Catch up on previous news from the world of touring caravans

June

Tickets On Sale for International Caravan & Motorhome 2010
2010 has seen endless air travel chaos, making a staycation holiday more attractive than ever before. Get some inspiration for year round travel in a caravan or motorhome at International Caravan & Motorhome 2010. Taking place at Birmingham’s NEC, from 12-17 October, tickets are on sale now.

There are more companies than ever before and the NCC and other experts will be on hand giving advice on a variety of topics. 

Tickets can be booked on the website or by calling the ticket hotline number  0844 412 4639.

May

Caravan Club extends Wi-Fi coverage across its sites network
The Caravan Club is doubling the number of sites offering wi-fi coverage and upgrading the service at existing ones.

Once the installation programme is complete, a total of 60 Club sites will be connected, allowing members to check emails, travel and weather forecasts, access local tourist information and find out about events taking place in their holiday region, using their laptops.

Discover Leisure launch special edition Compass ‘Venture’ range
An exclusive range of special edition Compass touring caravans are available at all Discover Leisure dealerships around the UK.

Discover Leisure and Elddis have worked together to create a new family touring caravan collection. The range has a contemporary look and feel. Prices start at £11,999.

For further details on the Compass Venture range, contact Discover Leisure on 0845 1200 173 or visit the website.

Online tyre safety advice for caravanners
To coincide with the start of the 10th annual National Camping and Caravanning Week (29th May – 4th June), TyreSafe has launched a new section on its website dedicated to caravan tyre safety. They provide technical tips and information to help keep you safe and legal on the roads.

Visit the TyreSafe Website for more information.

April

Camping and Caravanning Club launch new website
The Camping and Caravanning Club has launched an exciting new website.

The new site features informative new content and allows visitors to bookmark the website using popular social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter.

March

Swift launch social networking website – Swift Talk
Swift Talk is the new hub for the Swift community online. A place for all those united in their love of touring caravans to share their experiences, meet new friends and find out information on how to enjoy their touring lifestyle.

Swift Talk is the first place to learn about new product launches, events and Swift Group news, it’s also the first place you can go to as a quick reference to frequently asked questions or to actively take part in the forums.

Anyone who owns, uses, or is thinking of buying a Swift touring caravan, or would just like to be part of the growing Swift community is actively encouraged to sign up, create their own content, and start talking!

Visit the Swift Talk website.

Parkdean launches new online booking system
Parkdean has launched their new online booking system which uses 4 simple steps to book touring pitches for any of their 11 touring parks directly from their website. www.parkdeanholidays.co.uk »

Bailey adds new layout to Pegasus range
Bailey of Bristol has added a new family layout (based on the popular Senator Carolina) to its Pegasus range with the introduction of the Pegasus 646. The Pegasus 646 is the first caravan to incorporate the state of the art Alu-Tech construction system. It is supplied with a market-leading 10-Year body shell integrity guarantee and is built to Grade III standard of Thermal Insulation allowing you to use it all year round. The Pegasus 646 will be on display for the first time at the Boat & Caravan Show, NEC, Birmingham (Stand 5292 Hall 5).

Elddis Autoquest 115 wins MMM award
The Elddis Autoquest 115 has been named winner of the Budget Front Lounge Coachbuilt of the Year by Motorcaravan Motorhome Monthly (MMM), the UK's best-selling motorcaravan magazine at its prestigious 2010 Awards.

Lunar releases two new models
Following their first showing at the NEC exhibition in February, Lunar will release two new models, the Quasar 556 and Lexon 570 6 berth caravans on single axles.

Thetford introduces toilet fresh-up set for used caravans
Thetford has introduced Fresh-up Set, the first and unique toilet set that gives second-hand touring caravan buyers the chance to make their used toilet as good as new. Click here to find out more.

The new Bailey Olympus range
The Olympus range is the the second Bailey range to feature the Alu-Tech bodyshell construction system. It will debut at the Boat and Caravan Show, NEC, Birmingham (Stand 5292, Hall 5), with display models arriving on retailer sites shortly afterwards. Visit the website to find out everything you need to know about the new model range.

Caravan bonanza - 3,000 sold in less than a week
£15,000, meant £45m was spent. Clarion, organisers of the show, have confirmed that it was the busiest ever with 78,000 visitors.

Record sales for Bailey and Swift at NEC show
The two market leaders in caravan manufacture, Bailey and Swift, both reported record sales at Birmingham’s NEC. Swift used the show to launch some new products and scooped several awards – the Sprite Musketeer TD won the Practical Caravan "Best Caravan for Small Families" award. With a lead in price of £11,295, it’s proving one of their best sellers, especially with families trying caravanning for the first time. See www.swiftleisure.co.uk »

Meanwhile Bailey launched its ground-breaking new tourer, Pegasus starting at a very competitively priced £14,995 There are lots of new things about this caravan: It has a 10-year body shell guarantee; it has achieved a very high thermal insulation rating, making it a year-round vehicle; the method of construction is new, with a timber-free body and panels clamped together to produce what Bailey claims is a considerably stronger shell than one manufactured using traditional methods. To find out more, visit the Bailey website »

Elddis goes short and light
Elddis is to launch three all-new models at the National Boat, Caravan & Outdoor Show (23-28 February 2010 at NEC Birmingham).

