PRODUCT RECALL: Bailey Caravans recalls all single axle Unicorn models (Seville, Madrid, Valencia and Almeria)

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by Marcus Dubois

Bailey Caravans has announced a product recall on all single axle models in the premium Unicorn range, after a small number of reports of wheels becoming detached from the caravan.

The Bristol manufacturer issued a notice today recalling all Seville, Madrid, Valencia and Almeria models in the Bailey Unicorn lineup. The firm stated that “while the level of incidence is low, we are taking this matter very seriously – and as a matter of urgency we are currently working with our suppliers to identify the cause of the problem.” Until the problem is clarified Bailey has asked retailers to contact owners of affected Unicorn models “as a safety precaution”.

Speaking with Caravan Times earlier today, marketing director Simon Howard believes the number of Unicorns affected is in single figures. However he urged owners in the meantime to ensure their wheel bolts are correctly tightened to ensure safety. And with this in mind Bailey has released a guide which “reiterates the importance of torquing the wheel bolts in accordance with the guidelines laid down in the Owner and Service Manuals prior to travelling with the caravan”.

Guidance from Bailey Caravans on torquing Unicorn wheels

Bailey recommends that the correct torque setting for the Alloy wheels fitted to the current Unicorn range is: 110 Nm (81 Ft/lbs).

The manufacturer also recommended that wheel bolts should be tightened in sequence (each opposite fixing in succession) using a calibrated torque wrench.

Bailey has however warned against using items such as a corner steady brace or electric power wrench for torquing the wheels, “as it as dangerous to over tighten as to under tighten the bolts”. The firm recommends that “as per the instructions in the manual, this should be done before every journey made with the caravan.”

Contacting your Approved Bailey Retailer or Service Centre

The Bristol manufacturer has advised that “if customers are unable to carry out this task they should take their caravan to their nearest Approved Bailey Retailer or Service Centre”.

All work affecting this specific wheel issue will be carried out under warranty. Bailey also informed Caravan Times that all owners affected will be contacted by letter, and that “details of the appropriate follow-up action required will be made available in due course”.

Click here for full details of how to contact your Approved Bailey Retailer or Service Centre . Alternatively you can telephone the Bailey Customer Helpline on 0117 305 2939 or email helpline@baileycaravans.co.uk

Have you been affected by this product recall? Click here to have your say in our forum topic

‘Dogs & Caravans’ photo competition winner announced

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by Holly Tribe

After four weeks of voting, ninety entries and over three hundred registered votes, the ‘Dogs & Caravans’ photo competition has now come to an end.

The contest was launched in league with National Pet Month, promoting the benefits and importance of responsible pet ownership. The feedback from members sharing their experiences of caravanning with pets has been overwhelming, so a big thank you to everyone who entered photos and voted for their favourites.

Winning entries

After a closely fought contest we are pleased to announce ‘Barney Watching The World Go By’ has been voted the overall champion. (main picture above)

The winning entry was taken by Graeme Davison and features his border terrier, Barney, sitting on the steps outside his caravan, contemplating world around him. We had a chat with our champion photographer, Graeme, and found out what makes caravanning such an important part of family life. Feature coming soon.

In second place ‘Pip Watching’ portrays a contemplative study of the plaintive Pip waiting for his master to return to the homestead (pictured right).

Third place is claimed by ‘Me and My Dad Chillin” – depicting a loveable Wolfhound almost dwarfing his owner in a caravan awning (pictured below right).

Congratulations to the nine runners up who will each receive a CarPET – the nifty gadget for removing pet hair from caravan upholstery and carpets. The winning entrants are displayed below.

Winner:
Graeme Davison – ‘Barney Watching The World Go By’

2nd Place:
Patricia Harrison – ‘Pip Watching’

3rd Place:
Andy Lumley – ‘Me And My Dad Chillin”

‘<' . strtolower('Array')>Runners Up:

Deanna Mottershead – ‘Bruce & Sasha’
Vicki Oliver – ‘Lola After A Hard Day’
Graham Campbell – ‘Oscar on Centre Table’
Ian Hopkins – ‘We Want A Walk’
Trina – ‘Admiring the wardens’
Tony Fox – ‘Toby On His Holiday’
Stuart Harris – ‘Rutland Caravan Park’

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Tracker Check leads to 10-minute recovery of stolen vehicle

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by Chris Jefferies

Caravan and tow-car owners looking to safeguard their motor may be interested to learn that the new Tracker Check system has led to a stolen car being retrieved within ten minutes.

