Thetford launches fridge for van conversion

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by Ed Davies

Manufacturers Thetford have developed a campervan specific compressor fridge

The Netherlands-based mobile toilets and kitchens manufacturers have this year introduced a compressor fridge, the T1090, designed specifically for campervans.

It is designed to be a better fit, quieter, more efficient and more powerful.

The new 90-litre fridge has a stepped in shape at the back, allowing it to be installed higher up, where the roofline tapers in.

This latest improvement would be ideal for campervans, where aisle space is tight and means no more bending down at floor level.

As with all compressor fridges no outside vents are needed and so it increases the flexibility of where a fridge can be fitted.

However, battery consumption should be noted and with this model there is a standard day mode and a specific night mode.

During the day the fridge consumes around 0.45kWh per 24 hours, while moving into night mode it drops to just 0.35kWh per 24 hours.

Thetford still recommends that at least two 95Ah batteries are fitted to models with compressor fridges.

Usefully, the aforementioned night mode also reduces the noise levels from 32dB to 29dB, which is reputed to be about half the standard daytime noise levels.

It is currently only available to manufacturers but we hope to see it available for aftermarket customers next year (sometime in 2017). Adria and Hymer fit this new fridge to selected models.

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Concorde introduces two new luxury motorhomes for 2017

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by Ed Davies

Luxury German manufacturer, Concorde, are set to display their new layout for 2017 at the NEC motorhome show in October

In order to celebrate the company’s thirty-fifth anniversary Concorde is to release the 35 Edition.

The edition will sport special 35 graphics on the outside with only 35 to be made, one of which will be heading to Concorde’s sole UK dealer, Southdowns Motorhomes.

It is even priced at ?235,000, which is, in fact, a ?35,000 discount on its list price.

The quality of special equipment is very high, with satellite TV, automotive accents in the interior and a special exterior with a nod to the Centurion models along with much more.

However, also of interest to the UK market is a new rear lounge Carver A-class, the 890 RRL.

This follows on from the overcab Cruiser 840RRL that was launched last year. It offers an extremely large C-shaped lounge at the rear with a kitchen just forward of this opposite the door.

The washroom sits across the aisle that leads to the cab, although to call it a washroom is not doing it justice. This palatial area has a full domestic-style shower, marine toilet and Corian basin.

Then step through the washroom to the cab, with two swivel chairs. Furniture units and sliding worktops on either side mean this space is perfect for sitting with your laptop or tablet, while the drop down bed turns this area into the bedroom, where you can sleep either transversely or lengthways.

Lucky winners to receive Motorhome & Caravan Show tickets

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by Ed Davies

The lucky winners of the CaravanTimes competition for tickets to the Motorhome & Caravan Show in October have been picked

Fifteen lucky winners have been given the opportunity to go to Motorhome & Caravan Show with anyone they see fit after a huge response to our competition.

Hundreds of people entered this time with the winners being chosen by our random generator.

This year’s show will be between October 11-16 in Birmingham and is the only show where you will see all the new-for 2017 caravans, motorhomes, trailer tents and accessories from major UK and European manufacturers.

With hundreds of models on display it is the best place to see and compare all the latest layouts, finishes and innovations.

There will be an abundance of free help and advice on all aspects of touring from finance, insurance and security to the best two-cars on the market.

Those selected will receive their tickets shortly and will be emailed.

For anyone who did not win this time, do not despair as the CaravanTimes will be holding another competition in the coming weeks.

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Sizing up the new Benimar Mileo 201

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by Ed Davies

On the release of the Benimar Mileo 201 CaravanTimes sizes up their latest model

Leaders in the Spanish motorhome market, Benimar, have brought out another model in the UK, exclusive to Marquis Leisure, with the release of the Benimar Mileo 201 and we grabbed a sneak peek.

The 201 is a classic coachbuilt, six meter long low profile with a transverse bed at the back.

It is the latest of Benimar’s models as the Iberian giants make their way into the UK market having signed a deal with Marquis Leisure back in 2015.

