Motor Caravanner January 2022

Motor Caravanner THE MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF THE MOTOR CARAVANNERS CLUB JANUARY 2022

LIVE-IN ROAD TEST AUTO-TRAIL F-LINE F-68

WINTER MAINTENANCE

STAYING IN AND GOING OUT THIS WINTER

PLUS GROUP NEWS TEA BREAK TEASERS RECIPES

SCAN HERE TO JOIN THE CLUB

for news • group rallies • membership

renewals & much more visit

o.uk www.themotorcaravannersclub.c

£1.95 where sold

INSIDE

JANUARY 2022

From the Chair

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CLUB NEWS

6 National – third time lucky!

Nene Valley website CL Sites update 8 Obituaries 11 Accessories: Add value for £500 15 Give me the van-life!

17 Haven offers for 2022 49 Casual campsites return

LIVE IN ROAD TEST

18 Gentleman Jack enjoys life in Auto-Trail's latest mid-size, rear-lounge model

OUT & ABOUT

42 Road trip: The Wash Way

Motor Caravanner THE MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF THE MOTOR CARAVANNERS CLUB JANUARY 2022

LIVE-IN ROAD TEST AUTO-TRAIL F-LINE F-68

WINTER MAINTENANCE

STAYING IN AND GOING OUT THIS WINTER

PLUS GROUP NEWS TEA BREAK TEASERS RECIPES

56

52 Winter touring: Keep your 'van in tip-top condition during the colder months

NATIONAL RALLY 2022

46 Three trips to enjoy

MOBILITY

58 Enjoy the great outdoors without limits

REGULARS

29 Group News & Diaries 50 Servicing Directory 56 Burns Night recipes 62 Tea Break Teasers 65 Bazaar 66 Classifieds

Countrywide Publications Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6DH Publisher/Editor: Mark Shreeve T: 01502 725839 E: mark.shreeve@micropress.co.uk Advertising: Danny Lewis T: 01502 725862 E: danny.lewis@micropress.co.uk Sinead Taylor T: 01502 725865 E: sinead.taylor@micropress.co.uk

t hardly seems twelve months since I was wishing you all a happy 2021 and now I wish you all a happy 2022. A lot has happened in the last year, we have been able to return to ‘normal’ rallying and Christmas parties have happened and at the time of writing many Groups have New Year Rallies planned. I hope all members have been able to get out and about and enjoy the use of their vans in the last year.

Watch out for details of the National Rally in the magazine and on the website. You can also find listings of Group rallies in the handbook included in this issue, so why not spend some time planning the year to come. There is also information on Members’ Casual Campsites – so plenty of ideas to choose from.

Other places to visit are the Trade Shows. Don’t forget to state you want to camp with the MCC when booking to ensure you are pitched in the Club area.

Tina Botterill stood down from CoM at the November meeting and I would like to thank her for the work she did and her support.

Here’s wishing you a good year of motor caravanning in the days to come and I hope to see many of you in this year.

Kate Jones Club Chairman

Cover photo: www.shutterstock.com SCAN HERE TO JOIN THE CLUB

for news • group rallies • membership

renewals & much more visit

o.uk www.themotorcaravannersclub.c

£1.95 where sold

January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 3

MCC Sec & Administrator: Ron Harris Wood Farm Estate, Marlbank Road, Welland, Malvern WR13 6NA T: 01684 311677 E: info@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk Office opening: Mon-Thu 9-5pm Fri 9-2pm MCC Office Administration: Julie Stanbridge

Club Contacts www.themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

COUNCIL OF MANAGEMENT Chairman: Kate Jones (07747 000587 or 01935 863815) Vice Chairman: Jacci Durkee (07931 527691) Members: Carol Biggs (01473 620933) Tina Botterill (07946 596059) Maurice Brooks (07956 814339) Derek Clarke (07931 733656) Graham Durkee (07931 527691) Peter Johnston (07810 434110) Les Kendrick (07860 286561) Selma McMullan (07752 678454) Sue Pilkiw (07562 324325) Keith Poole (07736 544490) Anne Taylor (07414 852497)

CoM WITH RESPONSIBILITIES

CLUB OFFICIALS

Disability Advisor: Maurice Brooks (07956 814339)

Casual Campsites: Ann Bond (07805 795549)

mauriceb@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

annbond83@gmail.com

Exhibition Team: Jacci & Graham Durkees (07931 527 691)

CL & Night Stops: contact MC office

grahamd@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Financial Officer: Paul Maguire (07973 827506)

Head Show Marshal: Sue Pilkiw (07562 324325)

Insignia: Marion Brooks (0208 6412283)

suep@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

insignia@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Homecraft Coordinator: Peter Johnston

Junior Leaders: Maria Hill & Gill Crosby

homecraft@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

juniors@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Magazine/Handbook : Sue Pilkiw (07562 324325)

National Rally Site Manager & Head Show Marshal: Mick Pilkiw

suep@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Safety officer: Keith Poole (07736 544490)

Webmaster: Peter Heale (07894 583520)

keithp@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk To email a member of the Council of Management please use first name & first letter of surname followed by @themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk ie katej@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

GROUP SECRETARIES CONTACT LIST 1 West Country 2 Sussex 4 Kent 6 Essex 7 Anglia 8 East Wessex 9 Chiltern 10 East Midlands 11 Severn Valley 12 NW Mids & NW 13 Lancashire 14 Yorkshire 15 N. Counties 16 Scotland 17 West Wessex 18 Avon 20 SWP 21 S.& W.Wales 22 Nene Valley 23 Isle of Wight 24 N. Ireland 40 The rest of Europe 42 Ireland 53 SERG 54 Motorcycle

Secretary

Countrywide Publications, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6DH

Telephone

Heather Bubb Carole Bennett Janice Wellard Barbara Mossman Derek Clarke Diane Milton Steve Wynn Sue Pilkiw Hayley Scarborough Penny Feeney Jeff Gainford Julie Broughton Helen Edwards Aileen Clark Alastair Bartlam Karen James Barbara Noble Pauline Greaves Peter Moore Heather Jennings Irene Hewitt

07817 916904 07769 944009 07831 659951 07727 100456 01473 620933 07971 888492 07399 552452 07562 324325 07585 044802 07518 271742 07707 256287 07544 327193 07794 177410 07771 845199 07754 131893 07971 540909 07722 885018 01873 857542 07790 779024 07875 191797 07880 736307

As N. Ireland Group Andrea Barker 01914 104227 Wendy Jefferson 07714 616715

Publisher/Editor: Mark Shreeve E: mark.shreeve@micropress.co.uk T: 01502 725839 Advertising: Danny Lewis E: danny.lewis@micropress.co.uk T: 01502 725862

Please note that Secretary details may have changed due to AGMs.

E-Mail westcountry@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk sussex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk kent@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk essex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk anglia@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk eastwessex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk chiltern@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk eastmidlands@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk severnvalley@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk nwmidsnwales@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk lancashire@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk yorkshire@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk northerncounties@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk scotland@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk westwessex@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk avon@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk swpeninsula@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk swwales@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk nenevalley@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk isleofwight@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk northernireland@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk serg@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk motorcycle@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

All opinions expressed in these pages are those of the Editor and his contributors and do not necessarily represent official Club policy. All Material copyright. The Motor Caravanners’ Club Ltd 2009. All Rights reserved. While every care is taken when accepting advertisements neither the Club nor the Publisher can accept responsibility for unsatisfactory transactions which arise. Printed by Micropress Printers Ltd. The opinions, advice and information contained in this publication are offered solely to inform members as to matters which will be of assistance to them.

The Motor Caravanners’ Club and Countrywide Publications accepts no responsibility for any opinion, advice or information expressed by any person in any article contained herein and members should seek their own counsel on matters before acting or relying on any opinion, advice or information.

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Make sure your holiday home is secure.

Research SECURITY CERTIFIED

www.phantom.uk.net

KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR VEHICLES!

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CLUB NEWS 60-20

e u b i le ond J Diam al Rally n Natio M G a n d A C o u nt y rd S t af f o o u n d gr w o Sh 02 2 u ne 2 9-14 J

NENE VALLEY GROUP WEBSITE The Nene Valley Group now have a new website which can be found at www.nenevalleymcc.co.uk

CL SITES UPDATE LINCOLNSHIRE SNAILSPACE (CL94344)

This site is now permanently closed.

See booking form p48

Third time lucky The National Committee are busy planning what we hope will be a National Rally over the weekend 9th June-14th June 2022, when we will at last be able to meet up and celebrate our Diamond Jubilee.

Three nights of professional entertainment have been booked, together with an evening when members can show off their talents.

Have you stockpiled unwanted items during lockdown? If so, as usual, there will be a chance to sell them at the popular Silent Auction.

For those Groups or members who raise funds for their chosen charity, a garden type fete will be held for table top, tombolas, raffles etc.

The Homecraft competition will again take place; as some of you will have already started items in 2019, the list for individual entries

will stay the same.

Our Party Night theme will be ‘The Sixties’ a chance to wear your fancy dress. Groups are encouraged to decorate their Group table, with a prize being awarded to the best one.

We hope that Groups or individuals will become involved by helping out with games etc.

Please contact me (annet@ themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk) if you can help. A boules competition is already planned.

The all important AGM and Members’ Meeting will again take place, your chance to communicate with the Council of Management.

We hope you will join us at this National, and help us make it a celebration to remember.

Anne Taylor, Chair of National Rally committee

FREE PRIZE DRAW WINNERS As a special thank you for your continuing support the Club will be running a free lucky draw every month until March 2022. Five lucky members will win £10 off the cost of their next membership subscription.

Congratulations to December’s winners: Mrs C Hill, Avon; Mr D N Beaton, West Wessex; Mr J R Allen, Anglia; Mrs J McKenzie, Anglia; Mr R Pritchard, Anglia 6 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

WARWICKSHIRE GREEN GATES (CL94462)

Price has changed to £20pupn, £25 for non members.

All pitches are hard standing with water and electric. New facilities are currently being built. www.greengatescaravanpark.com

DORSET HOME FARM CAMPSITE (CL94125)

Price has changed to £16-£19 +£3 electric.

Facilities: Mostly flat grass field, water, chemical disposal toilets, washroom. Dogs allowed, suitable for longer stays. Gas available.

MATHS RIDDLE As I'm sure many of you young budding mathematicians spotted, we made a mistake in last month's magazine. The answer to the maths riddle was 65 and not 128 as stated. Thanks to Teresa Guyver who pointed out that multiplication has to be done before addition and subtraction. So 7x8 =56; 56+ 9 = 65 (BODMAS rules). Sorry, back to school for the publishing team. Ed

High Quality Products for you and your motorhome

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Use voucher code MCC5 on our website.

At RoadPro we specialise in helping you to be free in your motorhome. Top quality batteries, solar panels, charging systems and inverters allow you to enjoy all the luxuries of home wherever you find yourself. Plus, we can advise you on auto-levelling, satellite TV and rear-view camera systems.

You can find out more on our website and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and our YouTube channel.

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“It’s like wild camping with hookup!”

That’s what people tell us when they’ve had a lithium battery installed. And it doesn’t matter what type of motorhome you’ve got: big, small, old or new, if you like staying off-grid, a lithium battery can make a huge difference to the way you use your motorhome.

Tell us what sort of motorhome you have and how you want to use it and we’ll explain exactly what you need.

Then, we can install a system for you to help set you and your motorhome free!

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We’re not just a website. You can visit us and see our range of accessories for yourself.

Visit www.roadpro.co.uk for details.

CLUB NEWS

OBITUARIES

ROSE HEALEY

It is with great sadness that NWM and NW Group have to announce the passing, on 10th December, of our chairperson, Rose Healey, after a long illness. Rose has been a long standing member of the MCC as a member of Kent and Essex Groups before joining NWM and NW. She will be fondly missed and remembered for her cheerfulness and eagerness to host and support rallies. She encouraged members to enter the homecraft competitions at the Nationals, even carrying the banner at Norwich. Our condolences go to Bill, Mark and her extended family.

Penny Feeney, Secretary NWM and NW Group.

GIUSEPPE PARODI

Kent Group (more relevantly, the old Surrey Group).

Longer-standing members of various Groups will be saddened at the passing of Giuseppe (Joseph) Parodi at the age of 91. He was

8 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

taken into hospital on 28th November following a serious stroke and died the next day.

Joseph had been an MCC member for about 40 years and brought the club much Italian charm and his own unique humour.

Many will remember being entertained by the stylish dancing with his late wife, Yvonne, and being regaled by his anecdotes involving dignitaries and celebrities encountered during his long career in some of London’s best hotels and clubs. Some owe to Joseph their deeper knowledge of opera and wine!

Perhaps thankfully, his illness was short and we had managed a few motorcaravan trips away with him this last summer; so, a very full and active life right to the end.

Joseph will be sorely missed and our thoughts are with his son and daughter, their partners and his grandchildren.

Ciao Bello; arrivederci.

Peter and Ann Clark (ex-Surrey Group)

BETT GOSLING

Chiltern members have said a final farewell to our much loved Bett Gosling. Bett and her husband, Derek, joined MCC in 1971 and were members of the Middlesex group initially, moving to Chiltern group when Middlesex group closed.

Both Bett and Derek served on the Middlesex committee as Insignia Officer and Entertainment

Officer respectively. Bett and Derek frequently attended rallies, especially with Chiltern. In recent years, when they decided to give up their motorhome, they remained as Associate Members of MCC and would still visit us at rallies whenever possible, where they were welcomed by their many friends.

Sadly the Covid restrictions did curtail them from doing this, but I know they still kept up to date with what Chiltern were doing.

Bett was a fantastic character with many a great story to tell.

She was famous (or infamous!) for her luck in the Chiltern raffles – sometimes it was easier to simply let her sit close to the prizes rather than repeatedly walking back and forth!

Judging by the fantastic turnout of Chiltern members – past and present – at her funeral, Bett was a well-loved member of our group.

Bett will be sadly missed, but not forgotten. Our thoughts are with Derek and family.

HANDBOOK & SITES GUIDE 2022 Your new Handbook is enclosed with this magazine, we hope you find it useful ENCLOSED INSIDE throughout 2022. Please mention it when visiting the campsites and dealers listed.

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RETAILERS - Contact Eovolt distributor Pinpoint CE for the helmet Terms & Conditions: 1 Free helmet per bike purchased, voucher can only be used once.

Your holiday begins!

A family orientated site at the gateway to the Jurassic Coast. Take a trip on the famous Swanage steam train to historical Corfe Castle, as we are only a 5 minute walk to Herston Halt station. Enjoy walks along the spectacular coastline and National Trust countryside or try bird watching, fishing, water sports or sandcastle building.

Make Herston your base for exploring all that Dorset has to offer.

OPEN ALL YEAR www.herstonyardsfarm.com 01929 422 932 office@herstonyardsfarm.com Herston Yards Farm, Washpond Lane, Swanage BH19 3DJ

10 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

ACCESSORIES

Add value to your motorhome for £500 Rental company Camptoo has come up with a list of some of the most popular accessories which could instantly increase your vehicle's value. The company says owners can make these simple upgrades to their vehicles for a combined cost of just £500. Camptoo used search trend data analysis over the last five years and the number of articles written about each item – all available for £100 or less.

WiFi

Solar panels Portable solar panels have become more and more popular with motorhomers over the last few years, providing an environmentally friendly way to use power for all the essentials while you’re on site. Coming in many sizes, price is very much dependent on how big the panels are. On average, you can get portable 100w panels for around £100 – a bargain considering they reduce your carbon footprint and save you money on paying for a power hook up.

Getting a signal is more often than not a problem in the remote areas where many campsites are located, making WiFi a very handy accessory for keeping in touch with people on your travels. A decent portable WiFi setup will cost about £70 but is invaluable for keeping the family entertained while you’re away.

Portable BBQ

What better way to round off a day of hiking and exploring than firing up the grill! Portable BBQs allow you to do just that. Compact and easy to store away, they take up minimal space in your vehicle and you can use them just about anywhere. A good one can cost as little as £30 – a great investment!