The new line up will include Xplore 302 which the company believes is potentially the smallest touring caravan on the market. The all-new Xplore is nearly half a metre shorter than Elddis’ current smallest van, the Avante 362. This compact vehicle is targeted at caravan converts, upgrading from camping and trailer tents, but should also appeal for all ages looking for a lightweight tourer for weekend getaways. www.elddis.co.uk »

Sylvanian Caravan is among ‘dream toys’ this Christmas
’Tis the season to be caravanning? The Toy Retailers Association has released its list of 'Dream Toys', its prediction for this Christmas's best-selling toys. On the list is the Sylvanian families caravan (pictured) which is widely available from major retailers – at an RRP of £44.99.

Looking to find reliable caravan servicing?
It is important to look after your tourer or motorhome and when you have work done, you want to be sure that your vehicle has been serviced by trained and experienced professionals. The solution is to use an Approved Workshop – see the Approved Workshop website where you can search for your nearest fixed or mobile workshop. www.approvedworkshops.co.uk »

Christmas with the Clubs
The Caravan Club is keeping more sites open for longer this coming autumn and winter. In all, 80 sites are open into the New Year and over 50 will remain open all year round. They have produced a new 'Autumn and Winter Touring' brochure, which is packed with ideas, events and inspiring locations for members
- see The Caravan Club website »

Meanwhile, the Camping and Caravanning Club will have 24 of its sites open over the festive season, with the promise of plenty of seasonal cheer »

The best of the best in mid-Wales
Twenty-two parks in mid Wales been awarded the coveted five stars under the British Graded Holiday Parks Scheme. Mid Wales now boasts some of the finest caravan parks in the UK and provides an excellent base for touring.
To find out more about places to see click here »

49th National Boat Caravan & Outdoor Show
If you are looking to buy a new caravan you need to visit the 49th National Boat Caravan & Outdoor Show, held between 23 and 28 February 2010 at the NEC, Birmingham. The show will feature exclusive new Spring model launches from the leading caravan manufacturers, as well as all the latest 2010 model ranges.
www.boatandcaravan.co.uk »

Lottery winners still love caravans!
As the National Lottery approaches its 15th birthday, caravans remain one of the most popular purchases by Lotto millionaires. Have a look around our website to see why!

Revolutionary new caravan on show at the NEC
Bailey of Bristol is introducing its latest caravan at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre. The Bailey Pegasus features an all-new Alu-Tech body shell, with five body panels which are clamped together. This will make the caravan more waterproof and also warmer (it has achieved Grade III classification of EN1645-I).

Bailey is confident that the product can be used year-round and it is also offering a 10-year guarantee.

The range also features twin wet lockers with drainage (ideal for sports equipment) and an adjustable fixed-bed that can be converted into day time lounging space.

See caravans galore at Birmingham and Manchester
There are lots of great opportunities to see caravans coming up. The International Caravan and Motorhome show in Birmingham runs from 13-18th October, followed in January 2010 by the Manchester Central show. See www.caravanshows.com »

Then next year’s Boat and Caravan show will have the best outdoor adventure products on show between 23 and 28 February 2010 - again it is at the NEC. See www.boatandcaravan.co.uk.com »

Award-winning family caravan from Elddis
The all-new Elddis Crusader Tempest has won Best Family Caravan over £13,500 at the 2010 Which Caravan awards – find out more about the range and download a brochure at www.elddis.co.uk »

New Swift touring caravan models for 2010
New Swift models will be on show at the NEC, but you can find out more about the Swift, Sprite and Sterling brands at www.swiftleisure.co.uk/caravans » Prices start at just £10,795 for a brand new 2-berth Sprite – there’s a choice of layouts and lots of extras at an affordable price.

Golf is Caravan Club’s top tow car
Proving that you don’t have to be a big beast to be a great tow car, the Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0 TDI has become overall winner of the illustrious annual Caravan Club Towcar 2010 awards. The Golf beat off competition from established manufacturers like Volvo and Land Rover to take the prize. Read more here »

New dealers for Bailey of Bristol
Bailey has appointed five new outlets as retailers of its touring caravans, brining the total number in the UK and EIRE to just under 80. The new dealers include Broad Lane Leisure in Alcester, Warwickshire, Campbells Caravans at Lostock Hall, Lancashire and Leisure Kingdom in Hilton, Derbyshire.

Caravan diary published after 80 years
Compiled by famous First World War artist Len Smith in 1932, the recently-published diary, complete with photos and his drawings, records a journey through the English countryside in a caravan. A Caravan Holiday depicts the family’s travels with a dog called Rags and offers an insight into life in rural England between-the-wars.

