Caravan popularity reaches new heights

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by Chris Malone

The popularity of caravanning has increased dramatically in recently years, new figures show.

According to statistics from Visit England and pitchup.com, camping and caravanning is now 78 per cent more popular than holidaying in Spain.

Most of this figure was made up by those staying in caravans, lodges and motorhomes, rather than tents.

The statistics mean that the sector is now bigger than B&Bs, guest houses and self-catering accommodation such as cottages and houses combined.

Pitchup.com managing director Daniel Yates explained that the trend is just the start in terms of Brits taking holidays in the great outdoors.

“Whilst touring pitches, motorhomes and static caravans have always been popular, this kind of break has opened up to a much wider demographic so is now the way to holiday in the UK,” he said.

Mr Yates added that the burgeoning industry is made up of seasonal caravanners and those who take breaks all year round.

Meanwhile, Bourne Leisure, which owns Haven Holidays and Butlins recently paid out millions of pounds to its shareholders after a successful year.

VIDEO: 2011 Towcar of the Year Awards

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by Holly Tribe

Last week Caravan Times attended the 2011 Caravan Club Towcar of the Year awards at the Royal Automobile Club in London.

We had the opportunity to talk to overall champions Skoda, along with category winners Volkswagen and Range Rover, and asked them about the vehicles that won and their plans for the future.

Skoda had the biggest cause for celebration this year taking home the overall award and a further two class wins in the ‘Under £16,000’, and ‘£25,000 to £32,000’ categories.

Watch our video feature of the awards here

Last years’ overall winner Volkswagen missed the top spot but was awarded best car in the £20,000 to £25,000 category for the Golf Match 2.0 TDi. Range Rover also went home smiling after winning the All-Wheel Drive over 1800kgs category. Other winners included Fiat, Mercedes-Benz and Mitsubishi.

Click here for a full run down of the award ceremony and details of the class winners.

The competition this year attracted 35 entrants from 19 manufacturers. Each car was scrutinised by a panel of ten judges who assessed towing capability and practicality for every-day caravanning.

The short listed vehicles were put through their paces at the Millbrook Testing Ground in August, with Bailey Caravans providing a range of tourers to put each cars towing capabilities to the test.

VIDEO: 2011 Towcar of the Year Awards

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by Holly Tribe

Last week Caravan Times attended the 2011 Caravan Club Towcar of the Year awards at the Royal Automobile Club in London.

We had the opportunity to talk to overall champions Skoda, along with category winners Volkswagen and Range Rover, and asked them about the vehicles that won and their plans for the future.

Skoda had the biggest cause for celebration this year taking home the overall award and a further two class wins in the ‘Under £16,000’, and ‘£25,000 to £32,000′ categories.

Last years’ overall winner Volkswagen missed the top spot but was awarded best car in the £20,000 to £25,000 category for the Golf Match 2.0 TDi. Range Rover also went home smiling after winning the All-Wheel Drive over 1800kgs category. Other winners included Fiat, Mercedes-Benz and Mitsubishi.

Click here for a full run down of the award ceremony and details of the class winners.

The competition this year attracted 35 entrants from 19 manufacturers and each car was scrutinised by a panel of ten judges who assessed towing capability and practicality for every day caravanning.

The short listed vehicles were put through their paces at the Millbrook Testing Ground in August, with Bailey Caravans providing a range of tourers to put each cars towing capabilities to the test.

Preview: International Caravan and Motorhome Show – 2011 Caravans

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by Holly Tribe

As the biggest event in the leisure vehicle diary looms ever closer, we look at what will be on display at this year’s International Caravan and Motorhome Show in the first of a three part feature special.

With over 250 confirmed exhibitors over twenty halls, there’s a lot to see. This week we take a look at the new models on offer for the forthcoming 2011 season, in a bid to help you plan your route around Birmingham’s cavernous National Exhibition Centre.