>>

January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 11

ACCESSORIES

Reversing camera A handy bit of tech for bigger vehicles, reversing cameras are starting to come as standard in a lot of newer models. But if you own an older version, they can be bought for around £50 which could save you a lot of hassle when navigating your way out of a cramped space.

Portable shower With most motorhomes coming with showers installed as standard, this one is more applicable to campervan owners and could be well worth the £25 investment.

Vehicle owners will be well versed in the sometimes sub-par conditions of on-site washing facilities, so having your own shower provides the perfect solution to avoiding the communal area.

And not forgetting...

Other popular accessories found in Camptoo's research included thermal blinds (£30), bike racks (£30), air conditioners (£60), TV aerials (£40) and campervan ovens (£70).

* MOTOR CARAVAN INSURANCE COVER • Cover for American motorhomes available • Insurance for Trikes, Buggies & Quads • Discount available to club members • Limited mileage discounts • Stand-alone breakdown cover

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Three Counties Motorhomes in Poole, Dorset, deals with all vehicle hand-overs, servicing and repairs.

Countrywide Motorhomes Main A31, 215 Ringwood Rd, St. Leonards, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 2QB Tel: 01202 881089 Prices from £20,000 to over £60,000.

All vehicles supplied with a National Warranty. We are a Family owned business, run by motohome enthusiasts, and stock everything from two berth compacts to six berth family models.

VW Kamper Centre 215 Ringwood Road, St. Leonards, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 2QB Tel: 01202 855531

Coachbuilt, Low Profile and A-Class motorhomes. Campervans and Conversions, all types and sizes. Part-ex always welcome, best prices paid. We follow all the latest government guidelines to ensure you can Browse & Buy Safely.

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Give me the van-life!

O ne in ten people who staycationed in a campervan or motorhome during the pandemic would like to ditch their homes and commit to life on the road. That's one of the findings of a survey from Sterling Insurance, which revealed that after these so-called staycation experiences, many are tempted to switch to ‘van-life’.

The research also revealed that more than two-fifths (41%) have changed their opinions and find this on-the-road lifestyle more appealing than they did prepandemic.

Emma Orlando [@emmaorlando] has been living and working on the road during the pandemic: “When the pandemic hit and I couldn't travel overseas anymore, I decided to explore the UK while running my own business. So far, it's been an absolute dream parking in some beautiful spots – wild camping in Scotland was incredible, and I got to wake up in the most beautiful places.

“I wouldn't trade the lifestyle for anything! If you are someone that can work remotely, I highly recommend giving it a go.”

People found this so enjoyable that 68% confirmed they plan to take a campervan staycation in the next 12 months. And more than a third of all respondents (37%) said they were keen to buy a campervan or motorhome following positive travel experiences this past summer.

“We love life in the van – it offers all the comforts of home while we get to explore new places,” commented Tash and Jon [@ life_beyond_bricks], who now live in their campervan full time after enjoying several staycations in it.

Curiosity and wellbeing seem

to be key motivators, with those surveyed citing a desire to see more of the UK, spend more time with family and improve their mental health as the top three reasons to spend time travelling on the road.

To make the most of more flexible working conditions, 16% felt that ‘van-life’ can provide them with a better work/life balance.

Peter Cook, floor manager at Sterling Insurance said, “It’s great to find that so many Brits have loved their campervan and motorhome experiences, and we expect to see interest continue to grow into 2022. We think it’s exciting that many are keen to take to the road more permanently and brave the van-life.

“And we wanted to help people achieve their ambitions with our new van-life insurance. A policy specifically for those making a lifechanging switch, and who may find it difficult to get insurance without a permanent address,” he added.

Visit www.sterling-insurance.co.uk/ blog/campervan/van-life-guide for Sterling's guide with practical information and recommendations on taking up the ‘van-life’.

January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 15

MOTS AND SERVICING TYRES ACCIDENT REPAIR & PAINTWORK DIAGNOSTICS RECOVERY ALLOY WHEEL REFURBS HABITATION CHECKS FREE COURTESY CAR

CONTACT US NOW ON

01271 343 343 www.tjhauto.co.uk Unit 3 & 4, Roundswell, Barnstaple, Devon EX31 3TD

WALESWOOD CARAVAN & CAMPING PARK AT ROTHER VALLEY COUNTRY PARK

Open All Year “An excellent campsite with exceptional facilities”

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10% discount for bookings online www.waleswood.co.uk for stays between 1st October and 31st March 2022 using the code MOCA10 16 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

At a glance 5 Night offer

Primrose Valley

Haven offers for 2022

T

he details of the MCC offers for 2022 are all below and as with any Haven offers these are subject to availability and can be removed at any time. The 5 nights break offer is available from Sunday to Friday and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer including the Haven Freedom Trail discounts. Members will be asked for their MCC membership number at time of booking for any of the offers below.

Booking code: Obtained from MC office Jan 2022 Dates: 13/3, 20/3, 27/3, 24/4, 8/5, 15/5, 22/5, 12/6, 19/6, 26/6, 18/9, 25/9, 2/10, 9/10 Exclusions: Kiln Park is not available to book on 26/6. Craig Tara and Seton Sands are not availa ble to book on 9/10 Duration: 5 nights Sunday to Friday Extras: Free dog (max 2 dogs)

5% offer

Booking code: Obtained from MC office Jan 2022 Parks: All touring parks Dates: 11/03/2022 to 31/10/2022 Duration: Min 3 nights Discount: 5%

Free dog

Parks: All touring parks Dates: 11/03/2022 to 31/10/2022 Offer: Free dogs (max 2)

5 nights for £40 (Sun - Fri)

Blue Dolphin - electric grass pitch Golden Sands - electric grass pitch Haggerston Castle - electric hard standing pitch Lakeland - electric grass pitch Presthaven - electric grass pitch Seaview - electric grass pitch Thornwick Bay - electric grass pitch

5 nights for £45 (Sun - Fri) Golden Sands - large electric grass pitch Perran Sands - electric grass pitch Thorpe Park - electric grass pitch Thornwick Bay - large electric grass pitch 5 nights for £50 (Sun - Fri) Craig Tara - super hard standing pitch Blue Dolphin - electric hard standing pitch Haggerston Castle - large electric hard standing pitch Littlesea - electric grass pitch Marton Mere - super hard standing pitch Presthaven - electric hard standing pitch

Perran Sands - large electric grass pitch Reighton Sands - electric hard standing pitch Seton Sands - euro pitch Seaview - re inforced electric grass pitch

5 nights for £55 (Sun - Fri)

Greenacres - euro pitch Golden Sands - large super hard standing pitch Hafan y Mor - euro pitch Kiln Park - electric grass pitch Littlesea - re inforced electric grass pitch Marton Mere - euro pitch Primrose Valley - super hard standing pitch Seaview - euro pitch Perran Sands - euro pitch Thorpe Park - euro pitch Thornwick Bay - electric hard standing pitch

5 nights for £60 (Sun - Fri) Kiln Park - super hard standing pitch Perran Sands - euro pitch

January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 17

www.shutterstock.com/Duncan Cuthbertson

CLUB NEWS

1

LIVE-IN ROAD TEST AUTO-TRAIL F-LINE F-68

Gentleman Jack enjoys life in Auto-Trail's latest mid-size, rear-lounge model Cook’s Tour

Our featured 'van will be cashingin on the current surge in demand for mid-sized coachbuilts equipped with a large ‘U’-shaped rear lounge…deservedly so as well. After a live-in test in demanding winter weather, the (prototype) F-68 came through with flying colours. A stellar performance.

Habitation door is forward on the nearside and one’s ascent to the entrance vestibule is made easier by the electrically-operated auto-retract step. Immediately ahead is the washroom. Turn left for the nearside wardrobe and cab, turn right to enter the midships kitchen, which is forward of that palatial rear lounge. A well-proven layout that was easy to live with and easy to live in.

Ford Transit chassis-cab...hence the moniker F-Line. Standard ‘equine count’ is 128 (130PS) and Ford’s latest (last?) TDCI turbo-diesel unit is a smooth and assured performer.

Ours was fitted with the extra-cost engine upgrade to 170PS and a six-speed automatic gearbox which utilises a torque converter. A tenspeed automatic for Ford’s finest has been teased on automotive websites, but this wasn’t available at the time of writing. That said, the six speeder provided a ratio for every occasion, prompting the author to consider whether ten forward ratios might be an overcomplication. Among our personal fleet we have two cars fitted with Fiat’s automated manual gearbox, and I’d forgotten that torque converter autos do creep at idle

A stellar perfor OTR (on-the-road)

The majority of members reading this will have already ‘clocked’ that the F-68 is – in common with its range stablemates – based on the 2

18 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

speed, so always apply the parking brake when at rest in traffic.

It’s impossible to say how much the standard ‘stop-start’ feature contributed to the mpg figure, but it certainly would have reduced emissions, particularly important in congested urban areas.

As you asked, it returned 25.5 mpg over 220 miles including some ‘press-on’ motoring and performance testing.

The current obsession with having infotainment units the size of a cinema screen is taken care of thanks to the extra-cost F-Line Lux pack. It was useful when requiring

rearwards vision as the (larger) image from the camera gave a very detailed view.

One of the most significant differences between the Transit and the ubiquitous Ducato/Boxer/ Relay is the fact that behind the blue oval one sits much lower in the cab. Perfect for the author who has a long back but short legs and is often condemned to peering out through just the top third of the windscreen. Spares availability for older Transits is legendary, which would make it a good choice for purchasers thinking of long-term ownership.

Continued overleaf

ormance 1 Auto-Trail F-Line F-68 in the evening sunshine. One of the rare (and short) periods during this test when it wasn’t raining or sleeting. Purchasers can choose from five cab colours, each with coordinating graphics 2 The ‘driving environment’.

Test vehicle had a 170PS turbodiesel engine under the bonnet powering the front wheels via a six-speed automatic gearbox

3

3 General view rearwards showing a centrally-located kitchen and the palatial rear lounge

January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 19

LIVE-IN ROAD TEST

Main salon

Equipment wise, it’s 95% all there (see ‘I would have liked’ below) and the furniture felt well-screwed together. Soft furnishing fabrics were contemporary and both natural and artificial light levels were commendably high. That lounge was perfect for…um…er… lounging. Triple-aspect glazing facilitated a panoramic vista… providing one went ‘nose in’ to a campsite pitch or reversed up to a countryside vista. The freestanding dining table is sensibly sized, it will accommodate four adults, but wasn’t too big to circumnavigate easily, plus of course it could be used for alfresco dining.

Standard equipment included a slide-out adjustable mounting for a television. One isn’t supplied as standard, thus the choice of what used to be called “the idiot’s lantern”, is all yours!

At the opposite end to the lounge an additional seating area was available in the cab. Above this was a panoramic rooflight, plus additional storage. Aft of the cab seats were two cupboards, some coat hooks, a brace of magazine nets, plus open shelving

Galley

Most of the kitchen is on the nearside, with just the tall and slim 142-litre three-way fridge on the offside. The latter has a large internal freezer compartment (offering another 15-litres of coolth) and is raised off the floor, facilitating easier access to its bottom drawer. Base units are ‘L-shaped’ to make best use of the available space. Storage was good, but worktop was a tad limited… and there wasn’t a draining surface for washed-up dishes…not even a fluted plastic freestanding one. Not exactly a deal-breaker, I just used our washing-up bowl! It became apparent when culinary creating just what a pleasant place this was for a budding Nigella or Jamie. The adjacent window provided natural light and ventilation and the ceiling mounted powered omni-vent extracted odours and provided a fug-free environment. Artificial task lighting was very effective. Finally, chef is not cut-off from interacting with the lounge occupants.

Continued overleaf 20 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

Relaxez-vous! Lounge is perfect for feet-up sprawling or entertaining friends and family. Freestanding dining table is narrow enough to allow (reasonably) easy circumnavigation

Kitchen was mostly on the offside with just the tall fridge-freezer across the central aisle. Wide cutlery drawer was under the sink, but accessed via the forward cupboard door

The all new Expedition 68 The Expedition 68 is Auto-Trail’s first foray into the world of dedicated sports campers. With over 38 years of experience in designing and building motorhomes of all shapes and sizes, this is the only campervan they have created specifically for cyclists to travel and transport their bikes, equipment, and themselves.

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LIVE-IN ROAD TEST Left: First-class comfort station was well-equipped, although we found it quite a step-up from the aisle

Comfort station

Located behind the driver, F-68’s washroom has plenty of (varied) storage, a swivel bowl loo, an ascetically pleasing and practical radiused corner cuboid-shaped vanity basin, as well as a sensiblysized walk-in shower compartment.

The only concern was that the considerable step-up from the main salon’s floor may cause the ‘over refreshed’ or half-asleep visitor to stumble…although I didn’t ever… and if there is something to trip over, I usually oblige.

Below: A transverse double bed or two singles were all generouslysized and easily converted from the lounge.

Cab black-out was courtesy of supplied internal screens (inset) that were attached by suckers

Berths

It’s a dedicated two-berth with a choice of sleeping either in a pair of easy-access longitudinal beds or in a transverse double. All are generously-sized and easily converted from the lounge. There are only two reading spotlamps, one on each side towards the rear.

Continued overleaf

‘Mission control’ was located above the tall fridge. Switch below panel diverted charge from the solar panel to either the leisure or vehicle battery

Ferry Good for Al-ko The HPC Hydraulic Levelling System is truly a step ahead for motorhome owners. Covering all requirements expected from a levelling system. it is simply and quickly operated using the on-board touch-screen controls or operated remotely from an iPhone 5 and above or an Android phone via a Bluetooth free app.

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AS Air Suspension UK Ltd. 131 Chester Road, Warrington, Cheshire WA4 6ET info@as-airsuspension.co.uk www.as-airsuspension.co.uk T 01925 740666 • M 07874 046643 22 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

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LIVE-IN ROAD TEST Perfect for single bed occupants but late night readers sleeping in the double may argue over the direction of the beam from their ‘only’ spotlamp.

During the test an Auto-Trail Navajo owner asked if a Luton overcab bed was available. It is and it isn’t! Not on the F-Line, all of which have a low-profile overcab with a mine’s-bigger-than-yours panoramic skylight. That said, Auto-Trail do offer an overcab bed option on their Frontier, Tracker and Imala ranges, and Tracker includes a model with a rear lounge.

Mod cons

Currently, the most popular space and water heaters for motorcaravans are made by Truma and Whale. The majority of the former’s installations are inside the 'van…taking up valuable storage space…usually at the bottom of the wardrobe or under a settee squab. F68 has dual-fuel Whale units. These are mounted under the floor, leaving storage uncompromised. However, in use the blown air distribution wasn’t the quietest, with noise from the (non-distributive) vent in the entrance vestibule becoming intrusive when the heater was at full chat. This may well have been a peculiarity of this particular installation on the prototype.

Every decision made over which particular type or manufacturer

Under seat storage was vast and easily accessed. If there is insufficient room for your clobber, perhaps a ‘stocktake’ is required? of white goods fitted to a motorcaravan brings with it a unique set of advantages and disadvantages. The significant advantage of underfloor mounted units has already been discussed… that of uncompromised storage.

Auto-Trail has trumped this particular strong suit by leaving all under-seat lockers virtually empty and adding full-width under rear settee storage accessed from above and via exterior access doors on each side. Bravo!

I would have liked

To their credit Auto-Trail has remained tightly focussed on the raison d’etre for the F-Line. This is to produce a sharply-priced mid-market offering on Ford’s Finest. To this end and to remain in budget there were inevitably Continued overleaf

Welcome aboard! Remote central-locking entrance door is glazed, equipped with a bin and that ‘essential’ Auto-Trail brolly. Adjacent flyscreen will be welcome in the Summer months

Knowledge base Auto-Trail has ‘history’ here with conversions on the Ford Transit. Fromthe-off and for most of their production run, Tribute coachbuilts were always behind the blue oval. Originally based in Stallingborough, North Lincolnshire, Auto-Trail is now just down the road at a state-of-the-art facility in Europarc, a few miles North of Grimsby. They are part of the global Trigano Group and as well as building their own coachbuilts and PVCs (high-top motorhomes), they also convert PVCs for others within the group including Roller Team, Benimar and many more. This year Auto-Trail will celebrate 40 years of motorcaravan manufacture and Motor Caravanner magazine is planning to publish an informative photofeature detailing their history.