Tracker specialises in stolen vehicle recovery (SVR) services and was thrilled at how quickly Manchester police were able to respond to a recent case of a stolen Audi.

Stuart Chapman, Tracker’s police relationship manager, explains: “Police forces can simply log onto a secure web link to gain access to our own technology and do everything they need remotely.”

This is a massive improvement in relaying crucial tracking information over the phone, he added.

Tracker is the market leader in SVR systems, with over one million products installed to date, and all 52 police forces in the UK use this technology to locate stolen vehicles.

Systems are available for caravans and motorhomes, with prices starting at £399 plus an annual subscription of £99.

Introducing the VW Amarok: A new contender for the towcar market

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by Holly Tribe

It’s not often that one of the big car manufacturers enters a completely new sector. And with the new Volkswagen Amarok the motoring public finally got a chance this afternoon to see the first ever pickup from the German brand.

The VW Amarok takes its name from the Inuit word for ‘wolf’, which Volkswagen says perfectly represents the vehicle as “a figure of robustness, endurance and superiority.” It’s a double-cab pickup with four wheel drive capability, first showcased as a concept car back in 2008.

To prove its superior pulling power, the Amarok battled in a tug of war with an industrial chimney the height of Westminster Abbey at the official launch in Berkshire today. (In case you’re wondering, the chimney, if you’ll forgive the pun, stacked it)

Powered by a twin-turbo 2.0-litre BiTDI engine, the company claims to have ‘reinvented the pick-up to deliver more power more intelligently’. Available in two power outputs; 122hp with 340Nm of torque, or 163hp with 400Nm of torque, this new addition to the Volkswagen Towcar stable boasts a significant level of towing competency.

Exceptional towing capabilities

The vehicle comes equipped with state of the art technology, designed to keep the vehicle safe both on the road and off. An Electronic Stabilisation Programme links up to the car’s electronic systems such as the engine braking control (EBC) and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Sensors mounted on the wheels and steering wheel can detect loss of stability and over/under steer problems, avoiding skidding before it occurs.

The latest generation ESP can also identify trailer snaking motions. It reacts by applying brakes to the wheels in sync with the snaking action and reducing the power output from the engine until the yaw movement is under control which offering exceptional trailer stabilisation.

Amarok and caravans

For the heavy duty caravanner, the Amarok is a well stocked utility vehicle with enough torque to handle a twin axle rig with ease. There’s a decent level of space for five people to travel in comfort and a ‘best-in-class’ load area can be used to store all the paraphernalia that goes along with caravanning.

All models come equipped with state of the art safety systems, including Hill Hold Assist, Hill Descent Control and off-road ABS which is designed to decrease stopping distances particularly on loose surfaces; this could be of real benefit when setting up on uneven grass or gravel pitches.

A towbar and electrics for trailer systems with a load of up to 2,800kg can be fitted for an extra £412.50. And the perceived ‘stigma’ that surrounds open back pick-up trucks on caravan sites may be avoided by adding a hard top canopy to the shopping basket which comes as cost option, albeit a pricey one, of £2,300.

With all this under the hood – the VW Amarok could well be a strong contender in the forthcoming Caravan Club’s Towcar of the Year Awards 2012. And it wouldn’t be the first time a utility vehicle won a prestigious towcar award; the Isuzu Rodeo picked up a towing accolade in recent years, so watch this space…

  • Price: from £16,995
  • Kerbweight: 3,170kg
  • Torque: 340 – 400 Nm

For full model specification details, head to the Volkswagen website here.

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Southend caravan site to replace axed trees

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by Chris Jefferies

More than 50 protected trees that have been cut down at a Southend caravan park will be replaced, the local council has promised. This announcement comes in response to a residents’ campaign at Halcyon Caravan Park in Hullbridge, the Southend Echo reports.

Council officers said they were aware that concerns had been raised at the number of trees removed over the past ten years and were taking steps to remedy the matter.

Richard Evans, head of environmental services, said: “Our specialist woodlands and open spaces officers are working with the owners to finalise a management plan. It will be wide-ranging and include a comprehensive tree re-planting programme.”

Local residents have estimated that around 60 trees have been cut down at Halcyon Caravan Park over the past decade.

Ward councillor Michael Hoy said that in many cases the permission to cut down these trees had only been granted on the grounds that they were to be replaced, although this was not always followed through.

Merlin magic to light up Midlands caravan trips

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by Chris Jefferies

Caravan owners planning on visiting the Midlands this summer have another reason to stop-off at Warwick Castle, as the historic tourist attraction has opened a special interactive experience based on the hit BBC TV show Merlin.