2011 has seen wholesale change from many of the UK’s leading caravan manufacturers and the online community has been buzzing with rumour and speculation over what will be next years best deals. One of the most hotly debated topics has to be – out of all the new 2011 season offerings – which of the many new caravans on offer will best fit your individual requirements? International Caravan and Motorhome Show provides the perfect arena for caravanners old and new to come and have a good nose around before making the big decision.

It’s worth noting VAT is rising to 20 per cent in the New Year, so if you’re in the market for a new caravan this could well be the perfect opportunity to invest.

For your chance to win one of fifteen pairs of tickets, CLICK HERE

New for 2011

Last year Bailey Caravans unveiled their widely anticipated Pegasus range with its innovative Alu-Tech body construction. This year, Bailey will be there again showcasing the newest addition to the Alu Tech family – the three model Bailey Unicorn series which was unveiled as Bailey’s premier range earlier in the year. Hall:18 Stand:15-18

If you’re after a big family layout on a budget, it might be worth checking out Coachman Caravans Amara 655/6 model which houses a twin lounge six berth layout which has come down from the more expensive Laser to the lower priced range. Hall:19 Stand:19-40

Lightweight favourites Lunar Caravans will be at stand 18-34 in Hall 18 with a whopping twenty four models on display including two new models introduced for 2011, and the redesigned Stellar/Lexon and Delta/ Clubman offerings. The new layout in the 4 berth Clubman SI has been marked out for having one of the most innovative layouts for 2011, the cleverly configured bed leaves acres of internal space. Hall: 18 Stand:18-34

Another advocate of the lightweight caravan philosophy, Elddis Caravans‘ 2011 season updates are all approximately 50kg lighter than previous models. Hall 20 Stand: 20-55

The distinctive silver bullets from Airstream Caravans will be on display once again this year. The company will be showcasing three new trailers and visitors will be able to check out the Bambi, 532 and 648 models. Hall: 9 Stand: 39A

Brand new to the caravan industry, motorhome manufacturers Auto Sleepers will be diversifying into the touring market in 2011 with the release of their first ever range of caravans, cunningly named the ‘AS Caravan’. It will consist of three single axle models, all with rear end washroom layouts ranging between two and four berths. Hall:7 Stand:7-31


And the trip wouldn’t be complete without checking out the new offerings from Swift Caravans. Their exciting new ranges of Conqueror and Challenger and Sterling Eccles and Elite caravans will be on display – the design conscious panoramic sunroof marks a real departure from previous designs and is well worth a look. Hall:6 Stand:6-45

Leading folding caravan builder Gobur will be there, along with other specialist caravan firms Hobby, Bessacarr, Dethleffs, and Adria’s UK arm Adria Concessionaries. You can find more information at the International Caravan and Motorhome Show website.

Coming up next week

Check back soon for part two of our International Caravan and Motorhome Show guide where we’ll be looking at the array of caravan accessories and gadgetry that will be on display.

  • Where: NEC Birmingham
  • When: 12 – 17th October
  • Admission: £14.95 – £31.45

CLICK HERE to buy now and save £5. Don’t forget to enter the promotional code when prompted: CART01

Win tickets to the NEC 2010 Caravan and Motorhome Show

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by Holly Tribe

With just three weeks to go until the biggest show in the caravan and motorhome calendar, Caravan Times is pleased to announce we have 15 pairs of tickets to give away to the 2010 International Caravan and Motorhome Show.

Don’t miss your chance to see all the latest 2011 models from leading manufacturers or grab an end of season bargain from one of the many dealers who will be represented over the week-long show.

Swift, Bailey, Lunar, Coachman and Elddis will all be on hand to answer questions and offer guidance. And oldtimers in the motorhome field, AutoSleeper will be there with their first ever range of caravans.

Held over six action-packed days, there will be over 250 exhibitors and a whole host of activities and events for visitors to get involved in. The Camping and Caravanning Club will be on site giving visitors the chance to take a free 15 minute caravan towing class, with expert tuition on how to tow a caravan safely and economically. There will be a Real Ale tent, farmers market and advice workshops by industry experts, and even the provision for on-site camping.

If you want to enter the competition all you have to do is submit a short review about your caravan owning experience by following the step by step instructions below. So what are you waiting for? Enter today!