24 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

Hooray…a spare wheel is included. Boo…it remained in Ford’s original location and might be challenging to remove

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LIVE-IN ROAD TEST some absentees. I would have liked to have seen a window in the washroom, a microwave oven and a panoramic rooflight over the lounge. To be fair, fitting a washroom window will eat into the room’s available storage, plus the microwave is an easy retro-fit.

Finally, the lounge deffo wasn’t short of natural light or ventilation.

Conclusion

F-68 proved itself to be a stylish and very worthy addition to the already well-received F-Line range, plus the driving experience provided by the Transit was mightily impressive, especially from the competitively-priced automatic transmission.

Tech Talk Auto-Trail F-Line F-68 Base vehicle Ford Transit chassis-cab Motive power 2.0-litre TDCI EcoBlue Turbo-Diesel 130PS/128 BHP, 6 speed manual transmission as standard. 170PS/167.7 BHP, 6-speed automatic transmission as tested Will it fit? Length: 6.8m/22’ 3.75” Width: 2.35m/7’ 8.5” (+ mirrors) Height: 2.88m/9’ 5.5” MTPLM 3,500kg (Upgrade to 3,650kg available F-O-C but Group C1 driving licence will be required) Payload Standard model: 550kg. As tested: 505kg Sleeping berths 2 - longitudinal single beds or a transverse double Travel seats 2 Kit count Electric auto-retract exterior step, flyscreen door, awning light, 16” alloy wheels, steel spare wheel, cab seat swivels, cab air-con, cruise control, doubleglazed windows, pleated blinds, flyscreens, panoramic overcab rooflight, scatter cushions. 230V hook-up, leisure battery, 12V & 230V consumer unit, ambient over locker and under locker LED lighting, task lighting including ‘reading’ spotlamps. Individual dual-fuel underslung blown-air space and water heaters.

3-burner hob, combined gas grill and oven, fire extinguisher, smoke alarm, CO2 alarm. Key-fob centrallocking including separate control for habitation door.

Umbrella with dedicated storage, waste bin

Additional packs (both fitted to test vehicle) F-Line Drivers’ Pack (+ £1,578): Electrically adjusted and heated door mirrors, automatic headlamps, steering driving lights, foglights, heated windscreen, trend instrument panel, colour coded front bumpers, rain sensing wipers F-Line Lux Pack: (+ £1,578): Zenek Xzent 9.5” touchscreen head unit with DAB+ radio, motorhome specific sat-nav, Bluetooth, colour monitor for rear vision camera (included). TV aerial, external BBQ point, solar panel, Omnivent, entrance door flyscreen, removable carpets throughout Bottom line Prices from £53,373 OTR (130PS manual gearbox). As tested: 170PS, plus automatic transmission, Driver’s Pack and Lux Pack £59,079 OTR Auto-Trail F-Line F-68 kindly offered for evaluation

by Auto-Trail VR Ltd, Trigano House, Genesis Way, Europarc, Grimsby, Lincolnshire, DN37 9TU 01472 571 000. www.auto-trail.com Special thanks to Russell Hensman E&OE

Warranties Auto-Trail conversion: 5 years, Auto-Trail body integrity: 5 years (extendable as a cost option).

Ford: 3 years January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 27

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GROUP NEWS & DIARIES JANUARY 2022 JANUARY 2022

ANGLIA

GROUP NEWS COORDINATOR: Polly Coleman | T: 01502 725841 E: groupnews@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk Post: Motor Caravanner Magazine, Countrywide Publications, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6DH Next Deadline: January 5 for inclusion in February's magazine

07586 786413

31 vans came to Terrington St. Clements with first timers and visitors from other groups. The parking team did a great job in the dark fitting everyone in. Friday evening we played Bingo which was profitable for our Secretary winning a line and a house.

On Saturday, most went out on the bus to Kings Lynn or Springfields Shopping Centre for retail therapy whilst others explored the interesting village. Saturday evening, we were entertained by our old friend Mark Steele who played the music that we all like. Sunday coffee, tea and farewells to all. A very enjoyable weekend.

We had 39 vans at Alderman Peel School at Wells next the Sea for our Xmas party weekend. Visitors from: Essex, 3 East Midlands 2 and Chiltern 2 including their Chairman Mick Mead. 3 Anglia first timers, 2 of which booked for our New Year having had such a good time.

On Friday evening, we had soup and French bread served to all followed by tea & Coffee. Tony Park then ran a quiz which taxed some brains. This was followed by music provided by David Seals helped at times by the backing group of Mesdames Poole, King. The Xmas Jumper competition was won again by Ken!! Saturday morning, the hall was decorated by volunteers.

Many went down the town as it was a special weekend in Wells. Tables were decorated at 3-30pm. We were served Bucks Fizz by our Chairman at 6 and sat down to a buffet. Our caterer was not allowed to use the kitchen for our usual 3 course meal so Carol arranged for a buffet liasing with Deirdre our usual caterer as to what we wanted and oh boy did we get a spread.

There was something for everyone and left overs as well. Ham, Turkey, hot new potatoes, quiche, salad etc plus a huge cheese board with fruit including grapes.

Entertainment was provided by Simon Rose who after a slight detour via Ipswich gave us a good evenings entertainment. Sunday morning we had tea, coffee etc with Mince Pies , Xmas cake or both. A huge raffle finished off the weekend. Weather-wise not good. A lot of rain in heavy bursts but we all survived.

Thanks to our Committee for the work beforehand and a special thank you to Carol who dealt with all the bookings etc. Saturday morning, we had an elderly visitor arrive in a little van informing us he was the local mole catcher and was checking the traps on the field.

All the vans were on tarmac but Carol wound Keith up that we needed to move the vans and he fell for it. All good clean fun. Scribe Derek Upcoming TCs: January 28-30 Roydon Village Hall IP22 5RB Start Time 16:30pm. February 11-13 Risby Village Hall IP28 6RT Start Time 13:00hrs. Both these are bookable by Teresa 07739 463321 or teresa. poole50@virginmedia.com. No bookings will be taken for any 2022 rally before 12 noon on Sunday 9th January, 2022.

AVON With a very different format from usual, we were kindly invited to join West Country at Riverside, South Molton for their Christmas Party and 16 Avon units attended.

What a brilliant venue it was; fully serviced pitches with a splendid clubhouse and surrounded by wonderful Devon countryside. We also had the opportunity to >> January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 29

GROUP NEWS have daily breakfasts and superb evening meals if we wished, which made it an extra special treat.

We were warmly welcomed on arrival and had a fabulous weekend hosted by very friendly and hospitable West Country members. We had mulled wine and treats as a welcome, followed by an opportunity to have a get together in the evening with a disco. Saturday afternoon we had a challenging quiz which was won by a team of Avon members. The quiz consisted of identifying flags; car badges and a music quiz. Well done Allan for your musical knowledge.

Saturday evening was the highlight of the weekend and we were served a fabulous three course dinner by the Riverside team, followed by a disco. The clubhouse was superbly decorated by Riverside and it was a very memorable evening. Sunday came all too quickly and we had coffee morning followed by an amazing raffle and some of our members were lucky winners.

Thank you West Country for inviting us to share your very successful and happy rally and a special mention to Jim and Jen the hosts who worked so hard ensuring we all had a very enjoyable time.

With best wishes for the New Year and we look forward to happy rally days in 2022. Caroline

CHILTERN The Chiltern Committee would like to wish all its Members a very happy New Year! By now, you will all have received your programme for 2022 which, we hope you’ll agree, looks very full and interesting. If you haven’t already done so, don’t forget to text Julie (details in your Rally Book) if you'd like to go on the lists for the bookable rallies, some of which will require payment in advance. They are filling up fast.

Hope to see lots of you at the Day Meet on 29 January at World’s End Garden Centre, Wendover. It’s a good chance to catch up after the winter break.

Well, what can we say about the Chiltern Christmas Party? Good venue, lovely food, brilliant disco and the best company. These were the comments received from Members who attended this TC at Hurst School (by kind agreement of East Wessex). 37 vans attended - 29 Chiltern and 8 visitors. Friday evening saw us all in the lovely hall for fun and games. Carol and Roy entertained us with a Santa-inspired Beetle Drive and then Sharon and Paul organised some motorhome racing games. There was lots of betting and quite a few Members went home a little richer!

Saturday morning saw us back in the hall for coffee, mince pies and a Christmas Quiz. The Committee even managed to organise a snow shower to help with the Christmas atmosphere! After a break for lunch, members were invited back to the hall to decorate their tables for the competition later. All the tables looked 30 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

fantastic but there could only be one winner!

The Christmas Party started with complimentary Bucks Fizz followed by a fabulous buffet, washed down with several bottles of wine donated by the Club. Then the dancing began. Young Leon had us on our feet for most of the evening. Such was his popularity, he's been invited back twice next year! We had a bumper raffle and our thanks go to all who contributed to its success.

Sunday morning coffee, more mince pies, birthday cake and Chairman’s chat finished off the weekend.

Upcoming TCs: 29 January Day Meet at World’s End Garden Centre, Wendover, HP22 6BD. 18-20 February Old Warden Village Hall, Bedford Road, Old Warden, SG18 9HB Booking required.

EAST MIDLANDS

07562 324 325

Wishing you all a very happy new year 2022. Hopefully, you all brought the new year in in style! East Midlands members - If you haven’t already received your rally booklet, be assured it’s on its way. If it hasn’t arrived by the end of January, please contact Sue Pilkiw on 07562 324 325.

Remember that due to space, you need to book for Burns Night at Hose, 21-23 January 2022, Valentine’s Night at Great Limber, Casino Night at Gainsborough and Country and Western at Ingoldmells. To book a rally, contact Anne Taylor: email anneeastmidlands@ gmail.com or phone 07414 852497. If for any reason you can’t make a rally/TC that you have booked, please just contact Anne (or any member of the Committee) to inform us of your cancellation. Sue P Brownhills Rally: 23 East Midland vans were welcomed by the stewards Chris, Geoff, Anne and Janis.

Members spent time looking around new motor homes and the accessory shop. Friday evening, the members played bingo then sat and chatted.

On Saturday, some members went into Newark and some used the swimming pool. The cafeteria was open for members to pop into to have a snack. In the evening, the raffle was drawn and Geoff and Janis had a quiz in three parts which was very entertaining. Even though the weather was chilly, everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. Yvonne Dinner Dance at Springfields: 60 vans attended our Annual Dinner/Dance rally at Springfields Events Centre: 51 East Midlands one first timer, 2 Severn Valley, 1 Nene Valley, 1 Sussex and 5 Anglia. The vans were greeted and parked up by committee members.

On Friday evening, members met in the hall for the usual game of bingo. A table quiz was arranged

by Anne and a Christmas quiz organised by Paul. The members then had a chance to chatter with old and new friends. On Saturday, some members went into Spalding and some went and spent all their money in

Springfields Shopping Centre. In the evening, members wore their best bib and tucker and looked really smart.

They were greeted by our Chairperson and welcomed with a glass of sparkling wine and then shown to their seats by a member of the committee. After a fantastic meal, we were entertained by The Spirit of the Sixties who had the dance floor full all evening. Sunday morning, there was coffee and biscuits and Paul and Jane drew the raffle and Anne closed the rally. Yvonne Upcoming TCs: 21-23 January Burns Night, Hose Village Hall, Harby Lane, Hose, Leics, LE14 4JR. 11-13 February Great Limber Village Hall, Church Lane, DN37 8JN. 25-27 February Marshalls Sports Ground, Middlefield Lane, Gainsborough DN21 1UU.

EAST WESSEX Well, this month's report finds your scribe a very happy bunny indeed! At last, we have a full committee and are delighted to welcome aboard Sandra as Treasurer and Tony and Julia, as joint rally officers. A bit of arm twisting (sorry, gentle persuasion) resulted in last minute offers to join the committee, so a big thank you. Also Janet has again volunteered to be coordinator for this year's National and can be contacted at: janet.macey849@ gmail.com, tel 07733 068512.

Attendance at our AGM weekend at Easebourne was rather disappointing with just 10 East Wessex vans and 3 visitors. Still, good fortune smiled on both Val and Tony at our Friday evening get together, each winning twice at card bingo whilst the rest of us blamed our rubbish hands on the dealer.

On Saturday, some of us walked into Midhurst, which for some reason was much busier than usual, with cafes already fully booked and a good lunch hard to track down. In the evening, we were entertained by Jake Ward, a singer/performer paying us a return visit, who had us in stitches as he sat or lay on the floor crooning "me and Mrs Jones" directly to MCC Chairman Kate Jones, who was with us for the AGM. That really set the tone for a most enjoyable evening.

Our first buffet for months, prepared and served in a Covid-compliant way went down very well, and Val organised a lovely raffle, so thanks to Val and everyone who helped with the buffet.

At the time of writing, Christmas is still some way off, but will be over by the time you read this, so I hope you have all enjoyed yourselves. On behalf of Chairman Larry and the rest of the committee, I'd like to wish all our members and visitors a very Happy and Healthy New Year and we look forward to seeing you at our rallies.

At the moment, we're still looking for a venue for January, so please look on the website/Facebook page for updates.

Upcoming TCs: 11-13 February - Ringwood Junior

East Wessex Group: Jake crooning to Club Chairman Kate.

School, Hightown Road, Ringwood, BH24 1NH. No need to book but it helps us to plan if you can let us know you will be coming. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the East Wessex Group will be holding an EGM on Sun 13 February at 10.30am, at Ringwood Junior School, Hightown Road, Ringwood, BH24 1NH to consider and approve the Group's accounts. Diane

ESSEX The weekend of 5-7 November, we held a rally/tc at Bradwell on Sea. This was scheduled to be a quiet weekend, before the run up to big festivals.

Friday our usual get together, with some warm soup and tea after parking everyone up in the dark. We were given access to school playground around the corner to Village hall for extra parking, with their own amenities and short walk to village hall for our entertainment. The school parking was closer to the pub.

On arrival, we were greeted by some local builders who were doing refurbishment work, they were unfortunately not informed that we were arriving, but assured us that they would be finished Saturday morning, a painter worked all night, and the completion of work was done just as we were leaving on Sunday morning. Friday night our usual game of bingo background music and chat.

Saturday quite a few members made arrangements for lunch at local pub, we always let the publican (who is also the Chef) know we're arriving at that weekend, he now knows us well enough to be on first name terms on the phone and when arriving at pub.

Saturday evening was silly games night, which caused some amusement when they had to roll an object towards a post in middle of room, easy but NO not when it's a funny shaped potato. Well done George & Lesley for winning! Sunday, we all left in the very cold weather.

November was a sad time for our Group with the passing of our ex Chairman and President Brian Shaw, our thoughts are with Carol and family, who did so much for the Group. >> January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 31

GROUP NEWS

Lancashire Group: Ferret fanciers (above left) and Crafty Crew with stars (above right).

Christmas Party: We arrived Friday evening in the dark which is a first for us in a long time but it was good to be able to get together for our great Christmas Party.

Vans soon started arriving and the weather was quite mild. Over to the Hall for Friday evening for a game of bingo, sale of raffle tickets and a natter and catch up with friends.

Saturday started off raining but it soon stopped and a few members ventured into Chelmsford although a lot of members decided not to go because it would be very crowded being the last pay day before Christmas. On Saturday afternoon, it was over to the hall for tea/coffee and to decorate your table. Tom our DJ for the evening had already set up all his equipment and we were looking forward to a good night. This year was slightly different as we did not have caterers in and members took their own food for the evening. I think some people were feeding the whole of the rally but it all looked good.

It was our Web Master's wife Sue's 60th birthday and she was presented with a card and cake and for us Sue had provided wine and beer, thank you very much Sue and Nick.

Father Christmas and his elf made their usual appearance and presented every couple with a present.

We had a best table and Michelle (our DJ Tom's wife) judged the tables and the winning table was well deserved. The raffle was then drawn and as there was so many prizes it took quite some time to get through.