With style and size high on the agenda for most caravanners the 201 provides a generous wash-room and shower, including a swivel toilet and fixed basin.

Although, not ideal for families, the £44,995 Mileo 201 is perfect for two people but could with ease cope with four passengers if needs be.

There is a large and generous kitchen that has sufficient tabletop space giving you the ability to cook without difficulty.

The table area although a touch cosy will be able to fit you all in and is filled throughout with cute homely touches.

To take a look at the Benimar Mileo 201, take a look at the video above.

Stay tuned with the CaravanTimes as we will be reviewing plenty more in the coming weeks.

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Motorhome hire company hides cash in its rentals

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by Ed Davies

A motorhome hire company has been surreptitiously hiding stashes of cash in certain motorhomes for unsuspecting customers

Those lucky enough to be touring around New Zealand at the beginning of next year could be in for quite a surprise.

Kiwi rental agency, Motorhome Republic, have been placing wads of cash totalling NZD$1,000 in five of their rental vehicles.

The “Stash of Cash” promotion applies to bookings made during the month of September 2016, for pick ups during January, February or March 2017.

General manager, Phil Wright, said: “New Zealand is just about the perfect setting for an unforgettable and amazing road trip.

“From majestic mountains to charming coastlines and a whole lot of things to do and see in between, it’s a playground for travellers.

“We want to encourage people from all over the world to get down here and take it in, and we’re hoping that the prospect of a little pot of gold in their motorhome rental might do the trick.”

The company offers rental options from a range of different suppliers and vehicles around New Zealand (and the globe) from small camper vans for couples or singles to 6-berth coachbuilds with room for the whole family.

UK caravan and motorhome sales on the rise

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by Ed Davies

Caravan and motorhome sales are booming in the UK with families choosing increasingly to holiday at home rather than abroad

With families nowadays often choosing to stay in the UK instead of going abroad for holidays the caravan and motorhome industry is thriving, according to the director general of the National Caravan Council (NCC).

Figures show that there are over a million leisure vehicles in use in the UK and nearly half of the users holiday along the seaside while the South West is the most popular destination.

“We have already seen an increase of 16 per cent in motorhome sales in the UK for the year up to June 2016,” John Lally director general of the NCC told the Leek & Post Times.

“British caravan parks have invested heavily in improving their offering.

“Better on-site facilities, more exciting entertainment and higher quality accommodation all mean that the UK caravan industry has an opportunity to deliver exactly what the British holiday-maker wants – enormous choice, excellent value particularly with a weaker pound, and at home.

“While caravanning is ideal for frequent short breaks, it also allows costs to be controlled, which is a frequent concern.”

The UK leisure vehicle industry contributes in excess of £6 billion to the UK economy, generated through the value of holidays, vehicles sales and associated supplies and services.

IAM RoadSmart launches video campaign highlighting dangers of distraction on the road

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by Joe Jeffrey

Formula 1 test driver, Darren Turner, put to the test in three new distraction videos

Road safety organisation IAM RoadSmart has released three short videos highlighting the different aspects of driver distraction caused by children, mobile phones and pets.

The videos, available to view below, feature Formula 1 test driver Darren Turner as he attempts to drive an Aston Martin racing simulator around a virtual circuit while attempting to deal with a noisy five year old child, a ringing mobile phone and a barking dog.

The latest campaign from  IAM RoadSmart follows figures from the Department for Transport finding 2,995 cases where distraction in the vehicle was listed as a contributory factor to accidents – in line with the organisation’s multi-award winning campaign Safely Home, which which found the top four causes of distraction were children in the car (29 per cent), changing the radio channel (27 per cent), back seat drivers (26 per cent) and mobile phone use (24 per cent). One in ten of 1,500 people surveyed also admitted to causing a crash because they were distracted.

Turner said of his involvement in the new campaign: “A professional racing driver is expected to maintain full concentration all the time while at the wheel – but I was surprised at how easy it was take your eye of the ball for a second and end up clouting the barrier in the simulator.

