Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine – September 2020

SEPTEMBER 2020

LUCKY SEVEN

Hit the jackpot on our seven-stop tour of glorious East Anglia

ELECTRIC DREAMS Used hybrid Lexus RX 450h towcar on test

PADDLE POWER Take to the water for a canoeing adventure

LEAP OF FAITH The epic tale of the extraordinary salmon

COMMENT DIRECTOR GENERAL

All designed around you.

presents

The next generation of caravans, motorhomes & campervans NEW FOR 2021.

Your home away from home and every space has its ambition to offer the most for your best holiday experience.

The new generation of our Caravans, Motorhomes and Campervans takes this to a new level, with bigger spaces, new softer, more integrated forms and a special ambiance, offering great living spaces and practical features, complemented by a new selection of textiles and soft furnishing.

Please contact your nearest Adria dealership for more information: www.adria.co.uk/dealer-network XX November 2019

www.adria.co.uk www.camc.com

COMMENT EDITOR

WELCOME

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

Postal address Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine, East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 1UA Club contact details For comprehensive contact details, see camc.com/contact Membership services and magazine circulation 01342 318813 (calls may be recorded) Site booking (members only)/ UK Club sites advance booking 01342 327490 Cover Caravan 01342 336610 Insurance (Devitts) Car/motorhome 0345 504 0334 Home/contents 0345 504 0335 Travel Service 01342 316101

Gary Martin says: The banner on the top of this page has never been more appropriate!

Over the course of July alone, we were delighted to welcome many thousands of new families to this fantastic Club of ours. Meanwhile, many more of you renewed your subscriptions – thank you.

This is good news for us, obviously, but it also has the potential to boost the caravan/ motorhome sales sector and the

Red Pennant (Overseas Holiday Insurance) 01342 336633

People recognise the “value of a Great British

Brochures on Club services 01342 327410 Technical advice 01342 336611 Club Magazine editorial 01342 336640

staycation

Legal helpline 01275 378728 Advertising enquiries General number 01342 336817 Commercial Manager Ian Lea 01342 336753 ian.lea@camc.com Business Development Manager Jason Clarke 01342 779368 jason.clarke@camc.com Commercial Executive Adam Johnson 01342 336742 adam.johnson@camc.com Production Controller Tara Erroll 01342 779371 tara.erroll@camc.com

SEPTEMBER 2020

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

TOURING: EAST ANGLIA CLUB SITES AND CLS TESTED: BMW X7/ADRIA TWIN SUPREME 640 SLB/USED HYBRID LEXUS

Patron: HRH The Prince Philip President: Thomas Coke, 8th Earl of Leicester Chairman: Grenville Chamberlain OBE Director General: Nick Lomas

CARAVAN AND MOTORHOME CLUB MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2020

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

LUCKY SEVEN

COVER IMAGE:

Hit the jackpot on our seven-stop tour of glorious East Anglia

www.camc.com

ELECTRIC DREAMS Used hybrid Lexus RX 450h towcar on test PASS p1 Cover v1.indd 1

www.camc.com

”

local tourism industry as people across the country recognise the value of a Great British staycation.

If youre new to the Club we hope you enjoy this issue, which is packed with useful information and ideas.

You can find out more about member benefits in our special feature on pages 56-58, while I would highly recommend a look at our Member Offers pages (p63-64) and regular

Ask Your Club feature which answers common questions (p74.)

Newcomers and experienced tourers alike will love Jonathan Mannings piece about his seven-site tour of beautiful East Anglia (p30-39), which takes in the delights of the coast, the enchanting inland waterways of the Broads and the magnificent city of Cambridge.

And whether you are just getting started or planning to update your touring vehicle, Sammy Faircloths Practical feature on pages 71-72 offers essential advice on what to look for when buying a new caravan or motorhome.

So once again, welcome. And welcome back!

PADDLE POWER Take to the water for a canoeing adventure

Sheringham Hall, Norfolk (Getty Images/whitemay)

LEAP OF FAITH The epic tale of the extraordinary salmon 06/08/2020 13:55

September 2020 3

CONTENTS PLEASE

RECYCLE RESPONSIBLY Your magazine is now delivered in a recyclable paper wrap

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

8

SEPTEMBER 2020

TOURING

SPECIALS

30 UK SITES

Jonathan Mannings seven-site tour of East Anglia takes in the best of coast and countryside 40 DIRECTORY UPDATES

Updates to your Sites Directory & Handbook 42 ACTIVITY BREAKS

A tranquil canoeing adventure on the River Nene

10 CLUB MATTERS

How site staff coped with lockdown and prepared to welcome you back 56 CLUB MEMBERSHIP

Whether youre new to the pastime or an experienced tourer, your annual subscription goes a long way 76 CYCLE ROUTE

A beautiful yet testing route from Bourton-on-the-Water Club site 80 FAMILY FOCUS

Encourage youngsters outside with a spot of fruit picking 83 PUZZLE TIME

Brain-twisting challenges 86 HYBRID HOLIDAYS

John Rankin hitches his caravan to a Lexus RX 450h

TESTS 90

96

CAR BMW X7 MOTORHOME Adria Twin Supreme 640 SLB

NEWS 13

20

46

HEADLINES Club and industry updates SITES The latest from around the network OVERSEAS Worldwide tours in 2021 and European Travel tips

90

4 September 2020

REGULARS

66 COUNTRY MATTERS

David Chapman observes the extraordinary feats of the salmon 71 PRACTICAL

Upsizing or downsizing? Sammy Faircloths essential advice 74 ASK YOUR CLUB

Advice on London emission zones 84

100

CROSSWORD A chance to win Club gift tokens DEALER MARKETPLACE Start looking for your next home-from-home 102 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

To advertise, call 01342 336817 114 TAIL LIGHTS

The weird, wacky and wonderful world of touring

60

7

DIRECTOR GENERAL’S VIEW Nick Lomas puts forward the case for a city break 8 YOUR PHOTOS

The best photos from your touring adventures 27 THE CAMPERVAN COOK

Martin Dorey’s goats cheese and honey appetisers 51 LETTERS

Your comments and views 60 PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Give your tourer a treat!

63 MEMBER OFFERS

Special deals on various products www.camc.com

Stable Level Easy www.ma-ve.co.uk T: 01782 330897 email: info@ma-ve.co.uk

Automatic Hydraulic Levelling

Aphiam Ltd Unit 11 Aynsley Mill, Portland Works Sutherland Road, Longton, ST3 1HH T: 01782 330897 | E: info@aphiam.co.uk www.aphiam.co.uk

March 2020

X

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• VIRTUAL VEHICLE TOURS AVAILABLE • 57 SERVICE CENTRES NATIONWIDE – FOR TOTAL PEACE OF MIND C A R AVA N S A L E S

MIKE HODGES EDDIE COLLINS mike@glossopcaravans.co.uk eddie@glossopcaravans.co.uk 07939 033 974 07956 970 383

Tel: 01457 868011 www.glossopcaravans.co.uk XX November 2019

MOTORHOME SALES

GARY IRVING LAWRENCE LOWTHER gary@glossopcaravans.co.uk lawrence@glossopcaravans.co.uk 07970 070 607 07599 641 160 CALL US 24/7, WE’RE WAITING TO HELP YOU! www.camc.com

COMMENT DIRECTOR GENERAL

OPINION Nick Lomas says:

camc.com/enquiries This magazine is also available as a page turner on the Club website and an app free of charge for members.

For non-members who download the Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine app, each issue costs £2.29 (Google Play) or £2.99 (App Store).

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.

351,884

Circulation: Jan-Dec 2019

Printing by Walstead Bicester

www.camc.com

The British tourism and hospitality industry is slowly getting back on its feet. I have to say the taste of my first pint of hand-pulled ale was a moment to savour indeed.

However, I’m sure many of you will be aware that, for many attractions, museums, galleries and historic houses, opening up again is a delicate business. Visitor numbers are necessarily restricted, while costs are higher as extra staff training, supervision and equipment is needed.

The Club has seen a surge in bookings from members. Unsurprisingly you are looking to recharge your batteries by heading for the coast and countryside across our wonderful country. The staycation is certainly on the rise and this is to be welcomed.

“

We should make more of an effort to see our amazing artworks and historic landmarks in our towns and cities

”

Do, though, spare a thought for our great towns and cities. Sally Balcombe, the CEO of VisitBritain, recently remarked that 66% of visitors to the National Gallery in London usually come from overseas; at The Roman Baths in Bath its 50%. So maybe we Brits should make more of an effort to see our national collections of amazing artworks and wonderful historic landmarks for ourselves!

Many of our historic museums and galleries are reopening, after months of lockdown, to relative quiet and calm.

It’s likely the usual influx of overseas tourists will not materialise for a while so why not grab this opportunity?

Locations such as the British Museum in London and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow, for example, were preparing to reopen as this magazine

went to press (check their websites for details). Meanwhile, Edinburghs International and Fringe festivals are cancelled, heralding a very different and far calmer experience for visitors.

Attractions are limiting numbers to ensure social distancing, often using online reservation systems – more reasons why your visits could be more straightforward and less hectic than usual.

So what about Kelvingrove Art Gallery, in Glasgow, Edinburghs Palace of Holyroodhouse or the Tower of London as the focal points of socially distanced and less frantic city breaks? I visited York recently and had a fantastic time. Fewer people than normal made it pleasurable, even at the weekend, but not so quiet that there was no atmosphere. And with so many cafés and restaurants reopening with additional outside seating and covered shelters, it was easy enough to find a bite to eat.

While a countryside stay might well be just what we all crave, think also about a way of enjoying our cities, their landmarks and their visitor attractions. River cruises, open-top buses and self-guided walking tours are further fun options.

Whatever you decide, I hope you enjoy your next touring break!

September 2020 7

SPECIAL MEMBER PICTURES

YOUR PHOTOS

Your most memorable touring moments caught on camera

PARROT FASHION

It is amazing what surprises wait in store when you go away on a touring break. This colourful fella greeted us when we stayed at The Poplars, a lovely Certificated Location in the village of Crowton.

Neil Fox

Cheshire

HOLM RUN This atmospheric shot was taken over Cartworth Moor near Holmfirth. There had been a mix of heavy rain showers and blazing sunshine all day. I love the contrast between the dark clouds and the lightness of the trees and fields. Nearest Club site: Hebden Bridge.

Tony Butterworth

Derbyshire

BEAUTY OR BEAST?

Yorkshire

8 September 2020

While on a gentle walk from Castleton Club site and the nearby village of Hope, we spied the iconic Breedon Hope Cement Works, nestled in the glorious Derbyshire countryside. To some incongruous, the cement works are considered by others to be a thing of beauty. What do you think?

Katie Dudley www.camc.com

Peak District

THE WHEAL DEAL The dramatic ruins of Wheal Coates on the north coast of Cornwall between Porthtowan and St Agnes give a big clue to this region’s tin mining heritage. Nearest Club site: St Agnes Beacon.

Andy Pattenden

Cornwall

SCOUT’S HONOUR

My two daughters enjoy the stunning view from Kinder Scout in the Peak District National Park.

You don’t need me to tell you that this is a beautiful part of the country – Chatsworth Park Club site is the perfect base from which to explore the area.

Nathan Garside

WOLD CLASS Sitting on the River Windrush, Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the Cotswolds’ most picturesque villages. It is served by the Club site of the same name.

Ashley Neale

FREE PRIZE DRAW

Send us a photo and you will automatically be entered TAKE A SEAT into a free monthly draw, giving Catching the train from Tweedbank station you the chance to win some near Melrose Gibson Park Club site takes you fantastic prizes! See camc. to Scotland’s historic capital of Edinburgh in com/competitions for full less than an hour. This photo, looking out over to prize draw terms and Arthur’s Seat, was taken from the city’s castle. conditions Maxine Shergold

Edinburgh

Gloucestershire

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

www.camc.com

9

Going the

SPECIAL CLUB MATTERS

We chat to the site managers helping you enjoy your touring breaks once again

A

s the majority of sites on the UK sites network are now open for business again, we thought now would be a good time to catch up with some of our fantastic staff, all of whom are going the extra mile to keep you safe and help you enjoy a great holiday. This month we talk to two sets of Site Managers, who found themselves in different situations when lockdown was enforced.

Helen and Gary Harrison, Commons Wood Club site, Hertfordshire Commons Wood remained open during lockdown to support key workers and vulnerable visitors...

Can you tell us a little about the run-up to lockdown and how you evacuated the site?

We personally went to each unit and explained that the site was closing. Everyone was very understanding and those that could go, did so.

The people with nowhere to go were very concerned, we reassured them that we would feed back their circumstances and, as it turned out, we were able to accommodate them.

“

We understand that some key workers were able to stay on site. How did that work and how did you keep them safe?

We already had a few key workers and welcomed more after the initial lockdown.

As the site had limited numbers, we were able to give everyone plenty of space between pitches, and obviously we had enhanced cleaning regimes.

Knowing they were somewhere relatively safe was important to them. They preferred to be in their own unit rather than a key worker hotel. Initially we did need to remind people that their unit was their ‘household’ – not the whole site.

Some people were also unable to leave the site – either because they were particularly vulnerable or because they couldn’t get home. How did you look after them?

In much the same way as key workers. Because many of them are single and not able to meet friends and family, we were worried about them getting lonely. So with fewer members on site we were able to spend more time checking on them and getting to know them.

Thank you for all you have done for us in these strange times

”

Just one of the ‘thank yous’ on a card presented to the Commons Wood site managers

Do you have any particularly memorable stories about those who remained on site?

The best part was seeing the members form a supportive community. Being such a strange time with lots of uncertainty and fear, they were able to build relationships when previously they may not have. For example, once groups of six were allowed it was great to see the members enjoying each other’s company (at a distance of course) playing boules on an empty hardstanding pitch.

How did you cope personally with the coronavirus outbreak and the responsibility of continuing to work for the Club?

We had mixed emotions. We felt privileged to be able to look after our members but also a little concerned for our own safety. Once we re-opened we were in a much better position than the closed sites as we already had a good idea of how the site could run.

Did you manage to keep the site maintained in the normal way?

Pretty much. Obviously the cleaning was enhanced. The main focus was on following the social distancing requirements, so we could continue to maintain the site by, for example, communicating where and when we needed to cut grass and hedges. We asked members not to approach us while we were working and telephone us instead.

How did you open up again to the general membership? Was it particularly hectic?

Getting ready for re-opening was very hectic.

10 September 2020

www.camc.com

extra mile “

Many guests have said thank you for being open, thank you for all your hard work, thank you for keeping the loos open...

Ruth and Mark Swift, Site Managers, Carsington Water

We have a large (450 unit) storage compound that opened with hourly appointments on 15 June, taking up pretty much a full time role until 6pm every evening. This meant we had to find the extra time to implement the measures to get the site ‘Covid Secure’, which resulted in lots of late nights keeping on top of site maintenance as well as installing hand sanitisers and the new signage, etc. We have to say that our Regional Manager and all our head office colleagues were extremely supportive.

Do things feel as though they are slowly returning to normal?

Yes, things are more normal. The toilet block has restricted access with a wristband system to indicate how many people are already inside.

”

We also have lots more signs around the site reminding members of how to keep safe at service points and in communal areas. The cleaning regimes have been further enhanced as guidelines were updated.

The hardest thing for members is the reduction in face-to-face contact. Whereas before they might have come into reception for a natter, they now have to modify their behaviour and chat to us outside (at 2m) or over the telephone. It is also hard for us as usually we are very happy to help, but now we have to ensure we can keep us and them safe when they seek assistance. For example, if they have a problem with their caravan, we can't just ‘pop in’ and have a look for them.

Longer versions of these interviews can be read at camc.com/blog

17

The number of Club sites that remained open solely to accommodate key workers and vulnerable members

www.camc.com

Ruth and Mark Swift, Carsington Water Club site, Derbyshire Carsington Water was closed completely over the lockdown period.

What challenges did leaving the site and being furloughed present?

Opening up our site is a big operation requiring a team of volunteers and site staff, so it felt quite surreal and sad to be leaving the site after all our hard work.

Plus we did not know how long the furlough/employment situation would go on for – so this left a lot of uncertainty.

How have things changed now you are open once again?

A large number of the guests on site are new to the Club and new to touring.

This means they need much more explanation. People arriving on site for their first post-lockdown visit are on edge, frightened, unsure of everything.

This means they need reassurance, support and understanding. The overall differences are that there is more to do in terms of cleaning/disinfecting, more support required for guests, we’re running 98% full all the time – so more check-ins, departures and rubbish.

Is it good to see people enjoying themselves on site again?

Of course, it is brilliant and heartwarming to have guests back on site.

Chilling out, enjoying life, being free after being ‘locked up’. Helping our guests to have a fantastic time with us – this is why we are Site Managers.

Happy days!

160+ 50% The number of sites on the UK sites network that were open as this issue went to press (7 August 2020)

You can save 50% on midweek bookings at Carsington Water – see camc.com for details

September 2020 11

BOOK A PERSONAL APPOINTMENT WITH ONE OF OUR EXPERTS Our stores are now re-opening and we’re here to help you reconnect with the outdoors.

Book an in-store appointment at Cotswold Outdoor, Runners Need or Snow+Rock and enjoy personalised advice, kit recommendations and other in-store services.

. . . . .

Rucksack Fitting Outdoor Footwear Fitting Electronics Advice Adventure Kit List Camping Kit List

15% DISCOUNT FOR CARAVAN AND MOTORHOME CLUB MEMBERS

SEE ONLINE FOR MORE DETAILS COTSWOLDOUTDOOR.COM/BOOKING • SNOWANDROCK.COM/BOOKING • RUNNERSNEED.COM/BOOKING

Appointment types vary depending on the store

14 August 2020

www.camc.com

Headlines The latest stories from the touring world

STAY FOR LESS IN 2020 In response to UK government guidance, we’ve reduced our Club campsite prices in line with the recent VAT reductions.

This means that you will only pay 5% VAT on all campsite bookings from 15 July 2020 – a 12.5% reduction on all published prices.

All you need to do is book your holiday as normal, and the discount will be applied when you arrive on site. If you have already paid and want to request a refund please email vatdiscount@camc.com and include details of your booking.

NEWS CLUB AND INDUSTRY

Balbirnie Park Club site costs from as little as £8.20 per night in 2020 with the reduction applied – see camc.com for details

Affiliated Sites and Certificated Locations are privately owned and set their own prices. To enquire about site fees and to book these sites members will need to contact the sites directly, using the contact details provided on each site web page or in the The latest Sites Directory tion about rma info & Handbook.

For more information, and to book, please see camc.com

safety procedures on Club sites can be seen at camc.com

CLUB BIDS FAREWELL TO DIRECTOR The Club recently said its goodbyes to longstanding Director of Membership Services, Brian Savage, who retires having given more than 36 years of service.

A popular and well-respected figure, Brian joined the Club in 1984 having previously worked for Carefree Camping, a self-drive camping holiday company. At the time, the Club was developing its Travel operation and Brian was recruited by former Director Trevor Watson to look after overseas sites bookings and inclusive (package) holidays. (“No computers then, just pen and paper and typewriters!” Brian notes.) Over time his responsibilities increased, and soon he was producing the Club’s travel brochures, working as Trevor’s deputy.

Following a recommendation that the Club’s Travel, Membership www.camc.com

and Insurance operations should be merged into one department, Brian was tasked with forming the new Commercial Services operation alongside former Contact Centre manager Trish Robson. The department name was later

changed to Membership Services – Brian tells us that he was never a fan of the original title.

When Trevor took over as Director General In 1995, Brian applied for the vacant Director position and was successfully appointed. He also took on responsibility for Site Operations from 1999 until earlier this year, when Anthony Davies was appointed as Director of Sites and Accommodation.

Nick Lomas, Director General of the Club, paid tribute to Brian, stating: “Brian has been at the heart of the Club’s service delivery for over three decades. He has always had the same approach… a simple one of treating members and colleagues as he expected to be treated himself – with thoughtfulness, care and kindness.

As Director of Membership Services

he has led the teams that have achieved numerous national awards and accolades for quality service across our travel service, UK sites and financial services operations.

The Club tries to keep a personal approach in an increasingly impersonal and digital world, whether that is being greeted on the site, on a phone call, in an email or through a web chat exchange, and Brian has built and shaped that approach consistently throughout.

“In a recent staff question-andanswer session I was jokingly asked to refuse to let Brian retire – that’s how highly regarded he is by everyone at the Club. But I know a bit more fishing, golfing, walking and motorhoming (oh, and supporting Spurs) beckons.”

On behalf of everyone at the Club, we wish Brian well in his retirement.

September 2020 13

NEWS CLUB AND INDUSTRY

Remembering toys of old ON THE APP

Extra features on this month’s app version of the magazine include a cycle route from Malvern Hill Club site (with video), an Adria Twin Supreme 640 SLB video review, video to accompany our latest Country Matters article and extra Tail Lights.

Please vote in the insurance choice awards

Last year many of you voted in the Insurance Choice Awards, and helped us to win the titles of ‘Best Caravan Cover Provider’ and ‘Best Motorhome Insurance Provider’.

With your help we’d love to repeat the achievements this year.

The Insurance Choice Awards help people to find the best firms to do business with and are organised each year by the consumer-focused website Smart Money People. You can vote for the Club at smartmoneypeople. com/insurance-choiceawards. Everyone who votes will automatically be entered into a free prize draw by Smart Money People, with a chance to win £1,000.

Voting closes on 20 September 2020 and the winners will be revealed on 22 October. The winner of the prize draw will be notified by email on 9 October 2020.

Every vote counts!

14 September 2020

Nigel Huddleston MP (above on right) and Sir Desmond Swayne MP (in white shirt)

Club hosts visiting MPs We were pleased to welcome two MPs to our Club sites when the network re-opened earlier this summer.

Near the start of July, Nigel Huddleston MP – the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Sport, Heritage and Tourism at the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport – enjoyed the sunshine at Broadway Club site, speaking at length with Club Chairman Grenville Chamberlain OBE, site staff and members.

Later in the month, Sir Desmond Swayne MP arrived at New Forest Club Centenary site in his Morris Minor and met the Club’s Head of Estates, Paul Barnes, as well as Site Managers Tracey and Matt Edwards.

The site looked fantastic, bathed in sun and full to the brim, and among the topics discussed Sir Desmond was keen to understand the typical amount of money spent in the wider community by Club members staying at the site.