Unfortunately, I sat on an unlucky table and I believe it was only our table that had no one winning a prize. After eating, Tom started the disco and it was not long before Essex was up dancing. A very good night was had by all our thanks to Tom. Sunday was over to the hall for tea/coffee/mince pies/ biscuits and some of Sue's birthday cake, also some bread pudding. We had our usual Chairman's waffle and he wished us all be safe and to take care. John Upcoming TCs: 21-23 January, Chelmer Valley School.

Do not arrive before 6pm please. We hopefully have a singer for our entertainment. 11-13 February, Westcliff HS for Boys.

32 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

KENT At the time of writing this, both the Christmas TC and New Year TC have yet to take place, details soon.

Well, 2021 had its issues but thankfully we were able to hold some very pleasant TC’s at both old and new to us campsites. Thank you Fil for your hard work & of course your Secretary, Jan. The TC’s for 2022, listed below look very good and interesting as well.

You'll notice that I've annotated those TC’s that require Hosts. If you have never hosted before and would like to assist, there will always be someone on the Committee to help & advise.

The Committee have also arranged for the holiday rally between 27th May & 5th June and will be hosting the 1st day at each site, together with the 3rd June for Street Party Celebrations, but we need help on the other days. Please contact our Secretary, Jan Wellard. Details at the front of this booklet.

Our TC’s will remain bookable at present, some because of limited space but also because it has proved useful to know numbers & apply COVID guidelines.

Wishing you All, Good Health, Happiness & Safe Journeys in 2022.

Group Diaries, Kent: 2022: 11-13 February, Sandwich Junior School, Hosts required. 1-3 April, St Edmunds School, Dover. 14-19 April, St Richards School, Bexhill on Sea, Easter, Sussex Group TC. 22-24 April, Overshore, Upchurch. 5-8 May, Bridge Farm, Appledore.

27 May-1 June, *Palm Bay, Cliftonville. Hosts required for 28,29,30 & 31. 1 June-5 June, *Rye Rugby Club, Rye, Hosts required for 2nd & 4th. 16-19 June, Sissinghurst Cricket Club. 30 June-4 July, Sussex Group, Henley Regatta, SRB Moorings. Book directly with site. 15-18 July, **Matunda, Chartham, Hosts required. 21-25 July, Sandwich Lakes, Hosts required. 5-7 August, Bredgar & Wormshill Light Railway. 25-29 August, Dane Court School, Broadstairs. Hosts required. 9-11 September, Bridge Farm, Appledore. Hosts required.

23-25 September, Hole Park, Rolvenden. Host required.

7-9 October, Oasis Academy, Sheerness AGM. 9-11 December, Greatstone Primary School, Greatstone.

30 December-2 January 2023, Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys, Canterbury. *27th May-5th June. Holiday Temporary Campsite at two venues. The Committee will host the following days 27th May, 1st, 3rd & 5th June. We need help though to host the other days. Rather than cover all days, we're asking for help to cover just one day, however if you could do more, we would be grateful. ** Matunda, If you wish to stay until the 21st July, this can be arranged by booking directly with the site.

Please remember to visit our Facebook page, Kent Group of the Motor Caravanners’ Club or kentgroupmcc. weebly.com for the latest updates and further information. If you're aware of someone who doesn't have internet access, please consider calling them to keep them updated.

LANCASHIRE Happy New Year all... but I'm telling you what we did in November! So the first T/c was at Hoghton Village Hall.

The weather was drizzle until it was 2pm, time to park the ‘vans and then it blew a storm that lasted until the evening! Thanks to Brian and David who booked in and parked ‘vans, with help from Mel. I helped by drying the paperwork over the hot kettle.

Lisa opened the evening by telling us that there were 18 ‘vans from Lancashire welcoming new members Beth & Ricky Hill and visitors from East Midlands, Mandy & David and from N Counties, Ian & Sandra. The evening entertainment began with Allan’s Bingo and then Brian’s quiz which was won by Carole’s team. Dean gave us music and we were reminded how to dance Black Coffee by Marion who we welcome back after her long illness.

Saturday was lovely sunshine many ventured out, others came into the room to be taught how to make beautiful labels. After lunch we played games. Mainly Beanbagboules (sic) and Triominoes. Later we returned to the hall for 3 games of Play Your Cards Right presented by Allan & Brian with Mandy as the ‘dolly dealer’. The evening continued with dancing to Deans music. Awoken when told of an emergency, a member taken ill! Everyone rallied, a nurse on site, our defibrillator sourced (but not required) an ambulance called, the crew impressed by directions etc.

Before 10:30am, we met for coffee and toast. As 11am approached Brian read a poem of Remembrance then all was quiet for the silence. Lisa closed the T/c by thanking the hosts, me, Brian, Joy and David and help given by Mel, Sandra and of course, Dean and many others. She wished all a safe journey.

Next T/c was at Canberra Club.29 ‘vans including

visitors from Anglia & NWM&NW. Friday was dry but cold followed by rain and wind and parking was done by same team as previous T/c. Don welcomed new and old to the T/c. We had bingo with Allan followed by Brian’s quiz which was won by Brian B’s team. Dean played music for line dancers then to suit everyone.

Saturday, LANCASHIRE DAY, started with Val and Christine teaching us to make beautiful cardboard stars which involved lots of twisting and gluing with amazing results whilst other decorated the room with flags and roses. After a quick lunch it was back into the room to play games. Mainly Triominoes or a new game Kurling, same as Curling. Brian and David won the knockout.

The evening started with an Open Forum for new ideas to be discussed. Then Lancashire Hotpot for all! Delicious. The celebrations continued with special guests to present Take Your Pick – The President and Vice President of the Royal & Ancient Order of Ferret Fanciers (Brian & Allan!). Jeff’s team won the Lancashire quiz. Dean & Jack played Lancashire songs followed by lots of popular dance music ending with Best of Friends. Sunday, Don thanked the hosts, Dean and all who helped. Winners of the raffle and Bonus Ball were announced and we were wished a safe journey in the sleet and snow! Your temporary Scribe, Alma Upcoming TCs: 21-23 January, 2022 LANCASHIRE Turnover Hall Farm PR3 0UE Burns Night t/c.

MOTORCYCLE Our final event of 3 from last September 2021 was our AGM. The weekend was very lively with some committee members stepping down. But we managed to pull together and confirm that our ongoing committee members are now: Chairman - Keith Botterill. Vice-chair and Ride-out Co-ordinator - Martin Borrill. Secretary - Wendy Jefferson. Treasurer - Pat Wighton. Rally Officer Tina Botterill. Safety Officer - Colin Swain. Scribe - Noreen Borrill. Web Master - Ian Jefferson.

Following our AGM, we went across to the Cotswold Airport to a Vintage aircraft event and special access was organised by Graham Kendal for our group to see inside a British Airways Jumbo 747, proudly parked by the Control Tower, since it’s retirement from service. Some of the inside had been stripped out and it is going to be fitted out as a cinema and museum as well as a business, conferencing and private hire venue.

We walked through the aircraft admiring its size and this special piece of our heritage. Some of us sat in the Captain’s seat in the Cockpit. Wow! What a lot of controls they had. We finally posed in our MCG T shirts on the steps. (See picture). This was a happy ending to our Motorbike Rallies year. See MCG Website, Facebook and Club Handbook for rallies being organised for 2022. >> January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 33

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PLEASE CONTACT THE OFFICE WITH YOUR FIRST YEARS PAYMENT OR VISIT WWW.THEMOTORCARAVANNERSCLUB.CO.UK Where did you hear about the Club?

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The road to enjoyment starts here!

The Motor Caravanners’ Club, Wood Farm Estate, Marlbank Road, Welland, Malvern WR13 6NA T: 01684 311677 E: Info@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk W: www.themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

GROUP NEWS Upcoming TCs: 18-20 February, Home Farm, Cardington, MK44 3SN. Cost: £12 pupn. 18-20 March.

Geddington Youth Club, Geddington, NN14 1AJ. Cost: £12 pupn.

NORTHERN COUNTIES

Motorcycle Group: Member's were given special access to see inside a British Airways Jumbo 747.

NENE VALLEY Our new website (nenevalleymcc.co.uk) is now up and running. This has been made possible by our Secretary, Peter Moore, he has started from scratch and built it up to what you see now. The membership owe him a sincere thank you for all the work and effort that he has put in.

13 vans attended our meet at the Cock in Broom.

The weather was, on the whole, quite kind to us - we even managed a coffee morning on Saturday. With the field behind the pub set on sand there would have been no problem if it had been raining as the sand drains any water away very quickly. The pub is one of the few in the country with no bar to lean on while you wait for your order, as the beer comes straight from the barrel. The pub does some very nice meals and plenty of members took the opportunity to dine there. The nearest town is Biggleswade, so some members took the opportunity to wait for the bus whilst others walked the 3 miles-ish across fields. The nearby farm shop did a fair trade from MCC members as they grow most of the produce sold there so we could be sure it was lovely and fresh.

As Denis couldn’t find anywhere with a hall for our first meet in January 2022, we have decided to start our meets in February.

36 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

Hi, I hope everyone is well. My name is Nora Davie and this is my first newsletter for Northern Counties, taking over from Paula Edwards who has done a great job.

Thank you from all our members for your time and dedication.

When this goes to print, we will have had our Christmas Tc at Barnard Castle auction mart on 17-19 December which I will do a full write up on in the next newsletter. Our New Year celebrations are to be held at Prior Pursglove college Guisbough on 29 December-2 January, 2022. We are having live entertainment, disco, buffet, games and raffles. There are still places available for this Tc which is listed on the group’s Facebook page.

We would like to thank our rally officer Dave Hird for securing this venue, as our usual venue Redcar Race Course was cancelled due to building work.

We are having a rally to be held at Wooler Riverside Park 21-24 Jan, 2022. We still have a few places available at a discounted price of £51 for 3 nights with electric hook up when using the Northern Counties booking code. This rally is Burns Night with various entertainment from our members. We are also having haggis neeps and tatties so come along in your tartan wear and celebrate with us.

We would like to take this opportunity from myself and the new committee in wishing all our members at Northern Counties and all our members of the MCC a happy new year and hopefully 2022 will be a better year for us all. Nora

N. IRELAND Gibson School, Omagh Rally 12-14 November. We arrived on Friday night to a warm welcome from David and Thelma and Robert, Joy and Lindsay. On Friday night, we all met in the hall, nice to have a hall for a catch up and listen to some Music from Gary.

The music was very good, but I think I would be a bit biased.

On Saturday, the weather was not really on our side, but it didn’t stop a lot of shoppers heading up the Street. But the best was yet to come ‘Lindsay’s Bingo’, The hall filled up and bingo books were bought, you could feel the excitement. When was the last time we played Bingo!! We had such good fun. Then after the Bingo the night got better with our resident DJ Gary, hitting the smart phone for some music. Raffle tickets were bought and there was an abundance of prizes

kindly donated by Thelma. On Sunday morning, the Coffee morning was at 11:45am to facilitate anyone who wanted to attend the memorial service. There were 33 Vans in total. Ann Grant won the Quiz and Jack Little won the Entry Draw. Thank you for a great weekend and we will hopefully see you all in Portrush!

Yvonne Little Portrush: A total of 15 vans braved the wintry conditions that storm Arwen brought our way, making the journey to Portrush Primary School at times hazardous. A big thank you to our hosts Gary, Yvonne, Peter and Ellie for a lovely weekend in spite of the weather. We were fortunate to have the use of a hall, so Friday night saw quite a few of us meet for a welcome catch up. We started of with a few lively games of bingo and this was followed with Norman playing music for the rest of the evening. Saturday morning was still very blustery, but nothing compared to the battering the vans took from Arwen overnight.

Most braved the slightly reduced wind force and ventured into Portrush for a walk and some retail therapy. Saturday night we gathered in the hall again and this time the music was provided by Joe Little.

Sunday morning was a much brighter and clearer day and saw us gather in the hall for the bring your own coffee morning. The number plate draw was won by Ian and Liz McKenna and the quiz was won by Jack and Florence Little. Everyone was wished safe home and reminded the next rally is in Cookstown. Martin and Winnie Murphy.

NWM&NW I hope you have all had a good Christmas and New Year enjoying some wonderful family time in spite of all the uncertainties.

Let's hope 2022 will see a better time for everyone.

We have an interesting rally programme for 2022, so we hope to see you at some of the venues. At present there is no need to book except in unusual circumstances.

Check our website www.nwmandnw.org.uk or Facebook page for any up dates or changes.

The rally at Wistanstow was enjoyed by all who attended. There was the customary bingo on Friday, indoors for a change and Keith Hunt was our caller.

Debbie and Phil Jones managed to pocket most of the money with Elaine Beck having the rest I think! Many went into Ludlow by bus on Saturday to wander round the charity shops and cafes. The Cheshireman steam train passed close by en-route from Bristol to Chester and was spotted by some. Saturday evening everyone was engrossed in games of curling. No ice involved.

There were some different techniques to sliding the wooden curling stones along the floor. Some almost forgot to let go while others, not knowing their own

strength, completely missed the target forcing Mike to take evasive action (nimble footwork) as referee. Several rounds took place between Christmas themed teams.

Linda's final calculations declared the Reindeers (Darren, Shirley, Peter and Jean) as the winners.

New members Sarah and Paul Barwick and David and Francis Berth-Jones were made welcome and joined in the fun. Many thanks go to Mike and Linda for hosting and to everyone who came and had a good time Upcoming TCs: 4-6 February Hough Village Hall, Cobbs Lane, Hough, Crewe CW2 5JN Limited space so please book with Eileen 01902 743089 after 6pm. 4-6 March Offley Hay Village Hall, 2 Copmere End, Stafford, ST21 6HH. A new venue. Please do not arrive before 1pm as the car park is in use

SCOTTISH Hello and a happy new year to all fellow members from your committee. In 2022, we hope to get back to normality and enjoy a full rally season.

You should all have by now received the rally programme for 2022 by post. If you haven’t, contact my dear wife Aileen to have this rectified. Also, any Scottish group member can now join a WhatsApp group. If you wish to be added, call or email our secretary Aileen.

Some of you may remember a banner which was embroidered by Audrey Thickett, Paddy Alexander and Juliet Douglass. When this banner was returned to us two years ago by a previous committee, it had been left under damp conditions. At first the committee decided to have it refurbished however it is beyond that. Our chairman found a local company in his area to quote for a replacement and the committee have placed an order.

The first two rallies of the year are on campsites with EHU hope to see you then. Take care, stay safe, regards Squezzebox.

SERG The selected European rally group, arrived in Moreton in Marsh on Sunday 17th October, all 15 motorhomes parking up at the local cricket club, and all staying for 3 nights and best of all having the use of the club house.

On Monday at 3pm we had the AGM. The committee all stood down and was all voted in again, and this was followed by the members meeting. At 6pm, the committee served up 30 meals they had prepared for everyone, so no wonder they had all been voted back in!

Tuesday was the local market day, so no doubt everyone spent a pound or 2 there. In the evening, the committee provided cheese, wine, several hard quizzes, and a raffle. On Wednesday, everyone left for home in the morning, after saying their goodbyes to the other members. >> January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 37

GROUP NEWS SEVERN VALLEY Despite very cold, wintry conditions, a great time was had at the Royal Oak, much marcle for the Christmas rally – the final rally hosted by the outgoing committee.

36 vans attended, 1 Lancashire, 1 East Midlands, 3 Avon and 31 Severn Valley. There was live music and dancing on Friday night. Many travelled to Ledbury on Saturday for a visit to the shops. Pubs and restaurants and on Saturday night, members enjoyed live music, a three-course Christmas meal, wine, coffee and mince pies. On Sunday, there was a coffee morning hosted by the new committee and the opportunity for new committee members to be introduced, followed by the usual raffle.

SW PENINSULA

07722 885018

Wishing everyone a happy and peaceful new year.

It was a shame the November 2021 Christmas Shopping rally at Cofton was cancelled by the site, due to Covid. However, we're currently negotiating with them for our Christmas Dinner Rally in December.