“Translate that to the real road, and the consequences could be far more serious.”

IAM RoadSmart’s head of driver behaviour, Rebecca Ashton said: “In our videos we see Darren tackle some very common distractions that any driver could face. It shows that even the best drivers can struggle if they are distracted for even a second.

“Whether you’re travelling with your kids, dog or even on your own there are plenty of things which might take your attention away from the road, and we’re all susceptible. But keeping your attention on the road is the most important way you can look after your passengers. Pull over in a safe place if you need to pick up a dropped toy, calm a frightened pet or answer the phone.”

Check out the three videos below and let us know: are you easily distracted on the road behind the wheel?

Child video

Mobile Phone video

Pet video

Summer of Olympic sport at Caravan Club Sites

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by Ed Davies

The Caravan Club is throwing a series of Olympics inspired sports at its sites

Olympics inspired holidaymakers can throw on their sports gear and try their hand at brand new sports this summer thanks to The Caravan Club.

Following the success of Team GB at the Rio Olympics, families will be able to enjoy a series of sporting activities at numerous Caravan Club sites across the UK.

At the Looe Caravan Club Site guests can enjoy a splash in a heated open-air swimming pool, a round of tennis or fly along the UK’s longest zip wire at the Adrenalin Quarry.

Families can take on the 11 mile Thirsk Racecourse Caravan Club Site cycle route across the North Yorkshire countryside followed by a steady climb to Upsall.

For surfers, Woolacombe Beach offers a three mile golden sand beach for pros at the Willingcott Caravan Club Site and a learning centre for beginners and children.

Prices include £31.50 per night at Willingcott, £22.60 for Thirsk and £39.60 at the Looe site.

To find out more about just some of the offers available this summer, visit The Caravan Club’s website here.

Taking a tour around the 2017 Elddis Crusader Zephyr

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by Joe Jeffrey

CaravanTimes checks out the all new Crusader Zephyr from Elddis for 2017

It’s pretty much a given that if you’re driving along and notice a luxury champagne-coloured caravan sharing the road with you, it’s going to be an Elddis Crusader. And now, for the new season, your chances of spotting one on the road – or even becoming a proud owner of one – just got better following the introduction of the new Zephyr model.

Joining Elddis’ flagship Crusader mainstays – the Mistral, Storm, Aurora, Tempest and Supercyclone – for the new season, the four berth, twin-axle Zephyr is ideal for families, featuring a retractable transverse fixed bed at the rear and a comfortable double which can be made up in the living area. An element of privacy comes courtesy of the central area featuring the fully-equippedbathroom which provides the option to close off the bedroom from the living area.

True 5 star luxury, as with the other Crusader models on offer for 2017, to say the Zephyr is kitted out with some luxurious touches, such as light, fresh interior and craftsman built cabinetry, would be an understatement. You really would have to take a look for yourselves to see what we mean. And that’s why we went along to Elddis to take a look.

Comfort is also second to none, with an improved Alde 24-hr multi-programmable central and water heating system, Aero Privacy flush-fit double-glazed side windows with night ventilation, as well as OZIO Coolsoft luxury mattresses.

To take a look at the Elddis Crusader Zephyr, check out the video above.

Rare blue lobster lands Devon holiday park date with BBC

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by Joe Jeffrey

Lucky Larry the lobster saved from the pot after deep sea find

Television cameras were scrambled to Ladram Bay Holiday Park in South Devon earlier this month when one of its directors landed a ‘one in two million’ blue lobster.

BBC’s Spotlight team and a shoal of press reporters were quickly on the scene after hearing that Ladram Bay Holiday park’s Robin Carter had scooped one of the incredibly rare crustaceans.

The chances of such a catch are put at around two million to one, and the bright blue colouring occurs only in a tiny number of lobsters with an unusual genetic make-up.

Carter, who has been tending lobster pots for over 60 years off the shores of Ladram Bay Holiday Park near Budleigh Salterton, revealed this was his first encounter with a ‘blue’. And, although most of the lobsters caught find their way onto the menu at Ladram Bay’s restaurant, this colourful specimen earned a reprieve.

