3,000 miles per year, with £350 damage, fire and theft excess. With factory-fitted alarm and immobiliser. 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.

DID YOU KNOW?

You can insure this motorhome with the Club for £656.96* per year. Please see camc.com/ insurance or call 0345 504 0334 for further details

a comfortable mattress with upper-section angle adjustment should you want to sit up. There are useful ledges each side, while twin touch-sensitive reading lamps offer two levels of illumination. Other aspects of note are a padded headboard, high-level lockers on the back wall and a Midi Heki overhead.

The slatted bed base hinges upwards, providing access to storage space as well as the fresh water tank. A sliding door provides some bedroom privacy.

T he third sleeping berth is a rather convoluted affair, made up from the lounge seating. Like the extra travel seat, it might be best for occasional use only.

KITCHEN

On first inspection the kitchen seems rather compact, and maybe you’ll be a bit disappointed if you like a food preparation area with plenty of permanent worktop. But there are plenty of positives. The hob – boasting three different-sized gas rings in a line – is an efficient use of space, allowing for some work surface in front. Additionally, two loose panels can be integrated with the shaped sink to provide some more prep room. There’s an integrated extractor unit, a handy aluminium rack set into the wall for smaller items, excellent splash panelling and storage in the form of a series of soft-close drawers, a locker under the oven/grill and two overhead lockers.

narrow fridge with freezer compartment and automatic energy selection. The locker above it could be adapted to house a microwave oven.

WASHROOM

Washroom facilities are split between a toilet room on the nearside and a shower cubicle offside; the latter is indicative of Coral’s mix of style, quality and practicality. The double doors with a lock are more sturdy than most.

Despite the fact the shower sits over the wheel arch, there’s plenty of room for washing, and there’s a hand ledge for your shampoos, soaps etc. There’s a fixed rail for wet clothing, plus a rooflight, while, underfoot, opposing plugholes should ensure water drains efficiently.

The WC is home to a Thetford swivel-bowl toilet and a counter-top basin, the latter flanked by a toothbrush mug and soap dispenser. There’s

Clockwise from left: counter-top basin in the toilet; plenty of room in the shower despite it being located over the wheel arch; food preparation area may initially disappoint but there are many plus points in the kitchen; plenty of storage available at the rear

excellent locker storage in here, plus a wide, illuminated mirror.

DETAILS

T here’s plenty more worth highlighting in this Adria. The wider than average habitation door (complete with window and waste bin), for example, as well as the fact the interior lockers are easy to open and feature shelving with proper lining. Excellent LED lighting throughout, a trio of floor-level storage hatches and a good selection of USB/mains sockets are further features that impress.

I’m not a fan of the cheap-looking plastic hinges for the seat bases, however, or the sprung cassette roller blinds/flyscreens (concertina blinds seem more up-market), and the TV bracket hidden behind a removable panel in the offside lounge locker is not very practical. However, these niggles are more than

outweighed by the quality on display everywhere else.

VERDICT

Great styling and a high calibre of build quality bode well for the Coral 670 DC. Check out the Axess, Plus and Supreme trim levels and be prepared to pay for some extra essentials – the Luxury Pack and Pack 2, for starters – to make it into the complete package for you.

With thanks to

Vehicle supplied for testing by: Adria UK , Unit 2, Drury Drive, Woodhall Business Park, Sudbury CO10 1WH. Contact: adria.co.uk, 01787 888980

Our motorhome insurance is designed with you in mind.

• New for old insurance for up to 24 months, with no mileage limit

• Contents cover protects single items up to £500 to a maximum combined £5,000

• Full policy cover in Europe, for up to 365 days per year

*Premium Saving Guarantee. Subject to proof of an existing renewal, including cover and price (e.g. a copy of your renewal notice) and when cover is on a like-for-like basis. Offer applies to new customers only. Subject to terms and conditions and the underwriter’s acceptance of the risk. Please note, terms, conditions and excess(es) may vary from your current insurer and excludes Breakdown and Legal cover, which needs to be purchased separately. A sample policy, including the terms and conditions that may apply, is available upon request.