We joined up with West Country who hosted the 2021 Christmas Dinner rally at Riverside Caravan Park, South Molton. SWPG members Cheryl and Alan were among those who attended and a big thanks to them for writing the following snippet on the rally: “The Christmas Rally, organised by the West Country group, was a great success. Despite the cold and wet weather, approx 46 vans turned out to participate, 8 of them from SWP. There was a quiz organised for Friday afternoon and a disco for the evening. The meal on Saturday night was good, although the service was a little slow at times, the carvery was excellent. There were very good raffle prizes and at least 3 came home with the SWP. Special thanks go out to Sandra and Graham from the West Country group, who made us so welcome at the meet and greet. We’re looking forward to the rallies in 2022. Happy New Year to all.”

At the time of writing, a provisional rally programme for this year is on our website. As with last year, some sites are unable to commit themselves, due to the ongoing pandemic, however a full programme will be sent out to all SWPG members during the early part of this month (January). In the meantime, here's a list of confirmed rallies: 20-23 January, Fox and Hounds, Okehampton, EX20 4HF, hosts Mel and Pete Maddocks.

25-28 March, Watergate Bay Holiday Park, Newquay, TR8 4AD. 7-11 April, Trevornick Holiday Park, Holywell Bay, TR8 5PW. 5-9 May, Carlyon Bay St Austell, PL25 3RE. 1-6 June, Home Farm Blue Anchor, Minehead, TA24 6JS, hosts Barbs and Ray Noble, Christine and Mick Ellis. 21-27 June, Lady’s Mile, Dawlish, EX7 0LX, hosts Julie and John Rowntree. 1-4 July, Higher Harlyn, 38 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

Padstow, PL28 8SG. 15-18 July, Stithians Lake, Redruth, TR16 6NW, hosts Sally and Ian Lewis. 5-8 August, Mt Edgcumbe,Torpoint, PL10 1HZ, hosts Margaret and Bob Phillimore. 22-25 September, Globe Vale Holiday Park, Redruth, TR16 4BH. 13-17 October, Trevarrian Holiday Park, Mawgan Porth, TR8 4AQ, hosts Your Committee.

If anyone would like to put their name down to host, please let any committee member know. You only need to collect rally fee envelopes but can organise ‘games, etc’ if you wish. You have a free pitch and may arrive at the rally the day before. Barbara, Secretary.

Upcoming TCs: Fox & Hounds, Okehampton, EX20 4HF, 20-23 January, cost £15 pupn (NO EHU, however this can be arranged separately with the pub), Burns Night Haggis Supper and Skittles competition, bookings taken from 20th December, 2021.

S&W WALES Hello again. As I write this, another named winter storm is raging outside, our ‘Peggie’ is wintering on our drive with her frost heater keeping her warm and the sunny rally days of summer seem a long way off. There are no rallies to report on so to cheer you up I have a message from our Chairman: Hi to all you S&WW members. The last two years have been hard times for all of us but, hopefully, it looks as if we are coming to terms with it all. We have been able to rally and meet up with old friends we have not seen for some time, and to make friends with our new members and hope our numbers will grow in 2022. The programme for this year is exciting with 18 rallies in a fabulous variety of venues and your committee is there to support you throughout.

I hope you all had a good Christmas and are ready for future adventures. I'd like to wish you all a very happy and healthy new year and am looking forward to seeing you again at our forthcoming rallies. Meanwhile keep safe, with best wishes Betty Bishop.

Upcoming TCs: 11-13 February - Pencoed School, Bridgend, CF35 5LZ - Valentine Weekend - Professional entertainment on Saturday evening. Starts 5pm. 4-6 March - Princess Gwenllian Centre, Kidwelly, SA17 4UL, St.David’s Day weekend. Starts 5pm.

SUSSEX A Happy New Year to everyone, I hope that you all had a Merry Christmas and are now looking forward to the new motorhoming season. Let’s all make 2022 a year to remember.

Our November rally at Rodborough School was hosted by Marge and Stan Tutton, with 12 units, including visitors from Kent, Essex and West Wessex.

A big thanks to all who helped to make it a great time.

The weekend entertainment was supplied by Mandy Beeke, including a raffle, music quizzes, music and dancing. Mandy also introduced a self funding surprise parcels game, with everyone a winner. It was so much fun that by popular demand it was played again on Saturday evening. I’m sure this game will be repeated at future rallies. Well done Mandy!

On Saturday, members were able to take the bus into nearby Godalming and Guildford for a little retail therapy or just a mooch around, then back to the school for a cream tea in the hall. The following day saw our chairman, Gordon Bennett, lead the coffee morning, following two minutes silence for Remembrance Sunday. A great time was had by all, so special thanks to our hosts, helpers and Mandy for their fantastic efforts.

Don’t forget to check the rally diary on the MCC website or Facebook page for Sussex MCC for details of any upcoming rallies. Remember to volunteer as hosts or helpers to make these extra memorable. Jo Smaje The 2022 season begins with a Day Meet on Sat 8 January at Dial Post Village Hall, RH13 8NJ, with home made soup and rolls. A printed programme of the year’s events for our group will be available to our members but don’t worry, if you can’t attend, it will be posted to you ASAP. Stay safe, healthy and happy.

WEST COUNTRY The West Country Group held their Christmas Party at the Riverside Caravan Park from Friday 3rd to Sunday 6th of December. The weather was cold with showers of hail wind and rain, which did not stop us enjoying ourselves.

A large number of us had a great meal on the Friday night which overwhelmed the kitchen as they didn't expect so many customers, the Disco entertainment was excellent and had been booked for the Saturday night as well.

A superb carvery was served for our Christmas party followed by the disco for the rest of the evening.

Everyone agreed it was a great evening and we all gave thanks to our rally officers Jenny and Jim Tenn-Bokkel for all the hard work they had put into the Christmas venue.

The venue is now booked for the 2022 Christmas Party.

On Sunday, we met in hall to enjoy a coffee morning and raffle, a great many prizes were to be had. A total of 48 vans attended, 23 West Country Group, 16 Avon Group, 8 SWP and a new member.

Our next meeting is at Riverside CP South Molton EX36 3HQ from 10-13 February. The booklet will be sent out as soon as it is finished printing for the rest of the sites booked next year.

All the members of the committee would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and Happy New Year.

WEST WESSEX I am taking over as scribe from Dave and would like to thank him for his many years of finding something interesting to say each month, especially during the pandemic when very little was happening! He always managed to produce an engaging, often humorous, read and I know he’ll be a hard act to follow.

Our TCS at Weymouth Rugby Club was well attended and the weather stayed fine all weekend, although a little chilly at times! There were 10 vans from West Wessex, 10 from West Country, 8 from Avon and 1 from Sussex. It was good to meet up with members from other groups and made for a lively weekend, catching up with old friends.

Many of us walked through the country park and along the seafront to Weymouth town centre; some caught the bus into town or into Dorchester.

The warm sun on Friday made it an ideal time to explore nearby Lodmoor Bird Reserve, where Marsh Harriers and a variety of other birds could be seen when walking around the reed beds. Every evening a murmuration of hundreds of starlings arrived over the site and danced in the sky above the motorhomes to entertain us before settling in the reed beds for the night. On Friday evening, we were treated to a meal in the club house before wrapping up warmly and going to watch the firework display in the bay. After a quick change of plan due to rugby spectators, on Sunday morning we gathered for ‘Chitchat’ and the raffle by Andy and Gill’s van before packing up and heading home or to other venues.

Our excellent hosts once again ensured that everything ran smoothly and that we all had a really good weekend - Thank you, Gill and Andy. Thanks also, to everyone who attended, for your part in making this such a successful and enjoyable time.

Our New Year’s TCS, at St. Michael’s School, Wimborne, will be reviewed next month.

Andy, our Rally Officer has managed to produce a full and varied programme for the year and is still looking for a suitable venue for Burns or Valentines Weekends so keep an eye on our website.

The first confirmed TCS of 2022 is at South Lytchett Manor, at Lytchett Minster near Poole (BH16 6JB) on 17-20 March. This is a full facilities site with bus stops at the gate to Poole, Wareham, Dorchester and beyond and nice, quiet lanes to explore with the dog. Please book with Pete & Carole on 07586 292985. If you're unable to attend a TCS that you've booked, please be sure to let the host know so that they don’t sit all day waiting for you to arrive.

The West Wessex Committee wish all members a happy and healthy 2022 and look forward to seeing friends, old and new, at our meets this year. Maria >> January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 39

GROUP NEWS YORKSHIRE 20 vans made it to Barnoldswick in what looked like being a wet weekend. One couple stopping off on the way home in East Anglia.

On Friday evening, many piled into the clubhouse for some much needed refreshments and drinks.

The Rolls Royce Social Club put on a quiz with prizes.

Unfortunately, none of our teams won the main prize of a bottle of wine. We all had to make do with a packet of sweets.

Although it rained for much of Friday and into the night, Saturday was bright and sunny. This gave the opportunity for the adventurous to see the area. Some ventured out on their bikes (electric for some), caught the bus into Skipton or walked long distances to find a pub for lunch.

The photographs show some of the stunning scenery around Barnoldswick. The walks along the canal affording brilliant views in the sunshine.

On Saturday evening, the Social Club again had some entertainment on in the club house. On Sunday, many stayed for Sunday Lunch before heading homeward.

Upcoming TCs: 21-23 January Rolls Royce Club BB18 6HJ. 11-13 February Wetherby Racecourse LS22 5EJ. 11-13 March Hawes auction mart DL8 3NP.

CONTACTS FOR RALLY ENQUIRIES 1 West Country James Ten-Bokkel 01271 346577 westcountry.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 2 Sussex Marilyn Harris 07886 531696 sussex.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 4 Kent Fil Wellard 07831 659951 kent.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 6 Essex Carole Thorne 07702 423845 essex.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 7 Anglia Teresa Poole 01473 424330 anglia.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 8 East Wessex Tony Wickham 01962 865522 or 07802 321304 eastwessex.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 9 Chiltern Sharon Heritage 07786 397092 chiltern.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 10 East Midlands Brian Burridge 01623 467094 eastmidlands.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 11 Severn Valley Allen Warren 07724 654719 severnvalley.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 12 NW Mids & NW Michael Hastilow 07756 074777 nwmidsnwales.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 13 Lancashire Brian Proctor 07725 254814 lancashire.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 14 Yorkshire TBC yorkshire.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 15 N. Counties Dave Hird 07896 146785 northerncounties.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 16 Scotland William Christie 07494 442538 scotland.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 17 West Wessex Andrew Mundy 07746 058602 westwessex.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 18 Avon Roger & Rowena Moulding 07966 398518 avon.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 20 SWP Barbara Noble 07722 885018 swpeninsula.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 21 S&W Wales Keith Howard 07791 524227 swwales.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 22 Nene Valley Denis Rappitt 07484 314514 nene.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 23 Isle of Wight Andrew Clapp 07449 028225 isleofwight.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 24 N. Ireland TBC northernireland.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 40 The rest of Europe 42 Ireland As N. Ireland Group 24 53 SERG Andrea Barker 01914 104227 serg@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk 54 Motorcycle group Tina Botterill 07946 596059 motorcycle.rallyofficer@themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk

Yorkshire Group: stunning scenery around Barnoldswick 40 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

HOLIDAY PARK

Superbly presented, fully serviced pitches provide the perfect base for exploring Cornwall, just a short drive from Newquay. The park offers touring pitches with hardstanding, water, electric and chemical/toilet waste outlet and parking for your tow car. If you are looking for an idyllic holiday park with fantastic countryside views and a restaurant on-site, get in touch today.

01872 510716 www.carvynick.co.uk Summercourt, Newquay, Cornwall, TR8 5AF

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F FF FOORREESS T T FF II EELLDDS S T HT EH EG GAATTEEW TO OW WAAL EL SE S WA AY Y T

Wake up to this unique rural area in the Heart of Wales. Our awardwinning site is perfectly situated as a base for adventures with access roadsrural through theinbreathtaking scenery. those Wakefantastic up to this unique area the Heart of Wales.For Our awardwho like toispitch up and situated stay put you'll bebase in the for middle of our 500-with winning site perfectly as a adventures acre farm; with woodland, waterfalls, open moorland, lakes and fantastic through breathtaking For those walksaccess to localroads pubs to explorethe straight from yourscenery. pitch. Dogs very who welcome. like to pitch Openup alland year.stay put you'll be in the middle of our 500-

acre farm; with woodland, waterfalls, open moorland, lakes and walks to local pubs towww.fforestfields.co.uk explore straight from your pitch. Dogs very welcome. Open all year.

www.fforestfields.co.uk January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 41

OUT & ABOUT

Wash The

Hunstanton to Banham Distance: 69 miles Driving time: 1 hr 51 mins Recommended travel time: 1 Day Known for: As one of the Great British Drives, the Wash Way is the perfect route to explore everything that Norfolk has to offer. At this time of year roads will be quieter, meaning you can explore at your leisure.

The route The route will begin in the seaside town of Hunstanton, famous for its sheer striped cliffs and beautiful coastal location. Even at the beginning of your drive, you may be tempted to stop off and admire the picturesque fields of Norfolk Lavender (if visiting in the warmer months), which is just 2.5 miles away from your start point.

From Hunstanton, there’s a pleasant drive southward towards Sandringham. The drive itself is fairly straightforward, with no 42 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

This month we venture to the county just across from our publishing offices here at Motor Caravanner. With charming countryside, a visit to some Norfolk towns, and a drive through Thetford Forest, this route will showcase everything there is to love about the East of England.

Way

dangerous areas or hairpin bends to watch out for. Instead, you can enjoy a relaxing drive through the Norfolk countryside, with green fields stretching along both sides of the road.

Just under 9 miles into your journey, you’ll find the road taking you past Sandringham Estate.

Widely recognised as one of the Queen’s much-loved homes, Sandringham is the favoured residence of the Queen during the Christmas period. You can take a look around Sandringham Gardens, or even pre-book a visit to Sandringham House itself. There is also a 600-acre Royal Park with both woodland and parkland trails

Sandringham House

Hunstanton

if you’re feeling up for a leisurely stroll.

Just a couple of minutes from Sandringham Estate, you may also want to stop off for a walk at Dersingham Bog, a beautiful woodland area and a registered Site of Special Scientific Interest.

The site itself is just under 400 acres, so it’s perfect whether you want a long woodland hike or just a small stroll to stretch your legs.

There are a couple of parking options to choose from: Scissors Car Park, or the slightly further Wolferton Car Park.

Your route will continue towards the town of King’s Lynn, famous for its maritime heritage and >>

Pinecones Pinecones Caravan & Camping

Caravan & Camping

Op Open en all all ye year ar

Pinecones

• Private bathrooms • Luxury pitches/ • Private bathrooms • Luxury pitches/ camping pods • Shop/launderette/ camping pods • Shop/launderette/ washing up • Woodland walks/cycling Caravan & Camping washing up • Woodland walks/cycling • Children’s play area • Free Wi-Fi • Children’s play area • Free Wi-Fi

Tel:Op 01485 en 544224 Tel: 01485 544224 www.pineconescc.co.uk all www.pineconescc.co.uk ye ar E: info@pineconescc.co.uk E: info@pineconescc.co.uk

• Private bathrooms • Luxury pitches/ camping pods • Shop/launderette/ washing up • Woodland walks/cycling • Children’s play area • Free Wi-Fi

Tel: 01485 544224 www.pineconescc.co.uk E: info@pineconescc.co.uk

Set off for a Norfolk adventure • • • • • • •

XL hard-standing and grass pitches with 10amp hook up Designated accessible pitches and facilities Heated shower rooms and toilets Undercover Games Den and Children’s Play Trail Dog friendly Free WiFi Pub, butcher & deli, takeaway, grocery shop and Banham Zoo all within a 5min walk

Call us on 01953 715319 or email info@applewoodholidays.co.uk

Camping Los Gallardos

Since 1991, we’ve been your home in Mojácar

Get ready for a relaxing schedule of events under the Spanish sun as we enjoy life in the best winter climate in mainland Europe!

Camping Los Gallardos offers 125 camping pitches in a friendly, relaxed and peaceful setting.

The site is divided up into a series of terraces with plenty of trees, shrubs and hedges to provide privacy for campers. We have an onsite laundry as well as a well-stocked shop, which is open daily. Free WiFi is available in our restaurant to guests, and a WiFi network is available over the whole site for a small fee. Special nights are a regular occurrence in the Bar Restaurant Miraflores during the winter, and on Tuesdays we run a free shuttle bus to the weekly Los Gallardos market. Special short term memberships to the Almeria Lawn Bowling Club are available. Park homes available for short term lets. See our website for a price list.