Families visiting the castle can expect sorcery, swords and swashbuckling adventures at Merlin: The Dragon Tower, which features a chance to experience the magic of Arthurian legend first hand.

The main attraction is a magical mirror, which will allow visitors to interact with the ferocious Great Dragon.

Tim Harrison-Jones, general manager of Warwick Castle, said: “This will be an exceptional visitor attraction, completely in keeping with our reputation as Britain’s ultimate castle and designed to wow visitors young and old.”

Other attractions at Warwick Castle include the Castle Dungeon, and families on caravan holidays can see this as well as the Merlin experience by buying a Kingdom Ticket, which costs £26.88 each.

New Carlight Caravans roll off production line once again

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by Holly Tribe

It has been almost a decade since the last Carlight caravan rolled off the production line, but thanks to renewed interest in the badge from a mystery investor, brand new models will be returning to the sales rooms once again.

The marque has received a new lease of life after a successful local businessman and long-time Carlight enthusiast purchased the trade name, patterns, moulds and plugs, putting this iconic British brand back in business.

A new updated range of Commander models is already in production; details of which are not yet available, but a spokesperson from the firm has confirmed that traditional hand-built methods will still be at the heart of the business: “Tradition means that solid oak beads are used on all the locker doors, and as the new lockers are bowed, each curved-end bead needs making by hand.”

The new owner has expressed a desire to keep the business true to its roots in Lincolnshire, and the sales operations will initially run from Heath Farm, near Sleaford, but as production levels increase a new Lincolnshire site will be sought. The operation will be run by a skilled team of caravan builders, including involvement from former Carlight employees.

The new owner has been a committed fan of the brand for over four decades, and owns a large private collection of Carlights which he intends to display in a dedicated museum section of the new factory.

Details of production methods and modernisation plans are not yet available, but check back soon for more information.

What’s in store for Airstream Caravans in 2011

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by Holly Tribe

Love them or loathe them, Airstream Caravans are an integral part of US touring history, and since their European launch in 2006, they have been making serious in-roads on the British touring scene.

So, what can we expect from this iconic brand for the 2011 season? In short, there’s a new southern showroom, a new Series 2 model 684, a new range of trailer tents and a new name!

Airstream & Company’s southern showroom

The new sales and service centre will be based in Andoversford, Gloucestershire, bringing a retail outlet for these ‘silver bullet’ trailers to the south of England for the first time. In conjunction with the branch opening, the firm is undergoing a rebranding exercise and will change its name to ‘Airstream & Company’.

Sales director Michael Hold commented: “These are exciting times for the team and we are looking forward to busy years ahead. We’re delighted to be opening up a base in the south.

“The new name not only reflects the breadth of services the company provides beyond sales and servicing, but was also brought about by the introduction of other cool camping trailers which it will sell alongside the iconic Airstream range”.

New imports

Along with providing a design, import, service, sales and repair centre, the new showroom will be the first in the UK to stock a new range of camping travel trailers from Dutch innovators Holtkampers (pictured).

These compact yet stylish vehicles are well suited to Airstream’s strong design ethic. “The camping trailers are lightweight, cool and stylish and a perfect fit for us because, like Airstreams, they not only look great but offer exceptional design, build quality and longevity,” added Michael.

Airstream & Company will be holding two open days; one at their existing showroom in Tebay, Cumbria from May 13-15; and a second at their new Gloucestershire centre from June 3-5. Along with a selection of Holtkampers, the all new Series 2 Airstream 684 DB twin axle travel trailer will also be unveiled.

For more information, visit the Airstream & Company website here.

Caravan tourers offered Yorkshire picnic hamper

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by Chris Jefferies

Food lovers looking to get a taste of Yorkshire on their touring caravan holiday can get a selection of the region’s best produce in a new hamper, which is being offered by the local tourist board. Visit Hull and East Yorkshire (VHEY) is offering the Pick up a Picnic hamper to encourage people to make the most of the outdoor eating spots across the area.

Caravan owners and other touring holidaymakers can choose from three different packs, including home-baked bread rolls, East Yorkshire strawberries and fresh cream truffles.

Also included in the hamper is a free family ticket to several local attractions, including Stewart’s Burnby Hall & Gardens, RAF Holmpton, Cruckley Animal Farm and Sewerby Hall – the two-time winner of a national picnic destination award.

Janet Reuben, chief executive of VHEY, said: “East Yorkshire is a fabulous destination for a picnic: its superb local produce, spectacular scenery and fascinating attractions are the perfect ingredients for a great day out.”