The Club’s Motorhome Insurance is arranged by Devitt

Crossword

£50 in Club gift tokens will be won by the sender of the first correct solution opened on Tuesday 20 August 2019. Four runners-up will each receive £10 Club gift tokens.

1 A cloak (4)

2 Set of 12 (5) 3 Emit an odour (5) 4 Leave behind, desert (7) 5 Close-fitting (5)

6 A mild cold (5)

7 At no time (5)

8 High-spirited (7) 9 To be sparing in application (5) 11 Clues left to right (6)

Compassionate (4)

Skinflint (5)

A disaster (8)

A tall story (4)

Swag (4) 25 Award of

(5)

(4)

(5)

Minor damage to car (4)

(4)

(6)

(6)

and guests (10)

47 Slope for wheelchair (4)

Force with a lever (5)

(4)

48 Search for game (4)

52 Fruit of a vine (5)

54 Visited by ghosts (7)

55 Desert beast (5)

57 Business place (6)

58 Map or diagram (4)

59 Danger (5)

60 Vision (5) 61 Tip or side benefit (4)

•

• Manual or Auto roller engagement.

•

•

• Built in the UK to ISO 9001 standards.

• Proud to have over 25 years experience designing and building our movers right here in the UK.

• Service engineers throughout the UK.

• Powrtouch is the trusted choice of mover for 95% of dealers.

• Member of the National Caravan Council.

Tired, Heavy Legs?

Puffy Ankles?

More than a million people are now dedicated to the REVITIVE Circulation Booster®, which is high-tech yet needs no specialist operation.

REVITIVE is being shown to help with symptoms such as the feeling of tired legs and puffy ankles - as well as improving our feeling of health generally. The circular footrest is a dynamic hub for electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) technology, sending electrical pulses gently up through the feet and into the body.

Few people realise it but the calves act as our ‘second

heart’, pumping blood up from the body’s farthest reaches back to the heart. It’s no secret that things tend to slow through ageing or being less active. After we’ve been on our feet for a while, at best many of us suffer from symptoms where we find our legs feeling tired and ankles puffy. Yet sufferers are discovering that is a thing of the past thanks to the REVITIVE Circulation Booster®, a drug-free, therapy device which actively increases circulation. It should be used from just 30 minutes daily and it won’t interfere with any existing medication.

REVITIVE can weave its magic while you sit back in your armchair and watch TV thanks to its easy operation, and is the culmination of a century of research.

EASY TO USE – hydrate yourself & apply FREE moisturiser to feet, increase intensity until your calf muscles contract, sit back, relax & let REVITIVE do the rest.

EFFECTIVE – REVITIVE creates Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) which sends gentle electrical pulses up through the feet which contracts the calf muscles to get your leg muscles pumping & may help provide relief from the feeling of tired legs and puffy feet and ankles, while you relax.

CLINICAL TRIALS – Imperial College London’s vascular surgery department at Charing Cross Hospital London has conducted extensive clinical studies and advocate its use.

DRUG-FREE – REVITIVE is a class IIa medical device offering a drug-free solution, plus entitling you to claim back the VAT†† if you suffer from a longterm illness - call for further details.

the Professor:

Johnathan Beard, Consultant Vascular Surgeon Sheffield teaching Hospitals

Family matters

Lee Davey, wife Helen, daughter Poppy (17) and son Charlie (11) love the great outdoors and the touring lifestyle. This month – life's a breeze!

Children are notoriously fickle. On one trip they might enjoy riding their bikes, playing football or running on a beach, but the next time you go away it’s entirely possible that they will show zero interest in doing the exact same activities again. However, we recently stumbled across a pastime that will hopefully retain its popularity wherever we go – kite flying.

One one particular trip the conditions were perfect for kite flying, as demonstrated expertly by another family who were staying in the same field. At the time we didn’t have a kite on our kit list, so we thought we’d try to make one out of things we had and other bits and pieces that we could find. I’ve set out the method below – it’s a simple project that kids will enjoy doing, and flying something you’ve made yourself is very satisfying.