Hillhead Club site

YOU RECOMMEND… Sites for England’s south coast

“

The Bluebird Café on Ferring Beach has great food and the bus stops outside the site gate to take you to Worthing or anywhere you fancy along the south coast from there on the Coastliner service .

(Club site: Northbrook Farm, West Sussex)

”

“

Id emphasise the views of rolling countryside and the ocean, which are completely rural with no towns, or even villages, in sight. Yet the site is ideally placed for a short bus ride to Brixham, Paignton and Dartmouth (via Kingswear). The buses stop right outside the site entrance.

(Hillhead, Devon) .

”

“

The Isle of Purbeck area is perfect for relaxing, walking and enjoying the beautiful countryside. Close by is sandy Studland Beach, Corfe Castle, Wareham and Lulworth Cove.

(Haycraft, Dorset) .

”

“

There is lots to see and do in the area. We particularly enjoyed the Roman villa ruins near Chichester, Chichester itself and the harbour area, Littlehampton and more.

(Rowan Park, West Sussex) .

“

”

The location is perfect, just off The Fleet with access onto the South West Coast Path.

(East Fleet Farm. AS, Dorset)

”

Motoring fans of all ages can enjoy a new exhibition at The National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, that brings together more than 800 toy and pedal cars. ‘Motoring in Miniature – the Toys of Your Childhood’ celebrates muchloved playthings of the past, from tin plate and wooden replicas to die-cast and slot cars. The collection includes toys from Corgi, Dinky, Meccano and other famous names, as well as rare and bespoke models.

The New Forest-based attraction is near Black Knowl Club site and New Forest Club Centenary site. As a member of the Club, you can enjoy discounts on advance or on-the-day tickets at Beaulieu, which also allow you to visit Beaulieu Abbey, World of Top Gear and more. See camc. com/beaulieu for details. Tickets for Beaulieu are available to pre-book online at beaulieu.co.uk.

MOT UPDATE Members with cars, motorhomes or campervans where the MOT was due on or after 30 March have been given an automatic six-month extension during the coronavirus pandemic. This scheme ended after 31 July.

Please note the following: n If your vehicle has an MOT extension applied, you can still get it tested at any time. You don’t have to wait until the end of the extension period. You may wish to time the MOT for when you are least likely to be away on holiday. Next year, you’ll need to have the MOT done no more than a month (minus a day) before the MOT expires if you want to keep the same renewal date. You can have the vehicle tested earlier in the year if you want the renewal date to fall ahead of the main holiday season. n If your MOT is due on or after 1 August 2020, your vehicle will not get an MOT extension. n You can check the MOT expiry date via gov.uk/ check-mot-status.

www.camc.com

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

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

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

– Camper specific speed limits tailored to your vehicle.

• 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 campgrounds and 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

Available with exclusive member discount from: shop.camc.com www.camc.com

for further information call

02920 847670 avtex.co.uk September 2020 17

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NEWS CLUB AND INDUSTRY

2021 seasonal pitches from £3.12 per day*

ENJOY A PADDLING ADVENTURE For this month’s Activity Breaks feature (see pages 42-44), Jonathan Manning and his daughter went canoeing in Northamptonshire.

If you would like to try kayaking, canoeing or stand up paddle boarding (SUP) then British Canoeing’s Go Paddling website is a great place to begin.

These pastimes enable you to relax and enjoy beautiful views while youre

away on your holidays and, with a vast array of suitable rivers, lakes, canals and other waterways across Britain, there’s bound to be somewhere for you to try near a Club site.

To help you get started the website includes: n Over 150 paddling trails and PaddlePoints (an interactive trip-planning map)

n Useful tips on how and where to get involved n A search function for introductory courses and places to hire kayaks, canoes and stand up paddleboards n Rapid Join: a fast way to purchase a waterways licence and insurance to ensure you’re paddling responsibly For more see gopaddling.info.

SAFELY ENJOY OUR TRAINING COURSES Whether you’re a newcomer to touring or someone with experience, the Club’s training courses can increase your confidence on the road and help you to perfect your manoeuvring skills.

Courses are held at 13 different locations across the UK (six of which were open as we went to press) and they are led by friendly, expert trainers.

Choose from a B+E licence course, two types of caravanning course (‘Practical Caravanning’ for beginners and those in need of a refresher, as well as ‘Caravan Manoeuvring’ for more experienced towers) and a motorhome

SHOWTIME SEPTEMBER

4-6 Devon: The Motorhome and Campervan Show, Westpoint, Exeter (Apple Tree Exhibitions, call 01805 603943 or see appletreeexhibitions.co.uk) 11-13 Somerset: The Southwest Motorhome and Campervan Show, Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet (Warners Group, www.camc.com

call 01778 391123 or see outand aboutlive.co.uk) 18-20 Hampshire: The Caravan and Motorhome Show, New Forest Showground, Brockenhurst (Apple Tree Exhibitions, details as above) 25-27 Lincolnshire: The Motorhome and Campervan Show Season Finale, Lincolnshire Showground, Lincoln (Warners Group, details as left)

manoeuvring course.In line with government guidance, we have worked with our venues and instructors to ensure that the necessary precautions are in place to provide a Covid-secure environment for the safety of all. This includes increased cleaning of all equipment, vehicles and facilities at the venue; a full list of measures is currently being sent out to participants via email prior to their attendance.

To book your place, or to find out more about our courses, please see camc.com/training.

OCTOBER 2-4 Worcestershire: The Malvern Caravan Show, Three Counties Showground, Malvern (Warners Group, details as left)

Over 75 Club campsites will be offering seasonal pitches next year and if you book and pay in full by 12 January 2021 you will only have to pay 5% VAT. Visit camc.com/seasonal to find out more.

To request a pitch please download a form from the website and send it to enquiries@camc.com by 17 September 2020. You will be entered into a ballot system (this ensures all members are treated fairly and have an equal chance of securing their preferred location(s)). *Seasonal pitch based on indicative price per night when booking at Balbirnie Park Club site for 77 nights at a total cost of £241 instead of £275, if booked and fully paid before 12 January 2021.

2021 storage and seasonal storage – from 96p per day* There are over 40 Club campsites across the UK offering storage and seasonal storage from less than £1 per day*. The process for renewing storage pitches for the 2021 season will begin from 16 November 2020. Check camc.com/storage regularly for updates. *Seasonal storage pitch based on indicative price per night when booking at Scarborough West Ayton Club site for 234 days at a cost of £225.

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

September 2020 17

NEWS CLUB AND INDUSTRY

New models from Adria Adria has outlined plans that include a complete overhaul of its best-selling UK caravan range Adora and redesigns of its Matrix and Coral motorhomes.

Models in the four-strong Adora series will sport a new look inside and out, including futuristic grab handles at the front (where they’re integrated with wind diffusers and running lights) and back, where there are

also LED tail lights from Hella. Adora exteriors also get an easy-access, full-width front locker and a larger opening panoramic window/rooflight.

Inside, there are new soft furnishings, a clever rail design extending all round (from which you can hang a choice of fabric pockets or flat shelf pieces), multi-function roll-up cushions, removable lights

on rails, extra sockets (mains and USB), dimmer function, kitchen extractor, granite-effect slim worktops, bedside lockers with drawers and lots more.

The island-bed Tiber model is a newcomer that will be introduced at a later date.

Adria’s Matrix motorhomes gain some 7cm of body height, which softens the curve where their drop-down beds are housed

and provides extra interior room as well as garage space. Other upgrades include an exterior-access service hatch with mains and TV socket connections, new Hartal habitation doors and

revised media wall with housing for TVs up to 32in.

Full information on Adria’s full line-up for 2021 will appear in due course at adria.co.uk.

Nick Harding

DIVISION AND REGION AGMS Several AGMs for Club Divisions and Regions are scheduled to take place later this year – please see the table below for information. If you would like to attend please check with the

Division or Region beforehand to see what measures it has in place. The following details are subject to change – please check the Division or Region website nearer the time.

2020 DIVISION AND REGION AGMS Host Scottish Division Welsh Division Central Region West Central Region South East Region Home Counties Region South West Region Anglia Region Northern Region

Date 10 Oct 10 Oct 10 Oct 17 Oct 14 Nov 14 Nov 14 Nov 15 Nov 6 Dec

Time Location 2pm Dewars Centre, Perth* 11am The Golf Club, Builth Wells TBC Kegworth Hotel, Kegworth 2pm Welsh Frankton Village Hall, Welsh Frankton 11am Tillingbourne School, Chilworth 3pm Desborough College School, Maidenhead 2pm White Horse Country Park, Westbury 11am Hallowtree Activity Centre, Ipswich TBC Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Blackpool

Contact thescottishcaravanclub.com, scottishcaravanclubsecretary@gmail.com cc-welsh-division.co.uk, secretary@cc-welsh-division.co.uk centralregion.org, secretary@centralregion.org westcentralregion.co.uk, secretary@westcentralregion.co.uk southeastregioncc.co.uk, southeastregionsec@aol.com northernhomecountiesregion.info, secretary@northernhomecountiesregion.info southwestregioncc.org.uk, secretary@southwestregioncc.org.uk angliaregion.org.uk, secretary@angliaregion.org.uk northernregion.co.uk, northernregionsec@hotmail.co.uk

*held via online video link in 2020 (see the Scottish Division website for further information)

TAKE FIVE!

Tiger Rock – Chessington

GREAT SAVINGS GUIDE THEME PARK OFFERS

Have you picked up your copy of the Great Savings Guide yet? As a member, you can use it to take advantage of offers at hundreds of attractions across the UK*. There are five examples below, but you can find more at camc.com/greatsavingsguide…

1 Thorpe Park, Surrey Pre-book and save up to 44% at this popular theme park, where there are more than 30 rides, surrounded by lakes (see camc.com/ thorpe-park).

Nearest sites: Alderstead Heath, Wyatts Covert

2 Alton Towers, Staffordshire

The UK’s biggest theme park will satisfy adrenaline

18 September 2020

junkies with its roller coasters, while rides for little ones and extensive gardens ensure a fun day out for all. Save up to 49% by pre-booking – see camc. com/alton-towers.

Nearest site: Uttoxeter Racecourse (open in 2021), Carsington Water

3 Alton Towers Waterpark, Staffordshire

Not keen on the roller

coasters? Try this indoor waterpark, which has slides, lazy rivers and much more.

Save up to 27% by pre-booking – see camc. com/alton-towers.

Nearest site: Uttoxeter Racecourse (open in 2021), Carsington Water

4 Chessington World of Adventures, Surrey Alongside rides for all ages, this theme park is also home to a zoo and sea life centre

– and by pre-booking (see camc.com/chessington) you can save up to 45%.

Nearest site: Alderstead Heath

5 Legoland Windsor Resort, Buckinghamshire

Pre-book for a saving of up to 42% and spend a day at

this popular Lego-themed resort, where youll find a host of child-friendly rides (see camc.com/legoland).

Nearest sites: Henley Four Oaks, Wyatts Covert *Please check venues are open before your visit. Terms and conditions apply to all offers – see Club website for details.

www.camc.com

s ’ n o i t The na e t i r u favo s p a n s y a d i l o h COMPETITION

At last... freedom to return to our favourite places, favourite pitches, and favourite views.

All at a safe distance of course.

So we’re inviting you to share your post-lockdown holiday snaps for your chance to win a different prize every week courtesy of PRIMA Leisure. Each week we’re asking the Nation to vote for their favourite snap on our website. The winner will be published on our competition page. So get snapping and uploading, or just vote for your favourites. And don’t forget, go safely...

To enter your snaps, or vote for your favourites visit baileyofbristol.co.uk/competition Competition closes weekly every Sunday at midday, and ends 31.8.20. www.camc.com

May 2020 XX

NEWS UK SITES

BEST OF

BOTH WORLDS

*For the latest information s, regarding site ur yo ok and to bo se ea pl stays, / visit camc.com g reopenin

We have a number of Club sites that are perfectly located for city breaks – in fact, as a member you have easy access to the UKs largest metropolis by population size (several sites are perfect for visiting London) as well as the smallest (St Davids is near the picturesque St David’s Lleithyr Meadow Club site). On these pages you’ll find 10 suggested city break locations as well as Club sites that you might like to try. (All sites and attractions were open at the time of going to press, but please check before visiting. Pre-booked tickets may be required for attractions.)

Tony Gage

City breaks offer a great balance of top attractions, bars and restaurants, and open, natural spaces. Here’s our pick...

* Tent camping available † Glamping available 1 Kids for £1 offer available 2 50% off midweek offer available See camc.com for terms and conditions

CITY BREAKS London Two of our Club sites (Abbey Wood and Crystal Palace) can be used to explore London’s Green Chain Walk – a patchwork of more than 300 green or open spaces that stretches for miles across south-east London (see tfl.gov.uk). It’s a brilliant way to discover an unexpected, alternative side of the UK capital, as the walk shows off a diverse natural landscape as well as sights such as the Art Deco Eltham Palace and Gardens and the quirky Horniman Museum.

And if the idea of green space appeals, why not combine your visit to London with a stay at leafy Alderstead Heath, where Experience Freedom glamping options are also available?

Stay at: Abbey Wood*†, Crystal Palace*, Alderstead Heath*†1 Edinburgh RZSS Edinburgh Zoo is 15 minutes’ drive south of Edinburgh Club site. It currently has a wide range of measures in place to protect visitors and animals – there is a one-way 20 September 2020

system in place and zookeeper talks have been postponed, for example. There is still plenty to see though, from the Giant Panda Exhibit (above) to the magnificent Asiatic lions Jayendra and Roberta, who have been raising three cubs under the European Endangered Species programme.

See edinburghzoo.org.uk for details and tickets.

Stay at: Edinburgh*2 Cambridge There was something missing in Cambridge earlier this year, with long-running punting company Scudamore’s lamenting the temporary disappearance of “the familiar thud of poles and gentle splash of paddles” from the River Cam. The company – which holds the important ‘Good to Go’ rating from Visit Britain – offers a self-hire punt rental service on the scenic Upper River as well as chauffeured tours of the College Backs, meaning you can gently splash along scenic waterways once again. Long queues are now a thing of the past, too, thanks to a new booking system that allows reservation of time slots.

See scudamores.com for more information.

Stay at: Cambridge Cherry Hinton*

York There are several ‘ghost walks’ to choose from in historic York, which claims to be the most haunted city in Europe. So why not try a spooky night-time wander around the fascinating centre? The Original Ghost Walk of York sets off at 6.30pm and 8pm each day from the Kings Arms pub on the River Ouse.

Socially-distanced strolls in pre-booked groups of 10 (or private groups at any time) are available.

See theoriginalghostwalkofyork.co.uk for more information and bookings.

Stay at: York Beechwood Grange* Cardiff Mermaid Quay looks out onto Cardiff Bay and offers a great selection of independent and chain restaurants, many of which are now welcoming customers back. You could combine a visit with a walk alongside the mouth of the River Taff in Hamadryad Park and a stroll along The Jetty – a great place to watch birds and other www.camc.com

wildlife in the nearby wetlands reserve or the boats bobbing around in the bay.

Stay at: Tredegar House Country Park*2 Birmingham Those with a sweet tooth might like to visit Cadbury World, where an illuminating, self-guided tour across 14 ‘zones’ tells the history of chocolate as well as the famous business. Travel back in time to discover the importance of the cocoa tree to Mayan culture and enjoy the Bournville Experience, where you can see Cadbury products of days gone by. Updated safety measures include reduced capacity and enhanced cleaning regimes – see cadburyworld. co.uk to learn more.

Stay at: Chapel Lane Glasgow Another city blessed with several large, open, green spaces, Glasgow’s centre includes beautifully-landscaped parks such as Kelvingrove Park and Glasgow Green, while Strathcylde www.camc.com

Country Park – where you’ll find the Club site closest to the city – also offers opportunities to stretch your legs. Make sure, though, you visit 146-hectare Pollok Country Park, located south-west of the centre. This award-winning and tranquil part of the city features extensive woodland, trails and walled gardens to explore, as well as plenty of wildlife (including Highland cattle).

Stay at: Strathclyde Country Park* Chester Founded as a fort by the Romans in AD 79, Chester is a history buff’s dream come true, with ruins and other associated sights spread across the city.

The famous walls were partly built during that occupation, but you could argue that the more impressive architectural remnant is the amphitheatre managed by English Heritage. Other sights include the Roman Gardens’ hypocaust (an underfloor heating system from a legionary bath house), a strong room (visible through a glass partition behind the Dublin Packet pub) and a shrine to the goddess Minerva (an overlooked gem in Edgar’s Field by the River Dee).

Stay at: Chester Fairoaks*1

Ian Dagnall / Alamy

Eltham Palace

Durham Browns Rowing Boats (brownsboats.co.uk) has been operating in Durham since the early days of the 20th century, offering visitors views from the River Wear that will live long in the memory – you may even spot herons! After a leisurely row you could indulge in a pre-booked afternoon tea at The Town House, a Grade II-listed Georgian building near the University Cricket Club that offers a tantalising array of cakes, finger sandwiches, scones and other treats.

Stay at: Durham Grange* Manchester Stadia may be off-limits for the time being, but football fans can still make a beeline for the National Football Museum, where a timed entry system is currently in place (see nationalfootballmuseum.com for tickets). An extensive collection of medals, trophies, kit and other ephemera helps to tell the story of the game’s rise in England and beyond. Exhibitions on football shirts and photography have been extended as a result of the recent lockdown.

Stay at: Burrs Country Park 2 September 2020 21

NEWS UK SITES

We will be taking an at the in-depth look ib new access le in glamping units g in a forthcom issue

RING IN

THE NEW

We have been working hard on major Club site redevelopments.

Here’s a handy round-up of changes to the network… make 2021 bookings now for touring and camping pitches on the Club website and glamping pitches via the Experience Freedom website.)

HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT WHEN THE SITE IS FULLY OPEN n Two new, high-quality central washroom facility buildings, an enclosed playground and a multi-use games area n Increased number of touring pitches n Redesigned roads and pitch layouts n A new Premium Serviced pitch type n Four service points, two drive-over motorvan waste points and electric vehicle charging points Members get 10% off Experienc e Freedom glamping – and the discount extends to your fri ends and family. See ca mc. com for terms and conditions.

Troutbeck Head Club site A small number of glamping units have been added to this popular site near Ullswater in the Lake District – which means that friends and family members who do not own a caravan, motorhome or campervan could join you on your holidays.

As well as three glamping pods (one of which is universally accessible), Troutbeck also has five larger glamping cabins that sleep up to six people. Dogs are welcome in four of the units, including the accessible pod.

22 September 2020

The glamping units have been available since the end of July and will remain open until 4 January 2021, when the site closes. The site will re-open in mid-March 2021. Again, as with Cayton Village, you can make your bookings for 2021 touring and glamping holidays now.

n A new welcome desk (reception) and shop n Two designated dog walking areas n A mixed area for camping and campervans n A variety of new glamping pods and larger cabins (sleeping up to six), making Cayton Village perfect for an extended family break away. Two of the glamping units are accessible for people who use aids such as wheelchairs for mobility. Dogs are welcome in five of the units, including the accessible pod and the accessible cabin.

Please visit camc.com/cayton for more information and to book your stay. To find out what is included in our glamping units (and to book), see experiencefreedom.co.uk.

Penrhos Club site We are pleased to report that Penrhos is fully open, complete with a new and accessible facilities block.

This popular site on Anglesey – near to beautiful Benllech Beach – is open until 2 November this year and will re-open in March 2021. Bookings for next summer can be made now on the Club website.

The first part of the development work was completed just under two years ago, when serviced pitches were added. The new facility block includes an accessible bathroom, as well as a dishwashing area, laundry room and family washroom.

Elsewhere, the site reception has been redesigned and a new information room is an added bonus. Finally, an all-important new motorvan waste point has been installed, as well as a small number of additional pitches.

To find out what is included in our glamping units, please see experiencefreedom.co.uk.

(To book touring pitches, visit camc.com/ searchandbook.)

Realimage/Alamy

Cayton Village Club site Great news: this extensively redeveloped site near Scarborough will re-open with a limited number of touring pitches – on service point only – from 21 August, initially with reduced pitch fees.

You could be one of the first members to stay at this redeveloped site and enjoy a great holiday on the Yorkshire coast at a lower-than-normal price!

The facilities blocks and other site amenities will re-open from 15 September, when more pitches will also be released. Despite the fact we had to stop work for three months during the lockdown, we are delighted to report the site will be fully open from October until 3 January 2021.

(The site will re-open in March 2021 and you can

www.camc.com

www.camc.com

July 2020 XX

NEWS UK SITES Neptuneʼs Staircase locks

Dennis Barnes/Getty

WATER FEATURE

Some Club sites are located near waterways – here are five to consider in some of the most beautiful parts of the country The UK is blessed with a huge network of inland waterways.

In the past they were predominantly used for irrigation and transport, particularly during the Industrial Revolution, but today they are popular with boating, fishing and walking enthusiasts. There are waterways near many Club sites, so why not try one of the following options for your next stay?

Norfolk Broads Club site, Norfolk There are over 200 miles of waterways to explore in the Broads, and stiff competition between hire companies means you should shop around for the best day boat prices. Many rental outfits offer a range of vessel sizes, accessible boats for wheelchair users, and can help if you’re an inexperienced landlubber. For an even slower pace consider canoeing, kayaking or paddleboarding – visit the British Canoeing website, gopaddling. info, for locations and advice.

Stanmore Hall Touring Park, Shropshire Sharing this charming Affiliated Site with the resident peacocks is no hardship at all, but when you’re ready to venture out be sure to make a beeline for the Staffordshire and Worcester Canal (known locally as the ‘Staff and Worcs’).

A 20-minute drive from the site, The Bratch makes for a great family day out, with locks, an historic bridge and an old pumping station to see and a towpath that leads to a bat trail. Look carefully – according to the Canal & River Trust you might spot an otter!

AlasdairJames/Getty

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

24 September 2020

Lady Margaret’s Park, Wrexham Have you got a head for heights? Try a stroll or take a narrowboat along the 70ft-high, 710ft-long Chirk Aqueduct, which was completed in 1801 and carries the Llangollen Canal across the Ceiriog Valley. It’s actually part of the

11-mile-long Llangollen Canal World Heritage site, which stretches from Chirk to Llangollen and also features the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, an architectural marvel spanning the River Dee. Both are easy to visit from the Club site.