Contact us today Phone: 020 8144 9364 www.campinglosgallardos.com January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 43

OUT & ABOUT

Oxburgh Hall

trading history. This is also home to St George’s Guildhall, the oldest theatre in Britain and registered as a Grade I listed building. The site, which has been used as a theatre since 1442, is now owned by the National Trust and will be open to the public again once it’s safe to do so. King’s Lynn is a good stop if you’re feeling peckish, with some fantastic seafood restaurants which will truly let you appreciate the town’s coastal location. It’s also a good place to fuel up if needed.

From King’s Lynn, continue your drive southward on the A10, then take the A134 towards Oxborough. The roads on this route are well-kept and easy to drive, with lovely scenic views of countryside fields and quaint country houses on either side. After just over 17 miles, you’ll reach Oxburgh Hall, a stunning 15th century country

house surrounded by a tranquil moat and exquisite gardens. The site contains plenty of parking, as well as a café and gift shop. It’s also owned by the National Trust, so you may need to book your visit in advance.

From Oxborough, prepare to move away from A-roads and enjoy some countryside driving through the northern part of Thetford Forest. Don’t worry, the road towards Brandon is generally wellkept, but it can be slightly narrow in places which is something to keep in mind. If you want to park

King's Lynn

up and explore Thetford Forest on foot, you could try a visit to High Lodge, located in the heart of the forest. Whether you’d like to take a relaxing forest walk or to try out a tree-top adventure course, this is a popular adventure attraction for those visiting Norfolk, with a host of fun activities to suit everybody.

Your route will continue through Thetford Forest, before taking you eastward towards the village of Banham. If you’ve got an hour or two to spare at the end of your drive, you could spend some time at Banham Zoo, a popular attraction and a great way to end your Norfolk journey.

Please note parts of this journey may not be suitable for motorhomes, please check route before departing.

This article was kindly supplied by Heritage Car Insurance, www heritagecarinsurance.co.uk Thetford Forest

Banham Zoo

Are you driving illegally?

When did you last check your motorhome weight?

Ministry figures suggest up to 80% of motorhomes may be operating overloaded!

Drive an overloaded motorhome and you not only risk a fine, you also risk your insurance and the safety of you and your passengers!

When looking to buy your next motorhome, insist on an accurate, up-to-date weight ticket!

The brochure may state a MIRO or payload allowance, but these figures can be out by as much as 5% (average 125kg).

This is more likely to be against you than in your favour, so it is always recommended that you visit a weighbridge to check your vehicle’s weight.

Need to uprate to carry more payload?

If you think you might have a payload issue, we can help.

SvTech is able to increase/uprate the payload allowance on many makes and models.

Behind the scenes of every SvTech uprate, testing of a vehicle is carried out to create a ministry recognised test report, which is then use to cover subsequent uprates. This report and testing is vital in supporting an uprate, and is a legal requirement. Do not be fooled into thinking it’s just a paperwork exercise, as offered by others.

Reaching 70? Need to consider downrating?

SvTech can downrate your motorhome to 3500kg should you not pass, or wish to take, your medical. You must first weigh the motorhome to find out what payload you will have available at 3500kg. For further guidance on downrating please visit our website at www.svtech.co.uk/motor-home-downrates To promote road safety, SvTech designed a free-to-use, Load Distribution Analysis (LDA) program which helps the user to know their likely laden weight and how best to position their goods about the vehicle to avoid an axle overload. Please visit our website www.svtech.co.uk/lda to find out how you can stay safely within your vehicle limits.

For any questions regarding these matters, please contact 01772 621800 or email, webenquiries@svtech.co.uk

NATIONAL RALLY 2022

Three National trips to enjoy Middleport Pottery Located in the heart of Stoke-onTrent’s world famous potteries, Middleport Pottery is the only remaining Victorian pottery in continuous production. It is home to the Burleigh pottery range. This is a half day tour: the coach will leave after 9am and return to the showground around 2pm. The visit will consist of a heritage trail (including the Victorian offices, steam engine, Grade 2 listed bottle kiln, bath house and Europe’s largest ceramic design archive) and a tour of the factory to see how Burleigh ware is made, using production methods unchanged for 130 years. Also on-site, you can visit Craft Studios, a factory shop and Canalside Tea Room.

Lymestone Brewery This is a half day visit, leaving at after 9am and returning by 2pm.

Lymestone Brewery is a family run micro-brewery based in Stone, Staffordshire, located in the old Bents Brewery in the heart of this market town. It was founded in 2008 by Ian Bradford, who is best known to everyone as ‘Brad The Brewer’, and his wife Viv, who takes care of the business behind the scenes and keeps everything running like clockwork. Brad has a wealth of experience having been in the brewing industry for 30 years and is now training the next generation, as working alongside him is his daughter Sarah. Between them they have created a portfolio of traditional beers under the Lymestone name.

During your visit Brad will talk about the history of the building and the business and brewing methods involved. You will also have chance to enjoy Lymestone cask ales as there is an open bar where you can try all the beers on offer and a stew for your lunch.

46 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

Victorian shopkeeper (above) entering a greengrocers shop and a candle making demonstration (left) at Blists Hill Victorian Town.

Blists Hill Victorian Town Blists Hill Victorian Town is an open-air museum built on a former industrial complex. Take a walk back in time savouring the sights, sounds and smells of a Victorian town in the late 19th-20th century.

Authentic shops can be found along the High Street and Canal Street, chemist, butchers and a grocers to name but a few. A bakery is situated on Quarry Bank. You can exchange your modern money at the bank into pounds, shillings and pence. Treat yourselves to traditional fish and chips, or a bag of 19th century sweets. Take a look around the iron works where they produced pig-iron 1832-1911. Railway enthusiasts can find narrow gauge and standard gauge down Canal Street.

So much more to see and do. This is a full day visit.

ONLY

£5 EACH

Order your commemorative t-shirt T-shirts for the Diamond Jubilee can be pre-ordered using the National Rally booking form (see p48).

Don't miss out... order today!

Collection at the National.

Come and Help us Celebrate 60 Years of

THE MOTOR CARAVANNERS’ CLUB Staffordshire Showground Weston Road, ST18 0BD 9th June - 14th June 2022 Entertainment Friday Evening

Triple Cream Musical Comedy

Saturday Evening

Chuckletruck Party Band

Monday Evening

The Replays

Middleport Pottery

Historic Brewery Tours

half day trip

Blists Hill Victorian Town

Peaky Blinders set: Series 5

full day trip

Lymestone Brewery half day trip

Coach Excursions

Hits from the Sixties!

Victorian Town open-air Museum

THE MOTOR CARAVANNERS’ CLUB INVITES YOU TO JOIN YOUR FRIENDS TO CELEBRATE OUR

2022 DIAMOND JUBILEE AT THE NATIONAL RALLY AND AGM 5-NIGHT RALLY Staffordshire Showground, Weston Road, Stafford ST18 0BD Thursday 9th-14th June 2022

BOOKING FORM Number of nights 5 nights £90 per unit 4 nights £72 per unit 3 nights £54 per unit

Single occupancy 5 nights £77.50 per unit 4 nights £62 per unit 3 nights £46.50 per unit

Coach trips all on Friday Middleport Pottery £25 per person Lymestone Brewery £30 per person Blist Hill/Ironbridge £25 per person

The above rally fees are for two adults, extra adults incur a cost of £2 per person per night.

Lead adult

No Adults

No Children

2nd Adult

3rd Adult

Names & age of children

Address

Membership No

Postcode

Group

Group to park with

Is your vehicle more than 9mtrs long?

Tick if this is your first National or Rally Disabled Parking Area

Tel No.

Van registration

n

n Badge Ref No

(only needed if parking in disabled area)

EHU for medical need only is available in Disabled Parking Area only at £6 per night. Tick if req n Long EHU cables may be required Date arriving

Middleport no of seats

EHU remittance due: £

Date leaving

Lymestone no of seats

Pre-order T-shirts £5 each S

Rally fee due £

Coach fee due £

Total No. of nights

M

L

XL

Blist Hill no of seats

XXL

XXXL

T shirt fee due £

Total payment due (rally fee + coach trips + EHU + T-shirts): £ Payment: 1. Online booking form on the MCC website – www.themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk – pay by card at the time of booking.

2. By Post: send your completed form to: The Motor Caravanners’ Club Ltd, Wood Farm Estate, Marlbank Road, Welland, Malvern, WR13 6NA giving your telephone number. The Office will contact you for payment by bank credit or debit card. CONTACT NUMBER Closing date: Thursday 26th May 2022 (booking forms or cancellation refunds will not be accepted afted the closing date) Signature

Date

Even if you have not pre-booked, you are still welcome to come and pay on arrival at £20 pupn

CLUB NEWS

Casual campsites return for 2022 A special price of £20 pupn inclusive of hook-up. Full payment in cash to be paid to hosts on arrival at MCC reception, not the site.

This is an early spring CCS to dust off the winter blues, in a lovely part of the country with some pretty villages within walking distance; bring your wellies or walking boots to get out and enjoy the area either on foot or bikes. Bus stop easy walk from site entrance into Tewksbury where buses can to be taken to other towns making good use of your bus passes.

To book please email me at annbond83@gmail.com. Names, membership number, vehicle registration, van length, any pets, dates required. As no deposits are taken and we only have limited places, please check your 2022 diaries before booking.

Ann Bond reports

T

he first campsite of 2022 will see us return to Gloucestershire from 25 March to 8 April at Croft Farm Water Park, Bredons Hardwick, Tewksbury, Gloucester Gl20 7EE. Arrival from 12 noon, departure by 12 noon.

Unfortunately this will still have to be bookable due to site preference.

Booking from 25 March to 8 April (2 weeks) or one week – 25 March to 1 April or 1 April to 8 April.

Full facility site, the bar and restaurant is open from Friday to Sunday, also club room and bar will be open to us on Wednesday evening (own drinks not allowed).

All pitches have 10 amp hook-ups, max of 2 pets per van.

I have 50 pitches in total,

Croft Farm is ideal for exploring the Forest of Dean (above).

30 hard stand for heavier vans for which you will need heavy pegs for awnings etc and 20 on grass fronting roadside so no problem as it's well drained ground. Pop-ups are allowed.

C SE OV CU ID RE

LeoBay Campsite

Highfield, Rushenden, Alsager Avenue, Queenborough, Kent ME11 5LA

A CAMPSITE WITH A DIFFERENCE...

LeoBay is quite unique as it is a campsite with fitting facilities, so if there’s that little something you need doing from replacing a bulb to a complete conversion we do it all. Our experience goes back 40 years.

Our core experience is in auto electrics and vehicle security as well as vehicle diagnostics, we use factory diagnostic software to solve your problems. Trained in both vehicle and mains voltages we can also inspect and test your mains hook up too! Gas that’s no problem either! Now there’s a service that makes life simple, so next time you need help, come and stay at LeoBay, a nice cuppa on arrival, we will sort your problems while you relax on our 1st class site. There’s even a courtesy vehicle to use during your stay at LeoBay! LeoBay is a site in a million, completely built by us and independent, so all are

welcome whether you’re a club member or not. We have drawn on our 25 years as motorhomers, collating all the best bits from the many sites we have visited over the years. The pitches are all wide hardstanding, with a 10amp hook up and your own grass area to spread out on, the site sits up on a hill over looking the sea with amazing views. On site facilities include a unique summer kitchen, where everyone can chat, relax and eat under cover, there’s a barbeque and pizza oven for you to use, or sit and relax by the open fire with a bottle or two. We like to make sure you’re warm and comfortable so the shower block is heated, with two large rooms, and to top it off the gardens are just splendid. Pets are welcome; the dog walks along the shore are great, there’s plenty of wildlife to watch. So as you can see it’s well worth a visit at just £18 per night all in.

For more info or to book call us on 07899 927467 visit the website www.leobay.co.uk or email steve.leobay@gmail.com January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 49

SERVICING DI AVON

M&D SERVICES LTD Unit 1 Balaclava Road Ind Est, Bristol BS16 3LJ T: 01179 651900 F: 01179 650651 E: tony@mdservicesltd.co.uk

BEDFORDSHIRE

JUST GO MOTORHOME SALES & SERVICE Redhill Farm, Harlington Street, Toddington, Bedfordshire LU5 6HF T: 01525 878000 E: enquiries@justgo.uk.com W: www.justgo.uk.com

CAMBS

PIONEER CARAVANS LIMITED Thorney Road, Eye, Peterborough, Cambs PE6 7UB T: 01733 222244 E: reception2@pioneercaravans.co.uk

CHESHIRE

A&E LEISURE LTD Unit 51/56 Cosgrove Business Park, Daisy Bank Lane, Anderton, Northwich CW9 6FY T: 01606 973005 E: service@aeleisure.co.uk W: www.aeleisure.co.uk NORTH WESTERN CARAVANS LTD Earl Road, Cheadle Hulme, Cheadle, Cheshire SK86 QE T: 01614866055 E: info@northwesterncaravans.co.uk

ESSEX

SG SERVICING Saffron Walden CB11 3UG T: 01799 541642 or 07875 260862 E: steve@sgservicing.co.uk

WINSOR GARAGES LTD Ford Road, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 3DS T: 01255 222110 E: winsorgaragesltd@btconnect.com W: www.winsorgaragesltd.co.uk

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

KENT

MOTORHOMES REPAIRED Unit 26, Lamberhurst Farm, Dargate, Nr Faversham ME13 9EP T: 01227 751300 E: info@motorhomesrepaired.com W: www.motorhomesrepaired.com

NEWENT AUTO CENTRE Newent Business Park, Newent GL18 1HP T: 01531 828001 E: newentauto@yahoo.co.uk W: www.newentauto.co.uk

TOMSETT KENT Church Farm, Church Lane, Stockbury, Sittingbourne, Kent ME9 7RD T: 01795 841007 E: admin@tomsettkent.com W: www.tomsettkent.com

HAMPSHIRE

MERSEYSIDE

ADAMS MOREY LTD Third Avenue, Millbrook, Southampton SO15 0LD T: 023 8079 9550 E: gary.morrison@adamsmorey.com W: www.amvans.co.uk

SPENCER & GILBERT 3 St Lukes Road, Southport, Merseyside PR9 0SH T: 01704 531398 E: spencerandgilbert@gmail.com

YEW TREE WORKSHOPS Fawley, Southampton SO45 1BX T: 023 8001 0029 E: stuart.yewtree@outlook.com W: www.badminstongroup.co.uk

CROWN GARAGE Newton St Faith, Norwich NR10 3LG T: 01603 898253 E: enquiry@thecrowngarage.com W: www.thecrowngarage.com

HERTFORDSHIRE

HITCHIN LEISURE SERVICING The Rose Garden, Cambridge Road, Hitchin SG4 0JX T: 01462 421443 E: hitchinleisure@yahoo.co.uk W: www.hitchinleisure.co.uk

IRELAND

DONAGHEY MOTORHOMES Drumnahoe, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, Ireland T: 00353 7491 29235 E: info@irishmotorhomes.com W: www.donagheymotorhomes.ie

NORFOLK

SIMPSONS GARAGE (GT YARMOUTH) LTD Suffolk Road, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR31 0LN E: service@simpsons-skoda.com W: www.simpsonsmotorhomes.co.uk

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

ROCKINGHAM CARS FIAT Cockerell Road, Phoenix Parkway, Corby NN17 5DU T: 01536 268991 E: phil@rockinghamcars.co.uk W: www.rockinghamcars.co.uk

• No job too big or small • Mechanical & Habitation • Servicing for any make, model or age Motorhome

Telephone 01386 853511

www.au

DIRECTORY

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SCOTLAND

CULLODEN SERVICE STATION LTD Barn Church Road, Inverness, Inverness-shire, Scotland IV2 7WB T: 01463 792979 E: cullodenservicestation@gmail.com W: www.cullodenservicestation.com DONALD MACKENZIE LTD Authorised Fiat dealer 62 Seafield Road, Inverness, Inverness-shire IV1 1SG T: 01463 235777 E: fiatserviceinverness@gmail.com MOTORHOME REPAIR CENTRE 253 Blairtummock Rd, Glasgow G33 4ED T: 0141 773 1212 F: 0141 771 1999 E: info@motorhomerepaircentre.com NEWTON GARAGE LTD 14 The Wisp, Edinburgh EH16 4SQ T: 0131 669 6336 E: newtongarage@aol.com NORTH ROAD GARAGE Great North Road, Kelty, Fife KY4 0HW T: 01383 830404 E: sales@northroadgarage.co.uk W: www.northroadgarage.co.uk SHERIFFMILL MOTOR COMPANY LTD Sheriffmill Road, Elgin, Moray IV30 6UH T: 01343 547121 or 01343 547378 E: info@sheriffmill.co.uk

SOMERSET

CARAVAN & MOTORHOME SOLUTIONS Littlecombe garage, Touches Lane, Chaffcombe Road, Chard TA20 1RY T: 01460 63320 E: caravanmotorhome@btconnect.com W: caravanmotorhomesolutions.co.uk

SOUTHWEST MOTORHOMES Southfields Enterprise Park, Unit 1, Jordans Road, Ilminster, Somerset TA19 9FF T: 01460 57524 E: service@southwestmotorhomes.co.uk W: www.southwestmotorhomes.co.uk

STOCKPORT

PINNACLE MOTOR ENGINEERING Gordon Street, Stockport SK4 1RS T: 0161 480 0397 E: info@pinnaclemotors.net W: www.pinnacle-motors.co.uk

SUFFOLK

SHARMAN CARAVANS Habitation services to all motorhomes and campervans – AWS approved workshops.