The prize:

Two tickets to the International Caravan and Motorhome Show 2010 at the NEC in Birmingham 12 – 17th October 2010.

How to enter:

1. Click here for the Caravan Review Database page in our online community.

2. Share your thoughts on your current or previous caravan ownership experience by entering a short review.

3. We’ll contact you by email to let you know if you’ve won!!

Closing date: Monday 4th October. Good luck! Sorry Competition now closed!

Winners will be selected at random from all the entries received and will be notified by email no later than Wednesday 6th October

Terms and Conditions
1. The prize is one of fifteen pairs of tickets to the International Caravan and Motorhome Show, which takes place at Birmingham NEC (October 12th – 17th 2010).

2. This competition is NOT open to employees of Adfero, or any agency connected with this competition or family members of any of these organisations.

3. Only one entry per person and you must be over 18 years old.

4. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

5. The closing date for the competition is Monday 4th October 2010. The judges cannot accept responsibility for late entries. Proof of sending email or postcard is not proof of receipt of entry. No entry can be accepted if all details are not provided.

6. No cash alternative for any of the prizes.

7. Entrants acknowledge that their entries may be released or displayed to the public by caravantimes.co.uk or any agency connected with the competition and as such sign all rights necessary for promotion, publication or of such entries to caravantimes.co.uk. Winners agree to grant caravantimes.co.uk or any agency connected with the competition the right to use their name and likeness for advertising and publicity purposes without any additional compensation.

8. The competition shall be governed by the laws of England and Wales.

Residents grounded in caravan fire drama

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There was drama in a village close to Worthing in the south of England in the early hours of yesterday morning (September 23rd) when residents were forced indoors by a caravan fire.

According to the Argus, emergency services experts were concerned by the presence of a liquefied petroleum gas canister, which was spotted close to the blaze.

They told residents in Winterbourne Way, Durrington to stay inside while the fire was dealt with.

It is believed that arsonists may have set the caravan alight at approximately 01:00 BST, which led to the mobile home being completely destroyed.

After firemen brought the blaze under control, they cooled the canister to a safe temperature, allowing residents to emerge from their homes and assess the damage.

Two detached garages also bore the marks of the flames and smoke.

The attack is the latest in a number of incidents in which caravans have been targeted.

Welsh newspaper the Denbighshire Visitor recently revealed how a man and two women required medical treatment after a separate incident in Towyn.

Caravan towers should ‘look both ways’

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by Chris Malone

Brits who regularly tow caravans should ensure they always look properly when pulling out at junctions.

According to the latest figures, failing to look properly is the most common factor in road traffic collisions.

The Department for Transport statistics show that it is responsible for 38 per cent of accidents, making it more dangerous than speeding, which was a factor in five per cent of accidents and caused 17 fatalities.

Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents head of road safety Kevin Clinton explained that the findings highlight the need for drivers to improve their skills.

“Failing to look properly is not just a benign bad habit – the latest figures show that it is involved in many thousands of accidents on our roads,” he said.

“However, it is a bad habit that can be overcome.”

Mr Clinton encouraged motorists to take refresher courses throughout their driving careers, which may be particularly prudent for those who regularly tow heavy caravans.

The expert added that while the UK has improved its safety record in recent years, it is still by no means perfect.

In other news, the Grimsby Telegraph has revealed that the local council has given the green light to a new caravan site being built in the area.

Caravan site near Grimsby gets green light

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Caravan enthusiasts will soon be able to enjoy fantastic views over the south bank of the Humber and Lincolnshire Wolds, it has been revealed.

According to the Grimsby Telegraph, North East Lincolnshire Council has approved plans for a new caravan park in the area.

The project would see a holiday site and tea rooms built at Ashby-cum-Fenby, which will attract thousands of visitors to the area, the newspaper claimed.

A viewpoint and picnic area will also be created next to the tearooms, which will be constructed of timber and feature a rainwater recycling system designed to make the venue more eco-friendly.

Meanwhile, the local authority has also approved a separate plan for 12 touring caravan pitches close to ten existing holiday lodges in the area.