The travellers were issued with the following rather quaint advice on how the caravan owner should approach a farmer: "Farmers as a class are extremely hospitable, but are often slow and careful in thought. Explain frankly what you want and let them see you understand country manners."


Top towcars
The 4x4 Volvo XC60 beat off tough competition to be the overall winner in the What Car? Practical Caravan and Camping and Caravanning Club's Towcar of the Year awards. Vehicles were put through a series of specially devised tests for stability, acceleration and braking and then assessed for practicality.

Proving that you don't have to be big and hungry to tow well, the VW Golf 2.0 TDI won the award for the best towcar under 1425kg and the green award. The judges praised its towing abilities, on road practicalities and value, as well as its low CO2 yields.

Look inside!
Discover why modern caravans are a real home-from-home. The new website from the Caravan Club features sample layouts and 360 degree tours that show just how well-designed and practical modern caravan are – see Caravan Club »

Get outdoors
The Camping and Caravanning Club has launched a new to camping campaign, incorporating information on all forms of outdoor holidays. See – Here »

... and get caravanning ...
A recent survey by travel insurer LV= revealed that caravanning and camping holidays are experiencing an unprecedented surge in popularity this summer as Brits seek value for money. LV= research found that nearly twice as many Brits (30%) are considering a camping or caravanning holiday this year compared to those who took one last year (17%).

Caravan Extravaganza at The Lawns in Hull
The Caravan Extravaganza gives enthusiasts from all over the UK their first opportunity to see the new season's models. A massive accessory shop is set up within The Lawns Centre; there is a funfair, children's playground and food stalls. See – Here »


Two new models from Coachman
Coachman's new 560/4 layout will offer 'the best in caravan luxury on a single axle – from a large lounge to a big kitchen that offers plenty of space for culinary creations.' This four berth layout even boasts a good sized end bathroom too!

The Pastiche 560/4 will be launched at the Lawns Show in Cottingham in September and the Amara 560/4 will be unveiled the following month at the NEC show.


Bailey of Bristol increases production
Bailey of Bristol is increasing production in response to rising demand for its touring caravans. Particularly popular are the new layouts in the Pageant Sancerre and the Senator California.


Remember the digital switchover for your caravan TV
The West Country has already gone 'digital' and Granada and Border regions are also scheduled for this year - caravanners are reminded they will need to ensure their TVs are usable. Digital UK has published a leaflet designed to help people retune their digital TV equipment so it continues receiving all available digital channels – see Digital UK »

Camp at the Country Festival
The Camping and Caravanning Club has teamed up with Live Promotions and Events Ltd who organise the Stoneleigh Park Country Festival (August 29 to 31). For the second successive year, The Club will operate the show campsite over the Bank Holiday weekend at the popular Warwickshire-based family show. Camping is on grass pitches only. Facilities will include on site toilets and showers, fresh water, and waste disposal.

Lights off!
A new innovate product for use in caravans and motor homes has recently been launched called Magic Blackout. It allows you to blackout caravan windows and reduce light, with or without blinds or curtains. See – Magic Whiteboard »


New show to feature caravanning
The new British Leisure show will be held on the banks of the River Thames, at the Royal Windsor Racecourse, from Friday 19th – Sunday 21st March 2010. It will feature a wide range of outdoor leisure products, including caravans and motorhomes.

Boom in caravanning
The NCC is reporting a boom in caravanning. Over Easter, some parks were nearly 100 per cent full and advance bookings have risen by anything up to 40 per cent. Caravan manufacturers are upping production again, after sales fell in the latter part of 2008. Dealers say the second hand market is lively, creating a shortage in some price brackets.

Bailey increases production
Tourer manufacturer, Bailey of Bristol, is increasing production in response to a surge in demand for its touring caravans.

Popular products include the Pageant Sancerre and the Senator California. The company also reports growth in the sales of its entry level Ranger and Ranger GT60 product ranges, as a shortage of used caravans has meant people are now trading up to a new model.

Caravan auctions increase in popularity
A recent specialised caravan sale at British Car Auctions (BCA) Measham attracted nearly 500 registered buyers and lots of interest in older caravans dating from the mid-1990s as well as later-built models.

A BCA spokesman commented: “These sales have always been popular, but the step up in interest this year has been exceptional.” For full details of forthcoming sales see the BCA website. Catalogues are listed at www.commercialauctionview.com. »


Two new models from Explorer Group
This summer, Explorer Group will be offering an all-New Elddis Odyssey 540 and Compass Omega 540 with 2010 specification. These single-axle tourers have fixed beds with memory foam mattress plus a luxury rear transverse washroom with walk-in shower. Other improvements include an entirely new body shell, LED mood lighting, new luxury interior design and new hardwood framed curved interior locker doors. Visit the Explorer Group Exporer Group website for more information.


The importance of insuring your caravan …
The NCC always recommends caravan insurance … just in case!
To read some of the funnier claims received by insurers TowergateBakers see The Times website »


New dealers for Coachman Caravans
Two new dealers have joined the Coachman dealer network – for details visit their website »

Lunar is 40 years old!