Bunree, Highlands Incredibly, the flight of eight locks that makes up Neptune’s Staircase near Fort William raises the Caledonian Canal 62ft over approximately a quarter of a mile. Walking along the canal is probably much less stressful than navigating the steep rise by boat, and with mighty Ben Nevis as a backdrop the views are absolutely superb on a clear day.

Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire Fancy a spot of gongoozling (boat watching)?

This Club site is a 40-minute drive away from Bingley Five-Rise Locks, another staircase-lock attraction where careful navigators pass through a series of gates and chambers. There is a café and a private mooring site at the top, while a little farther along the towpath is a second series of locks (just the three this time). It’s a great place to take the bike, go for a relaxing walk or catch fish, with bream, carp, perch, gudgeon and more found in the Bingley area of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. The 50% off midweek offer applies to this Club site – see camc.com/ukoffers for more information.

To book a stay, please visit camc.com/searchandbook. More information about the UK’s waterways is available at waterways.org.uk and canalrivertrust.org.uk.

A handy map can be found at waterways.org.uk/pdf/wwwaterwaysmap. www.camc.com

H IT CE W N K E O ID O F B ON C

OW D SH N E FU TH RE CT EL LL RE G NC FU OR IN CA E A C NT TO EIV ILS RI VE C TA F P E HA R E O E ILL T D ME W I IF U W VEN T T YO E A

Saturday Night

FULL Entertainment

ne acts! Schedule dli ea H Earth Wind For Hire THURSDAY:

• Cinema evening

FRIDAY: • Michael Jackson Tribute – “Forever Jackson” • Countdown to the 80’s

Dominic Uppiah Tickets are £7 each, £2.50 for children.

SATURDAY: • Domin ic Uppiah • Earth, Wind for Hire

SUNDAY: • Bringing Back the 60’s featuring New Amen Corner

£30 pitch includes pre-booking, magazine subscriber & club rally area discount. For more information call 01778 391123

*

Cook

COLUMN MARTIN DOREY

The Campervan

Writer, cook and campervan owner Martin Dorey continues his gastronomic journeys. This month: making use of the store cupboard on a trip to France...

B

y the time you read this I’ll be to make it happen. I know that without its less-than-perfectly-fresh loaf doesn’t simply back from my latest ‘take the advice and guidance I wouldn’t be here get chucked out. slow road’ trip to France, but I can now, under the shade of a mimosa, I went foraging for some decent goat’s assure you that it was written on enjoying my morning tea from a melamine cheese, a little local honey, some fresh a campsite on the Côte D’Azur. camping mug. It’s a good life, this, that thyme and local jam to go with it.

I am happy to says I was fully covered by we share.

In this case it was fig – the perfect my annual Red Pennant travel policy and Last night, I rummaged around in the van’s accompaniment to honey and thyme. motorhome insurance from the Club. It was cupboards and put one of those staples of So… here we go. Barbecue at the ready? a tense time waiting for the green light to go, a camping trip to France to good use: Let’s do this. and I am sure many of you have experienced stale bread! I really hate similar feelings recently, but eventually we waste and so I thought I’d CUT OUT were able to point our campervan towards share one of my favourite the Channel Tunnel. ways to ensure that I hope you have all managed a few days or weeks away since my last RECIPES column. I hope you also had the chance to enjoy some local food under RECIPE NO. 32 the awning, and perhaps even raised a glass or two to the Club for helping

AND KEEP

d Goat’s cheese anrs honey appetise

THE COOK RECOMMENDS...

We ate something similar at Le Montagnart in Le Monêtier-les-Bains, in the Alps a few days ago. It’s in the square of a lovely old village. Great if you go skiing in the van this year.

AND AS A MAIN

Lizzy had the savoury buckwheat crêpes, which, she assured me, were delicious!

SERVES TWO

INGREDIENTS htly slig 8 very thin slices of

stale bread eese 8 slices of goat’s ch oil ve oli 2-3 tbsp ped thyme, finely chop Small bunch of fresh Runny honey or jam) (or similar chutney A dollop of fig jam for each slice

METHOD

MEMBER SINCE...

Campervanner Martin Dorey joined the Club in 2016

www.camc.com

to a plate.

Pour the olive oil on d into the ea br of e slic ch ea Dip briefly, so as ry ve , es sid oil on both it. Place the slices ak so t to coat it but no t le or on the BBQ, bu on a medium gridd want to toast u yo – rt pa st tte not on the ho u can to them! When yo them, not set light n each tur d, ea br on the see some nice lines of goat’s ce pie a ce pla en slice over. Th ch one, drizzle with cheese on top of ea n, thyme and, if you ca th wi kle rin honey, sp to melt se ee ch s at’ go cover to allow the ttom is cooking. a little while the bo

ch en the bottom of ea Be quick though! Wh and add at he the m fro e ov slice is toasted, rem choice ur jam or chutney of a little dollop of yo ng other ori ad ur yo to ng on top before servi at! s little pre-meal tre half, who will love thi

September 2020 27

COMMENT DIRECTOR GENERAL

Commercial Executive: Steve Walters 01342 779377 steve.walters@camc.com Production Controller: Tara Erroll 01342 779371 tara.erroll@camc.com

TOURING UK SITES

FULL OF

EASTERN PROMISE Jonathan Manning enjoys fascinating historical attractions and beautiful beaches on a tour from the heartlands of East Anglia to the coast

30 May 2020

www.camc.com

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Sea Palling beach www.camc.com

stevendocwra/getty

Please keep up to date with current travel guidelines on the Government website (gov.uk) and visit our website (camc.com) regarding Club site opening information. We also recommend that you check with businesses/attractions that are listed regarding opening dates/restrictions. *The Great Savings Guide booklet was produced prior to the coronavirus pandemic. It was correct at the time of publication but is now subject to change. For more information see caravanclub.co.uk/membership/ great-savings-guide.

May 2020 31

TOURING UK SITES

1

Cambridge Cherry Hinton Club site

Located in an ancient chalk quarry, this quiet site offers and oasis of calm from the bustle of historic Cambridge.

Pitches: 56 Tent camping available here

Site view “It’s a pretty site, with lots of trees and pitches in small culs-de-sac. There’s so much to do, not just the Cambridge colleges, but places like the Imperial War Museum at Duxford, Audley End House, Ely and Newmarket all close by.”

Paul Turner

Food & drink Café Blue Sage, 198 Mill Road, Cambridge CB1 3NF Contact: 07557 106656

Culture The Polar Museum, Scott Polar Research Institute, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1ER Contact spri.cam.ac.uk/ museum/, 01223 336540

Outdoor fun Cambridge University Botanic Garden, 1 Brookside, Cambridge CB2 1JE Contact botanic.cam.ac.uk, 01223 336265

For the family Scudamore’s Punting, Quayside Punting Station, Magdalene Bridge, Cambridge CB5 8AB Contact scudamores.com, 01223 359750

32 September 2020

T

he author, geographer and presenter of Coast, Nicholas Crane, once expressed a theory that there was a centrifugal force acting on Britain. As an island nation, he said, the sea exerts an irresistible pull, drawing us out to the beach and brine.

This tour of East Anglia offers abundant circumstantial evidence for Crane’s argument, spinning caravanners and motorhomers from the centre of the region to its salty periphery and a series of sites that echo to the call of the gulls.

My journey starts, however, in the high-tech heart of East Anglia, at Cherry Hinton Club site on the outskirts of Cambridge. Pitches are sensitively landscaped within a former chalk pit that is now part of a Site of Scientific Interest, thanks to the presence of uncommon plants, including magnificently-named species such as great pignut, moon carrot and grape hyacinth, which would not seem out of place in a Hogwarts herbology lesson.

Unfortunately no magic spells seem able to fix Cambridge’s traffic or eye-watering car park fees, so Cherry Hinton is a site at which to park up before exploring other modes of travel. It’s a 40-minute bus ride to the city www.camc.com

Travelpix Ltd/Getty

2

Fields End Water Affiliated site

A peaceful, adults-only site deep in the Fens with its own coarse fishing lakes. It’s a dog-friendly location, with good on-site walks.

Pitches: 53 Contact: 01354 740199 Tent camping available here

Site view “This is a very tranquil site which allows guests to get away from it all but is not too far from Cambridge, Huntingdon and King’s Lynn.”

Carol Woolley

Food & drink The Three Tuns, 8 New Street, Doddington, March PE15 0SP Contact: facebook.com/ thethreetunsdoddington/, 01354 279593

centre or you could hop on a bicycle. In theory Cambridge is a bike-friendly city, with a network of cycle lanes, but the sheer number of pedallists appearing from all directions can be intimidating.

WORTH A PUNT

Similar chaos is a feature on the River Cam, where tourists navigating ‘The Backs’ turn punts into spinning dodgems. It’s fun to watch from the safety of one of the bridges, or from the welcome stability of a professionally-poled punt. For a simpler and less congested taste of www.camc.com

Culture

punting, a trip upstream along the Granta to Grantchester leads to the blissful Orchard Tea Garden, where tables and deckchairs lounge in long grass below fruit trees. Some of the finest minds of the 20th century have relaxed here with cake, scone and a cuppa, including the economist John Maynard Keynes, Enigma code-cracker Alan Turing, and Francis Crick and James Watson who unlocked the secrets of DNA’s double helix structure.

GREAT

SAVINGS Oliver Cromwell’s GUIDE House, 29 St Mary’s Street, Ely CB7 4HF Contact: olivercromwellshouse. co.uk, 01353 662062 Member offer available*: camc.com/greatsavingsguide

Tony Gage

/Get ty Syed Ali Warda Photography

Magnificent King’s College Chapel, Cambridge Left: punting in Cambridge Below: Great Yarmouth Racecource

Outdoor fun Fields End Water fishing lakes, Doddington, March PE15 0TY Contact: fieldsendwater.co.uk, 01354 740199

For the family WWT Welney, Hundred Foot Bank, Welney, Nr Wisbech PE14 9TN Contact: wwt.org.uk/ wetland-centres/welney, 01353 860711

September 2020 33

TOURING UK SITES

3

Bucks Farm

Certificated Location An adults-only, grass site with 16A electric hook-up points, mains water and a chemical waste disposal point. There are walks from the door and an abundance of attractions nearby.

Contact 01986 784216 Sites Directory and Handbook p459

Tony Gage

Site view “We’re two miles from Halesworth, which has a great selection of independent shops, and Framlingham Castle is very good. We’re also very well placed for [next years] Aldeburgh Festival.”

Luke Andrews

Food & drink

Tony Gage

Alan Powdrill/Getty

Edwards, 59A Thoroughfare, Halesworth IP19 8AR Contact: edwardshalesworth. co.uk, 01986 873763

Culture Framlingham Castle, Church Street, Framlingham, Suffolk, IP13 9BP Contact: english-heritage.org.uk, 01728 724922

Outdoor fun RSPB Minsmere, Sheepwash Lane, Saxmundham IP17 3BY Contact: rspb.org.uk, 01728 648281

For the family Africa Alive!, White’s Lane, Kessingland, NR33 7TF Contact: africa-alive.co.uk, 01502 740291

34 September 2020

Many esteemed academics, of course, honed their ideas and research in the laboratories and libraries of the famous university, and no visit to Cambridge would be complete without tours of at least a couple of colleges. King’s College with its towering chapel, and the vast Great Court and beautiful Wren Library of Trinity College are particular highlights.

The Fitzwilliam Museum on Trumpington Street wears its treasures more obviously with paintings by Titian, Canaletto, Rubens, Turner, Constable, Matisse and Monet on its walls. The museum is free to enter, which makes it easier to justify a visit to the pricey café, and it’s easy to spend a few hours looking around.

With so much stimulation of the old grey matter, it’s something of a relief to drive north

then kick back and relax in the peaceful surroundings of Fields End Water Affiliated Site. This year-round, adults-only campsite has two well-stocked fishing lakes and a middle-ofnowhere feel to it, although the Fens towns of March, Ely and Peterborough are no more than 30 minutes away.

“We have numerous walks from the site, so a lot of dog walkers like coming here,” says site manager Carol Woolley. “It’s very tranquil and isolated – a place to get away from it all.”

The Fens are a haven for wildlife and the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust reserve at Welney is just up the road. Here, a number of hides gaze out across 1,000 acres of the Ouse Washes. It’s surprising how the cacophony of birdcalls can still sound so peaceful. www.camc.com

A typical English Lakeland pub close to Grasmere

4

Great Yarmouth Racecourse Club site

Seaside donkey on Blackpool Beach

Tony Gage

Located in the middle of the racecourse and just 300 yards from the seafront, from where a bus service takes you to the seaside resort and Pleasure Beach.

Pitches: 102 Tent camping available here

Clockwise from left: Southwold; Ely Cathedral; enjoy a cake and a cuppa in Norwich; golden pineapple at the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge; Aldeburgh beach; Happisburgh

Site view

Tony Gage

“There’s something for everyone at this family-oriented site, [including] beautiful coastal walks to the proper seaside resort of Great Yarmouth. Don’t miss the Upside Down House at the Pleasure Beach… or the carvery at The Avenue.”

Sally Broughton

Food & drink

Richard Drury/Gettuy

Sallye Wilkinson / Alamy

The Avenue, Beatty Road, Great Yarmouth NR30 4BW Contact : theavenuegreat yarmouth.co.uk, 01493 843220

Culture Time & Tide Museum, Blackfriars Road, Great Yarmouth NR30 3BX Contact: museums.norfolk.gov. uk/time-tide, 01493 743930

Outdoor fun

BANG FOR YOUR BUCKS

Heading almost due east towards the rising sun, next stop on the tour is Bucks Farm CL, which sits at the end of a tree-lined drive off a country lane. A large, flat, grassy paddock offers five pitches, each with hook-up, and a network of footpaths radiates from the site. www.camc.com

The seaside towns of Walberswick and Southwold are close by, the latter home to Adnams brewery and distillery, so whatever your tipple there’s a tour and a drink to enjoy.

But it’s inland where surprises lie; pretty Halesworth has a pedestrianised thoroughfare with a good range of independent shops, while Framlingham boasts higgledy-piggledy streets of pink timber-framed houses that lead up t o a huge castle, a relic of an era when the wool trade made East Anglia rich. The views from the castle ramparts show Suffolk at its finest, even if they’re not quite impressive enough to eclipse takeaway fish and chips from the Sole Bay Fish Co on the beach at Southwold.

Glimpses of the sea flash through the car window on the drive north to Great

Sea Life

Given the absence of contours, the magnificent Ely Cathedral hoves into view from a great distance. There’s a free glimpse from the West Doors down the nave of this medieval masterpiece, while a more detailed tour has an admission fee attached. After climbing all those tower steps, I fill up with coffee and cake at Truly Scrumptious, a vegan and gluten-free café five minutes’ walk away.

Merrivale Model Village, Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth NR30 3JG Contact: merrivalemodelvillage. co.uk, 01493 842097

For the family Sea Life Great Yarmouth, GREAT Marine Parade, Great SAVINGS G UIDE Yarmouth NR30 3AH Contact: visitsealife.com/ great-yarmouth, 01493 330631 Member offer available*: camc.com/greatsavingsguide September 2020 35

TOURING UK SITES

5

The Reedcutter Inn Certificated Location

On the banks of the River Yare in the heart of the Norfolk Broads, The peaceful, dog-friendly site is in the grounds of a pub.

Contact: 01493 701099 Sites Directory & Handbook p419

Site view “There are lovely river walks and we border an RSPB reserve so the birdwatching is excellent.

A railway station is just a two-minute walk away, with trains to Yarmouth in one direction and Norwich in the other.”

Lyn Millbanks

Main image: the beautiful Norfolk Broads Below, from left: fishing at West Runton; this region is rich in birdlife; surfers at Sea Palling; seagulls on the River Cam

Food & drink The Reedcutter, Station Road, Cantley, Norwich NR13 3SH Contact: 01493 701099

Outdoor fun Secret SUP paddleboarding, Coltishall Contact: secretsup.co.uk, 07702 279680

For the family BeWILDerwood, Horning Road, Hoveton, Norwich NR12 8JW Contact: norfolk.bewilderwood. co.uk, 01692 633033

36 September 2020

Richard Drur y

Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Castle Hill, Norwich NR1 3JU Contact: museums.norfolk.gov.uk /norwich-castle, 01603 493625

Mike Harrington/Getty

Culture

Yarmouth, a town offering the exuberance of a traditional seaside resort and the water wonderland of the Norfolk Broads National Park nearby.

The Club site sits in the middle of Great Yarmouth Racecourse, providing a grandstand view of the horses as they gallop past – a golden seat during the crowdless racing of lockdown (see greatyarmouth-racecourse. co.uk for the latest racing information). No arrivals or departures are allowed on race days, but once you’re on your pitch there’s no need to move your caravan or motorhome.

The town offers something for everyone, young and old, those seeking the high life or the quiet life. Club site manager Sally Broughton

says, “It’s a short walk to the beach where a right turn leads to ice cream, candy floss and a little road train that will carry you the mile to the six acres of Pleasure Beach rides and attractions. Or turn left for some beautiful coastal walks.”

BROAD APPEAL

Inland the Broads beckon, a seemingly endless (125 miles if you’re counting) network of waterways patrolled by canoes, kayaks, yachts, motorboats and even small ‘ferries’, the latter offering cruises that leave someone else to worry about navigation. To www.camc.com

6

Grange Farm

Certificated Location A level, grassy site, very close to the coast. A corn silo has been converted into an information centre, and there’s a bird hide for twitchers.

Contact : 07799 666178 Sites Directory and Handbook p419

Site view

Food & drink Tony mills / Ge

tty

The Star Inn, School Road, Lessingham, NR12 0DN Contact: thestarlessingham.co.uk, 01692 580510

pioneer your own channel through this vast waterland, the hire of a small motor launch starts at about £20 per hour.

The Reedcutter Inn CL offers an immersive sense of the Broads while allowing you to keep your feet on terra firma. Set on the banks of the River Yare, the site has grass pitches with electric hook-ups, although there’s hardstanding for use after protracted periods of rain. There is no shower block, but with the pub open from 8am every day there is access to toilet facilities. Peregrine falcons nest on the tower of the nearby sugar factory and RSPB reserves punctuate the Yare marshland upstream, making this a birdwatcher’s paradise. www.camc.com

stevendocwra/Getty

y TONY LOCKHART / Alam

BOOKING INFO The majority of our UK sites have reopened – for latest details, please see camc.com/ reopening

“The farm is being developed into a wildlife centre and in spring we have cameras in owl, kestrel and blue tit boxes. There’s an award-winning pub in the village and we’re only 1.5 miles from a Blue Flag beach.”

Shon Meale

Culture

Norwich and Yarmouth are roughly 10 miles in opposite directions, and although it’s a drive from The Reedcutter to the nearest shops, it’s only a two-minute saunter to Cantley railway station.

Norwich, a city that has somehow managed to modernise without jettisoning the character that made it special, offers a fantastic day out.

A daily (except Sundays) market sells local produce, while a browse along Elm Hill, with its cobbles and independent antique and craft shops, feels like walking through a medieval film set. A short walk leads to the 12th-century Norwich Cathedral, an unmissable attraction

Horsey Windpump, Horsey, Great Yarmouth NR29 4EF Contact: nationaltrust.org.uk, 01263 740241

Outdoor fun Hickling Broad boat trip, Stubb Road, Hickling NR12 0BW Contact: norfolkwildlife trust.org.uk, 01692 598276

For the family Wroxham Barns Junior Farm, Tunstead Road, Hoveton NR12 8QU Contact: wroxhambarns.co.uk, 01603 777102 September 2020 37

Louise Turpin

TOURING UK SITES

If you’re in the cycle-friendly city of Cambridge, you’ll want to try this four-mile route to the village of Great Shelford. Starting from Cambridge station, head toward Addenbrooke’s Hospital. Here you’ll join the path decorated with 10,000 brightlycoloured strips and two double helix sculptures. Representing what was once the 10,000th mile of the National Cycle Network, the socalled Genome Way also represents the human gene BRCA2 that was decoded at a nearby research centre.

38

“

Norwich Cathedral was due to welcome ‘Dippy’ this summer

that this summer was due to welcome Dippy, the National History Museum’s giant diplodocus (right), until Covid-19 locked down the dinosaur skeleton in Rochdale. Happily, Dippy’s visit has just been postponed rather than cancelled.

Norwich is best reached by train or park and ride, although it takes another bus ride (routes 25 and 26 via Norwich City) to reach the superb (and free to enter) Sainsbury Centre art gallery on the University of East Anglia campus. There are works by Degas, Picasso, Monet and Hockney on display in a spectacular building designed by Sir Norman Foster, while outside a Sculpture Park stretches across 350 acres.

Here you will find works by, among others, Henry Moore and Antony Gormley, and on a summer’s day it’s bliss to amble through the park and stop for a sunbathe by the River Yare.

Heading back to the coast, Grange Farm CL is tucked away on a small farm where the focus is on wildlife. A field of wildflowers attracts

”

Tony Gage

Cycling | Cambridge to Great Shelford

www.camc.com

7

Incleboro Fields

Tancredi J. Bavosi/Gett y

Goddard_Photography/Getty

Club site

a dazzling range of feathered-friends and there’s a bird hide in which to sit and watch.

From the comfort of a deckchair outside your awning there’s a good chance of spotting the resident barn owl and site owner Shon Meale is adding a firepit to extend outdoorsy evenings beyond sunset.

THE PULL OF PALLING

It’s about a mile-and-a-half walk on footpaths from the site to the sea, and only a little further to a lovely beach at Sea Palling. To the north, the pretty village of Happisburgh, with its stick-of-rock striped lighthouse, is gradually succumbing to coastal erosion.

Feeling the centrifugal force pushing me outwards, I hug the coastline as best I can on a drive north, passing through Cromer to my final stop, Incleboro Fields Club site, just a hop and skip from the sand at West Runton. It’s a

Sheringham station is on the heritage North Norfolk Railway; be sure to follow distancing guidelines on your holidays

Within walking distance of a beach, this site is ideal for bucket and spade breaks, as well as for visiting a local area packed with attractions.

Pitches: 241

Site view “Cromer is a lovely, traditional seaside town with a pier. The railway station with trains to Norwich is only five minutes away.”