In other news, pitchup.com recently revealed that caravanning and camping is now 78 per cent more popular than holidaying in Spain.

Skoda Superb Estate wins the 2011 Caravan Club Towcar of the Year Award

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By Marcus Dubois and Holly Tribe

The Skoda Superb Estate Elegance 2.0 TDI was named the Caravan Club Towcar of the Year 2011 at an awards ceremony in London today.

Held at the Royal Automobile Club, the prestigious event is the culmination of a judging process by 10 panellists to decide the best towcars available for caravanners in this model year. Skoda’s popular Superb estate also took the top prize in its price class, and was praised by judges for its performance when towing and its renowned practicality as a family car. The awards are closely watched within the motoring industry as 38 percent of caravan owners buy new vehicles compared to just 17 percent of regular customers, and the award makes a welcome edition to any car manufacturers trophy shelf.

Watch our video feature of the awards here

The competition attracted 35 entrants this year, all of which were put through a rigorous testing process hosted by the Millbrook Proving Ground. Bailey Caravans once again provided test caravans and additional technical support during the week-long assessment.

A closely fought contest

With seven classes of prizes on offer before the overall winner is crowned, there was plenty of competition in some categories. Five of the awards are based on price bands ranging from towcars under £16,000 to those over £32,000. The additional two are granted to all-wheel drive vehicles measured by kerbweight.

In the Under £16,000 category of the two entries the Kia Venga 3 Ecodynamics 1.4 CRDi and the Skoda Fabia Elegance entered into a closely fought battle. The Kia was applauded for low emissions, but Skoda took the prize for superior handling and customers will be pleased to know this model sits in the lower insurance band.

The distinctive people carrying Fiat Doblo 2.0 MultiJet Eleganza won the best towcar under £16,000- £20,000 with judges praising the vehicle’s good stability. Meanwhile last year’s overall winner the Volkswagen Golf Match 2.0TDI was unable to seize the crown for a second time, but was still a comfortable winner in the £20,000 – £25,000 class.

Skoda took their second award of the ceremony with the Superb Estate Elegance 2.0TDi CR in the £25,000 – £32,000 class, while for those cars over £32,000 it was tough to beat the Mercedes-Benz E350 CDI BlueEfficiency Avantgarde Estate. The panel praised the socket in the neck of the towball for “unrivalled ease of connectivity” and enjoyed the “confident” handling.

In the all-wheel drive categories the Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2. DI-D Juro SST “pulled away smartly with a set of smooth shifts” all the way to the Under 1800kgs award. In the over-1800kgs section the judges found the Range Rover Sport “pooh-poohed any pimple of a hill” to win the category.

The winners in full

The Caravan Club opened the awards with former five times Olympic skier, TV presenter and adventurer Graham Bell who spoke warmly of his childhood spent caravanning in Scotland in the family Eccles Amethyst while learning to ski. The floor was then taken by Danny Cobbs of the Caravan Club to announced the winners of each category:

Overall Winner

  • Superb Estate Elegance 2.0 TDI CR

Under £16,000 Class

  • Winner: Skoda Fabia Elegance 1.6 TDI CR

£16,000 to £20,000 Class

  • Winner: Fiat Doblò 2.0 MultiJet Eleganza

£20,000 to £25,000 Class

  • Winner: Volkswagen Golf Match 2.0TDI 140

£25,000 to £32,000 Class

  • Winner: Skoda Superb Estate Elegance 2.0 TDI CR

Over £32,000 Class

  • Winner: Mercedes-Benz E350 CDI BlueEfficiency Avantgarde Estate

Under 1800kgs All-Wheel Drive Category

  • Winner: Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 DI-D Juro SST

Over 1800kgs All-Wheel Drive Category

  • Winner: Range Rover Sport TDV6 HSE

Caravan Times provides coverage of 28th Caravan Club Towcar of the Year 2011

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by Marcus Dubois

Seasoned caravanners and novices alike will be aware of the need to match your car to the caravan for a successful towing outfit. With a wide array of vehicles on offer in today’s market, narrowing down the options can be a significant task in itself.