Lancashire-based Lunar Caravans is celebrating 40 years of operation with a commemorative brochure that can be downloaded from their website »


MINI and Airstream hit the surf
MINI have teamed up with Airstream and Republic of Fritz Hansen™, to produce a 6.8 metre-long Airstream trailer and a specially modified MINI Cooper S Clubman, which both feature custom-made interiors by premium furniture brand Republic of Fritz Hansen™.

The trailer and the MINI form a single unit, with the design drawing inspiration from the surfing lifestyle. It features bright colours, neopreme and even a built-in ‘sun-bathing bed’. The design also has a special roof rack that offers secure transportation for surfboards.


Join in National Camping & Caravanning Week...
Join in with thousands of outdoor enthusiasts on Spring Bank Holiday weekend. National Camping and Caravanning Week (NCCW), launched in 2001 by The Camping and Caravanning Club is a ‘celebration of camping, caravanning and outdoor activities’. See the NCCW website - there is also a special area of the site to help those new to camping.

Caravan Club ‘Discover Touring’ campaign
The Caravan Club has launched ‘Discover Touring’, a new marketing campaign to promote the benefits of touring in caravans and motorhomes. The campaign is supported by TV personality Carol Smillie – see the Discover Touring website »


Meet the NCC!
The National Caravan Council will be exhibiting at The Caravan Club National Rally at Prestwold Hall, Loughborough, over the May bank holiday (22 – 26 May 2009). Meet us on Stand 4 (by the main arena) - lots of helpful literature, including Towing Guides and information on the Approved Workshop and Certification schemes will be available.


Caravan Channel moves to Freesat 402
The Caravan Channel is broadcast at 7pm on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday on Information TV, Sky 166 and Freesat 402. For more information, or to watch online, visit the Caravan Channel website »

New show to feature caravanning
The new British Leisure show will be held on the banks of the River Thames, at the Royal Windsor Racecourse, from Friday 19th – Sunday 21st March 2010. It will feature a wide range of outdoor leisure products, including caravans and motorhomes.


Camping and Caravanning Club’s free information portal
The Camping and Caravanning Club is now offering a free information portal through Site Wi-Fi across its UK Club Sites network.
  
The portal will include region specific weather and travel, games, social-networking and competitions. An online forum is also planned, to allow Club members to interact with each other, post Site reviews and share information.
 
Campers can access the wireless ‘hotspots’ for a small fee ranging from £7 for a day to £125 for a seasonal pass.

Buccaneer Steals the Show
for Explorer Group
The all-new Buccaneer range
from Explorer Group, the UK’s
third largest manufacturer of touring caravans, has proved
very popular. Designed for the caravanning connoisseur, the Buccaneer combines heritage
and craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology and up-to-the-minute features. The 2009 Buccaneer 40th Anniversary Special Limited Edition range is available in 3 single axle and 2 twin axle layouts from £17,995, with a UK-wide retailer network. For your nearest Buccaneer retailer and for full product information visit www.explorer-group.co.uk »

Double delight for the Camping and Caravanning Club
The Camping and Caravanning Club had double cause for celebration recently after two of its Club Sites were honoured at Practical Caravan’s Top 100 Parks 2009 Awards Ceremony.

Voted for by the magazine’s readers, Bellingham Site, at the heart of the Northumberland National Park, was named the regional winner of the north-east England category and was also placed 7th overall. Frequent visitor to Bellingham, Susan Patterson, of Whitley Bay, said: “We visit this site regularly. We love the location but what makes it extra special is the warm welcome we get from owners Barry and Carole every time.”

Lauder Club Site, just south of Edinburgh, won the Scottish regional title and finished 11th out of 100. Regular visitor to the Site, Gordon Brand, from Carnoustie, was quick to sing Lauder’s praises: “Lauder is a quiet site with well-maintained facilities and friendly staff, and it is next to a superb local pub.”

Club Sites Tarland by Deeside in Aberdeenshire (30th) and Canterbury (63rd) also made the shortlist. Bath Chew Valley Caravan Park in Somerset was named as the overall winner.

Explorer Group holds prices
Explorer Group has announced that it will be holding its prices, saying: “Explorer Group has no plans to increase either touring caravan or motorhome prices. By maintaining our current price points, we are confident that our ranges continue to represent excellent value against competitor models."


Club at Dartmoor
The Camping and Caravanning Club’s new Dartmoor, Barley Meadow Club Site officially opened on Thursday, 12 March. The site offers 63 pitches and is set towards the east of Dartmoor National Park.


Caravan Club offers 260,000 pitch nights
The addition of nine new sites to the Caravan Club network means that they now provide over 260,000 pitch nights per year for members.


Exciting cooperation between three iconic brands
A one-off MINI Cooper S Club-man and Airstream creation designed by Republic of Fritz Hansen will be presented for the first time at the upcoming world-renowned Salone del Mobile show in Milan.
 