Perry Robins

“big, busy, energetic” place, says manager Perry Robins of the 21-acre grassy site, where most of the pitches have sea views. Waves lap the shore about a mile away, with Sheringham to the west and Cromer to the east, seaside towns with an optimistic air and decent cafés, pubs and, of course, fish and chips – take a bow, No1 Cromer!

To work up an appetite I clambered up Skelding Hill, to the west of Sheringham, to reach the Old Coastguard Lookout tower.

From this eyrie-like perch I could spy the steam engines of the North Norfolk Railway huffing and puffing on their way to Holt, gaze over the velvet grass and sandy tracks of the Norfolk Coast Path as it heads west to Hunstanton, and just about spot the heads and shoulders of walkers on the fabulous treetop gazebo platform in Sheringham.

On reflection, it's far more than the sea that has drawn me to this lovely part of the world.

Food & drink Dormy House Hotel, Cromer Road, West Runton, Cromer NR27 9QA Contact: dormyhousehotel.co.uk, 01263 837537

Culture Felbrigg Hall, Felbrigg, Norwich NR11 8PP Contact: nationaltrust. org.uk, 01263 837444

Outdoor fun Crabbing, Cromer Pier, Promenade, Cromer NR27 9HE Contact: cromerpier.co.uk

For the family Hillside Shire Horse Sanctuary, Sandy Lane, West Runton NR27 9QH Contact: hillside.org.uk, 01603 736200

Use the ViewRanger walking app to enjoy a circular walk of about five miles between West Runton and Cromer Pier. Following quiet paths and farm lanes, the route passes a Neolithic long barrow, the 17th-century Old Hall on Top Common, and, of course, the iconic pier itself. Following the seven-day free trial, Club members save 12% on a PREMIUM + Ordnance Survey Maps for Great Britain subscription with ViewRanger. See camc.com/viewranger for details www.camc.com

moorhen/Get ty

Walking | West Runton and Cromer Pier

September 2020 39

TOURING CERTIFICATED LOCATIONS

CL SITES UPDATES NEW CLS

Attleborough

ENGLAND SANDY (2.4m E) – Dirok, Mr Serge and Mrs Gill Baudot, Deepdale, Potton SG19 2NH. 52.1307, -0.23659.

07734 049372; 07931 493237; sbaudot@gmail.com; dirokcl.com; OAY; 2 acres; dogs; grass; 16A; peaceful; views; lawned; gd TV recep; dog walk fr site; town, shop & pub in 1m; golf in 5m; fr £15 (pitch + all occ).

DERBYSHIRE

ILKESTON (3.6m SW) – Moorfield Farm Barn, Mrs Lesley Gilson and Mr Adrian Baldwin, Hixons Lane, Dale Abbey, Ilkeston DE7 4PG. 52.941283, -1.331709. 07380 815781; 07954 583356; gilsonlesley@hotmail.co.uk; OAY; 0.75 acres; adults only; dogs; some sl pitches; levelling blocks req; lawned; peaceful; dog walk fr site; town & pub in 1m; grass; 16A; fr £15 (pitch + 2 ad).

DORSET

BRIDPORT (3m E) – Barn House Retreat, Mr Len Vickery and Mrs Sandra Staples, Moens Farm, Uploaders, Bridport DT6 4PH. 50.735701, -2.692402. 01308 421933; 07949 671778; 01297 678305; 07751 262096; barnhouseretreat@ btinternet.com. Open 10 Mar-31 Oct; 0.6 acre; dogs; grass/hdstdng; 16A; fr £15 (pitch + all occ).

KENT

HYTHE (5m W) – The Spinney, Sarah Howard, Giggers Green Road, Aldington, Ashford TN25 7BU. 51.06906, 0.95644. 07768 097989; 01233 720504; sjh250379@ gmail.com. OAY; 1 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; waterside; grass/hdstdng; 16A; peaceful; views; lawned; storage facs; lndry facs; TV recep gd; info rm; dog walk fr site; town within 1m; coarse fishing, watersports & sandy beach within 5m; fr £15 (pitch + all occ).

NORFOLK

ATTLEBOROUGH (3.5m E) – Karvue, Mr Trevor Chatfield, Black Carr, Bessthorpe, Attleborough NR17 2LP. 52.518875, 1.087674. 01953 789565; 07780 877818; karvue.cl@ gmail.com. Open 1 Mar-31 Oct; 1 acre; adults only; dogs; grass; 40 September 2020

Wesley Southall

BEDFORDSHIRE

peaceful; lawned; town & pub in 1m; fr £10 (pitch + all occ).

ATTLEBOROUGH (3m WNW) – Broadmarsh Farm CL, Mr David and Mrs Julia Matthews, 81 Long Street, Great Ellingham NR17 1LN. 52.526085, 0.978007. 01953 456180; 07789 724428; broadmarshcl@ gmail.com. Open 1 Mar-31 Oct; 0.75 acre; adults only; dogs; adv bkg req; unfenced water; hdstdg; grass; enhanced (EHU with drinking water); ideal for families; views; lawned; wkg fm; 16A; town, shop & pub in 1m; coarse fishing in 5m; fr £15 (pitch + all occ).

HOLT (5.6m NW) – Villeroche, Mr James and Mrs Serena Scargill, Blakeney, Holt NR25 7PW. 52.948728, 1.010138. 01263 740865; 07593 830114; villerochecl@gmail.com. OAY; 0.75 acre; grass; 16A; fr £15 (pitch + all occ).

HOLT (0.9m W) – Archie’s Field, Mrs Sarah Christian, Letheringsett Hill, Holt NR25 6RZ. 52.906409, 1.0768801.

07870 114084; sarah123.christian@ gmail.com. OAY; 1.6 acres; dogs; adv bkg req; sl pitches; levelling blocks req; waterside; grass; peaceful; views; TV recep gd; pub trans; town, shop & pub in 1m; game fishing & coarse fishing in 5m; fr £8 (pitch + all occ).

STAFFORDSHIRE

LEEK (6.7m NW) – Sky View Caravan Park, Mr Whiston, Sky Cottage, Top Road, Biddulph Moor ST8 7JR. 53.124843, -2.128579. 07746 566854; 01782 704707; skyview. caravanpark@hotmail.com. OAY; 0.75 acre; dogs; levelling blocks req; grass, enchanced (EHU with water & grey waste disposal); 16A; ideal for families; views; lawned; TV recep gd; public trans, town, shop & pub within 1m; game fishing, coarse fishing, golf & watersports within 5m; fr £15 (pitch + 2 ad).

UTTOXETER (4.8m SW) – The Blythe Inn, Mr James Badham, Booth Lane, Nr Kingstone, Uttoxeter ST18 0LT. 52.854548, -1.933074. 01889 500487; theblytheinn@gmail.com; theblytheinn.co.uk. OAY; 0.75 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; hdstdng; 16A; pub on site; coarse fishing, golf & watersports in 5m; fr £13 (pitch + 2 ad).

SUFFOLK

FRAMLINGHAM (1m NW) – Black Barn CL, Mrs Mollie Grinyer-Power, 1 Black Barn Cottage, Saxtead Road, Framlingham IP13 3PU. 52.228819, 1.32385. 07886 903126; blackbarncl@yahoo.com. OAY; 0.75 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; 16A; peaceful; lawned; restaurant onsite; dog walk fr site; town, shop & pub in 1m; fr £14 (pitch + all occ).

WARWICKSHIRE

BEDWORTH (5m WNW) – Oak View Farm, Mr Christopher Bowman, Park Lane, Astley, Nr Nuneaton CV10 7QB. 52.491686, -1.555852. 07816 664400; oakviewfarmastley@gmail.com. OAY; 1 acre; dogs; grass; fr £15 (pitch + 2 ad).

WALES

POWYS

CRICKHOWELL (1.6m SE) – Two Rivers CL, Ms Andrea Davies and Mr Daniel Games, Glangwryney, Crickhowell, Powys NP8 1TN. 51.840911, -3.110179; 07931 314590; andreamedavies@yahoo.co.uk. OAY, 1.5 acres; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; ideal for families; views; lawned; wkg fm; TV recep gd; dog walk fr site; public trans, town, shop & pub within 1m; game fishing within 5m; fr £10 (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 accompanied by a pub symbol in the Directory are located on the site of a public house – some are near to a pub (up to three miles away), so please check with the owner before visiting.

88 CONGLETON – Waggon & Horses. New owners Stephen and Annette. Tel: 01260 224809. Email: annettelewis61@yahoo.com.

1175 DAVENTRY – The Bungalow.

Error in June magazine – this CL is open.

1218 NOTTINGHAM – Salterford Dam. Contact number is 07969 707561 only.

1227 ABINGDON – Burcot Brook Lodge. Email changed to: burcotbrooklodgecl@gmail.com.

CLOSURES The following five-pitch CLs are closed and no longer certified by the Club. This does not affect any other business that a landowner may be operating.

37 MARLOW – D Hewett, Red Barn Farm 799 BLACKPOOL – Mr D Clarkson, Laithes Lodge 911 HORNCASTLE – Max Van Schwaiger, Tree Tops Farm 1777 PICKERING – Mrs K Scaling, Keld Knowle 1794 RIPON – P Watson, Oak Tree House 1824 THIRSK – Mr A I Keen, Castle Lodge 1959 BETTYHILL – Mrs M Macfadyen, Sealladh Na Mara

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

See camc.com for the latest site and CL opening information and follow official Government advice at all times (gov.uk).

Please note: routes provided by autoroutes or satelliote navigation systems may include roads unsuitable for vehicles towing trailers or caravans.

There may also be specific 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. www.camc.com

g n i c n a t s i d Social s ’ n o i t a n e h t with e t i r u favo

For countless years, caravanners and motorhomers have always enjoyed social distancing in peace and quiet without even thinking about it.

The “secret” is now being revealed to the rest of the Nation with staycations as the major holiday trend, not only in the UK but in the whole world. So wherever you want to go, go safely and...

Visit our Go Safely page for holiday inspiration and updates at baileyofbristol.co.uk/go-safely www.camc.com

July 2020 41

ACTIVITY BREAKS CANOEING

LET’S GO...

Canoeing Jonathan Manning enjoys a paddle along the River Nene, where each meander reveals a new feast for the senses

Y Author Jonathan drags his canoe to the water...

...where he enjoys a paddle

42 September 2020

ears ago, waiting for a dentist appointment, I opened a well-thumbed copy of National Geographic and saw a photograph of a canoe gliding along the River Yukon in Canada. Rays of sunshine pierced powder puffs of mist above a spruce forest. Snow dazzled on the mountains beyond. In the shallows a grizzly bear fished for salmon. It was an image that absolutely captured my imagination – the space, the serenity and the idea of being completely immersed in nature.

That same sense of wonder fills me as I paddle around a meander of the River Nene in Northamptonshire. I’ve set off from the market town of Oundle, and while there are no grizzlies, conifers or snow-capped peaks beyond, there are enormous willows ash trees, regattas of swans and the occasional splashes of fish breaking the water’s surface. More importantly, there’s the same overwhelming sense of peace.

The open-decked Canadian canoe that I’ve hired feels as reassuringly stable as a rowing boat, so I have no concerns about rolling underwater for a mouthful of duckweed. Perched on a bench in the bow, my daughter paddles to the right of the canoe, while I’m sat in the stern, paddling to the left. We’re not synchronised in either timing nor power, so we advance in zigzag fashion, surprised at how the slightest gust of wind or hint of an eddy redirects us into the reeds or midstream.

But 20 minutes into the trip we’re progressing more smoothly in a relatively straight line, silently pointing at buzzards and red kites scavenging over the meadows on either side of the river and watching swifts swoop for insects.

Turquoise dragonflies, as dazzling as the neon of Piccadilly Circus, flit above lily pads, and little fish swim close to the water’s surface as if trying to avoid the tickles of weed below.

Rounding a bend, a bankside woodland kills the breeze and the river’s ripples turn to a mirror finish, offering a flawless reflection of treetops and white clouds scudding across the sky. Peering into the water, the river changes from thigh-deep to dark, hidden depths. www.camc.com

INFORMATION

Canoeing is a fun family activity

www.camc.com

FatCamera/Getty

n A two-man canoe costs ÂŁ20 per hour to hire from Nene Extreme.

Contact: neneextreme.co.uk, 01832 272050 n Stay at: Ferry Meadows Caravan and Motorhome Club Site, Ham Lane, Peterborough PE2 5UU n For current information on UK sites bookings, please refer to our website camc.com. n Please follow official government guidelines related to coronavirus at all times (gov.uk).

September 2020 43

ACTIVITY BREAKS CANOEING

PADDLE POINTS

BOOK

ON THE

APP

Check out these alternative canoeing venues...

Martham Boats, Cess Road, Martham, Great Yarmouth NR29 4RF. Paddle down the River Thurne to reach the stunning waterscapes of Horsey and Hickling Broads.

Contact: marthamboats.com Stay: Norfolk Broads Club site

SWANNING ALONG

Coniston Boating Centre, Lake Road, Coniston LA21 8AN. Canoe on Coniston Water, where the inky water is flanked by mountain, forest and moorland.

Contact: coniston boatingcentre.co.uk Stay: Coniston Park Coppice Club site In Your Element, Fort Augustus, Loch Ness.

Enjoy a canoe tour on the waters of Loch Ness and keep your eyes peeled for… magnificent views of the Highlands.

Super-keen paddlers can attempt a five-day expedition along the Great Glen.

Contact: iye.scot Stay: Culloden Moor Club site Please check with all venues in advance with regard to opening restrictions

44 September 2020

We pull into the rushes by the bank to give a family of swans right of way down the central channel, the dazzling-white cob and pen protectively flanking darker cygnets. Their formation reminds me of how we used to line up as a family to cross a road when the children were little, before teenage boys outgrew and out-muscled us.

Their brawn would be welcome at Cotterstock Weir, where a short, sharp drop of water forces us to climb out of the canoe, lift it across a short patch of grass, and set it down on the lower stretch once again. The boat turns out to be heavier than expected, and while the ‘portage’ sign shows a pair of canoeists with a boat above their heads, we tow ours through the meadow.

Climbing back into the boat is the only time a wobble causes me a flutter of anxiety.

Although this area is designated as the ‘Nene Valley’, there’s no gorge or canyon – sturdy tree trunks provide the only vertical edge. In most parts, though, there’s nothing to see from the canoe but a vast sky above the reeds and rushes. We’re below the height of the banks, enjoying a different perspective on the world and a different pace at which to explore it.

It’s a welcome reminder that adventure doesn’t demand adrenaline.

And it does feel genuinely adventurous, each curve of the river obscuring what lies ahead.

We turn a corner and spook a cow that’s standing in the shallows for a drink. We cruise past the ancient church at Cotterstock, and try to catch a glimpse of the church at Tansor through a dense canopy of willow branches.

We sneak a nosy parker’s view of the backs of dreamy riverside houses. Our stealthy approach

prompts a kestrel to leave its riverside perch.

On this perfect midsummer’s day, we’re treated to the widest possible palette of greens, topped by blue sky and candyfloss clouds. It’s bliss.

What’s more, turning back for base, it seems as if every perspective changes; what was in black shadow is now perfectly illuminated; features that were sunlit are now impenetrably dark. On another river on another day it would have been a smarter move to paddle upstream first, to make the return easier. But the Nene is lazy today, the slight drift of underwater weed tendrils the only indicator of current. Plus, 90 minutes into the adventure, we’re starting to master our paddling technique, managing a more direct line as we safely pass the only other boat we see port-to-port (the opposite of ‘driving on the left’ road etiquette).

The arches of a stone bridge guide us back to the hire centre, where the Nene Valley Brewery sits next to the Tap and Kitchen restaurant and bar by the waterside. It’s the perfect ending to a perfect adventure.

www.camc.com

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XX

TOURING OVERSEAS TRAVEL

CALL OF Choose from one of our two escorted motorhome adventures in this magical country

Main picture: a grizzly bear cools off Insets: in the ‘Land of the Maple Leaf’ (top) you’ll see inspiring scenery like Moraine Lake (bottom)

THE CANADIAN ROCKIES Your epic Canadian adventure (which is overseen by experienced local tour leaders) begins in Calgary, where you’ll find cool restaurants, a vibrant music scene and the iconic Calgary Tower.

After picking up your motorhome you’ll set off for beautiful Banff National Park in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Here you can see Lake Minnewanka and Johnston Canyon, where the creek has cut through the limestone to form impressive pools, waterfalls and tunnels.

Another option is to take a gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.

On days 6 and 7 you will take in views of lakes, glaciers, forests and hills on your journey along the famed Icefields Parkway towards Jasper – keep an eye out for deer and black bears along the way. Be sure to take in the famous Peyto Lake – and what about embarking on a glacier tour on the Columbia Icefield?

More wildlife-spotting is in store as you leave the province of Alberta for Wells Gray Provincial Park in British Columbia – renowned for its black bears, grizzlies, moose, wolves and cougars.

We recommend visits to Dawson Falls

and Helmcken Falls, both of which plunge into beautiful, mist-filled gorges.

Next up is Sun Peaks. Famous as a ski area, it is equally impressive in summer, boasting opportunities for downhill go-karting, mountain biking, horse riding and more.

As you approach the mid-point of this magical road trip you reach Cache Creek, where a visit to Historic Hat Creek Ranch gives you a flavour of life during the late 19th century Gold Rush!

Next, we suggest a stop in the remarkable Joffre Lakes Provincial Park (where minerals in the water give the lakes a remarkable turquoise hue) on your way

to Whistler. Here, the Peak 2 Peak Gondola offers mesmerising views, while you could also opt for a ride in a seaplane.

It’s then on to Vancouver, pausing to admire Grouse Mountain and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. You’ll have a full day to explore this extraordinary coastal city, where a trip to Stanley Park should be high on the agenda.

Heading once again for Alberta, you can visit the wineries or orchards of the glorious Okanagan Valley, before Mount Revelstoke, Glacier and Kootenay National Parks offer further feasts for the senses. As you return the keys in Calgary, take a moment to reflect on the journey of a lifetime.

Banff National Park

Duration/type: 25 days/escorted motorhome tour Departure: 29 May 2021, 5 Sep 2021, 24 May 2022 Price: from £3,999pp for 29 May 2021 departure (based on two sharing) Price includes: outfit hire, return flights, tour leaders, transfers, two nights in a centrally located Calgary hotel, welcome dinner, 21 nights pre-booked campsites, barbecue dinner, unlimited mileage, kitchen equipment, linen, road book with travel tips and driving itinerary

For more information on this tour please visit camc.com/worldwide or call 01342 488059 46 September 2020

www.camc.com

THE WILD Killer whale in the Strait of Georgia

VANCOUVER ISLAND AND THE SUNSHINE COAST Experienced local guides will keep an eye out for you every step of the way during this remarkable motorhome tour, which takes in the exhilarating scenery of Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia.

Having arrived in Vancouver on Canadas west coast, you will have a couple of days to explore this cosmopolitan city. Take the chance to explore the market and workshops of Granville Island or visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.

Its then time to pick up your motorhome and stock up on groceries before boarding the ferry to magnificent Vancouver Island, where youll have the chance to explore Victorias inner harbour and surrounding Parliament Buildings.

On Day 6 you will enjoy incredible ocean views as you drive along the Malahat Drive towards Nanaimo. You could perhaps stop to admire the totem poles of Duncan or pause in Chemainus to view its colourful murals. From Nanaimo (we recommend the market where goats can be seen grazing on the roof!) you will wind your way through the Douglas fir

Enjoy stunning views along the Sunshine Coast

trees of Cathedral Grove and onwards to the west coast of the island. On arrival in Ucluelet you have the delights of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve on your doorstep and the opportunity to go whale or bear watching, fishing, kayaking or zip lining.

You now head north-east for Campbell River, a wonderful natural playground known as the ‘Salmon Capital of the World’ – Discovery Pier is a well-known wildlifespotting point.

Boarding the ferry in Comox, it’s time to head across the Strait of Georgia once again to Powell River in the northern region of British Columbias renowned Sunshine Coast. Why not take a cruise from Lund into

Desolation Sound for the chance to spot whales, sea lions, porpoises and more?

Further highlights of this remarkable region include Earls Cove, where you can see the Harmony Falls, and Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park where you can view tidal whirlpools and white water.

Following another ferry you have the opportunity to drive the magical Sea to Sky Highway, admiring fjords, ocean views, mountains and waterfalls on your way to the famous ski region of Whistler.

More scenic delights await on the road to Burnaby before you return your motorhome in Vancouver and fly home.

Duration/type: 20 days/escorted motorhome tour Departure: 11 Sep 2021, 5 Sep 2022 Price: from £3,899pp for 11 Sep 2021 departure (based on two sharing) Price includes: outfit hire, return flights, tour leaders, transfers, 3 nights in a centrally located hotel in Vancouver, welcome dinner, 15 nights’ pre-booked campsites, barbecue dinner, unlimited mileage, personalised road book with travel tips and day-to-day driving itinerary with local area info

For more information on this tour please visit camc.com/worldwide or call 01342 488059 www.camc.com

September 2020 47

NEWS OVERSEAS TRAVEL

K PLEASE CHEC IGN RE FO THE LATEST AT E C VI D A TR AVEL D N A M O .C C C AM GOV.UK

Huy Thoa/Getty

Brexit reminders

European travel – book with confidence It’s understandable if you are feeling a bit nervous about travelling abroad at the moment – but by arming yourself with the right information and taking sensible precautions, you can still enjoy a European break during these tricky times.

Members returning from Europe (we went to press in early August) have told us that their experience was similar to that in the UK – ie that social distancing was being observed where possible, face coverings were being used, hand sanitising stations were commonplace and that there was reduced capacity in restaurants, bars and other tourist attractions.

Their key message was to take plenty of face coverings for your whole party, as well as hand sanitiser and cleaning materials.

Different countries might have different rules so make sure you follow local Covid-19 guidelines.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

Make sure you check government guidelines regularly – as we have seen, they can change rapidly in response to emerging situations. Remember that advice given by the devolved governments of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland can be different from that issued in England. The best place to check is on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) travel advice pages at gov.uk/ foreign-travel-advice – you can sign up for regular updates.

A useful website for more detailed, country-specific information is reopen. europa.eu/en.

ABTA is another great source of information – it has a very informative ‘Get ready for travel’ leaflet on its website at abta.com/tips-and-advice/planning-and48 September 2020

booking-a-holiday/restarting-travel-guidefor-customers.