Fortunately for us the Caravan Club have been doing just that for almost thirty years, inviting manufacturers to enter vehicles into their Towcar of the Year awards. The annual ceremony was created to enable members of the Club to make informed decisions when choosing a towcar. In addition, the publicity around the event helps keep caravanners up to date with the latest innovations and trends in car design.

And this year Caravan Times will be exclusively reporting from the 28th Caravan Club Towcar of the Year Awards. We’ll be present as the winners are announced to the assembled audience at the Royal Automobile Club in London on Thursday 23rd September, and will bring interviews from those in the winners category.

A thorough test

Last year saw 17 manufacturers enter 28 vehicles into the awards, all of which were tested rigorously by the Caravan Club team. An association with leading manufacturer Bailey Caravans has allowed the Club to work with a technical support team during a week-long test at the Millbrook Proving Ground.

Each entry is examined thoroughly and fairly, from the initial scrutineering through the outfit preparation stages. The vehicles are tested during an assessment of ‘caravanability’ and through actual driving itself, where every aspect of ownership is tested rigorously to arrive at the result.

With awards in six categories, there are prizes given across the range, from both smaller family cars to off-road specialist vehicles. Last year class wins in the Competition went to the Kia Soul Shaker 1.6 CRDi; Mazda6 2.2D Estate TS2; Volvo XC60 SE D5 AWD and Land Rover Discovery 4 TDV6 HSE. The category awards for All-Wheel Drive vehicles above and below 1800kg went to Land Rover for its Discovery and Skoda’s Superb Elegance 3.6 V6 4×4 DSG with automatic transmission.

Yet the overall winner of last year’s event challenges the theory that the best towcars are large 4×4 vehicles.

Big is not always better

The Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0 TDI was crowned Overall Towcar of the Year 2010, a worthy triumph for the best-selling family hatchback with previously unheralded towing ability. A panel of ten judges praised its great performance when pulling a caravan in a variety of situations, while lauding its well-documented practicality as a family car.

The Golf’s success sent a reminder to the caravanning community that a strong modern towcar can be found across the range of automotive vehicle classes, and that good towing need not cost a premium.

We’ll bring you the full results in each category, along with interviews, as soon as they are available.

Welsh caravanner injured in fire

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by Chris Malone

A fire on a Welsh caravan site has led to a man and two women requiring medical treatment, it has been revealed.

According to the Denbighshire Visitor, a 56-year-old male was treated for burns, while two females aged 40 and 74 suffered smoke inhalation.

The newspaper alleged that the injuries occurred when an unoccupied neighbouring mobile home at the Ty Mawr Holiday Park in Towyn was torched by arsonists.

One caravan was completely destroyed and another slightly damaged by the flames, which also damaged a gas cylinder enough to cause fire crews some concern.

However, they acted quickly to cool the container and avoid an explosion.

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokesman Russ Vaughan told the newspaper that it was likely a “deliberate ignition”.

“The caravan was close to other caravans and tents. It was lucky that the fire did not cause further damage to nearby campers,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Robin Hood Holiday Park in Ryml recently hosted more than 2,000 scooter enthusiasts who were in the area for a rally, the newspaper added.

Residents evacuated in caravan park drama

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by Chris Malone

Residents at a Hampshire caravan park had to be evacuated recently when a series of explosions caused a fire at a neighbouring scrap yard.

According to the Little Hampton Gazette, 30 people were led away from the Tynefield Caravan Park in Whiteley after police and fire services were called to the area in the early hours of the morning.

The blaze is being treated as suspicious and officers are reportedly working hard to make the area safe for the residents to return.

Chief inspector Will Schofield told the newspaper that it is believed the fire may have been started from a burning vehicle that was driven onto the site.

“The scene remains closed currently to allow us to carry out our investigation but we are aiming to get it open as soon as possible to allow people living in the caravan site to return to their homes,” he said.

In other news, Wigan Today has reported that arsonists targeted a caravan in the Bryn area on Saturday (September 18th).