The MINI Cooper S Clubman will reflect the same adventurous personality and style with clean lines, bold colours such as lightning green and all the interior gadgets you can expect to find in a MINI plus more.

Drawing inspiration from the outdoor lifestyle of surfing, the Airstream interior will feature, amongst others, new interpretations of Arne Jacobsen’s Egg™ and Swan™ Chair and a table set up with four unique Series Seven™ chairs, allowing plenty of room for guests. Sleek wood panelling will top it off giving it the ultimate “modern surfer” look. The 22ft silver Airstream trailer will enjoy the same exterior details as the MINI but will have an interior designed for beach goers with features such as a waterproof interior and a sun bathing bed.

AA launches ‘value’ caravan insurance
AA Insurance has launched a new 'value' caravan insurance policy for caravans worth up to £10,000. Christened AA Caravan Essentials it is aimed at the average family owning a lower value caravan, used mainly for UK touring.


Caravan Channel grows
Britain's only continuously running outdoor recreational TV programme, The Caravan Channel, is growing in popularity.  "Over the past six months, there’s been a massive growth in viewer numbers, judging from the level of feedback we're getting," said producer and presenter Chris Gosling. "We have also noticed increases in our website counts.”

The Caravan Channel is broadcast four times weekly on Information TV, Sky channel 166 and Freesat 406, at 7pm. The programme plans to become weekly later this year.

New models added to Swift Charisma and Sterling Europa ranges
The Swift group are adding new single axle Charisma 550 and Europa 550 models to their range, providing customers with lighter, smaller versions of the popular fixed rear bed layout and opening it up to a wider range of tow cars.

The lounge area converts to a double bed, while the TV’s position on the side unit allows it to be faced towards the lounge seating viewed from the bed. www.swiftgroup.co.uk/caravans »

A new British caravan with family appeal
The new Amara 570/6 from Coachman has been designed and built with families in mind. The spacious, single axle design offers two living and sleeping areas - one for the adults and one for the children. A dedicated section at the rear has two fixed bunks and a seating area, together with its own TV point. This part of the caravan can be completely closed off, offering children their own room! The flexible, 2, 3 or 4-bed rear layout provides quality accommodation and plenty of storage for a family. The new Amara will be on dealer forecourts from May 2009.


New Airstream Bambi launched
The new Airstream Bambi travel trailer marks “the European debut of a design icon”. Airstream comments: “It’s one of our lightest Airstreams ever, allowing it to be towed efficiently by most midsize cars, with outstanding fuel efficiency. Airstreams are loved the world over, because Airstreams … put a smile on your face each and every time you see or use one.”

Inside the Bambi 422 a smart floor plan maximises space to include a spacious L-shaped lounge, mid-galley and end wash room including a shower cubicle suitable for six-footers and a vacuum flush toilet. Details of the new Bambi 422 and other trailers in the range are available by visiting www.airstreameurope.co.uk » or calling 015396 24141.


Free sticker: Go green, go British, go caravanning!
The third annual British Tourism Week (BTW) takes place from 23 - 29 March 2009, with His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales as Patron. Following the success of the last two years, which together saw over 200 events take place across the country, all caravanners are being urged to show their support for British tourism by displaying the ‘Go green, go British, go caravanning’ sticker, which is available free by emailing press@nationalcaravan.co.uk »


Caravans – a British love affair
Caravans have captured the hearts of British holidaymakers for over fifty years and on 25 February a new documentary for BBC Four, Caravans – A British Love Affair, told the story of our remarkable love affair with these ‘homes on wheels.’ Caravans have transformed the holiday habits of generations of British families. Once the plaything of a privileged minority, after the Second World War caravans went on to become a firm favourite with almost a quarter of British holidaymakers and, with many Britons now tightening their belts, their popularity is making a comeback.


Join in the fun during National Camping & Caravanning Week
National Camping & Caravanning Week (NCCW), running from Saturday 23 May to Friday 29 May encourages campers to get involved and keep fit and healthy with a range of outdoor pursuits.

The event, which coincides with the spring bank holiday, will give campers the chance to hike, bike, twitch or fish whilst visitors to Camping & Caravanning Club Sites will have the option of getting involved in Ramblers Association walks, Sustrans cycle routes as well as on-site games and fun. The National Camping Audit will again take place as campers across the country give the thumbs up to their favourite pastime. For more information on NCCW 2009, visit www.nccw.co.uk »


Simple insurance at a competitive price
Towergate Bakers, who won the 2008 Caravan Magazine ‘Best Top End Policy’ award, has launched a new ‘Essentials’ touring caravan insurance product. The new ‘Essentials’ product has been designed to appeal to first time caravanners, who do not have the benefit of a no claim discount entitlement, and to those with low to middle priced caravans, which generally have fewer security and safety features. For more information call 0870 9980201 or visit www.towergatebakers.co.uk »