Members can be confident if they are booking a package holiday (ie a crossing plus accommodation) with the Club as if the FCO advises against travel to your destination, you are entitled to a full refund.

TRAVEL OPTIONS

All ferry operators have introduced enhanced cleaning protocols, reduced passenger capacity and staggered boarding/disembarking, while Eurotunnel is an excellent option as you remain in your own vehicle throughout your journey.

EUROPEAN SITES

All of the handpicked campsites included in our programme recently completed a Covid-19 questionnaire detailing the extra steps they are taking to keep holidaymakers safe. The onsite experience will be slightly different from previously, as although facilities are generally open, capacity will be reduced to help with social distancing, and face coverings should be worn in indoor communal areas.

WINTER SUN

INSURANCE & BREAKDOWN

Ensure you have adequate insurance cover in case you fall ill while you are away – the Club’s Red Pennant policy, for example, not only covers vehicle breakdowns but also medical assistance and repatriation if required. Our in-house team of experts provides 24/7 emergency assistance for members.

PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE

Remember the Club’s Travel Service operates a Price Match Guarantee*, and if you book online our new system will notify you if further savings are available on ferry crossing and accommodation combinations. Also, the fact we are ABTA-bonded gives you peace of mind that you’re protected financially.

COMING HOME

48 hours prior to your return to the UK, make sure that you complete the Public Health Passenger Locator form as required by UK Border Force (see gov.uk/provide-journeycontact-details-before-travel-uk). *See camc.com for terms and conditions.

If you’re looking further ahead and want to swap the British winter for some sunshine, our Spanish and Portuguese sites can be booked for travel up to May 2021. We’re also delighted to offer three campsites in our ‘Long Stay Winter Sun’ programme, which runs from January to March 2021. We’re offering hosted breaks at La Manga in Murcia, Alannia Costa Blanca (formerly Marjal Costa Blanca) in Valencia, and Turiscampo in Portugal. Perfect for longer breaks, these sites offer plenty of organised group events as well as indoor swimming pools, gyms and spas. Tour hosts will be available to help with any queries and organise group events such as quiz nights, barbecues and walking outings.

The Brexit transition period will end on 31 December 2020, and while governments are still negotiating over details, we do know that there are some changes you can prepare for now.

For instance, UK passports must be less than 10 years old and have six months validity remaining at the end of each trip.

So plan ahead to make sure you receive new documents in time for travel.

Also, the pet passport scheme is likely to change, and the process prior to travel could take four months. So, again, if you plan to travel in early 2021, be sure to contact your vet at least four months before you go. You can find the most up-to-date information on all travel-related Brexit issues (including EHIC, Green Cards, GB stickers and international driving permits) at gov.uk/ visit-europe-1january-2021.

www.camc.com

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camc.com/join camc.com/join *Existing *Existing members members are required are required to give to their give friend/family their friend/family consentconsent to use their to use membership their membership numbernumber to invite tothem invitetothem join the to join the Club online, Club online, on stand onor stand by phone. or by phone.

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Your £10 Your Club £10 gift Club voucher gift voucher will will then bethen automatically be automatically posted posted to you after to you their after membership their membership has been hasconfirmed. been confirmed. xx July 2020 www.camc.com

Letters

Your chance to have your say. The writer of our star letter will receive copies of our three-edition overseas touring guides

CORRESPONDENCE YOUR VIEWS

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

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

In the fog BEAULIEU BONUS

STAR LETTER

DRAWN TO IT

I was very interested in the article in the July 2020 issue (‘Age-old Advice’ by Martin Spencer) as I have a photo of my late father and his grandmother, posed on the steps of a similar horse-drawn caravan. This was taken on holiday, about 1933/1934, possibly in North Wales. It was being used as a static caravan, no horses involved. Our family have been camping and caravanning since the 1920s and the younger generation are now continuing the tradition.

Sue Sutton, via email

Scooter tutor I really enjoyed the article in the February magazine from Karla Baker [‘Constant craving’] which was very encouraging as my husband is getting more and more disabled and we’re having to get used to a very different way of life. There are many members with disabilities but lots have already got caravans and therefore cars [that allow them] to get out of the site [for day trips].

As we’re not prepared to change our lovely Hymer motorhome for a caravan yet, we are now having to get used to campsites that allow us to leave on a mobility scooter.

In the past we looked for sites with direct walking from the site or a bus stop, but no more. Can I ask that members look at the feasibility of scooter rides from sites to help us when they leave reviews? The accessibility to disabled facilities is excellent when we’re on the Club sites – it’s just getting out of them to explore.

Cycle-friendly paths direct from sites can be used but often while you can push a bike down a steep slope to a canal path, doing it on a mobility scooter is really not very safe!

I’m sure there are others out there who are still not prepared to sit at home and grow old even though they’re very disabled.

Viv Lee, Kent www.camc.com

Thank you so much for the lockdown activities suggestion via the Beaulieu website [June issue, News, page 18]. One of our grandsons loved the make-up caravan. He has been promised tea in the caravan as soon as we are allowed.

Hope you like the attached picture..

Russell Shipton, via email

In the first week of June I put my towcar in for service and MOT and was surprised that it failed the MOT on the rear fog light terminal of the 13-pin plug.

I was not even aware that caravans had a rear fog light!

As the towbar had been fitted only three years previously, I contacted the fitters who agreed to examine it.

They gave it a thorough test and pronounced it to be working correctly, but stated that several other customers had reported the same problem. The cause they stated was that it was the fully-approved hand-held testing device that was at fault as the LED needed a resistance in line to register.

At the re-test, when a trailer bar was attached at the MOT testing station, it showed everything was working and then they had to issue a pass. If any other members have experienced a similar problem bear this in mind.

Alan Ritchie, via email Technical Manager’s note: There are two separate and quite well-documented issues here: 1. Checks on a vehicle’s towbar and towbar wiring have been included in the MOT for quite a few years now – since April 2009 for towbars and January 2012 for electrical sockets. Electrical function checks only apply to vehicles fitted with 13-pin sockets, not those with one or two 7-pin ones, although all sockets should be checked for damage, wear etc. Details of the required checks are published in the MOT Inspection Manual (Section 6.16 for towbars and Section 4.10 for sockets).

2. There’s a long term issue (since introduction of checks in 2012) with the authorised MOT test equipment for trailer socket electrical functionality.

Not all of the approved equipment works effectively on all towbar installations. DVSA and the Garage Equipment Association continue to work together to resolve these issues, but they appear to be challenging to fix. If an installation is failed when you believe it to actually be fully functional, you can challenge the failure via DVSA .

Your mag needs you!

Now that our UK sites and Certificated Locations have re-opened, we would love to hear about your adventures! Please email us at magazine@camc.com with details about where you have been and where you are planning to visit in the future.

September 2020 51

CORRESPONDENCE YOUR VIEWS

THE WAY WE WERE I was sorting out some photographs during the lockdown, which reminded me of my youth and first experience of caravanning. How things have changed in the last, almost 70 years.

The site was called North End Caravan Park at Mablethorpe in Lincolnshire. It comprised almost 100 ex-touring vans now used as statics. Owned by individuals, they were rented out on their behalf by the site owners.

Our first van, in 1954, was similar to the one owned by the Vicar of Upnor, shown on page 49 of the May magazine [‘All in it Together’]. Our second van [see below right] we used from 1955 to 1958.

Both vans had similar facilities, namely three gas mantle lights, the gas bottle kept outside, adjacent to the towing hitch. There was a galvanised bucket for waste water, emptied in a gully near a water standpipe, and a foot-operated pump for the transfer of fresh water. The container refilled from standpipes dotted around the site.

There were ‘sofa beds’ at each end of the van, while lifting up a wooden flap on the front of the unit opposite the sink formed the table, with easy access to the larder underneath. A two burner gas hob, no electricity and 52 September 2020

no heating. The only hot water came from the kettle. There was no toilet and no shower.

The toilet blocks were of breeze block construction, with corrugated asbestos roofs. They were unheated, with hot or even warm water rarely available. The men’s block had six toilet cubicles, a urinal along the back wall and eight wash basins in a row along the front wall (no partitions). The ladies’ block (I am told) had eight toilets and eight basins. Neither block had showers.

Primitive though things were by today’s standards, many families, such as mine, thoroughly enjoyed such times.

Hope you find this interesting, Brian Taylor, via email

www.camc.com

Sammy Faircloth’s article brought back memories

What a difference Sammy Faircloth’s article entitled ‘Spot the Difference’ in the June magazine sent me down a long road of memories – back as far as 1963, in fact, when I sat my GCE exams and studied for them in the little caravan parked temporarily on our driveway in Bexley, Kent.

For several years my mum, sister and I had been visiting friends who lived near Lydney in Gloucestershire, staying in their summer house with its wonderful view across the Severn Estuary. Mum then had the opportunity to buy the caravan, which was towed down to a farm nearby and there we had several lovely long holidays.

Dad was not a holiday person; he would drive us down then come back home.

This was in the days before the M4 and the journey would take us all day, round the South Circular, across the Hog’s Back, picking up the A417 to cut across country to Gloucester and all the way down the other side of the River Severn almost to Chepstow. On the return journey Birdlip Hill was a challenge for our converted Ford Thames van! www.camc.com

I cannot recall what make the caravan was, but I remember that the bunk bed across the end was made of canvas. We erected a toilet tent nearby and would wash at the sink, visiting our friends for a bath (once a week?!).

Mum was a Guide leader and we were very used to camping so the caravan was utter luxury. From the farm we would walk through the forest down to Brockweir or Tintern in the Wye Valley for the butchers and grocers or occasionally head in the other direction for the bus to Chepstow.

One holiday saw me up on the roof repainting it to stop it leaking, and one Easter it was so cold that we all three, plus our dog, slept on the double bed to keep warm. Happy, happy days.

Fifteen years later, married with two small children, we borrowed my brother-in-law’s caravan and here began our years of caravanning, first as a family in our Compass Rallye and now just the two of us, the caravan an Elddis Mistral. Here’s hoping we'll be on the road again soon.

Diane Kemp, via email September 2020 53

CORRESPONDENCE YOUR VIEWS

FANTASTIC FORTY

Motorsport memories I am a member of a local car club based in the West Midlands called Owen Motoring Club. We were formed back in 1959 by a group of employees that worked for Rubery Owen in Darlaston.

The Owen Organisation was run

by Sir Alfred Owen who was the main benefactor of BRM racing cars and also Sir Donald Campbell’s Bluebird land speed record attempts. So you can see from this we have strong links with BRM racing cars and motorsport in general.

Now for the main reason for this letter. This year, 2020, is our 60th anniversary year, and to celebrate it we contacted as many past members as we could and asked

them for some photographs of their motorsport exploits from past years. We were overwhelmed with the response and have been displaying them on our Facebook page for all to see during this ‘lockdown’ year.

Imagine my surprise that the week I displayed some caravan rally photos, I opened your June magazine to find a two-page feature on these rallies [‘In the fast lane’]. It was nice to read about them and how they evolved as I don’t remember them at all. Hope you enjoy looking at our photos which I hope you can publish in a future edition for others to see.

Martin Parkes (Owen MC Classic Car Section), via email

In May Graham and I received a letter from the Club to confirm we had been members for 40 years.

Neither of us can believe that 40 years have flown by so quickly!

Once members of the Club we decided to join the Berkshire Centre and are still members today. I had the privilege of being Chairlady from 2003 to 2006. We have met and made good friends with a huge number of other Centre members not only from ‘our’ Centre but also other Centres.

Our first child Adam was born in February 1981 and it wasn’t long before we ventured out once again but now with a small baby ‘in tow’! Our first daughter Carla came along pretty quickly thereafter and by March 1982 we had two youngsters in the van. This didn’t deter us and in May 1982 off we went for a week’s holiday rally to Dial Post in Gosport. That week was great and it set the scene for the very many happy years that have followed.

We had our third child Amy in December 1988 (seemed like a good idea to have more kids) and yes she even came on the New Year rally to welcome in 1989. Our fourth child Luke came along in November 1990 thus making our family complete.

Adam, Carla and Amy have followed us into the caravanning life – Luke is just venturing into fatherhood so time will tell if he follows us eventually.

Angela Massey, via email

LATE STARTERS

In 2018 my sister and brother-in-law decided to give up their beloved caravan after a lifetime of caravanning. My wife and I had downsized our home the year before and then our son and family decided to emigrate to New Zealand. Finding ourselves with more spare time on our hands and no longer enjoying airport hassle and long-haul flights, we decided to buy the caravan and discover parts of the UK we had never visited. Some friends thought it was perhaps not the best of ideas as we were both in our early 70s and I hadn’t towed a caravan for some 45 years!

However, we joined the Club and I completed a towing course at Wrexham.

We collected the caravan up on Teesside and spent our first few days at White Water Park next to the River Tees, with my brother-in-law handy to help and explain all the ins and outs of caravanning.

Feeling confident that we had mastered the basics, we set off for Burrs Country Park near Bury for a few days. Here we met up with our son and family before they left for New Zealand.

We set off for home in North Wales, but the weather was so good we drove past our home town and had a few days in Betws-y-Coed, before returning home.

In 2019 we had trips to Mid Wales, Herefordshire, the Llyn Peninsula and a longer tour across country and down through Norfolk and Suffolk. We are still learning, but have enjoyed our travels so far.

And the Yorkshire terriers love the expeditions, too.

We have enjoyed reading the magazine which is full of useful information and hints and tips. One small problem I have is that I often have a query and know that I have seen an article in the magazine that would help. But remembering which month’s copy to look in usually ends up with wading through many magazines.

Richard A Moody, Conwy Editor’s note: Thanks very much for your letter Richard – glad you are enjoying caravan life so much! If you download the Magazine app from the Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store, you will find a function that allows you to search for keywords across issues dating back to January 2013.

54 September 2020

www.camc.com

NE W DISCOVER THE NEW Pro Series

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The new Avtex DRS-PRO series sets a new standard in mobile portable entertainment.

• 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 • AQT one button tuning system (Ideal for touring) • On screen battery meter • Mains/battery 240v AC/12v/24v DC

Available in 19.5” 21.5” 24” Full HD screen sizes

The new Avtex connected TV series with Freeview Play. Scroll forwards and backwards through the TV guide for 7-day catch up, plus loads more on demand with BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All4, My5 & UKTV Play. Watch channels only accessible with a connected TV. • • • • • • • •

Full HD connected TV with built-in satellite decoder Tuners DVB-T/ DVBT-2 / DVBS / DVBS2 Freeview HD Freeview Play 7 day forwards and 7 day backwards programme guide AQT one button tuning system (Ideal for touring) On screen battery meter Mains/battery 240v AC/12v/24v DC

Available in 19” 21” 24” 27” Full HD screen sizes

for further information call:

02920 847670 avtex.co.uk

Availability of channels subject to geographic location and coverage. Aerial upgrade may be required. Visit freeview.co.uk/availability. Minimum broadband speed of 2Mbps required for

www.camc.com November 2016 XX catch up and on demand services. Watching on demand and catch up programmes will count towards any monthly broadband data allowance. 7-day catch up for selected channels.

SPECIAL CLUB MEMBERSHIP

Club class

With record numbers of people joining, we look at the many benefits of being a member – it is little wonder we are the first port of call for newcomers to the touring pastime

W

Enjoying the fields close to Alderstead Heath Club site (photo by member Rebecca Roberts)

ith dealers up and down the country reporting strong sales of new and used caravans and motorhomes since campsites reopened after lockdown, we could be entering a golden period for the UK holiday industry. Interestingly, we understand that 80% of these vehicle sales are to buyers new to the hobby, while the Club welcomed many thousands of new familes in July t? u o Starting (and many more of you renewed your g in ur to to If you are new subscriptions during the same period). e have and the Club, w The Club is perfect for those who are d content designe new to touring – not only are you joining u at an organisation that has nearly 115 specifically for yo k/ .u co b. years of experience and expertise, you caravanclu art-aare also becoming part of a community uk-holidays/st e/ ur nt of 350,000-plus likeminded people who new-adve share your passion for caravans, motorhomes and the great outdoors.

ADVICE FOR NEWCOMERS Are you a seasoned caravanner/ motorhomer of campervanner? If you want to help newcomers to touring and encourage people to make the most of the great outdoors, why not pass on your knowledge? It is as easy as 1, 2, 3...

1. Simply post on Club Together – we have a dedicated section for those new to touring where they can read more than 11,000 posts. See caravanclub.co.uk/clubtogether/discussions/welcome-hobbytalk/new-to-caravanning-touring/ 56 September 2020

2. Share your experiences by tagging us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (@candmclub) using #getawayyouraway.

We regularly post hints, and tips and share member experiences on Facebook, while tourers new and old will find ideas and inspiration on which campsites to visit by following us on Instagram 3. Write a site review – after you have enjoyed a stay on a Club site, why not tell fellow members about your experience at camc.com (see individual site pages)? www.camc.com

Chip enjoys a break en route to Devon (photo by member Martin Milmoe)

CLUB MEMBER BENEFITS

For just £54 per year, membership of the Caravan and Motorhome Club gives you all of the following:

I WISH I HAD KNOWN...

If you are a newcomer to touring, things can seem a little daunting at first. Well, remember that everyone – even the most experienced caravanner or motorhomer – was a beginner once. We recently carried out a survey via Facebook, asking members to complete the following statement: When I first started touring I wish someone had told me... and we have had an amazing response. In less than 24 hours, more than 500 of you replied. Thank you – here is a sample of your responses...

“I would find places that were so beautiful and spectacular.”

Andrew Reeves “To try rallying! Always regretted not trying it when children were young.”

Carole Hopkins “To know your weights. And have a list of everything in the motorhome/caravan.

In the unfortunate event it ever gets stolen, you’ll forget most of it when making your claim (I speak from personal experience).”

Joanne Price

“

I just pick things up by talking to people on site and now through forums. The big thing is admitting to people that you are not sure about something, and that opens the door for them to tell you about everything.

Glyn Jamieson, Club member

“

”

Folk will always be there to offer help and advice. Don’t be shy.

Start a travel log – wish I’d done it sooner. Welcome to the ‘family’.

Maurice Gee

“Double check everything is stowed well and all doors are locked... oh and windows and vents are shut before moving off.”

Joy Bradley

”

n Access to the UKs largest network of campsites (200). n Access to around 2,300 Certificated Locations – small, five-pitch sites all over the country n Access to award-winning cover for your caravan and insurance for your car/motorhome n Thousands of special, money-saving offers on attractions, products and services n Reduced prices on glamping accommodation at a number of Experience Freedom sites in the UK – ideal for you and your non-touring friends and family n Access to ferry deals and hundreds of European campsites vetted by our specialist teams n The knowledge you are part of an organisation that lobbies government and local MPs on your behalf (for example we wrote to the Prime Minister to encourage the government to allow sites to reopen after lockdown) n Outfit Matching Service – see which cars and caravans are the perfect match with our online service PLUS MUCH MORE...

“How much fun it is – I should have done it 20 years ago.”

Angela Williams “The fantastic holidays you can have in the UK – relaxing and having special family and friends time together.”

Beverley Gamble www.camc.com

Bearsted Club site gives good access to the Kent coast (photo by member Thalia Jervis)

September 2020 57

SPECIAL CLUB MEMBERSHIP

Bunree Club site in July – perfect! (photo by member Audrey Swistchew)

FREQUENTLY-ASKED QUESTIONS

Over the last couple of months our award-winning Contact Centre has fielded thousands of enquiries.

Here are some examples (please note that this information is frequently changing and is correct at the time of goin to press)...

Ask the Exstparetertd

“

ly We have recent loading up d an g in record Expert videos monthly Ask the r the first two, on Facebook – fo om/ see facebook.c 0997/ 102361046434 videos/

I hitch up and tow and everything else in-between – the joys of being a single mum. My boys love it and I hope they remember all the happy memories I have struggled to make with them. I wouldn’t change a thing.

Diane Holroyd, Club member

ALL IN THIS TOGETHER

No matter what you need advice on, you can be assured that a fellow member will be able to help – whatever essential technical, vehicle, site, travel or kit queries you have, your fellow members are on hand to provide you with the benefit of their experience.

From site reviews written by members on the Club website to posts on every touring subject under the sun on our fantastic social media channels (Club Together – the largest online community of caravanners and motorhomes in the UK – plus Facebook, Instagram and Twitter), there is a wealth of constantly-updated information being passed on by members to fellow members. Can you put a price on that?

MONEY-SAVING OFFERS

“Probably the nicest surprise is the amazing discounts you can get when a member, I have probably saved far in excess of my joining fee in my first year of being a member.”

Did you know that as a member of the Club 58 September 2020

”

you can save money on a wide variety of caravanning and motorhoming kit – ideal if you’re just starting out on the touring road.

From offers on towbars, awnings, TVs and batteries to cycle carriers, fridge vents, toilet chemicals and motor movers, you can be assured that your money will go further with the Club. See camc.com/memberoffers and shop.camc.com for further details of these and many other fabulous deals.

REPRESENTING YOUR INTERESTS

The Club represents members’ interests on many stakeholder groups – we’ll try to ensure your views are heard, although we can’t always promise they’re listened to! Groups include topics like road safety, technical standards, legislation, and environmental matters. A recently formed one is the All Party Parliamentary Group on Trailer and Towing Safety, giving us a voice directly to legislators when they’re considering changes to law on issues like MOTs or driving licences.

Do I need to wear a face covering on Club campsites?

We are asking that all guests entering reception and shops on all our Club sites wear face coverings. We strongly encourage the use of face coverings in all other confined spaces where you come into contact with other users.

Is the Club looking at extending the season at some sites?

The Club is reviewing whether it’s possible to extend the opening period of some key campsites. We will keep members informed.

What about toilet/shower blocks, dishwashing, food preparation and laundry facilities?

We would encourage you to use your onboard facilities wherever possible.

However, we intend to open all toilet blocks and the majority of communal facilities on those campsites that have them. There will be restrictions on the number of people using facilities and this may cause queues. Be patient and follow social distancing guidelines.

Are dog walks still available?

Where possible these will be open.

Please ensure social distancing is maintained and be considerate of members on neighbouring pitches as you pass by. To share the load, please consider walks off site.

Can I pay by cash?

We ask that all payments are made by card. If this is not possible, please contact the campsite a few days prior to arrival to discuss the options.

Are all the Great Savings Guide discounts still available?