Colchester Road, Ipswich IP4 4RU T: 01473 713284 E: sales@sharmancaravans.co.uk W: www.sharmancaravans.co.uk

SURREY

ELMWOOD VEHICLES LTD Motohome Servicing & MOTs 278 Kingston Road (rear of petrol station), Epsom, Surrey KT19 0SH T: 0208 394 2847 E: info@elmwoodvehicles.co.uk W: www.elmwoodvehicles.co.uk

SUSSEX

CARAVAN TECH SERVICES LTD (Bailey, Swift and Adria) London Road, Hurst Green, East Sussex TN19 7PN T: 01580 860260 E: shop@caravantech.co.uk W: www.caravantech.co.uk

Auto-Sleepers

MOTORHOMES OF EXCELLENCE

JC LEISURE Lifestyle Park, Harbour Road, Rye TN31 7TE T: 01797 227337 E: service@jcleisure.co.uk W: www.jcleisure.co.uk PREMIER MOTORHOMES Premier Business Park, Main Road, Birdham, Chichester, West Sussex PO20 7BU T: 01243 511189 E: service@premiermotorhomes.com W: www.premiermotorhomes.uk RELIANCE CARAVAN & MOTORHOME SERVICES Units D1-D3, New Barn Offices, Funtington, Chichester, West Sussex PO18 9DA T: 01243 940050 E: enquiries@reliancecms.uk W: www.reliancecms.uk

WALES

MOTORTORQUE Unit 3 Castle Way, Severnbridge Industrial Estate, Portskewett, Caldicot, Gwent NP26 5PR T: 01291 422094

WORCESTERSHIRE

AUTO-SLEEPERS LTD Orchard Works, Willersey, Nr Broadway, Worcestershire WR12 7QF T: 01386 853338 W: www.auto-sleepers.co.uk

bitation Servicing • Accident & Insurance Repairs orhome or Caravan • Fully Qualified mechanics

w.auto-sleepers.com/servicing

Auto-Sleepers

MOTORHOMES OF EXCELLENCE

Winter

maintenance Although we all know that the weather here in the UK is famously unpredictable, January and February tend to be our coldest months, with the chances of encountering frost, ice and snow most likely.

During this period, you may decide you want to store your motorhome until the sun shines once again, or you might want to ‘carry on camping’. In either scenario, there are several things you will need to consider to ensure that your ‘van stays in tip top condition during the harsher conditions or while it is not being used.

Staying in - winter storage Storage location

Will this be at home on your driveway, in your friend’s garage or in a specialised storage facility?

In all circumstances, you’ll want to think about the security measures in place to deter thieves and whether you need to invest in an extra security camera or a tracker 52 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

device for peace of mind. If you’re using a specialised storage facility, it’s worth checking if they have power if you want to keep your battery on charge.

Down the drain

Any water left in your ‘van could cause frost damage, damp or

mould issues – not what you want to be faced with come spring!

Ensure you drain down the whole system, including the water heater, shower head and taps, and then try to encourage as much air flow and ventilation as possible by leaving interior cabinet doors open.

Continued overleaf

FAMILY RUN AND INDEPENDENT

Tel: 01823 665474 info@applecampers.co.uk

www.applecampers.co.uk 29 FOXMOOR BUSINESS PARK

WELLINGTON

SOMERSET

e: info@aeleisure.co.uk w: www.aeleisure.co.uk

TA21 9RF

powrtouch

CARAVAN & MOTORHOME

Solutions 01460 63320

www.caravanmotorhomesolutions.co.uk LITTLECOMBE GARAGE, CHAFFCOMBE ROAD, TOUCHES LANE, CHARD, SOMERSET TA20 1RR

LITTLECOMBE GARAGE, CHAFFCOMBE ROAD, TOUCHESCENTRE LANE, CHARD, SOMERSET TA20 1RR CENTRE SERVICE REPAIR BODYSHOP REPAIR MotorhomeSERVICE Servicing Motorhome/Caravan REPAIR CENTRE Motorhome Habitation Checks Bodyshop & Smart Repairs Motorhome Servicing Caravan Servicing & Repairs Shower Tray & Sink Repairs Motorhome Habitation Checks Satellite Systems Gaslow Free Estimates Caravan Servicing & repairs Gas It Solar Panels Approved Bodyshop Satellite Systems Gaslow Motorhome/Caravan Valeting

Gas It Solar Panels

caravanmotorhome@btconnect.com Motorhome/Caravan Valeting January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 53 BODYSHOP REPAIR CENTRE

Motorhome/Caravan

East Anglia’s Largest Motorhome Retailer

Comprehensive, caring, vehicle service centre

Motorhome Servicing, MOT & Repairs In our purpose-built workshop at our Great Yarmouth showroom

Electric & Hybrid

Hydrogen Hy-Carbon Cleaning

Engine Diagnostics

Motorhome Servicing

Fast Fit Tyres

MOT

Call Brinley or Jane in our Service Department to arrange your next servicing or repair job Motorhome Repairs

Air Con

www.simpsonsmotorhomes.co.uk

Call us: 01531 828001 www.newentauto.co.uk

Suffolk Road • Gt Yarmouth • NR31 0LN 01493 601696

Newent, Gloucestershire GL18 1HP

023 8001 0029 Badminston Lane, Fawley, Southampton SO45 1BX

Motorhome servicing & MOTs Servicing & Repairs Tyres & Wheels Air Conditioning Diagnostics Courtesy Cars Collection & Delivery 54 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

Motorhome Servicing, MOT and Repairs Pinnacle Motors specialise in motorhome MOTs, servicing and repairs at our VOSA licenced MOT station and garage facilities at our premises on Gordon street in Stockport. Our fully trained staff will offer complete advice on any problem you may have with your motothome. We also offer a collection and delivery service.

0161 480 0397 www.pinnacle-motors.co.uk Gordon Street, Stockport SK4 1RS

WINTER MAINTENANCE Interior maintenance

Firstly, you need to empty out any valuables, perishables, linens, clothes, the fridge and anything else that could be damaged if being stored for a long period of time. Use this as an opportunity to then give your ‘van a good deep clean so it’s spick and span for your next outing. Check all electrics and fixtures are in good working order.

You could also spray a little WD-40 on hinges and locks to prevent any rust or corrosion.

Going out - winter checklist If you plan on continuing to tour even when the weather outside is frightful, follow this checklist to ensure your travels stay smooth regardless of the temperature: Always check your exterior lights and wipers are in good working order for driving in darker/stormier conditions Consider fitting winter tyres for better handling and safety in ice or snow Stay warm – pack a heater, extra blankets and wear layers to keep things toasty Stop external fresh water tanks from freezing by fitting water tank covers Make use of external screen covers to stop heat escaping through windows Keep anti-freeze and de-icer handy for frosty mornings Fit fridge vent covers if necessary to prevent draughts To avoid getting stuck in mud or snow, pack some grip mats for an easier getaway Don’t forget a torch so you can easily find your way back to your ‘van in unlit areas

Exterior maintenance

Top up any fluids that will be left in the motorhome, such as engine oil and fuel. Give the tyres a good check over for signs of damage and ensure they are inflated to the maximum level. Apply a coating of wax to your ‘van’s exterior to protect it from the elements if storing outside – alternatively, using a breathable cover can help reduce the effects of mould and algae (but they can be quite laborious to put on!).

Get the engine running

Ideally, once a month you should either take your ‘van for a short drive or run the engine for a short while to prevent any issues from it being stationary for too long. You could also move it slightly forwards or backwards so that it isn’t resting on the same patch of tyre for too long.

January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 55

FOOD & DRINK

Neeps & tatties soup

Burns night

Serves 2 Ingredients 25g butter ¼ tsp ground coriander 1 onion, chopped 200g swede, peeled and chopped into small pieces 1 carrot, sliced 1 celery stick, thinly sliced 140g potatoes, chopped into pieces Good grating of nutmeg 400ml milk 140g cooked haggis or black pudding, chopped into pieces 2 tbsp double cream A few celery leaves, torn Method Melt the butter in a large saucepan over a medium heat. Add the coriander and the vegetables, fry for 4-5 mins, then cover with 400ml water and bring to the boil.

Cook until all the vegetables are soft – around 20-25 mins.

Season with salt, pepper and nutmeg, then add the milk.

Transfer to a blender or blitz with a stick blender until smooth, then return to the pan to heat through.

Check the seasoning, add a little more salt and nutmeg if you like.

Meanwhile, heat the cooked haggis or black pudding in a frying pan until sizzling. Serve the soup in bowls and top with the haggis or black pudding, a swirl of double cream and the celery leaves.

56 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

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Enjoy a taste of Scotland this Burns Night (25th January) with these delicious recipes

Cranachan Serves 4 Ingredients 2 tbsp medium oatmeal 300g fresh British raspberries A little caster sugar 350ml double cream 2 tbsp heather honey 2-3 tbsp whisky, to taste Method To toast the oatmeal, spread it out on a baking sheet and grill until it smells rich and nutty. It will not darken quickly, so use your sense

of smell to tell you when it is nutty enough. Cool the oatmeal.

Make a raspberry purée by crushing half the fruit and sieving.

Sweeten this to taste with a little caster sugar. Whisk the double cream until just set, and stir in the honey and whisky, trying not to over-whip the cream. Taste the mix and add more of either if needed.

Stir in the oatmeal and whisk lightly until the mixture is just firm.

Alternate layers of the cream with the remaining whole raspberries and purée in 4 serving dishes.

Allow to chill slightly before eating.

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•S •F •S •C •A •M •S •R •I •J

Motorhome Towbars | Accessories | Levelling | Satellite TV | Air Conditioning

by Truma | Air Suspension Systems | Mobile 3G/4G/5G WiFi Systems

Fitted Hydraulic Motorhome Levelling System by Ma-Ve Ma-Ve (an Aphiam company) manufacture hydraulics for levelling your motorhome easily and safely.

Several hydraulics are placed at strategic points on your motorhome and at the press of a button, your motorhome will level itself perfectly and retract when required. We fit the Ma-Ve motorhome levelling solution at our Lincoln location.

We’ve always found Ma-Ve to be the motorhome lovelling manufacturer committed to creating the highest quality products. They are designed to last a long time, as a result of the enormous passion and commitment from Ma-Ve to make amazing products.

Achieve 5-Star Comfort with a Hydraulically-Levelled Motorhome Our fitted motorhome levelling solution will brighten your holidays by offering 5-star comfort in your motorhome.

The benefits of hydraulic motorhome levelling: • Simple levelling at the push of a button • Fully automatic hydraulic levelling jacks • Sturdy and vibration-free position • Change any tyre easily • Additional theft protection & piece of mind • Maintenance-free with 3 year warranty • Safety feature prevents driving off with hydraulic jacks deployed • Ready for immediate use • Improved waste water drainage from sink and shower • Jacks are retracted hydraulically, preventing them from getting stuck in mud.

Give us a call today to discuss your motorhome!

£4,750 inc VAT

01522 524444

info@lincolntowbarcentre.co.uk www.lincolntowbarcentre.co.uk/motorhome-options/motorhome-levelling

Unit 14 Churchill Business Park, Sleaford Road, Bracebridge Heath, Lincoln, LN4 2FF Hours: Mon-Fri: 9am-6pm | Sat: By appointment | Sun: Closed

MOTORHOME MOBILITY

Enjoy the

great outdoors without limits

Wheelchair accessible motorhomes

H

aving a well-deserved trip away has been challenging or near impossible for all of us over the last couple of years.

However, as the world opens up again, many of us can jump on a plane or book a last-minute hotel without any real consideration. If you or a member of your family has a disability or other mobility issue you will probably know that it isn’t so easy. Whether your concerns are the heavy, bulky but essential

equipment you must travel with, or a fear the facilities that are advertised as being 'wheelchair friendly' aren’t quite so practical.

An alternative that many families are turning to is an accessible leisure vehicle. A motorhome can provide a solution; to meet your family's exact needs, to allow everyone to enjoy their free time the way that they want to, to experience and enjoy life outdoors, travelling wherever you want to go with independence and with ease.

But how do you begin to fit all your needs within the shell of a motorhome? Brook Miller Mobility explains more.

What is possible?

Wheelchair accessible lifts The most popular access option is an underfloor wheelchair lift, 58 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

controlled via a wired remote control, with wireless options available. They are easy for both a wheelchair user or carer to operate and stow away discreetly underneath a vehicle when not in use.

Access Ramps Wheelchair access ramps can be used for access into van conversion motorhomes and are a very cost- >>

MOTORHOME MOBILITY

Driving adaptions A wide range of driving adaptions are available to enable a wheelchair user to be the driver of their motorhome. These include hand controls, steering aids, and adaptions to the seating to assist with transfer.

effective options for wheelchair access. A telescopic or folding ramp can be easily stowed away when not in use.

Wide access entry doors Custom wide entry doors can be fitted to new vehicles with the necessary strengthening addressed during the vehicle build. Van conversion motorhomes have the wide entry van sliding side doors.

Internal mobility equipment Hoists are the most requested piece of mobility equipment. The hoist rail support system is built into the structure of your leisure vehicle’s roof during the build. A hoist can assist with transferring a wheelchair user from their chair onto a shower chair for example and can really help protect and prevent against injuries for carers and family members.

Accessible wet rooms and toilets Modern, luxurious wet rooms with wide door access. Grab rails and support systems can be fitted, plus toilets compatible with shower chairs.

Profiling electric beds Most types of hospital style beds can be fitted, including profiling electric beds with options including adjustable back rests, knee break and height adjustability to provide the same requirements you have at home in your new home-fromhome.

"A motorhome can provide the perfect solution to experience and enjoy life outdoors."

Wheelchair tie downs For a wheelchair user who wishes to travel in their wheelchair, wheelchair tie downs can be fitted, including both driver and passenger positions, compatible with a wide range of chairs. Alternatively, if the wheelchair user will transfer into a travel seat, a range of storage restraints are available to secure the chair during travel.

Are you ready for an accessible adventure?

At Brook Miller Mobility, as well as the range of wheelchair accessible vehicles for motability or private customers, they also provide a bespoke service to assist with the design and custom build of motorhomes.

Did you also know that Brook Miller’s range of motorhomes are available VAT free subject to a VAT exemption form being completed, making it a more affordable option than you may think.

Brook Miller Mobility, Unit 1A Elland Lane, Elland, West Yorkshire, HX5 9DZ. Phone 0800 064 4454 or visit: www.brookmiller.co.uk January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 61

Tea break teasers See page 65 for solutions

14

Codeword

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Crack the code and fill in the grid.