Nine new Caravan Club sites
The Caravan Club has announced that nine new sites will be joining its network in 2009. The new sites are: Littlehampton Caravan Club Site in West Sussex; Lucksall Caravan and Camping Park in Herfordshire; Harbury Fields Farm Touring Park in Warickshire; Lyndford Caravan and Camping Park in Devon; Southland Caravan Club Site on the Isle of Wight and Rutland Caravan and Camping Site in Rutland. www.caravanclub.co.uk »


Keep in touch at Camping and Caravanning Club sites
The Camping and Caravanning Club will soon be able to boast wireless broadband (Wi-Fi) at 91 of its UK Club Sites. Powered by Wicoms Ltd, The Friendly Club hopes to have wireless connectivity at the Club Sites by April 2009. Once installed, ‘Site Wi-Fi’ will allow users to connect to the network via devices such as laptops and other wireless enabled devices. Campers will be able to access the wireless ‘hotspots’ at each site securely for a small fee or buy a seasonal pass.


New caravan manual – now out
The Caravan Manual offers advice on servicing, maintenance and improvements to your caravan as well as including details about the very latest models. It describes the vital maintenance tasks and repair work to keep a caravan in tip-top condition.

It includes information on towing and tow car adaptations; caravan chassis, running gear and tyres; body construction, repairs and maintenance; interior care, improvements and alterations; electricity, gas and water supply systems; improvement projects with case history examples; servicing and seasonal preparation; the latest regulations and their impact on caravan design. RRP: £17.99 ISBN: 978 1 84425 678 5


Trinny and Susannah rescued by Salop Leisure
Viewers of ITV1's 'Trinny and Susannah Meet their Match' on Tuesday 20 January will have seen the pair give makeovers to a group of women dog owners, trainers and breeders during a visit to Shropshire. During filming, Trinny and Susannah needed a changing room for the women and Shrewsbury-based Salop Leisure responded to their SOS by providing a touring caravan for them to use.

It’s showtime!
Taking place over six days (17-22 February 2009) and across five halls of Birmingham’s NEC  is the biggest show for outdoor leisure in the UK. If you are looking to buy a new caravan, motorhome, park home, holiday home or leisure lodge, or simply want to book or research where to go on your 2009 holidays - then you'll find all you need to enjoy the year ahead at the National Boat Caravan & Outdoor Show.

Dive into the Practical Caravan Hall to discover new spring model launches from the leading caravan manufacturers – including Swift and Bailey - as well as all the latest 2009 model ranges. www.boatandcaravan.co.uk »

New Lunar model unveiled
Lunar’s bestselling Lexon range has been extended with the addition of the new Lexon SE. The single axle layout combines the open and spacious nearside fixed end with a luxurious end washroom complete with a separate, fully lined shower cubicle.  The caravan is anticipated to have an MTPLM of just 1,450kg.

Martin Henderson of Lunar commented, “It has been a challenge to get everything into one single axle van whilst keeping in with the Lunar ethos of lightweight luxury but we feel we have achieved it.” The Lexon SE will make its debut at the National Boat, Caravan & Outdoor Show (see above).

New sites from Camping and Caravanning Club
There are six new Camping and Caravanning Club Sites opening their doors to caravanners in 2009, boosting the Club’s network to 109 sites. Adding an additional 170 pitches to the network, the Club will be able to offer almost 17,000 pitches nationwide.

The new sites are:
- Corfe Castle at the foot of the Purbeck Hills in Dorset
- Tavistock in Dartmoor to the west of the famous National Park 
- Polstead in Suffolk on the edge of a conservation area 
- Dartmoor Barley Meadow
- Ashbourne in Derbyshire, close to the peaks and dales
- Skye at the shore of Lock Greshornish on Skye

Drop in number of illegal drivers in the UK
Caravanners will welcome a drop in the number of illegal drivers in the UK. The level of unlicensed drivers who are stopped has halved over the past two years, with the level of uninsured motorists also down from 1.9 per cent in 2006 to 1.2 per cent.

Dog-friendly caravan sites
If you enjoy holidaying with your canine companion, there’s a new website that has a searchable database of dog-friendly camping and caravan sites, pubs and days out, as well as a list of 1,800 dog-friendly beaches.

Contact details for over 4,000 vets and dog wardens across the UK are also included, offering peace of mind for owners in case their pet falls ill or wanders off. Holidaymakers should also ensure that they are fully covered by their caravan insurance before they set off in case a dog damages the vehicle. Visit www.k9directory.co.uk »

Touring caravan theft drops to 1,400 per annum
Thefts of touring caravans are down from a one-time high of around 5,000 per annum to just 1,400 each year.  The NCC attributes this to improvements in caravan security, such as hitch locks and wheel clamps, and increased awareness among caravanners.  The NCC does, however, warn that caravans are still stolen from driveways and places like motorway service areas.  For information about secure storage for caravans, see
www.cassoa.co.uk/Caravan_Storage_Home.aspx »

Over-65s will prioritise holidays
Consumers will cut back on short breaks and pub and restaurant visits in order to save for their annual holiday, according to a new report.  Figures from PricewaterhouseCoopers show that the over-65s are the most determined to prioritise holidays in 2009, with 27% of this age group putting holiday spend first - in contrast to the indebted generation (aged 25–34).