Not all attractions will reopen this year. We recommend you contact them directly before travelling to avoid disappointment. Some attractions may now require pre-booking and some will be offering a reduced number of tickets to ensure social distancing.

Attractions reserve the right to amend, replace or withdraw their offer without prior notification. www.camc.com

H IT CE W N K E O ID O F B ON C

IF

OW D SH N E FU TH RE CT EL LL RE G NC FU OR IN C A E A C NT TO EIV ILS RI VE EC TA F P HA R E O E LL D E W WI N T IM U VE T T YO E A

The Big end of season show Spectacular four nights camping with ‘Best of British’ themed entertainment

FROM £48 PER PITCH*

saturday night headline act

LARGEST CHOICE OF MOTORHOMES AND CAMPERVANS IN THE AREA

√ Explore a huge 500 new & used models on display from over 40 national & local dealers √ Browse, compare and buy thousands of accessories from over 200 different exhibitors √ Discover 2021 launches or take advantage of end of season clearance deals

VISIT FOR THE DAY In advance - Adult: £6.00 On arrival - Adult: £9.00

Children: FREE

pre-booked

MUD II +

plus

Adult: £18 Child: £9

FRIDAY-SATURDAY 9:30am - 5:00pm

SUNDAY 9:30am - 4:30pm

FREE PARKING, FREE GOODY BAG & FREE SHOWGUIDE | LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND, LN2 2NA

BOOK ONLINE - WWW.SHOWGOER.CO.UK

*£48.00 pitch includes pre-booking, magazine subscriber & club rally area discounts. £18.00 entertainment ticket is when booked in advance. For more information call 01778 391123. www.camc.com November 2019 13 EVENT DETAILS CORRECT AT TIME OF PRINTING

PamperYOUR camper

PRODUCT SHOWCASE INTERIORS

Spruce up your leisure vehicle with one or more of these stylish items selected by Jane McGowan Bert & Buoy Dartmouth Coastal Cushion Why not add a touch of portside panache to your tourer with these beautiful ‘coastal’ cushions? Made by Devon-based interiors specialist Bert & Buoy, the design, depicting the town of Dartmouth, is based on one of Bert’s original artworks. The cover is made from 100% cotton while duck feathers make up the plump filling. The Dartmouth motif is featured on a variety of Bert & Buoy products, including tea towels, aprons and mugs, while a ‘Plymouth’ cushion option is also available.

Let memories of happy holidays fill your child’s dreams with this cute camping-themed duvet set from John Lewis’ ‘Little Home’ range.

The single-sized cover and accompanying pillowcase feature vintage caravans, tents and woodland scenes with a bright, multi-coloured design on the reverse. The set is made from cotton that has been produced in line with the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), which aims to “make global cotton production better for the people who produce it, better for the environment it grows in, and better for the sector’s future”.

RRP: £30 Dimensions: 200cm x 135cm (duvet cover), 75cm x 50cm (pillow case) Contact: johnlewis.com

RRP: £40 Dimensions: 50cm x 50cm Contact: bertandbuoy.com

Lakeland Tidy Tote Rope Basket Available in two sizes (small, 32l and large, 54l), these attractive rope baskets are stylish caravan storage options. Perfect for stowing cushions, throws or magazines, the larger basket stands 40cm tall while the smaller is 32cm. Featuring a strong rope construction, it has faux leather handles and a stylish grey felt band. And it would work just as well in your living room or bedroom once you return from your travels!

RRP: £19.99 (small), £24.99 (large) Dimensions: 32cm x 30cm (small), 40cm x 36cm (large) Contact: lakeland.co.uk

60

John Lewis Camping Reversible Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set

Vintage Caravan Style book

National Trust Ombre Throw Add a touch of luxury to your caravan or motorhome interior with this pure wool throw designed exclusively for the National Trust. The ‘ombre’ blue and grey shades will keep memories of sunny days by the sea close at hand as you snuggle down on those late summer evenings. The throw is part of a range of home interior accessories made by Tweedmill – a decades-old business based on the banks of the River Dee in Flint. It must be washed on a wool wash setting.

If you fancy making over your motorhome or caravan or are just fascinated with vintage style, you will find plenty to entertain you in this eye-catching book from stylist and author Lisa Mora. Packed with illustrations of transformed tourers, Mora tells the stories behind the makeovers, and offers handy tips should you wish to have to a go yourself. Whether you want to try ‘upcycling’, restoring, decorating or styling there is something here to inspire you – great for the coffee table!

RRP: £15.99 Publisher: David & Charles Contact: davidandcharles.com, amazon.co.uk

RRP: £40 Dimensions: 170cm x 130cm Weight: 900g Contact: shop.nationaltrust.org.uk

Beach Scene Melamine Coaster The seaside theme continues with these beautifullycrafted melamine coasters. Artist and maker Jessica Hogarth has in fact produced a range of playful designs, featuring scenes of coastal life from village views to sailing boats and beach huts. Perfect for protecting your table top whether you are home or away, each is sold individually, enabling you to mix and match. Hogarth produces a variety of home and stationery goods and is about to open her first shop in her hometown of Whitby – the inspiration for many of her designs.

RRP: £4.50 each Dimensions: 10cm x 10cm Contact: notonthehighstreet.com www.camc.com

September 2020 61

MEMBER OFFERS SPECIAL DEALS

Member Offer

XX August 2020

www.camc.com

SAVE WITH THE CLUB

THIS SUMMER

Club members saved more than £3 million in 2019 by taking advantage of dozens of special offers – here’s a sample of some currently available…

1/3 OFF FULL PRICE

ADMISSION FOR UP TO FOUR PEOPLE AT BEAULIEU Visit Beaulieu in the heart of the New Forest where one ticket gives you access to a range of fabulous attractions, including the National Motor Museum, the Palace House & Gardens, the Abbey and The Secret Army Exhibition.

At the National Motor Museum you can enjoy the new ‘Motoring in Miniature – the Toys of Your Childhood’ exhibition, which features hundreds of miniature vehicles and other much-loved playthings of the past.

Bookings must be made online in advance – see camc.com/ beaulieu for more details.

Discount on the Colapz product range Colapz offers buckets, liquid carriers, portable showers, flexi waste pipes and much more – perfect for anyone who goes away in a leisure vehicle. Members can save 10% on its range of flexible, eco-friendly and durable products. To find out more visit camc.com/colapz.

SAVE 10% WITH TAYNA BATTERIES

Tayna Batteries sells leading brands such as Bosch, Yuasa, Enduroline, Varta and Powerline. All battery technologies are available, including lithium iron, lead acid, EFB and AGM, while Tayna also offers a wide range of accessories, including chargers and optimisers, jump packs and jump starters, battery leads, split charging systems and inverters. Find out more at camc.com/taynabatteries.

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

September 2020

63

MEMBER OFFERS SPECIAL DEALS

MORE SAVINGS FOR MEMBERS IMPORTANT INFORMATION CLUB SHOP

The Club Shop is now open. Orders will be processed as quickly as possible but please be aware that there may be some delays.

The phone line remains closed – please email camc@ primaleisure.com with enquiries. For more information please see shop.camc.com.

15% off with Mountain Warehouse Mountain Warehouse has a wide range of outdoor clothing and equipment to get you set for any adventure. Simply visit camc.com/mountainwarehouse to get your discount code and follow the link to the outdoor clothing specialist’s website, where you can apply the code at checkout.

ENJOY SAVINGS ON FULL CARAVAN OR MOTORHOME COVERS Protect your caravan or motorhome from the elements with tailor-made covers from Specialised Covers. There is an extensive pattern database to choose from and every cover offers waterproof protection and breathability; frost protection; UV protection and tree sap resistance. Products come with a three-year fabric guarantee and a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. Club members receive £25 off any full cover. Find out more camc.com/specialisedcovers.

Secure your bike with Litelok

Featuring a composite Boaflexicore’ strap and hardened steel alloy lock housing, Litelok’s bicycle security products are designed to give your pride and joy a high level of protection from thieves. The flexible Litelok can be secured around a wider range of fixed objects than rigid ‘D’ or ‘U’ locks, is light in weight, and has excellent Sold Secure security ratings.

Club members can save 10% on purchases – for more information visit camc.com/litelok.

Save 10% on the Dry Sparkle range at the Club Shop Dry Sparkle waterless wash is designed to clean, polish and protect all in one action – Manufactured in the UK, eco-friendly formulas are available for your caravan, motorhome, awning or towing vehicle.

Visit shop.camc. com and use the code CS-0218PRIMA to apply your discount.

Save with National Tyres and Autocare National Tyres’ range of ready-tobe-fitted tyres includes top brands like Bridgestone, Pirelli, Dunlop, Continental, Goodyear and Michelin, as well as mid-range alternatives. As a member of the Club you can receive a 5% discount on tyres. Visit camc.com/ nationaltyres to find out more.

Terms and conditions apply to all member offers and Club Shop products - see camc.com/memberoffers and shop.camc.com for details 64 September 2020

www.camc.com

FEATURE TITLE SUBTEXT

www.camc.com

May 2020 XX

COUNTRY MATTERS SALMON

only way The

up is

I

David Chapman watches the exploits of the humble salmon on its epic journey against the current

t is rare for us to be travelling through Scotland in the autumn, but two years ago we were doing just that. The primary motivation for our trip was to enable my wife, Sarah, to take part in Shetland Wool Week but the journey also gave me the chance to visit the Falls of Shin, in Sutherland, at a time of year when we would have a good chance of seeing salmon ‘leaping’.

As it was September we expected some rough weather along the way. It had been cold, as well as

66 September 2020

wet and windy, but I took heart from the fact that salmon won’t even attempt to ‘run’ when water levels are low, whereas a river in torrent is an open invitation for them to head upstream.

I had set aside just one day for our visit as we travelled through the area, so I was grateful that the forecast suggested it would be bright. We were in the motorhome and were glad of a large car park next to the very attractive visitor centre, which I believe is shaped like a salmon when seen from above.

“

I took heart from the fact salmon won’t even attempt to ‘run’ when water levels are low

”

www.camc.com

September 2020 67

COUNTRY MATTERS SALMON

WHERE TO STAY

Both Brora (above) and Altnaharra (below) Club sites are about 30 miles from the Falls of Shin, which are situated by the A836 between Bonar Bridge and Lairg. Please see our website for the latest news regarding Club site bookings.

68 September 2020

Not wanting to waste any time, I headed straight down to the viewing point over the falls on the River Shin, which is reputed to be one of the greatest salmon rivers in Scotland.

Long before I saw the river I could smell it in the air – a pleasantly dank scent created by a crashing cascade filling the valley with mist and spray. I could hear and feel the pounding of the torrent, as if the ground was shuddering beneath my feet.

The winding path leads to a small fenced area that looks into the steep-sided, rocky valley.

Beneath the viewing point are the main falls, while upstream to the left there is a lovely aspect of the river as it emerges from surrounding woodland.

I was struck by how calm it looked on the approach to the waterfall, the dark body of water oblivious to the impending drop that would shake it into a mass of white froth and excited bubbles.

At the foot of the falls is a deep, foreboding cauldron of turbulence. Surely nothing could survive in there. I stood and watched, mesmerised

by the movement of the water. For quite some time I felt that nothing would happen, but then I noticed something small jump into the air.

I focussed more carefully on the spot only to see something else out of the corner of my eye.

After half an hour or so, a large fish jumped clean out of the water. While in mid-air it continued to writhe vigorously as if trying to change course but its trajectory had been pre-determined by its initial leap. This one had got it all wrong – it hit the rocks on the nearside and, after splashing around to free itself, was washed back into the cauldron below.

None of the salmon I watched was able to leap the entire height of the falls in one go. The optimum strategy was to jump about two thirds of the height and land in water that was deep enough to swim through. For an example that epitomises the spirit of the adage ‘If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again’, we need look no further than the salmon. But why does it put itself through such an epic ritual? www.camc.com

“

Long before I saw the river I could smell it in the air

”

The beautiful Falls of Shin and (inset) the distinctive visitor centre

ABOVE PARR

Young salmon, or ‘fry’, hatch from eggs laid in gravel at the uppermost reaches of streams. As they grow, they head downstream and become known as ‘parr’ which continue into live in the river for two or three years. When they reach about five inches in length, they undergo a physiological change that allows them to head out to the ocean.

It is thought that British salmon head north to the seas around Norway, Iceland or even Greenland, where they grow quickly in a food-rich environment. They are drawn back to the river in which they were born in order to spawn, some returning after just one year at sea, others taking longer. It is this journey, most frequently undertaken in late summer or autumn, that gives us our best chance to see salmon leaping.

The number of salmon returning to spawn in British rivers is decreasing and much research is currently being undertaken to try to understand the reasons. But for now we should all celebrate this incredible, awe-inspiring creature. www.camc.com

SEPTEMBER

LOOK OUT FOR

MEMBER SINCE...

Motorhomer David Chapman joined the Club in 2000

If you find yourself near rivers or other wetlands in September, here are a few things to look for: n Wild angelica (top) has umbels of pretty flowers and usually grows on damp ground n Bullheads (middle) can be found in upland rivers with stony beds n Common hawkers (bottom) can be seen near wetlands in most of the UK (except the far South-East)

September 2020 69

Special Offer

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(For a lim ited time )

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The best genre art & music family show in the world Come & see us: Camping & day tickets available Kids under 16 go FREE

To book tickets www.kkbo-ltd.co.uk

PRACTICAL BUYING TIPS

You can see more tips from the Club at camc.com/ advice

ALL CHANGE

Have you outgrown your leisure vehicle or would you like to downsize?

Sammy Faircloth offers some advice based on her family‘s experiences

A

Sit down with the family and draw up a ‘wish list’

s a family with teenage children, we found that we had outgrown our beloved Bailey Orion 460-5 and set about the task of finding a replacement that met our needs. It wasn’t a quick process – after a year of searching we stumbled upon the perfect match following a visit to Salop Leisure’s coffee shop in Shrewsbury.

So, what steps would I recommend that you consider before you part with your hard-earned cash? Here are some thoughts...

RESEARCH

The most important thing is to agree on what you are looking for and set a price.

We sat down as a family and discussed our ‘wish list’. Our children have caravanned since they were toddlers but their needs have changed since they became teenagers, so it was important to listen to them in the hope that they will continue to holiday with us. For www.camc.com

Do your research and visit a variety of dealers

starters, their height and weight increase meant that bunk beds were no longer suitable.

Visiting a dealership will offer you the opportunity to look at the very latest models, but also some good pre-owned options too. If you are searching for a brand new leisure vehicle, then visit one of the many national shows (when they're up and running). You’ll be amazed at the variety for sale.

VEHICLE MATCH

We wanted extra space and were looking for a larger caravan, but if your children have fled the nest you may be considering a downsize.

Whatever you opt for, don’t forget to visit the Club’s online towcar and caravan matching service (camc.com/outfitmatching) to ensure that your potential vehicle combination is safe and legal.

September 2020 71

PRACTICAL BUYING TIPS

2

1

if you don’t like the pattern or if elements are damaged. If you have younger children, or like to take your pet away with you, you might want to steer clear of lighter fabrics or leather.

EXTERNAL FEATURES

3

4

1. A fixed bed was on my ‘wish list’ 2. These single beds were too short for our growing children 3. Central washrooms can be accessed from either end of the caravan 4 . A draining board next to the sink and preparation space is important to me

5

LAYOUT AND INTERNAL FEATURES

Layout is perhaps the most important feature to consider when choosing a leisure vehicle. The ‘fixed bed’ has become a very popular option and was certainly on my ‘wish list’ – but unfortunately we could not find a layout that could accommodate a fixed bed and single beds for the kids (the single beds in the tourers we studied were too short).

Always make a point of trying the beds to check that they meet your expectations; my husband, Nigel, is 6ft 2in, so it was important to make sure that his feet didn’t dangle over the end of the mattress!

Think about the location of the washroom and consider the features within it. The washroom was important to Emily – she wanted a decent-sized mirror, good lighting and storage for her make-up and skincare products!

72 September 2020

If you have a young family, you might not want your bed to be next to the washroom (little people might disturb you in the night on their way to the toilet). I’m a big fan of central bathrooms, particularly for families, as no one has to walk past anyone else to get to the toilet.

As with beds, make sure you sit on toilets and stand in shower cubicles to check for leg/head room.

Kitchen equipment needs careful consideration. We love to cook in our caravan, and with four mouths to feed we needed a large fridge.

A drainer next to the sink and room to prepare meals are also high on my list of priorities. Think about the position of the hob – is it next to the entrance door, where it might prove dangerous to young children?

Upholstery can also sway a decision.

Remember, there are some great companies out there that can re-upholster your cushions and curtains

6

On modern caravans and motorhomes, it is becoming commonplace to find an external barbecue point and external 230V socket as standard. We love to cook outdoors, so these are definitely things we look for. On some exteriors, you may also find an aerial point for a portable satellite dish connection (great for those of you who like to watch television in the awning).

Look out for external cold-water shower points on some motorhomes and campervans. These are ideal for washing muddy paws, bikes or dirty boots before entering.

Don’t be put off if any of the above features aren’t included, as they can be fitted retrospectively.

High on Nigel’s list was a bike rack. These are often offered as additional extras on motorhomes but are less common on caravans.

Fortunately, our new Swift Conqueror 565 came with brackets to accommodate a bike rack.

I would advise against loading heavy e-bikes onto the back of a caravan to avoid any extra risk of snaking (where the tourer shifts from side-to-side).

FINAL THOUGHTS

5. External barbecue points and 230V sockets are becoming common 6. Swift pre-installs bike rack brackets on most models

There’s loads more advice for potential buyers out there – see camc.com/ advice or try Club Together (camc. com/clubtogether) where other caravanners will be happy to share their tips and experiences.

To sum up, do your homework before purchasing a pre-owned or new leisure vehicle. I have heard stories of people spending large amounts of money on a particular model only to change it a few months later as it was not meeting their needs.

As a family, we knew what we wanted from our caravan, so we took our time. We love our new Swift Conqueror 565 as it ticks all the boxes.

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PRACTICAL Q&A

ASK YOUR CLUB

The Club’s technical team answers your pressing questions

Emissions check

Q

Will forthcoming changes to London’s emission regulations mean I can no longer keep my campervan at home?

It’s not just campervan owners who need to watch out. If you live in or plan to visit London next year, you need to check the implications.

The first change affects motorhomes over 3.5 tonnes gross weight, which must meet the Euro VI standard from a planned date of 1 March 2021 (to be confirmed later this year) to enter the Low Emission Zone without payment of at least £100/day.

That generally means those registered from 2014 onwards. This zone affects not only largely residential areas, but the Club site at Abbey Wood, and the one at Crystal Palace if the lease on that is extended for 2021 by the local council.

A more significant change comes from 25 October 2021. The current Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) operates over a relatively small area of central London, like the Congestion Zone. It’s expanding to an area bounded by (but not including) the North and South Circular roads, bringing many predominantly residential areas into its scope.

ULEZ requirements affect petrol and diesel cars as well as motorhomes. For cars, the required standards are Euro 4 for petrol and Euro 6 for diesel, generally meaning cars registered from 2006 or 2015 respectively. For campervans and motorhomes, diesel standards are Euro 6 for smaller vehicles (from 2015) and Euro VI for larger ones (from 2016). Check an individual vehicle carefully as some manufacturers introduced these standards ahead of the mandatory dates.

The ULEZ daily charge is currently £12.50, or £100 for vehicles over 3.5t. Make sure you do pay it, as penalties are currently £160 (£1,000 if over 3.5t), and will be higher still for motorhomes next year – between £500 and £2,000.

There’s no residents’ discount either. Transport for London (TfL) considers residents have had sufficient notice of these plans to change their vehicles, and it’s true the expansion plans were outlined before the ULEZ was first implemented in 2017. For ordinary cars replaced regularly, this is perhaps a reasonable period of notice. For vehicles with longer service lives such as motorhomes or cars used mainly just for towing, it’s more challenging. Note that ‘historic’

74 September 2020

AlfSky/Getty

A

vehicles (defined as over 40 years old) are exempt from ULEZ charges.

Over nearly 15 years, from the earliest plans for the Low Emission Zone, the Club has made representations to TfL regarding its scheme’s fairness for low-mileage, long-service-life vehicles, and particularly for motorhomes owned by Club members resident in London. TfL has always listened politely to our arguments (and those from other user groups) but refused to offer any general exemption.

The singular exception is the general exemption won by the Showmen’s Guild for fairground vehicles.

Regarding the ULEZ expansion, the opportunity to raise concerns around this was during the consultation period in late 2017/early 2018.

MORE TO COME Such restrictions are becoming ever more commonplace across Europe, and there are plans for several further UK schemes, some of which will affect motorhomes and, in some cases, cars too. The argument for air quality improvement is hard to challenge, although we do request mitigations for vehicles with relatively low impact, such as those visiting briefly for holiday purposes. If you are resident in or regularly visit a major urban area, however, you should anticipate seeing increasingly common restrictions in years to come.

See tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/ for further details.

Birmingham and Leeds are the next areas to implement clean air zones from early 2021, with Birmingham’s inner city centre scheme having similar rules to the London ULEZ, and Leeds having a scheme targeted at HGVs, buses and taxis.

See gov.uk/check-clean-air-zone-charge to check if a vehicle is affected by these zones.

Look-out for forthcoming changes to London's low emmission zones

Please address your questions to:

Technical Information, Email: technical@camc.com Tel: 01342 336611 ...and quote your membership number

camc.com/advice www.camc.com

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November 2016 21

SPECIAL CYCLING Lower Slaughter

Beautyand beast

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Jonathan Manning explores heavenly Cotswold villages on a ride which combines picturesque scenery with challenging climbs

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76 September 2020

eware! Those honeystone cottages of the Cotswolds may appear to offer a fairytale welcome, but the roads that thread these dreamy villages together, like gems on a necklace, rise and fall with the brutal pitch of South Atlantic waves.

This ride connects some of the most achingly gorgeous settlements in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, all boasting with houses and streets that could make the lids of chocolate boxes look plain. But there is a price to pay for all this loveliness – a frequent battle with gravity.

The good news is that what goes up must come down, so there are some effortless descents on which daredevils can pick up thrilling speed.

Plus, the roads tend to be quiet, apart from the stretch to and from the Club site on the outskirts of Bourton-on-the-Water.