First, we gathered together a bin bag, two sticks, string, sticky tape, a kitchen knife and a pair of scissors (obviously I was in charge of sharper items!). One stick was cut to a length of 60cm, the other 45cm, and notches were scored into the four ends to accommodate the string that would run around the edges. We measured 20cm down the

longer stick and attached the middle of the shorter stick to it using both tape and string. With the pair of sticks reasonably sturdy, string was fed into the notches at the ends and tied at the bottom to form a diamond shape. We cut the bin bag so that it was 3cm larger than the framework and subsequently placed the frame on top. The bin bag was then folded over the string and secured with tape.

Meanwhile, a tail was fashioned by placing ‘bin bag ribbons’ in-between two lengths of sticky tape. (Charlie was given the task of cutting the ribbons to match the size of a mobile phone, which, depressingly, seems to be a universal indicator of size among children.) A length of string was then tied to the ends of the smaller stick, with enough slack to allow it to be an inch or two away from the frame while flying. This length of string has the main ‘line’ tied to its centre. Hey presto! You’ve just made something that flies!

MEMBERS SINCE...

Caravanners the Daveys joined the Club in 2006

Charlie’s view

I’m not sure what was more fun – making the kite or flying it! I was amazed at how many things we already had in the caravan and the only things we had to find were two straight sticks. Luckily, the site staff helped us out as they had a couple of broken canes in the shed. The ball of string was last used when Dad tried to give the waste pipe the correct ‘fall’ when on a serviced pitch. Once we had everything we needed it didn’t take long to make.

Helen’s view

Lee and the kids tore through the caravan trying to find useful items. The weather that day was a bit unsavoury to begin with, so being inside making the kite was a good idea. Thankfully, the rain disappeared but the winds remained, so the conditions were perfect for flying. The shop-bought kite being flown by another (saner!) family soared majestically, while our home-made one took a bit more coaxing, but somehow it defied the laws of physics and flew!

LET’S GO FLY A KITE! FIVE TIPS FOR LIFT OFF

1 Find an area with no obstacles (eg trees, houses or power lines). Open fields or beaches are ideal

2 Obviously you need a windy day, but gale-force gusts will probably damage your kite. Never fly one during a thunderstorm

3 Stand with your back to the wind and let the line out. Hold the kite up and the wind should take it

4 Don’t let the line run through your hands too quickly – it may burn or cut you

5 Use stickers to decorate your kite

The Western Motorhome Show special offer

Use the coupon on this page to save on admission to this exciting Worcester show in August

Enjoy an authentic American West experience and check out the latest motorhomes and accessories all at the same venue!

Taking place at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern, Worcestershire, from 16-18 August, the Western Motorhome Show features a huge trade arena filled with new and used vehicles and camping kit.

If you choose to camp at the show, you can enjoy four nights of free entertainment from acts such as Fools Gold, The Hayley Sisters, Lass Vegas and The Rocky Road Ramblers (Saturday night entertainment in the Severn Hall, featuring the likes of Dixie Divas, is ticket only –adults £12, children £6, when booked by 2pm on 31 July).

Other Western-themed highlights include displays and performances from the Lonestar Old West Re-enactment group, a Best Dressed Westerner Competition and daily line-dancing tuition.

MEMBER TICKET OFFER

On-the-door day admission to the show is £8 per person but you can use the voucher on this page to claim £1 off the cost of entry for two. Children go free. The show opens daily at 9.30am, closing at 5pm on Friday and Saturday and 4.30pm on Sunday. For more details about camping at the show or attending as a day visitor head to showgoer.co.uk

Centre lines

Irish Division has it covered!

The Irish Division was announced as the winner of the 2019 Rally Handbook Cover Competition during this year’s National at Ragley Hall.

Members of the Executive Committee had perused many fantastic entries during their meeting on 13 May, awarding second place to West Dorset and third to Wiltshire. Midland Centre was given a special mention in this annual challenge, which rewards correct use of the Club’s logo as well as the clarity and overall impression of the main photograph featured.

The best website award was presented to Derbyshire Centre, with North Essex second and East Dorset in third. Marks were awarded for the ‘welcome appeal’ to new and old ralliers, the safety of members’ data online and ease of the booking process.

The judges commended the hard work of Club volunteers who had achieved a very high standard in both competitions.