Vat reduction takes hundreds of pounds off the cost of caravans
The reduction in VAT (from 17.5% to 15%) from Monday 1 December has a significant impact on the cost of a new caravan, reducing the price of an average tourer by some £360, the NCC said.

The Swift Group and other major manufacturers are already passing this reduction on to the customer in full, making it great news for anyone looking to buy a new caravan. Swift says the reductions in recommended retail prices on their tourers will range between £220 and £410, depending on the model.

Small is beautiful…and economical
Bailey of Bristol has re-introduced the micro two berth Ranger 380/2 which is built in a compact 12'0" (3.69m) by 7'2'' (2.19m) body shell for ease of manoeuvrability. With an anticipated MPTLM of around 1000kg, this model will be one of the lightest caravans available, and competitively priced at around £10,500.

At the other end of the scale, the company has also revealed details of the California Dreaming luxury single axle four-berth that has been added to its Senator Series 6 range. The model was conceived using customer feedback gained from the My Bailey Van Caravan Design Competition. Its rear bedroom features a nearside full size double, an en suite transverse end washroom.

Bailey’s new caravans go on sale in January, see
www.bailey-caravans.co.uk »

New models and new brand strategy from Swift
Hot on the heels of its revised brand strategy, in which it announced it is to discontinue its Abbey and Ace brands, the Swift Group is bolstering its Swift and Sterling ranges by launching three new layouts in each. Designed to meet changing customer needs, the three layouts provide an improved rear island bed layout, triple bunk layout and a single axle fixed bed with transverse rear washroom. See www.swiftgroup.co.uk » for details.

Coachman Caravans takes Hull award Coachman Caravans has been crowned Hull Daily Mail Business Of The Year 2008 - Hull is the centre of the UK caravan manufacturing industry. Coachman also took the Hull Forward-supported Design Excellence Award. Speaking at the ceremony, managing director Jim Hibbs said: “The firm has launched five new models in the past 18 months and achieved a 20 per cent boost in annual sales. We have just one simple plan: To keep improving our products."

Caravan Club opens new site
The Caravan Club has opened a new site in Bearsted in Kent. The six acre site comprises 69 pitches and is open all year round. It also offers a bathroom for disabled visitors, games room and children’s play area.

Credit crunch breeds caravan nostalgia
In credit crunch Britain, a new generation has rekindled its love affair with the Great British caravan, according to research by insurers Towergate Bakers. Rather than jet off abroad, almost three in ten (27%) British parents intend to take their little ones on a drive down memory lane inspired by their own childhood caravan holiday.
Visit www.towergatebakers.co.uk » for special insurance offers/online discounts.

Even more of a home from home
Top range touring caravans from the Explorer Group will soon feature larger, more luxurious showers. The innovative Rimini shower has been developed in response to demand from customers who often have luxury bathrooms at home and now want the same quality in their tourer. For more information visit www.explorer-group.co.uk »

Eye tests for drivers
New European legislation will require drivers to have minimum standards of vision from as early as 2011, with compulsory eye tests for licence holders. This change is due to concerns that the ability to read a registration plate at 20m is not sufficient for modern road conditions.


Manchester Central Caravan & Motorhome Show 2009
Returning for its thirteenth consecutive year between 22-25 January 2009 at Manchester Central, this year’s event will showcase a huge range of vehicles, gadgets and accessories at great show prices. Last year over 18,000 people from across the region enjoyed the biggest event of its kind in the north west and this year the show will again be focusing on delivering great value for money and the chance to pick up a bargain. There will also be a cookery area offering ideas for creating mouth-watering meals on the road and the Classic FM Take a Break Café. For more information visit www.caravanshows.com »

Win tickets!
We have one pair of tickets to give away to the Manchester Central Caravan & Motorhome Show 2009. Simply tell us what Manchester Central was formerly known as. All correct entries will be entered into a draw to be held after 31 December 2008. Please email your name, address, telephone number and your answer to:
press@nationalcaravan.co.uk » before 31 December 2008.

Try-a-tourer?
Fancy trying out a holiday in a touring caravan but don't own one? Forest Holidays now have pitched caravans to hire. Comfortably sleeping two adults and two children, the tourers are sited in the New Forest and fully equipped with kitchen (plus crockery, cutlery etc), TV and awning with outdoor furniture. To find out more, see www.forestholidays.co.uk »

Car and caravan achieves 35 mpg in Euro tour
The Caravan Club has demonstrated just how economical a family touring holiday can be. Their drivers towed a Lunar caravan with a Ford Focus diesel, ballasted to represent the touring requirements of four people. They travelled 2,500 km over seven days, passing through nine European countries, across trans-Alpine passes and through cities at rush hour. The car/caravan achieved an average fuel consumption of over 35 mpg! Using data from the NCC's www.greencaravanning.co.uk », the Club estimates that the journey created less CO2 emissions per person than travelling by coach, train or plane.