Each letter of the alphabet is represented by a number from 1-26.

Two letters are given as a starter, can you decipher the rest of the code to discover all the words?

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62 MOTOR CARAVANNER January 2022

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The objective is to fill a 9x9 grid so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 3x3 boxes contains the digits from 1 to 9. A cell is the smallest block in the game.

A row, column and region consists of 9 cells and the whole game consists of 81 cells.

6 9 4

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Quick Crossword

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17 Decreased (7) 19 Covering for a building (7) 20 Cocktail (7)

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Anagram Crossword Just like normal crosswords – except that each clue is an anagram of answer.

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2 Responsive to drugs (7) 3 Midday (8) 4 Musician who could play the Moonlight Sonata (7) 5 Drunkards (4) 6 Musical performance (7) 7 Tranquil (6) 8 Cushion for kneeling (7) 13 Poaches with a torch (5) 15 Substantial (8) 16 West Atlantic island country (7)

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1 German liqueur (8) 2 Burden excessively (8) 10 Self-important (8) 11 Travelling case for clothes (8) 12 Refrain voluntarily (7) 13 Gambling game (4,4) 14 Private feud (8) 18 Acts (8) 21 Bald (8) 23 Black magic (7) 24 I o W town (8) 26 S taple of Mediterranean cooking (5,3) 27 Goodbye (8) 28 Charismatic (8)

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7 Rioting (7) 8 Grubs (5) 9 Boats (5) 10 Direr (5) 11 Atone (5) 12 On me (4) 14 We lob (5) 17 Fares (5) 20 Yelp (4) 23 Snark (5) 25 Easel (5) 26 Pipes (5) 27 Crete (5) 28 Two-tier (5,2)

Down

1 Bio lab (6) 2 Racine (2,4) 3 Taste (5) 4 Artist (6) 5 Badger (5,1) 6 Cowers (6) 8 Bore on (6) 12 Mao (3) 15 Low (3) 16 Rarest (6) 17 Deltas (6) 18 Do flea (6) 19 Snowed (6) 21 Papery (6) 22 Does in (6) 24 Grips (5)

January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 63

Campsite Directory CAMPING & TOURING PARK IN THE GARDEN

OF ENGLAND

• Outstanding facilities • Hardstanding pitches for motorhomes and caravans • Riverside fishing (seasonal) • Grass and electric pitches • Family park/ childrens entertainment • Restaurants, cafes and pubs on site FROM JUST

£20

Camping Camping Los Los Gallardos Gallardos R.T.A: AL-4-04-0017

R.T.A: AL-4-04-0017

in in sunny sunny Almería, Almería, Spain Spain Europe’s Europe’s sunniest sunniest spot! spot!

www.CampingLosGallardos.com www.CampingLosGallardos.com www.CampingLosGallardos.com AAAfamily 22 campsite in familyrun runcategory category 2 campsite in family run category campsite in the the south of near AA peaceful the south of Spain near Mojácar.

A south of Spain Spain near Mojácar.

Mojácar. peaceful peacefulcampsite community campsite which community which boasts community campsite which boasts bowling bowling boasts bowling greens,and busy bar, full greens, busy restaurant greens, busy bar, bar, restaurant and shop, shop, full restaurant and shop, full services services including UK TV hookup and much services including UK TV hookup and much including UK TV hookup and much more. more. Full Full service service pitches pitches available. available. more. Full service pitches available.

PER PITCH/ NIGHT

01622 870838 www.hopfarm.co.uk

Call Call +(34) +(34) 950 950 528 528 324, 324, email email or or facebook facebook

Widdicombe Farm In the English Riviera

T: 01803 558325 E: info@widdicombefarm.co.uk W: www.widdicombefarm.co.uk

Glen Nevis Caravan Park

BEN NEVIS

YOUR PITCH?

glen-nevis.co.uk

holidays@glen-nevis.co.uk

01397 702191

Ashbourne | Derbyshire

camping | touring | self catering Just 2 mins drive from the lovely market town of Ashbourne. Ideal base for exploring the Peak District.

Coarse fishing lake. Direct access to the Tissington Trail cycle route

www.callowtop.co.uk 01335 344020

Family-run park overlooking Port-Eynon Bay. We have pitches for motorcaravans, tourers and Glamping Pods as well as self-catering bungalows. Within walking distance of the beach. Clubhouse with licensed bar serving meals. Wi-Fi. Grocery shop and laundrette. Outdoor heated swimming pool. Children’s play area. Tennis court. Booking is advised for Bank/school holidays.

www.bankfarmleisure.co.uk enquiries@bankfarmleisure.co.uk Tel: 01792 687205 Bank Farm Leisure Park, Horton, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LL

Highfield Farm Touring Park

DISCOVER THE LANDSCAPE TREASURE THE MEMORIES CAMPING IN EVERY SEASON

BOOK NOW FOR 2022

Tel 01305 782575

www.bagwellfarm.co.uk Chickerell, Weymouth, Dorset DT3 4EA

A quiet, beautiful touring park located just five miles from Cambridge.

Set in attractive undulating countryside, the area boasts a variety of attractions, from ancient buildings to wildlife parks.

Tel/Fax: 01223 262308 www.highfieldfarmtouringpark.co.uk Long Road, Comberton,Cambs, CB23 7DG

7 DAY SPECIALS FOR OVER 50S

“Possibly the friendliest adult only caravan site in Suffolk” Riverside is a quiet, secluded countryside park. Convenient for easy access to the beautiful South Hams’ beaches, Dartmoor National Park, Cornwall and Brittany Ferries port.

T: 01752 344 122 E: office@riversidecaravanpark.com www.riversidecaravanpark.co.uk

www.runcottage.co.uk Call 01394 411 309 info@runcottage.co.uk

• Site open all year • A large family run touring park • A collection of self catering cottages and static caravans • Seasonal, heated enclosed outdoor/indoor swimming pool • Children’s play area • State of the art over 18s health club with gym, adult indoor pool, steam room and sauna • Coffee house serving refreshments • Bar and takeaway with entertainment Charmouth, Dorset DT6 6QL | 01297 560226 www.manorfarmholidaycentre.co.uk

Bazaar

Private sale advertisements ACCESSORIES KAMPA MOTOR RALLY XXL PRO AIR 330 with removable net curtains, used twice. DOUBLE ACTION KAMPA HAND PUMP used twice. LARGE GROUND MATTING used twice.

Will accept £450. Poor health has necessitated the sale of our lovely motorhome. Buyer collects please.

Tel 07910 873020 (Spalding) FOUR STROKE PETROL GENERATOR brand new still in the box, now not required. Cost over £450, looking for £350 ONO. Tel 07951620746 (Warwickshire) FIAMMA BIKE RACK PRO-C, new condition. £150 ono. Tel 07982 666339 (Suffolk) AIR SUSPENSION UNITS TO SUIT FIAT DUCATO. Used for 200 miles.

For sale due to van change. £350.

Tel 01935 840301 – Will post at cost (Somerset)

Tea Break Teasers

WINTER TYRES ON STEEL RIMS to fit Fiat Camper 2006 model 215/70 R15. £200. SILVER SCREEN (OUTSIDE) TO FIT 2006 FIAT HYMER A CLASS 544 £15. Tel 07708 032621 (Lincs)

Quick Crossword Across: 1 Schnapps, 9 Overload, 10 Arrogant, 11 Suitcase, 12 Abstain, 13 Liardice, 14 Vendetta, 18 Performs, 21 Hairless, 23 Sorcery, 24 Yarmouth, 26 Olive oil, 27 Farewell, 28 Magnetic.

Down: 2 Curable, 3 Noontide, 4 Pianist, 5 Sots, 6 Recital, 7 Placid, 8 Hassock, 13 Lamps, 15 Concrete, 16 Bahamas, 17 Reduced, 19 Roofing, 20 Martini, 22 Rammed, 25 Holm.

SPARE WHEEL FOR DUCATO MOTORHOME with tyre, THERMAL WINDSCREEN COVERS for A Class, PAIR RAMPS, TABLE & CHAIRS, CABLES & EUROPEAN FITTINGS, BARRELS & HOSES. For prices, call 01233 732051 (Kent) MOTORSTEP see YouTube video, £500. Tel 07474 786705 (Essex) AUTOGAS 2000 LIGHTWEIGHT ALLOY REFILLABLE GAS BOTTLE 11kg with instructions £100, CADAC SAFARI CHEF BBQ £30 and DUCATO MIRROR COVERS used for one month.

Excellent condition £30. Tel 07940 817854 (Bristol)

(from p62)

Anagram Crossword Across: 7 Ignitor, 8 Burgs, 9 Boast, 10 Rider, 11 Eaton, 12 Omen, 14 Elbow, 17 Safer, 20 Pyle, 23 Ranks, 25 Lease, 26 Pepsi, 27 Erect, 28 Write to.

Down: 1 Bil Bao, 2 Incare, 3 State, 4 Traits, 5 Gradeb, 6 Escrow, 8 Borneo, 13 Moa, 15 Owl, 16 Arrest, 17 Salted, 18 Foaled, 19 Endows, 21 Yapper, 22 Edison, 24 Sprig.

Codeword 14

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Club members are entitled to a FREE classified lineage advertisement of up to 30 words. To be included, please send your listing along with this form to: Motor Caravanner, Countrywide Publications, Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6DH or email: bazaar@ themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk. If you wish to include a photograph, please enclose a cheque for £12 inc vat payable to Countrywide Publications.

Please indicate whether your item is:

FREE ADVERT

FOR SALE

WANTED

ADVERT WITH PHOTOGRAPH (£12 inc. VAT)

I enclose my cheque payable to Countrywide Publications (please write name and address on back of cheque) PLEASE NOTE: • Advertisements will be placed in the next available issue.

• Emailed listings that include photos will not be used until the cheque is received.

• Listings will not be used unless a valid membership number is provided

Name: Address: Postcode: Telephone: Club membership number:

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Sudoku Medium No.339

Sudoku – Medium 3 8 1 9 5 4 7 2 6

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Sudoku Hard No.315

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January 2022 MOTOR CARAVANNER 65

Classifieds

& SERVICING ut 1 06/01/2014 REPAIRS 12:48 Page 1

AW Motorhome Replacement Body Panel Specialists • Rear Bumpers • Corner Panels • Fairings • Shower trays/sinks • Side Skirts • Wheel Arches • Motorhome Body • Repairs & Remoulding

• Obsolete Panels • Insurance Quotes • Trims • Fast Service • Swift, Hymer, Ci, Rapido etc • Most Motorhomes • Competitive Prices • DIY & Trade

Email: awmarine@btinternet.com Phone: 01268 680606 www.motorhomebumpers.com The Marina, The Point, Canvey Island, Essex SS8 7TJ

TYRESAVE .co.uk Tel: 07831 365 412 www.tyresave.co.uk We are based in Deeside, North Wales, close to Chester, Cheshire and the Wirral.

Enhance and smarten your Motorhome with Alloy Wheels.

15” and 16” heavy duty wheels to fit most vans from £440 for 4.

We can supply by Mail Order or fit in our tyre depot near Chester.

See our website for more choice.

Accident Repair Specialists

Specialists

Insurance approved specialist motorhome repairers and re-finishers since 1987 ist motorhome s since 1987 ACCIDENTAL DAMAGE REPAIRS INSURANCE CLAIMS E REPAIRS HABITATION SERVICING AIMS All makes & models catered for VICING

Make this space work for you Call Danny on 01502 725862

tered for 170 Stafford Road, Cannock, Staffs, WS11 4AH

Tel: Tel: 01543 01543 572686 572686 www.motorhomerepairs.co.uk www.motorhomerepairs.co.uk affs, WS11 4AH homerepairs.co.uk

MOT’s. repairs and servicing to all makes of Motorhomes Habitation Inspections carried out

RUBBER SEALS

NEW CATALOGUE ISSUE 16

M & D SERVICES (BRISTOL) LTD. Unit 1 Balaclava Road Industrial Estate (off Ridgeway Road) Fishponds, BRISTOL BS16 3LJ

SOLVE YOUR SEALING PROBLEMS MARINEINDUSTRIALCARAVANAUTOMOTIVE

Tel: 0117 9651900 Fax: 0117 9650651 Email: tony@mdservicesltd.co.uk

Rubber seals and trims for caravans & motorhomes FREE, fully illustrated catalogue Please visit our website or call

01425 617722

Seals+Direct Ltd, Unit 6, Milton Business Centre Wick Drive, New Milton, Hampshire BH25 6RH Email: sales@sealsplusdirect.co.uk

MARINEINDUSTRIALCARAVANAUTOMOTIVE

www.sealsdirect.co.uk

REPAIRS & SERVICING

Motorhome insurance

£295 +

01422 396 742

Please mention ‘Motor Caravanner’

www.caravanguard.co.uk/mc

Caravan Guard Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

WANTED

si

nc Es e t.

19 77

MERIDIAN MOTORHOMES

Quality Motorhomes & Freedom Caravans Bought and Sold

SELLING YOUR MOTORHOME OR CARAVAN?

Tel: 02380 405122 Top prices paid • Professional, family-run dealership “We BUY motorhomes & caravans that are up to 10 years old”

www.viscountleisure.co.uk • Southampton SO31 8BN

HOYLES

DENHOLME

MOTORHOMES, MOTORHOMES, CAMPERS & 4X4S CAMPERS & 4X4S TOP PRICES PAID TOP PRICES PAID

We can come to you Cash, Bankers We canDraft comeortoBank you Transfer Cash,Contact BankersTim Draft or Bank Transfer Hoyle Anytime

Call 01502 725862 to advertise

01274 832836 07786 735544

WILKINS

MOTORCARAVANS

Established in the Cotswolds (Glos.) since 1970.

MOTORHOME HIRE www.meridianhire.com

01243 572672

Unit 7 Church Farm, Old Park Lane, Bosham, Chichester, PO18 8EX

info@meridianmotorhomes.com www.meridianmotorhomes.com

ALL MAKES AND MODELS CONSIDERED

UK’S BEST BUYER • INSTANT NO RISK BANK TRANSFER PRIOR TO COLLECTION • IMMEDIATE VALUATION COURTEOUS EFFICIENT SERVICE • FREE NATIONWIDE COLLECTION • OUTSTANDING FINANCE SETTLED Motorhome Sellers Advice Line Members.

01274 832836 •07786 735544 Contact Tim Hoyle Anytime

Newly appointed Adria Action (lightweight caravans) and Freedom Caravans Dealer for Southern England

As a national leading multi branch retailer we appreciate the opportunity of buying your motorhome. If you choose to sell outright we will ensure you achieve the top price for your vehicle with recognition for extras fitted and careful ownership.

Call Rob Kirk or Andy Spencer NOW!

FREEPHONE 0800 652 4026 Check out our customer testimonials on the website:

www.m-d-g.co.uk

Open 7 days a week.

SELLING YOUR MOTORHOME? You could be £1,000s better off.

For details and advice about our highly successful brokerage service.

Call us, it will be worth it!

01285 821216

See us at: www.wilkinsmotorcaravans.co.uk Email: sales@wilkinsmotorcaravans.co.uk

Cornwall Commercials

For the recovery and transport of motorhomes and RV’s (by Low-Loader) Towing Service for Caravans and Boats on Trailers

UK and Europe 01579 340790 For more information please refer to our website www.cornwallcommercials.co.uk

INTRODUCTORY OFFER

FOR CLUB MEMBERS

£25 OFF

your motorhome or campervan insurance with Motorhome Protect Call us on

01865 818 345 With the code ‘CLUB25’ *Terms and Conditions apply

MOTORHOME INSURANCE YOU CAN TRUST Available Benefits at a Glance

365 days EU Cover* Self-build & DIY conversions Club member discounts Introductory NCB allowed

motorhomeprotect.co.uk

UK & EU breakdown cover Unlimited mileage Personal effects cover Excellent Service

/Motorhomeprotect

* Policy benefits, features and discounts offered may vary between insurance schemes or cover selected and are subject to underwriting criteria. Motorhome Protect is a trading name of Insurance Factory Limited who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (No. 306164). For mutual security, calls are recorded and may be monitored for training purposes.

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