Sun shines on Youth Section

West Hampshire Centre’s Youth Section Rally near Exbury Gardens was a great success, as the sun emerged despite a pessimistic weather forecast.

The youngsters sited all the outfits, completed the paperwork and laid on a selection of excellent games and evening entertainment. Further cash for their chosen charity was raised by filling water barrels at 50p per time!

‘Guidance’ was given by Kate and Clive, while new co-rally officers Karen and Paul and Sean and Claire put in a sterling effort. Well done to all involved.

Happy feat

Spring surprise

Visitors to Wiltshire’s Spring Gala Dinner rally at Tangley in May were treated to champagne cocktails and canapés on arrival!

That was just a taste of things to come as 40+ members enjoyed a superb three-course meal followed by a full English breakfast on the Sunday. A very professional disco on the Saturday night was enjoyed by all.

More than £100 was collected for the Specal Care Baby Unit at Great Western Hospital, Swindon, over the course of the weekend.

Tom Shepherd

West Central Region regrets to announce the passing of its Vice Chairman, Tom Shepherd.

Welcome to our section dedicated to the Club’s centres. To search for a Centre event or find your local group’s details, see camc.com/centres

Nearly 200 people took part in the Scottish Ramble event held at the National in May. The five-mile walk, organised by Fiona Murray of the Highland Centre, proved a great success. Following a wet start, the sun came out and, having claimed their completion certificates, everyone enjoyed a well-earned scone and a cuppa. Pictured are the North Centre’s Andrew and Doris Baird, who have been registering walkers for the Scottish Ramble for the past 25 years. Many thanks to everyone involved.

Tom and his wife Anne were enthusiastic caravanners for some 35 years. Although never associated with a centre, Tom joined the West Central Region Council and served as an independent member for over 10 years before being elected as Vice Chair in 2018.

Following a varied career, he became Director of Age Concern in Portsmouth, a position he held for 17 years. After his retirement in 2005, the family moved to North Wales.

His wisdom and wit will be sadly missed, together with his common sense and inclusive approach to issues, particularly those affecting the younger and less able members of our caravanning and motorhoming community.

Our thoughts are with Anne, family and friends at this sad time.

Great job: rally officers Helen Ballamy, Nigel Ballamy, Sue Searle and Reece Searle

View of the Solent

Andrew and Doris Baird

Tail lights

A look at the fun and unusual world of touring

in Filey. He says that it was built on an old gun carriage after the First World War by the grandfather of the lady who still owns it. “The things that really set it off,” says Steve, “are the leaded bay windows”. Couldn’t agree more – what a beauty.

Creating a buzz

MORE ON THE APP

Bloomin’ lovely

Now here’s a trailer that would improve any grey car park. Tony Lago kindly sent in this picture from Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens in West Sussex and remarked that it’s a pity caravans don’t come in colours other than white. Keep looking, Tony, they are out there!

To Loch Lomond and beyond

Fans of Disney/Pixar’s Toy Story films – the latest one has just been released in cinemas – should keep an eye out for Woody and Buzz Lightyear during their travels. Last spotted by Katie Fleming performing this death-defying stunt near Loch Lomond, the intrepid duo managed to hold on until the motorhome came to a standstill. The whereabouts of Mr Potato Head, however, could not be confirmed as we went to press.

“How about this for Tail Lights?” asks Stuart Clarke, who spotted a tiny coachbuilt motorhome waiting for the ferry from Naples to Palermo. According to Stuart, it was built by its German owner, based on a Piaggio Ape (worker bee). The fully-equipped interior includes a fold-down bed, cooker, fridge and ample locker space over the cab and in the rear box. Judging by the back it has been around... when asked how he got to all the places the owner replied, “Slowly!”

If you’ve seen something unusual on a Club site, CL or while you’ve been out and about, send your picture to magazine@ camc.com and we’ll print the best.

This bovine climber was spotted at Dyllgoed Isaf Certificated Location by Peter and Grace Morris. A surprisingly agile farmyard animal or an optical illusion? You decide...

• Softly peached cotton

• Smart-casual pleat front

• Side elastication for added comfort

• Zip fly and button fastening to waist

• 5 leg lengths for the perfect fit

• Up to 52” waist to suit all shapes and sizes