Gas safety tips and advice Calor has produced a useful guide for caravanners, including information on the difference between butane and propane, Europe's cylinder loan scheme and tips on gas safety. To download your copy of the guide, visit www.caravanning-online.co.uk » Click on the PDF download link, or call Calor on 0800 626 626.

Hollywood at International Caravan & Motorhome
Patrick Duffy, star of the 1980s hit show Dallas, opened the International Caravan & Motorhome show 2008 at the NEC in Birmingham. The show attracted almost 70,000 visitors over the course of the week and one of the highlights was the Ecostream, a converted Airstream complete with composting toilet and wood burning stove.

Next year's show will take place at the NEC from 13 - 18 October 2009.

Manchester showtime
The Caravan & Motorhome show will take place in Manchester Central from 22 - 25 January 2009. For more information visit www.caravanshows.com »

Tourer of the Year 2009
The Bailey Ranger GT60 540/6 Series 6 has claimed Practical Caravan magazine's Tourer of the Year 2009 title. Practical Caravan magazine editor, Nigel Donnelly, said, "This addresses the current issues of high fuel prices and tight budgets." For more information on the award winning tourer visit www.bailey-caravans.co.uk »

Stay in an award winning park in 2009 Parkdean Holidays' 2009 brochure, with details of 11 touring and camping parks, has been published. Call 0871 641 0410 for your copy or see www.parkdeanholidays.co.uk » for special offers.

Get out and get active on holiday
The Camping & Caravanning Club is encouraging caravanners to get involved with a range of outdoor pursuits during National Camping & Caravanning Week 2009 which runs from 23 - 29 May. Supported by organisations such as The Ramblers and Sustrans, the club will be organising outdoor activities at sites around the country.

Choose from almost 17,000 pitches in 2009
Six new sites will join the Camping & Caravanning Club network in 2009, adding 250 new pitches to make a total of 16,968 pitches available nationwide. For more information visit www.thefriendlyclub.co.uk »

Is your caravan adequately insured?
Over a quarter of caravans could be uninsured according to insurance specialist Safeguard. Safeguard points out that car insurance only covers the caravan for third party liability when connected to the car by a secure tow bar and provides no cover when unhitched. Ensure you're not among the estimated 150,000 uninsured and check your insurance now.

	It’s showtime soon! In October, the International Caravan and Motorhome returns to Birmingham’s NEC - the first opportunity to see 2009 models. Explore 11 halls full of caravans, trailer tents, awnings, accessories and, of course, an NCC stand with staff on hand to give helpful advice: Dates: 14-19 October 2008 Opening times: 10am - 6pm Ticket Hotline no: 08701 288 288 www.caravanshows.com »
	Coachman to offer five year guarantee Touring caravan manufacturer, Coachman, will offer five year guarantees on its 2009 models (and six year guarantees on the bodywork). There are seven models in Coachman’s Amara range and five models in their Pastiche range, with a choice of 2, 4 and 5-berths. www.coachman.co.uk »

Bailey’s Ranger 6 debuts at NEC
Bristol-based manufacturer of touring caravans, Bailey, will show its new Ranger 6 at the NEC’s International Caravan & Motorhome Show. ‘The re-vamped Ranger models feature a state-of-the-art body shell, a high quality interior finish and a specification level that belies their entry level price tag’ Bailey says.

An “all new” Ranger GT60 limited edition, made for the company's 60th anniversary, features the benefits of the standard Ranger, plus a host of extras. www.bailey-caravans.co.uk »

Explorer Group 2009 models online
Brochures for the manufacturer’s 2009 touring caravan models are now available online – see. www.explorer-group.co.uk »

Swift goes eco
New lighting is being introduced into four Swift caravan ranges in a bid to cut down on their energy use. This is one of a number of changes made to the Challenger, Abbey GTS, Sterling Eccles and Ace Award ranges. The high output, soft white LED energy-saving lighting system uses half of the energy of traditional caravan lighting, thus prolonging the battery life - it also allows owners to power the system using a solar panel. www.swiftleisure.co.uk »

New publications from the NCC
The National Caravan Council has two new publications out – the latest versions of The Touring Lifestyle and The Towing Guide are available free. See here »

Caravan crime down
The number of caravans stolen in the UK has plummeted to less than 2,000 a year, from a one-time high of around 5,000. As well as greater use of the CRiS scheme (which the NCC owns), the Council puts this down to greater awareness of the need for security, and to advances in security products such as hitch locks, wheel clamps, alarms and tracking devices.

Caravans back on TV
The Caravan Channel is broadcast on Information TV, now on Sky channel 166, at 7pm on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. The next programme premieres on 10th September - see www.caravanchannel.co.uk »

Reflective jackets compulsory in France
France is now joining other European countries in that it will shortly be compulsory to have reflective jackets (which should conform to EN471) on board when driving. In an emergency, the jacket must be easily accessible by the driver and must be put on before leaving the car, day or night, regardless of visibility. As of 1 October 2008, any person found not complying will be fined.

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