The picnic hampers can be ordered online for £25, including one family attractions ticket.

Used Caravan of the Week: Introducing The Wedge II

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by Holly Tribe

This week’s Used Caravan comes from a similar design stable as Little Guy trailers. While its pint-sized form is light enough to be towed behind a Mini, Yaris or Fiesta, this bespoke two berth caravan still has enough space inside for luggage and food supplies for short breaks away.

The custom-built Wedge II features a double bed with overhead storage to the rear and a small galley up front. A small unit on the far-side features more another overhead locker, a worktop useful for food prep on rainy days, and beneath this – a small cupboard houses the electrics and provides a dedicated storage area for a portable toilet.

Click here to see an image gallery of The Wedge II

Equipment is basic, but the vendor is including a Fiamma branded sun canopy and a brand new Porta Potti in the sale. Windows to the front and rear, along with a roof mounted skylight provide light and ventilation.

This might not have the same level of kit as some Little Guy or Teardrop trailers, but it does feature a decent level of internal space. The starting bid is £1,999, and as the seller points out, similar options in the Lightweight Caravans category frequently cost over £4,000 from new.

History

The caravan is described as ‘barely used’ by the current owners who purchased it from new last year. Excluding one weekend away in the Brecons, have stored in a garage for the duration of their ownership.

Kit & Caboodle

The caravan is designed around al-fresco living with outside seating and shade provision. An external table clips onto the side of the van, and comes with its own dedicated internal storage space and two folding chairs are included in the price.

A front-facing double bike carrier, wheel clamp and Fiamma Caravanstore sun canopy which attaches to the side of the ‘van are also included in the sale, as is a brand new Porta Potti.

The internal electrics and plug sockets are powered by standard 240 volt hook up, and the internal lighting can be powered from a 12 volt battery which comes with a solar trickle charger.

  • Starting bid: £1,999
  • MTPLM: 500kg
  • Width: 1.8m
  • Length: 3.4m
  • Berth: 2
  • Height: 1.7m

Get it while it’s hot on ebay



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Ospreys deliver special Easter egg near caravan site

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by Chris Jefferies

Nature lovers at a Welsh caravan site have been treated to a special Easter gift from a family of ospreys, who have nested at a nearby nature reserve. The breeding pair arrived at the site, on Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust’s Cors Dyfi Reserve, near Machynlleth, earlier this month and have now produced their first egg.

This has caused great excitement at nearby five-star caravan site Morben Isaf Holiday Home and Touring Park at Derwenlas.

Jayne Hollingworth, one of the site’s managers, said: “It has been a long time coming and we are keeping everything crossed that it all works out for the ospreys. We are all very excited about the prospect of having osprey chicks next door.”

Project manager Emyr Evans added that ospreys have not been known to breed in this area for more than 400 years.

Caravan owners staying at Morben Isaf Park can visit the bird sanctuary and watch live footage of the ospreys on a large screen between 10am and 6pm every day.

Caravan sites get ready for Royal Wedding

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by Chris Jefferies and Holly Tribe

Caravan parks and retailers up and down the country are getting ready for the most talked about event of the year. Whether you’re planning to watch the Royal Wedding or take advantage of the extended bank holiday weekend with a trip away, there is no denying the convivial mood currently sweeping the nation!

Live Broadcast

In Shropshire, Salop Leisure will have big screen televisions broadcasting the Royal wedding on the opening day of their West Midlands Caravan & Motorhome Show.

“We want to make sure that our visitors get the best of both worlds by being able to attend the show without missing the Royal wedding,” said Salop Leisure’s marketing manager Scott Higgins. To join in the celebrations, and find out how to download free tickets to the ten-day show click here.

Flying the flag

Meanwhile, caravan lovers looking to celebrate the main event in Northamptonshire may be glad to learn that Billing Aquadrome caravan park has lifted its flag ban for one day only.

The caravan site, which is open 11 months a year, normally prohibits the flying of flags to avoid offending other campers, the Northampton Chronicle reports. However, with a tide of patriotism sweeping the site, the owners have decided to loosen their rules for this historic day.

Peter Angelides, business development manager at the park, said: “We will make allowances for the special day. We will also be putting up bunting to make the place look more festive.”

Whether you’re planning on laying out the bunting in preparation for Will and Kate’s big day, or looking to get away it all – let us know what you’ll be up to this bank holiday weekend in our forum topic here.

In the meantime, whether you’re a royalist or not, we thought this entertaining skit by the guys at T-mobile might amuse!