Larry – as he was christened – enjoyed his fifteen minutes of fame under the media spotlight, and was then rowed back out to sea in the company of BBC’s film crew.

There he was released by Robin and Keith into the deep in the hope that he will successfully breed. and learn to steer well clear of lobster pots in the future.

The Carter family has owned Ladram Bay Holiday Park for over 70 years, and current owner, Robin, is one of the four siblings of its original founder Frank Carter.

A former farm, it has grown from a small camping site to one of the region’s most popular holiday parks attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year.

Features include a new swimming pool complex, restaurant, a beach-side shack where watersports equipment can be hired, and first-class day and evening entertainment.

Holidaymakers at Ladram Bay were delighted to see the park feature on BBC’s Spotlight after Larry made the headlines – even if it’s most famous guest this year has now finished his short stay.

All new Benimar Mileo range from Marquis Leisure unveiled in new video

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by Joe Jeffrey

Join us as we take a look at the all new Benimar Mileo range for 2017

Benimar have unveiled the all new Mileo range, featuring a number of fresh new changes for 2017.

On the outside, a matt black front grill complements the smart black alloy wheels introduced for the new season, while new LED lights at the rear should certainly ensure the Mileo is one motorhome guaranteed to be seen in more ways than one. This said, it’s the construction which has seen even more of a major overhaul, meaning the Mileo is now manufactured completely wood free for better protection from damp and leaks – something we’re sure isn’t too much of a problem in the Benimar’s homeland of Spain, but more so in the UK.

Exclusively available at  Marquis Leisure in the UK, and built on a Fiat Ducati cab providing for plenty of comfort throughout, the Bennimar Mileo range hosts an abundance of in-cab features, including automatic air conditioning, DAB radio, built in sat nav and reversing system, plus much more and, if you’re looking for driving choice, six-speed manual comes as standard with the option of choosing Automatic transmission instead.

‘<' . strtolower('Array')aravanTimes went along to Marquis Leisure to find out more about the Benimar Mileo range and we were certainly impressed with what we saw. To find out why, check out our video above and let us know what you think of it in the comments below.

Whale wins prestigious Brunswick Safety Award for 2016

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by Joe Jeffrey

Manufacturer receives highest honour in safety awards programme

Whale has received the Brunswick Corporation Chairman’s Safety Award, recognising the company’s standards for excellence in safety and employee engagement.

In conjunction with the award, Brunswick will donate $10,000 (approximately £7,500) on behalf of Whale employees to a charitable organisation of their choice. Whale has selected  Cancer Focus in Northern Ireland, which provides support to those diagnosed with cancer and their families in the country.

Whale’s managing director, Patrick Roberts, said: “We are delighted and honored that the Whale team has been recognised with such a prestigious award by Brunswick Corporation for our approach to health and safety systems and our excellent safety record.

“It is a reflection of the entire team’s commitment to continuous improvement and, with the support of Brunswick Corporation, we will continue to strive to create a safe, efficient and positive working environment for everyone involved in the business,” Roberts continued.

The Chairman’s Safety Award is the company’s highest honor in the safety award program. The purpose of the award is to encourage, recognise and reward employees and facilities that have achieved outstanding safety and health performance through promoting and practicing safety awareness, ultimately minimising workplace incidents and injuries.

“Our workforce has benefitted greatly from the cancer-prevention initiatives that the organisation runs,” Roberts said of Cancer Focus. “We also have a number of team members who have or are going through cancer treatment and so it makes this donation all the more personal to us.”

Each year, Brunswick Corporation presents three Chairman’s Safety Awards. In 2016, the awards were given to Mercury Marine in St. Cloud, Florida.; Mercury Marine Regional Distribution Center in Dandenong, Australia; and Whale Parts and Accessories in Bangor, Northern Ireland.

Congratulations to Whale on an award well deserved and for donating the proceeds to such a worthwhile cause.