The popular Cotswold Farm Park, run by Adam Henson of BBC Countryfile fame, sits at the halfway mark, with its wide collection of rare breed animals (you must pre-book if you intend to visit the farm park). The breakfast roll served in The Ox Shed is also particularly good for hungry cyclists, and you don’t need to pay to enter the park to use the café (check cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk for latest visitor information).

The honeyest of honeypots comes soon after in the unfortunately-named Lower Slaughter, an impossibly pretty village,where a terrace of stone houses flank the clear-running River Eye.

On quiet days it’s a perfect spot to sit and dangle your toes in the water from the flagstone footbridge, although quiet days in such a perfect setting are few and far between.

A steady climb then leads on to Upper Slaughter, another stunning pocket of golden architectural beauty on the banks of the river.

Throughout the route far-reaching views open out, many of them framed by limestone walls and broadleaf woodland, making this a wonderful ride. E-bike riders will be grateful for the extra support of a motor pushing them uphill, while everyone else will have to ‘put on their climbing legs’; it’s worth it. n You can find more Jonathan Manning cycle routes on our app www.camc.com

ABOUT THE ROUTE

Start/Finish: Bourton-on-the-Water Club site, Cheltenham Road, Bourtonon-the-Water, GL54 3BU. Distance: 19 miles/30.4km.

Time: 2.5 hours.

Level: Suitable for fit, adult cyclists, due to steep hills and rapid descents.

Terrain: Asphalt all the way, although the surface is broken in places. A road bike, hybrid or e-bike is ideal.

Landscape: Hilly!

Refreshments: The Halfway House, Kineton; The Old Post Office tea room, Guiting Power; The Farmers Arms, Guiting Power; Cotswold Farm Park Ox Shed café, Guiting Power; The Golden Ball Inn, Lower Swell; The Slaughters Country Inn, Lower Slaughter; River Café, Lower Slaughter (please check opening restrictions in advance).

DIRECTIONS

©VisitBritain/Adam Burton

1 2 3

From Bourton-on-the-Water Club Site turn right along the A436 and keep going for 2km.

2km – Turn left, signposted to Aylworth. Continue ahead for 2.5km to reach a crossroads.

4.5km – Go straight over the crossroads, signposted to Guiting Power and Winchcombe. Continue to a T-junction and turn right, signposted to The Hollow Bottom, Guiting Power and Winchcombe. Keep on this road for 4km, riding through Guiting Power, to reach Kineton. At the far end of Kineton look out for a turn on the right to a ford.

8.5km – Turn right. Caution, it is a steep descent to the ford.

On the far side of the stream – there is a footpath to the side to avoid getting wet feet – start the steady climb to a T-junction.

10.5km – Turn right at the junction, following signs to Cotswold Farm Park, which is about 800m on the right and has a café which is free to enter. From the farm park turn right and then take the next left, signposted to Stow and Lower Swell. Continue for 5.5km to reach a T-junction in Lower Swell.

17.9km – Turn right, signposted to Cheltenham B4068, and in 50m turn left, signposted to The Slaughters.

Stay on this road to reach Lower Slaughter. Ride through the village until level with the church on the left.

21.3km – Turn right opposite the church, along the left side of the

4 IMPORTANT

Please check the Government’s official website (gov.uk) for the latest travel and social distancing guidelines. n For current information on UK sites bookings, please refer to our website, camc.com

5

6 7

www.camc.com

River Eye, signposted to Upper Slaughter. In just over 1km turn left, signposted to Guiting Power and Winchcombe (alternatively, Upper Slaughter makes a very pleasant diversion, then return to this point).

Climb the hill to reach a T-junction.

23.1km – Turn right, signposted to Naunton and Guiting Power and in 500m, just before the road bends sharply to the right, turn left towards Lower Harford. Continue downhill for about 2km to a crossroads.

8

9

25.6km – Just before reaching the crossroads turn sharp left, almost back on yourself (NOT along the B4068), signposted to Lower Harford. Ride through a ford (again there is a raised pavement to the side). Stay on this road for 2.5km to reach a T-junction.

28.2km – Turn left, signposted to Notgrave and Cold Ashton, and in 20m turn right along the A436, signposted to Cheltenham, and continue for 2km to reach the Club site on the left.

10

September 2020

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Worse still – and it goes without saying that we hope this never happens to anyone reading – your pride and joy could be stolen.

Thankfully, the Club’s Caravan Cover is available to help provide protection and give you peace of mind in the event of such incidents. With two levels of cover available – ‘Standard’ and ‘Super’ – you can trust your Club to help if things go wrong. We can cover your caravan and equipment (including awnings and contents) at the levels you need and a number of discounts are available – for instance if you have good security devices fitted, and if you have a history of no claims.

When you consider the average claim cost in June 2020 was more than £6,000, why would you take the risk of not having cover? We pay out 96% of claims* and have decades of experience – in fact we have been arranging cover for caravans since 1972.

Additionally, our claims handling service is highly rated by those who have used it. In a November 2019 survey, the service was rated 9.1 out of 10, while in a separate Customer Satisfaction Survey from 2019 we were rated 4.95 out of 5 stars for service and resolution. No wonder eight out of 10 people choose to renew when their Caravan Cover ends.

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for Super Cover. You won’t have to prematurely end your pre-booked holiday, as there’s cover included towards hotel accommodation costs or the hire of another caravan if your vehicle is damaged or stolen while you’re away – meaning you can continue that well-earned trip.

What’s more, if you have Super Cover and the towing vehicle or caravan suffers an accident or breakdown, or the drivers are unable to drive, we pay (up to £3,500): n to get the vehicle to the nearest repairer n hire charges of car and/or caravan to continue the trip n storage charges while awaiting repair n rail fares to return home n the cost of returning the vehicle(s) to your home We can provide cover for accidental damage, fire, theft, vandalism, storm or flood, and awnings are included as standard. For a full list of benefits please see camc.com/caravancover, where you can also obtain a quote if required. If you would prefer to speak to our friendly, dedicated team the number is 01342 607514. * Based on claims data 1 January 2019-31 December 2019 Caravan Cover is provided directly by the Caravan and Motorhome Club. Cover wording including the limitations and exclusions that apply is available upon request.

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SPECIAL KEEPING BUSY

Family focus

What better way to get the youngsters interacting with nature than on a fruit-picking expedition?

Jane McGowan reports...

W

hile I am always sad to see the end of the warm, lazy days of summer, I look forward to what comes next as nature marches on in a blaze of colour under autumn’s ‘maturing sun’.

Considering the year we have had, there’s even more reason to get out there and embrace the beauty and bounty of this splendid season.

And what better way to experience the natural world than with a spot of fruit picking? Up and down the country, farmers have opened their fields with the invitation to ‘pick your own’ – from East Yonderton Farm in Renfrewshire (nearest Club site: Strathclyde Country Park), where soft fruits including raspberries and gooseberries grow in their thousands, to Tibbs Farm near Rye, East Sussex (nearest Club site: Fairlight Wood), where plums and berries abound.

Fruit picking offers visitors not only the chance to get out in the fresh air but also to store up a feast of summery treats that can be savoured over the coming months.

East Anglia is another region rich in fruit-picking opportunities. Hughie Cabbell Manners runs Cromer PYO alongside Amazona Zoo (nearest Club site: Incleboro Fields). He says: “We grow mainly raspberries and strawberries. Fruit picking is a great way of getting children and young people outside. We are very family-friendly and you can bring the dog too – although they must be kept on a lead.”

Visitors can stroll around the fields and pick to their heart’s desire; strawberries, for example, are priced at £5 per kilo. “It takes between 15

80 September 2020

BLACKBERRY JAM

This easy recipe makes two small jars and takes around 40 minutes. Remember to sterilise the jars before use.

Ingredients: 450g blackberries, 450g jam sugar (which includes setting agent pectin), 1 lemon, juiced Method: Add the lemon and blackberries to a large saucepan and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the fruit softens. (We warmed the sugar in an oven-proof dish on a low heat while the fruit was cooking.) Add the sugar to the fruit and stir in over a low heat before bringing to the boil for around 10 minutes. Test the jam is ready by either using a jam thermometer or (as we did) dipping a spoon into the mix and holding it horizontally – if the jam drips in one long trail it is ready. Spoon into the sterilised jars and seal immediately.

and 30 minutes to fill the punnet,” says Hughie.

“This year it has been great to see people of all ages just enjoying the open space.”

Picking your own is a great way of teaching children where their food comes from and it may even encourage them to sample foods they have never tried before – but please wait until you get back home before tucking in. Farms very much operate on a trust basis and the idea is most definitely not to ‘try before you buy’.

Beate Knights at Fairgreen Farms near King’s Lynn (nearest Club site: The Sandringham Estate) is one of a handful of ‘PYO’ venues that specialises in blueberries. This year has not only seen a bumper crop of the health industry-

“

Sloe gin makes a really great Christmas gift… if you can bear to part with it

”

declared superfood but also of visitors hoping to stock-up on the purple powerhouses.

“Blueberries are a fantastic fruit,” says Beate.

“They will keep fresh in the fridge for around seven days and unlike some summer fruits they are as easy to freeze as peas and lose none of their flavour on defrosting.”

The berries are priced at £5 per kilo which compares very favourably with many supermarkets, and customers are welcome to bring their own containers, which are weighed on exit. As with Hughie, Beate has enjoyed seeing families making the most of the great outdoors.

“We have five acres of crops and you are free [while maintaining social distancing] to stroll the lanes. As well as the chance to pick the freshest of berries we have a great deal of wildlife to see too. Recent visitors have enjoyed spotting white egrets, swifts, roe deer and hares. The whole experience is a joyous occasion,” she says.

And if you can’t make it to a fruit farm, there are, of course, loads of places in the UK where you can find blackberries – so there is no excuse not to get out and forage. In Surrey, they

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

The majority of our Club sites have reopened across the UK – please see camc.com/ reopening for the latest information. Keep up to date with current coronavirus guidelines on the Government website (gov.uk). We also recommend that you check with businesses/ attractions that are featured regarding opening dates, restrictions and safety advice.

SLOE GIN

This recipe has been in my husband’s family for at least two generations and making it is one tradition that we will certainly be carrying on.

Ingredients: 500g of ripe black sloes, 250g of caster sugar, 1 litre gin Method: Once you have washed the sloes, pierce each one carefully with a needle. Alternatively, freeze for a few days and then thaw (the thawing process splits the skins, allowing the juice to escape). Put the sloes, sugar and gin into a sterilised bottle. Store in a cool, dark place, shaking every day for a week. Then turn the bottle once a week for six weeks – adding sugar to taste if necessary. Finally, decant through a clean muslin to remove the sloes and sediment, and then re-bottle.

have been ripe for a couple of weeks, and as I write (in late July) we are preparing for our second harvest. Interestingly, on a recent visit to Lancashire we noted that the berries were still very green.

A great source of vitamins D and K, blackberries have been consumed across Europe for thousands of years. During the First World War, children in England were given time off school to pick them and juice or jam was then sent to sustain soldiers on the frontline.

They are lovely eaten fresh (make sure you wash them first), in a jam (see recipe opposite) or added to a pie. Blackberry picking is also a good incentive to get children out on a walk; my youngest also enjoyed jam making and jar decorating following our recent ramble!

Sadly winter will be here before we know it – but one thing the cold season does offer us is the opportunity to finally sample our sloe gin.

It’s a process that begins in early September with the search for the deep purple, dusky berries of the blackthorn bush. Sloes can be found all over the UK – we’re lucky to have found a good picking spot adjacent to some local woodland. Gin, in all its forms, seems to be losing none of its popularity – why not set some time aside over the coming weeks to make your own sloe-flavoured concoction?

It makes a really great Christmas gift… if you can bear to part with it (see above left for recipe and instructions).

Blueberries at Fairgreen Farms 81

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ACROSS 8 Fool • Rain • Showers (5) 9 Camera • Disc • Powder (7) 10 Measures • Sports • Views (7) 11 Designer • Record • Warning (5) 12 Elect • Life • Vice (9) 14 Fare • Stop • Trolley (3) 15 Jack • Silly • Wild (3) 16 Commercial • Fellow • Independent (9) 19 Cycle • Launch • Outboard (5) 21 Manners • Oil • Sugar (7) 23 Even • Prime • Winning (7) 24 Cut • Dry • Squeaky (5) DOWN 1 Artist • Bag • Stage (4-2) 2 Blood • Grimm • Half (8) 3 Bell • Cheese • Navy (4) 4 Colour • Pension • Play (6) 5 Cheese • Pan • Spanish (8) 6 Chop • Roast • Sacrificial (4) 7 Choir • Market • Orchestra (6) 13 Cafe • Dating • Explorer (8) 14 Argument • Diet • Well (8) 15 Essence • Oil • Sugared (6) 17 Citizen's • House • Warrant (6) 18 Crop • Horse • Stables (6) 20 Consuming • Rag • Scale (4) 22 About • Facts • Paint (4)

Solution www.camc.com

September 2020 83

PUZZLE CROSSWORD

CROSSWORD £90 in Club gift tokens to be won

£50 in Club gift tokens will be won by the sender of the first correct solution opened on Friday 18 September 2020. Four runners-up will each receive £10 Club gift tokens.

Due to the current situation, please clearly photograph and email your answer grid to crossword@camc.com. Please do not include any other correspondence with your entry.

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NAME: ADDRESS:

POSTCODE:

ACROSS 1 Multi-storey building (10) 6 Store thief (10) 11 Playing-cards suit (5) 12 Holiday hotel facility (8,4) 14 Hurl or fling (4) 16 Paint crudely (4) 17 Fire residue (3) 18 Two shot pheasants (5) 20 Outhouse (4-2) 21 Nozzle, snout (4) 22 Slack-fitting (5) 23 Soaked the roots (7) 25 Fresh, original (3) 26 First course or home (7) 28 Skin of a tree (4) 29 High-backed sideboard (7) 33 A debt of gratitude (10) 35 Sensitive to hurt (10) 38 Rough cider (7) 41 Orchard fruit (4) 42 Theatrical performer (7) 45 Passenger vehicle (3) 46 Roman sea god (7) 48 Strong garden string (5) 49 Petty quarrel (4) 50 A sickly feeling (6) 52 Jargon (5) 54 Sticky stuff (3) 55 Vocalised clearing of the throat (4) 57 Lean at an angle (4) 59 Hotel desk clerk (12) 60 Circular in shape (5) 61 Laying off a worker (10) 62 Vertical take-off machine (10)

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MEMBERSHIP NUMBER:

August solution: Across: 1 Jumbo 4 Sawdust 9 View 10 Usual 11 Turtle 12 Opals 14 Local 15 Stud 16 Cardigan 17 Empire 19 Char 22 Utensil 24 Mum 25 Cedar 27 Stain 29 Continual 32 Tantrum 35 Arsenic 37 Adventure 39 Abyss 41 Happy 43 Pad 44 Spaniel

84 September 2020

DOWN 1 Friendly, fond of company (8) 2 B&B lodgings for hikers and cyclists (5,6) 3 Actors in a play (4) 4 Bus or train traveller (9) 5 Multi-coloured arch (7) 6 Brazilian dance (5) 7 Small weight (5) 8 A Scandinavian (9) 9 Nutriment (4) 10 Network of burrows (6,6) 13 Mourns audibly (7) 15 A single thing (3) 19 Supermarket exit bay (8) 20 Salacious look (4) 24 . . . and alack (4) 27 Way in (5) 29 Roadside restaurant (5) 30 Hearing organ (3) 31 Burglar (5-7) 32 Medical building (8) 34 Adhesive resin (3) 36 Swimming costume (7,4) 37 Hay storage building (4) 39 Cattle stealer (7) 40 Correspondence pal (3,6) 42 Judicial discharge (9) 43 A mere jot (4) 44 The R in VCR (8) 47 Universal language (7) 51 Long fish (3) 52 The Devil (5) 53 Unbearable pain (5) 56 List of dishes (4) 58 Threesome (4)

47 High 48 Stakes 51 Initiate 52 Cafe 54 Point 55 Donor 56 Inside 57 Azure 58 Trio 59 Display 60 Rowed Down: 1 Jaunt 2 Matador 3 Overcast 4 Swindles 5 Wrongful 6 Tussle 7 Pull up 8 Vacate 13 Abnormal 18 Red 20 Hot

grid D

21 Crumb 22 Uncanny 23 Nut 25 Mat 26 Conceal 28 Alas 30 Nod 31 Ace 33 Ruby 34 Yacht 36 Cap 37 Audition 38 Tin 40 Sag 42 Pot 44 Squirrel 45 Activity 46 Exterior 47 Hacksaw 48 Snooze 49 Kitten 50 Sordid 53 Faded

JULY WINNERS £50 first prize: Sarah Eaton, Oxfordshire £10 runners-up: Mr Coaker, Devon; Tracy Watson, Co Durham; Mrs Down, Worcs; Mike Brady, Gtr Manchester Please note: prizes will be posted as soon as possible.

Take a photo of your answers and send to crossword@camc.com with the subject heading September Crossword.

Please do not include any other correspondence with your entry

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GRID D

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November 2016 21

SPECIAL HYBRID TOWING

Friends

ELECTRIC John Rankin decides its time for a new towcar – and forms a positive relationship with a used luxury hybrid from the Lexus stable...

I

t was a reluctant parting of the ways – our Land Rover Freelander 2 had been a talented, comfortable towcar. But a couple of mechanical issues and the fact she was getting on a bit (the mileage had passed 155k) prompted me to consider a change. Eventually I made the big decision to sell it, and replace it with a younger model.

My first port of call was Lexus, which, by definition, meant a hybrid. The trouble is, there aren't many hybrids out there that can cope with a 1,500kg-plus Coachman Pastiche. If I really, really wanted a Lexus (and I did), I had a shortlist of one – the RX 450h, which has a far higher towing limit than I needed.

86 September 2020

With a decent budget of about £20,000, I was able to narrow my search to approved used vehicles from Lexus dealers. Then I found it – a 2013 RX450h in the desired F-Sport trim, on the forecourt of Lexus Stockport. They’d sold it new, and had serviced it throughout its 46,000 miles.

The test-drive went so well I couldn’t stop smiling.

It was on offer at £19.5k, but we shook hands at £19.1k with a year’s road tax, a year’s Lexus breakdown cover and a year’s factory warranty.

That bit of haggling came in handy, because before I could take the RX towing anywhere, I needed to buy something that would come in handy, to say the least: a towbar! (See panel.) www.camc.com

Main picture: the Lexus has no problems tugging a Coachman Pastiche Left and below: energy monitor and dials Bottom: 12V battery and useful socket in the rear

HYBRID OPTIONS

The RX is classified as a ‘full hybrid’, which means it has the capability to run on petrol only, battery power only or a combination of both. It has a self-charging system that tops up the on-board batteries under braking or on the overrun. At lower speeds and under gentle acceleration, it switches to battery power – even when towing.

There’s a separate ‘EV’ switch that, when activated, ensures the car will run on electric only – so long as you don’t exceed 27mph. Running on electric only, a full battery will drain in just over a mile. That may not sound like much, but the batteries recharge quickly, and so your total electric-only mileage on a journey of any length will actually be much higher than that. www.camc.com

You may be interested to learn that some vehicles are classified as ‘mild hybrids’, in which the electric motor does no more than offer assistance to the engine (there’s no option to run on electricity alone). And then there are ‘plug-in hybrids’ – the batteries in these are charged by connecting to an external power source. Fully charged, they’ll offer an electric-only range of between 15 and 30 miles, depending on the model of car and how you drive.

THE TOWING EXPERIENCE

I'll admit to some trepidation before I set off on my first tow. Having got very used to the Freelander’s exceptional abilities, was I in for an anti-climax? Quick answer – no! It likes a bit of welly when pulling away September 2020 87

SPECIAL HYBRID TOWING

TOWBAR FITTING Mindful of the fact that many RX buyers have no intention of towing, I decided to go for a removable towball so that the Lexuss impressively sleek, flowing profile could stay that way for the benefit of the next owner (and for me too, of course).

My research took me to Witters website (witter-towbars.co.uk), which makes it easy to choose from fitments available for your particular vehicle – search by make and model, or just key in your registration number. I homed in on a removable swan neck, added 13-pin electrics and was instantly given a price (£899.80) that included fitting either at a workshop or on my driveway at home. I chose the latter and booked a convenient slot.

On the allotted day, the fitter turned up promptly and got going on the job, which in my case took about four hours (the time varies depending on the vehicle). I largely kept out of Trevors way but, while delivering the occasional coffee, I did have a nose – and saw just how much work is involved. Theres lots of heavy metal, and lots of complicated-looking wiring! And what a neat job.

Before and after: removable swan-neck towbar, fitted at John’s home by Witter

from a standing start but, once up to speed, it settles down to give a refined, stable tow, with the reassuring feeling that there is plenty in reserve. The front electric motor chips in to add a considerable amount of oomph under enthusiastic acceleration (the rear one only comes into play to drive the rear wheels when the car detects you could use a bit of four-wheel drive).

Stability is fantastic – maybe as you’d expect, given the fact that the laden Pastiche is probably running at about 71%-72% of kerbweight (the Club recommends 85% as a maximum). The firmly tuned suspension fitted to this F-Sport model does a brilliant job of damping out even mild pitching sensations.

It’s both practical and luxurious. The rear seats slide to and fro to give you the choice of more boot space or more legroom for passengers, while the 12V socket in the boot is ideal for plugging in a coolbox.

One of the advantages of driving a Lexus is the near-absence of any mechanical noise, even when it’s in petrol-only mode. That, and the big, supportive front seats, makes a difference on longer journeys. The CVT transmission is totally seamless – stick it in ‘D’ and forget about it.

On a mixed-driving regime, I get about 33mpg solo, while towing is giving me just over 21mpg – that’s ball-park comparable to the Land Rover.

88 September 2020

FINAL THOUGHTS The RX is in a sales battle with upmarket rivals from BMW, Mercedes and Audi, so it is positively laden with nice things. The original buyer specified the £1,000-plus option of the Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system (thank you, original buyer!), which is probably the nicest thing of all.

Actually, make that the second-nicest.

Top of the list has to be the beautiful way in which this vehicle has been put together.

Build quality is beyond reproach, with top-drawer materials much in evidence, inside and out. The paintwork has a lustre I've never seen on a car before, and after a polish it looks sensational.

I was very happy with it from day one – and now I know that it tows like a good ’un, I’m happier still.

TECHNICAL Engine

3.5-litre V6 petrol (246bhp @ 6,000rpm); two electric motors (front 174bhp, rear 67bhp); total system output 295bhp Transmission

Electrically controlled continuously variable; part-time four-wheel drive Kerbweight

2,110kg-2,205kg Test economy

33.3mpg (solo), 21.6mpg (towing)

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Caravan Cover when you need it

Over

96% of claims paid*

Our award winning Caravan Cover is here for you when you need it. And coming from your Club, with over 45 years of customer service and expertise, you can relax and make sure your holiday is one to remember.**

BEST CARAVAN COVER PROVIDER

WINNER 2019

Get yourself award winning cover visit camc.com/caravancover or call 01342 488 338 for a quote today.

Protection provided directly by your Club. This is promotional information only and a sample policy wording including the limitations and exclusions that apply is available upon request.

Terms and conditions apply. **We have been covering members’ caravans since 1972. *We pay out 96% of claims: Based on claims data 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2019.

TEST BMW X7 XDRIVE30D M SPORT

HEY

BIG

SPLENDOUR Lesley Harris puts a large, lavishly-appointed seven-seater from BMW through its paces

S

UVs come in all shapes and sizes, but the BMW X7 is a particularly large example. The flagship vehicle of the German company’s X line-up, it is also one of the most luxurious models on the market, with all the bells and whistles that you could hope for. Let’s see what’s inside and how it fares on the road...

COMFORT

“

Materials are of the highest quality and you can feel the craftsmanship

Measuring just over 5.1m in length, 2m wide and 1.8m in height, it seems that BMW’s intention that the X7 is a bold statement that stands out on the road has been achieved.

Added to its overall size, the styling is somewhat controversial – you just can’t miss the oversized, kidney-shaped grille that dominates the front end.

Adaptive LED headlights are standard, but our test model is fitted with BMW’s optional Laserlight technology (£1,350), which improves high-beam range. At the rear there’s 90 September 2020

a design nod to the 7-series with the horizontal chrome bar and LED lamps.

The interior is functional and well laid out, with easy-to-use shortcut buttons for the climate control and radio functions. It’s an incredibly nice place to spend time on a long journey: all the materials are of the highest quality and you can feel the craftsmanship, while the comfortable Merino leather seats have a vast range of adjustment options, helping you to find a perfect driving position.

Want a bit of bling? Look no further than the crystal effect glass gearshift, start/stop button and iDrive controller; they all look the part, but come as a £575 optional extra.

The large, 12in-screen infotainment system is one of the best on the market. It’s easy to use and the clarity of the graphics is exceptional. Functions can be activated by voice command, the iDrive controller, the touchscreen, and now even by gesture; simply waggle your finger and you can control the radio volume, change stations or disregard incoming calls for example.

”

www.camc.com

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September 2020 91

TEST BMW X7 XDRIVE30D M SPORT

Sophisticated cabin featured a crystal-effect gear shift in our test model and (inset) handy camera

Behind the wheel there’s a 10in digital display that features all the important information you need.

The X7 is a true seven-seater and everyone – including the passengers in the rearmost seats – gets a decent amount of head and leg room; adults can sit comfortably in that third row. Access is easy, too, as electrically-adjustable seats slide and tilt forward at the press of a button. The three-piece panoramic glass roof makes it feel bright and airy, even at the back, and each row can be fitted with its own climate controls and charging ports, keeping everyone comfortable and happy.

DRIVING

Now here’s the strange thing – as vast as the X7 is on the outside, it doesn’t feel that big while you are driving. This test car is the xDrive30d, which is fitted with a six-cylinder 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, delivering 261bhp and 620Nm of torque.

It’s a delight to drive. The standard air suspension does a grand job of soaking up any imperfections on the road, and any third-row passengers will be as happy as the driver. The steering is precise and, considering its size, this is a surprisingly agile car that holds the road well. www.camc.com

The eight-speed auto gearbox is supremely smooth and efficient – if you want a little more involvement, pop it into ‘sport’ and ‘manual’ mode, but for the most part ‘comfort’ mode is all you’ll need.

There’s a host of tech that comes as standard, such as Parking Assistant Plus, Cross Traffic Alert and Reversing Assistant.

TOWING

I wasn’t expecting any problems when hitching up to a twin-axle Bailey Unicorn Barcelona, although there was one rather unexpected spanner in the works – I couldn’t fit standard towing mirrors to the BMW as its door mirror surrounds are far too deep.

September 2020 93

TEST BMW X7 XDRIVE30D M SPORT Plenty of load space (left); versatile central console in the rear (below); and leg room is easily adjusted (below left)

TECHNICAL

Price as tested

£93,185 Insurance

Group 50 Club insurance

The Club’s Car Insurance is guaranteed to beat your renewal premium by at least £25*.

Engine

2,993cc, 6cyl, turbodiesel Power

261bhp (195kW) @4,000rpm Torque

620Nm (457lb ft) @2,000rpm Transmission

8-speed automatic Spare wheel

Run flat tyres Kerbweight

Well-designed towbar and discreet operating switch

2,445kg Gross vehicle weight

3,220kg Gross train weight

Luckily Chichester Caravans came to the rescue, finding me a set that did fit for safe and legal towing. Something to bear in mind.

As anticipated, the X7 is a fantastic towcar.

The engine is storming and took everything in its stride. Even when passing lorries there was no movement in the combination – it was just a joy to tow with. Town driving was made easier by employing the 360˚ cameras, which are a great asset.

The X7 has an electric two-section split tailgate that opens up to a decent-sized boot. Even in seven-seat mode you get a very useful 362 litres, which increases to a whopping, van-like 2,120 litres when

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

all seats are folded. The seats are easily folded and returned to normal electrically by the touch of a button in the boot.

Noseweight limit

140kg Towing equipment

Electric folding towbar(£1,195)

VERDICT You’ll need deep pockets – as well as the not-so-small matter of the purchase price, I only managed 23.5mpg on my towing route. But if you’re in the market for a luxury seven-seater, then the BMW X7 really should be on your shortlist.

We guarantee to beat your insurance renewal premium by £25*.

See camc.com/insurance or call 0345 504 0334 to get your quote

*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-for-like 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.

94 September 2020

6,720kg

Tank/econ

17.60gal (80 litres)/36.7mpg solo/23.5mpg towing 1,756kg CO2

171g/km RATINGS

90%

COMFORT

92%

DRIVING

91%

TOWING

91%

OVERALL

www.camc.com

TEST ADRIA TWIN SUPREME 640 SLB

A LOVE

SUPREME? Nick Harding reports on a high-spec conversion from Adria – did it win him over?

T

here’s been something of a boom in the van conversion sector of the motorhome market during the past two or three years.

Generally speaking, vans are getting bigger while, somewhat paradoxically, there’s always demand for compact coachbuilts (ie those under 6m in length). Plenty of companies, including Adria, have feet in both camps.

Adria can lay claim to being something of a forerunner when it comes to van conversions with permanent beds, setting the trend nearly two decades ago. Here, we take a look at a particularly sophisticated take on the concept in the form

96 September 2020

of the Twin Supreme 640 SLB. Prices start at just under £51,865; this example – a special demonstrator – comes in at £64,265 on account of the optional extras.

This includes: Pack 2 (£2,590, cab air conditioning, passenger airbag, cruise control, front fog lights, leather steering wheel and gear knob, ESP and Traction+ with Hill Descent); Luxury Pack (£3,060, alloy wheels, cup holder console, 6Q9 DAB radio with sat-nav, rear view camera, roof rack, awning); 160bhp engine upgrade (£1,580); metallic paint (£890); towbar (£1,190); solar panel (£490); habitation air conditioning (£1,530); second habitation battery (£420); Isofix (£130); additional bed for dinette (£180); and sliding door flyscreen (£340). www.camc.com

All those factory-fitted extras mean an MRO of 3,182kg for this example, with a subsequent payload of 318kg (although an upgrade of chassis rating to 3,650kg won’t cost you anything).

DRIVING

A curious anomaly in UK law means that motorhomes with unladen weights of over 3,050kg are subject to different speed restrictions from their lighter counterparts’ – 60mph maximum on non-motorway dual carriageways and 50mph maximum on single carriageways if no other general limit is displayed (see gov.uk/speed-limits). The MRO here, as stated above, is a good reminder to prospective purchasers that you do need to keep your eyes on weights and the law.

As for the driving experience, it’s great. Most folk will find the standard 140bhp engine sufficient, but you might just be tempted to trade up to 160bhp or more, or be enticed by the (rather pricey) automatic transmission option, for an even more relaxing drive.

DAYTIME

Top to bottom: the driving experience is excellent; kitchen unit has rail for outdoor dining; plenty of storage under the rear bed

The double sunroof arrangement extends into the lounge from over the cab, and really does let the daylight flood in. The almost full-width forward unit is fixed, while the smaller one over the rear seat and kitchen area winds open for all-important ventilation – it also comes with a blind and flyscreen.

It’s a typical floorplan for an extra-long Fiat Ducato conversion. The rear features twin fixed single longitudinal beds that can be adapted into a double or folded back to optimise a generous storage zone.

The sliding door is on the UK offside, with kitchen tucked just inside and a double forward-facing travel seat directly opposite on the nearside.

The lounge is also typical – a four-seater as standard, with both cab seats easy to swivel and a side-fixing table that comes with a swing-out extension.

TECHNICAL

Price as tested

£64,265 OTR Engine

2.3-litre Euro VI Power

160bhp (119kW) @ 3,600rpm Torque

280-295lb ft (380400Nm) @ 1,5002,750rpm Transmission

6-speed manual, FWD MRO

3,182kg (62.63cwt) MTPLM

3,500kg (68.89cwt) User payload

318kg (6.26cwt) Overall length

20ft 9in (6.32m) Overall width

6ft 8in (2.03m) Overall height

8ft 5in (2.57m) Max internal height

6ft 2in (1.88m) Fuel/tank/econ

Diesel/19.8gal (90 litres)/30-34mpg

NIGHT-TIME BUILD QUALITY

Adria’s input into the overall build is minimal, adding top-hinged double-glazed windows to Fiat’s high-roof Ducato van. However, inside, with the fixtures and fittings, it has created a genuine feel of quality as well as an overall style that’s more automotive than motorhome. There are lots of greys and whites that are a world away from more traditional velour and carpet lining colour schemes – something I’m sure will appeal to many.

Housed in the rear travel seat base, alongside the circuit breakers, Truma’s trusty Combi provides the hot water and blown air heating, the latter via single outlets to the lounge, kitchen area, washroom and foot of the nearside bed. www.camc.com

The bed bases are metal-framed and there are wooden slats for extra support, while there is ventilation to the underside of each main mattress.

All four windows are openable and have cassette concertina blinds with flyscreens, while illumination comes courtesy of LED strips to each side of the bed, as well as between the lockers and ceiling. There’s a single step for access.

There’s also an extra sleeping berth: an optional third (and surely only occasional) bed can be created using the lounge table dropped to a lower level.

KITCHEN

There might be a standard ‘two gas rings and sink’ combination in the kitchen, but it’s what surrounds it that makes the difference. There’s a neat worktop extension to the left and three large soft-close drawers

Vehicle supplied for testing by Adria UK, Unit 2, Drury Drive, Woodhall Business Park, Sudbury CO10 1WH Contact: adria. co.uk, 01787 888980 September 2020 97

TEST ADRIA TWIN SUPREME 640 SLB

Clockwise from above: standard lounge set-up; washbasin bulkhead swings out to form shower cubicle; kitchen has handy worktop extension; versatile dining options

below the main unit, as well as a single locker overhead.

Nice details include a couple of small shelves under the extension and a little spice rack, while a single mains outlet can be found on the underside of the upper locker.

Completing the kitchen, on the right, is a 90-litre compressor fridge with freezer compartment set high over a cupboard that sets out to be the main wardrobe.

In practice, I wonder if this will emerge as a larder for most owners once some shelving is added.

RATINGS

WASHROOM 91%

BUILD QUALITY

88%

DRIVING

80%

DAYTIME

80%

NIGHT-TIME

78%

KITCHEN

83%

WASHROOM

82%

DETAILS

83%

OVERALL

Adria calls its washroom design ‘Duplex’. Slide back the space-efficient tambour door and you get what looks like a ‘normal’ swivel-bowl toilet and white countertop basin, but that’s only half the story. The whole washbasin bulkhead swings through 90˚ to create a fully-lined, dedicated shower area. It’s very clever. The drainage outlets may be small, but there are two of them.

Storage in this room comprises a mirror-doored corner vanity unit and a small overhead locker, plus a pocket shelf in front of the opaque window. There’s also a single towel hook.

DETAILS

Storage is excellent. There are lockers to three sides of the bed as well as in the bed bases themselves. Indeed,

I counted 12 overhead lockers in total. All are lined, and feature doors with a white gloss finish that will be easy to wipe clean, as well as offering simple push-to-open catches and pneumatic struts.

Further storage areas include large lockers at the foot of each bed base – the nearside with slide-out hanging rail for clothes. Don’t forget that there’s that huge luggage space under the bed area. too Other useful touches include a rail on the kitchen unit should you wish to use the table outside with the sliding door open, under the awning. Also, the double catch for the sliding door means you can have it partly open – particularly handy when cooking.

VERDICT

Prices may start at £51,865, but the figure will climb and climb with upgrades. I’d say it’s worth it: this is a very well executed extra-long van conversion.

You can insure this motorhome with the Club for £446.11* per year. Please see camc.com/insurance or call 0345 504 0334 for further details

* Quote (correct up to 12 August 2020) is for the model tested worth £64,265 with factory-fitted alarm and immobiliser. Based on 55-year-old male living in Sheffield, with a maximum no claims bonus (unprotected) coming from a vehicle of similar value/experience, who has no accidents, claims or convictions and keeps the vehicle on a drive, 3,000 miles a year, with £150 damage, fire and theft excess. Vehicle must have a 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.

98 September 2020

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Motorhome and Campervan Insurance when you need it

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£25*

With our award winning cover it’s no wonder our members come back to us year after year. Switch to us and we’ll beat your current renewal premium by at least £25.*

BEST MOTORHOME INSURANCE PROVIDER

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

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 This is promotional information only and a sample policy wording including the limitations and exclusions that apply is available upon request. *Premium Saving Guarantee. Subject to proof of an existing renewal quote from your current insurer, 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.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Dealer Marketplace AlphaProd/Shutterstock

Welcome to our advertising section dedicated to caravan, motorhome and campervan dealerships across the country! It’s the perfect place to start looking for your next homefrom-home. But, before you start browsing, check out these handy buying tips…

WHY BUY FROM A DEALER?

The law offers greater protection when you purchase from a dealer than when you buy privately. The caravan’s condition must be as described accurately by the seller; it must be fit for its purpose and it must be of satisfactory quality (however, this latter stipulation does not apply to defects specifically brought to the purchaser’s attention, or to defects that ought to have been revealed by any examination the purchaser or another may have made).

New vehicles bought through a dealer will come with a warranty, and many second-hand motorhomes and campers will also have some form of guarantee – make sure you are aware of any exclusions or restrictions.

CARAVANS

We have lots of advice on our website – visit camc.com/advice and click on ‘Hiring and buying guide’ – but here are a few pointers to get you started. n It may seem obvious – but think hard about what you want to use your caravan for. Are you looking to spend the odd weekend away or stay for extended periods on specific sites? Do you need basic facilities for two or a family-sized vehicle? Would you like to take the grandkids away occasionally? n Is your car suitable for towing? The Club recommends that for comfort and safety the weight of your caravan with its contents should not exceed around 85% of the car’s kerb, or unladen, weight.

We have a fantastic online ‘outfit matching tool’ which helps you see which caravans your car can tow – find it at camc.com/advice. n If you are buying second-hand, check how old the caravan is – the age of a caravan can usually be identified from a serial number, most frequently found on the chassis or on a chassis plate.

Double check that it has not been stolen – a CRiS check at cris.co.uk can not only identify a caravan reported as having been stolen, but can identify the age of the newer models of caravan and also whether there are any outstanding HP payments. Check that the details of the CRiS registration document tally with those of the caravan. The Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Theftcheck Service (01342 336885) can also help. n Check for damp inside cupboards, bed lockers, and anywhere there is a corresponding outside seal on the caravan. Most caravan dealers should be happy for you to use a moisture meter or damp detector.

MOTORHOMES AND CAMPERVANS n First decide whether you are going to opt for a ‘coachbuilt’ motorhome (where the living area of the vehicle has been purpose-built onto a cab and chassis) – or a ‘conversion’ (where a commercial van has been adapted for touring).

A coachbuilt will generally be more expensive – but roomier and more highly specified – while a conversion may be suitable for everyday use

(driving around town, doing the school run etc). There are numerous subclasses of motorhome from ‘over-cab’ to ‘A-Class’ to elevating-roof models – familiarise yourself with the different types by visiting camc.com/advice.

“

New vehicles bought through a dealer will come with a warranty

”

n Inspect vehicles thoroughly before committing to a purchase. As with caravans, check for damp and look at the wheels. Are the tyres the right size for the wheel rims and do they match?

Are they suitable for the maximum weight and speed of the motorhome?

Ask to take the vehicle for a trial run and note its behaviour on the road. Five years is the maximum safe life of a tyre, regardless of mileage. n If you are buying a second-hand vehicle, ask for a detailed history of previous services, MoTs etc.

FOR MORE BUYING TIPS PLEASE SEE CAMC.COM/ADVICE AND CLICK ON ‘HIRING AND BUYING GUIDE’ 100 September 2020

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Dealer Marketplace

brought to you by the Caravan and Motorhome Club

OWNERS The leading pre-owned motorhome SURVEY and VW campervan specialist SATISFACTION

Motorhome Dealer Group are a multi-award winning family owned business with outlets in Hampshire and Dorset.

We have over 80 price checked motorhomes and campervans always in stock. Countrywide Motorhomes and the VW Kamper Centre are both located in St. Leonards near Ringwood, Hampshire While Three Counties Motorhomes is based in Poole, Dorset.

Three Counties Motorhomes, 46 Hatch Pond Road, Nuffield Industrial Est, Poole, Dorset, BH17 0JZ Tel: 01202 673735

VW Kamper Centre, 215 Ringwood Road, St. Leonards, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 2QB Tel: 01202 855531

Countrywide Motorhomes, Main A31, 215 Ringwood Rd, St. Leonards, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 2QB Tel: 01202 881089

Prices from £20,000 to over £60,000.

All vehicles supplied with a National Warranty. A Family owned business, run by motohome enthusiasts. From two berth compacts to six berth family models.

Browse & Buy Safely Policy in Practice.

The biggest and best selection of VW campers in the country.

Pre-owned and brand new conversions.

Actual vehicles on-site ready to buy.

No waiting for a build slot. All price ranges, specifications, colours, berths & layouts.

Coachbuilt, Low Profile and A-Class motorhomes. Campervans and Conversions, all types and sizes. Part Ex’s always welcome, best prices paid. We follow all the latest government guidelines to ensure you can Browse and Buy Safely.

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Unrivalled quality, unrivalled choice, unbeatable value.

ta

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You’ll find the same high standards of vehicle preparation and customer care at all our branches.

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We’d love to talk about buying your motorhome We sell so many motorhomes from our sites in Hampshire and Dorset, we’re always looking to buy fresh stock.

ALL MAKES AND MODELS CONSIDERED • UK’s Best Buyer • Immediate Valuation • Instant No Risk Bank Transfer Prior To Collection • Courteous Efficient Service • Free Nationwide Collection • Outstanding Finance Settled • Open 7 Days A Week • Recognition For Extras Fitted And Careful Ownership

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Open Weekdays: 9am-5.30pm, Poole branch appointments only at weekends Hampshire branch Sat: 9am-5pm,Sun: 10am-4pm

TAIL LIGHTS

Your observations on the unusual world of touring

DISH OF THE DAY “This picture was taken on return to the car park at Roaring Billy Falls, South Island, New Zealand,” say Sheila and Les Magee, who wondered at first how another member of their group had set up a rather impressive roof-mounted satellite dish on a hired van. Alas, the holidaymakers in question had simply parked in front of a park satellite station… and weren’t trying to keep up-to-date with episodes of EastEnders while touring on the other side of the world.

CAKE, THEN CORNWALL

Unfortunately Linda and Iain Cuthbertson had to cancel their tour of Cornwall – during which they would have celebrated Linda’s 60th birthday – but they still managed to mark the occasion in style with this superb campervan cake. “Cornwall will still be there when this is all over, but the cake wont be!” jokes Iain. We hope you’ve managed to get away this summer!

SHED HEAVEN The great thing about this hobby is that it can cost as much or as little as you like.

There are people out there who can afford to drop £100k on a brand new motorhome that comes kitted out with all of life’s little luxuries, and then there are others who are happy going about in a shed on wheels.

Dave and Linda Blay saw the smaller of these two while visiting the beautiful coastal resort of Peniscola in Spain, while the other – and perhaps we’re being a bit unfair by labelling this one a shed – was seen by Katie and Chris Dudley at an aire in Chichilianne, France. “The habitation area was constructed from wood, and the metal cab painted to look like wood, complete with colourful lifebuoys!” they say. “Coachbuilt? Stable-built, more like!”

We’re sure you know a few Site Managers who have you ‘in stitches’ every time you pay them a visit, but this is a particularly cheery pair. The twosome was knitted by talented Club member Barbara Fulcher – and we think they’d look great sat on a shelf in the caravan or motorhome. Thanks to Colin and Christine Brown for the photo.

If you see something unusual on a Club site, CL or while you’re out and about, please send a picture to magazine@camc.com or tag @candmclub on Instagram and we’ll print the best.

MONSTER BUNCH

It seems like Switzerland’s Lake Brienz is a hotbed for ‘monster’ trucks. Richard and Karen Paine saw Sally Irwin’s pictures of an unusual tourer at the Aaregg campsite (see Tail Lights, May 2020 issue) and it reminded them of the large vehicles they spotted at the same site last year (top). “By complete contrast,” they say, “on our way home from there – at Camping Memling in Bruges – we were pitched next to an absolute minnow (below).”

114 September 2020

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colourfence.co.uk November 2019 114

Here for you, whenever you need us.

MAYDAY UK Breakdown Cover 8 10

With sites now open again, make sure you’re covered before you set off on your first trip.

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Call 0345 366 6579 or visit camc.com/mayday

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

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