International Caravan and Motorhome 2010 Show: Free ferry crossing for visitors

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by Holly Tribe

Visitors to this years’ International Motorhome and Caravan Show will get the chance to receive a free ferry crossing courtesy of P&O ferries.

In a major new sponsorship deal, the firm will be offering a free return crossing between Calais and Dover to any visitor purchasing a new caravan or motorhome at the show, which will be held at the NEC in Birmingham in October.

Mark Atherton head of sales for P&O Ferries explained the offer is part of their Spirit of Britain and France campaign to promote the launch of their brand new ships in 2011. He added: “Sponsoring International Caravan & Motorhome is a great way to promote the benefits of these exciting ships to caravan and motorhome users and let them know how welcome they are on these new vessels.”

The six day show is expected to pull in around 80,000 visitors and there are 250 exhibitors from across the industry already lined up. Exciting releases from leading caravan manufacturers Bailey Caravans, Swift Caravans and Lunar Caravans will be on display among many others.

The all new, top of the range Bailey Unicorn series unveiled last month, and new 2011 offerings from Swift Group including four totally redesigned Swift and Sterling ranges will be available for customers view. Check out our walk through video Here.

Show director Sam North explained: “We’re absolutely delighted that our new show sponsor P&O Ferries has given such a headline-grabbing offer to buyers at the show, providing another incentive to attend this October.”

  • Where: NEC Birmingham
  • When: 12 – 17th October
  • Admission:
    Adv. Adult Day Pass: £14.95
    Freedom Pass: £26.00
    Family Pass, 2Ad+2Ch: £31.45

For more information visit their website: www.caravanshows.com

Panther spotted near Scottish Highlands caravan site

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by Chris Malone

Caravan owners often expect to get close to nature and take in some wildlife when on holiday, but one Scottish site may be inadvertently taking the concept a stage further.

According to the Aberdeenshire Press & Journal, a retired sheriff is the latest person to report a sighting of what appears to be a panther in the vicinity of Dornoch Caravan Park in the Highlands.

Donald Booker-Milburn told the newspaper how he was returning from exercising his dog – an Irish Setter – when a “lovely, sleek animal” ran across his path.

“It was far too big [to be a domestic cat],” he said. “I would say about the size of a six-month-old Labrador. The way it moved, too, convinced me it was some type of panther.”

Mr Booker-Milburn added that he had to stop his dog from going after it and that he had never given any credence to such sightings before but is convinced by what he saw.

Another sighting of an animal of similar description came from Ray Paton – a range warden at the Tain Bombing Range.

He explained that a four-foot-long cat appeared in front of him as he was doing his rounds at approximately 06:30 BST on August 26th.

Meanwhile, the Leicester Mercury today reported that a similar sighting occurred in Rutland, where a motorist reported that a black cat the size of an Alsatian had run across his path.

2011 Swift Caravans: Full price list for Conqueror and Challenger

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by Marcus Dubois

Swift Caravans today released a full list of prices for its new upgraded ranges. The Hull-based firm recently launched a striking redesign of the Swift Challenger and Conqueror models with a new more aerodynamic shape. Below we’ll take you through the new features that come as standard on the Challenger and Conqueror, as well as list the optional extras.

The Swift Challenger starts at £15,685 for the two-berth 480 single axle model, and rises to 18,675 for the six-berth 625 twin-axle. Items as standard on the new Challenger include a high capacity moulded front roof locker with integrated speakers and LED lights, and a front chest of drawers with slide-out extending top. A binnacle at the back houses a TV point as well as two 230V sockets, and all models come with a low height built-in microwave oven.

The key options on the Challenger are the new “Impala” stain resistant fabric (a £325 cost option) and the panoramic roof window (£495). Both proved popular with visitors to the official press launch and thus are likely to be pre-ordered by dealers.
The Swift Conqueror features the panoramic sunroof as standard along with superior Alde radiator central heating. Optional extras include wrap-around seating (£125) and a Dometic roof-mounted air conditioning unit (£1,745) available on the 630 and 645 models.

Click here for more details regarding weights and layouts, or you can…

2011 Sterling Caravans: Full price list for Eccles and Elite

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by Holly Tribe

Last month Swift Caravans launched their all new Sterling Elite and Eccles line-up for 2011, to much critical acclaim, and today the Hull-based manufacturer has published a full price list for the models.

Those familiar with the new design will note the new profile defining panoramic sunroof comes included in the price for the Elite models, but as a factory fitted cost option on the Sterling Eccles range. As industry insiders predicted, the firm have kept the price below the five hundred pound mark at £495.

All 2011 Sterling caravans sport a light ‘Oregon’ pine finish, lighter than the Mali Acacia woodgrain offered in their sister brand of Swift Conqueror and Challenger models.

Major upgrades in thermal efficiency come by way of thicker sidewalls and a strong bonded roof, while the GRP front and real panels curve up to meet the roof rails for a streamlined and aerodynamic silhouette.

The Elite caravans are to retain their metallic silver sidewalls for 2011 and all models come with a neutral upholstery scheme in textured plain chenille fabric. A wipe clean ‘Impala’ fabric scheme can be factory fitted as a cost option of £250 in Elite models or £325 in the Eccles caravans.

Click here for more details regarding weights and layouts, or you can check out our walk-through video to have a closer look at the interior and exterior designs in more detail.

2011 Sterling Caravans Prices

STERLING ECCLES – Model Prices
Topaz £15,685
Moonstone £16,785
Jewel £16,635
Ruby £16,975
Quartz £16,975
Solitaire £16,975
Coral £18,165
Amythest £18,675
    Factory fit cost options:

  • Elite ‘Impala’ fabric scheme £325
  • AL-KO ATC trailer control system £435
  • Panoramic roof window and moulded locker system £495
    Dealer fit cost options:

  • AL-KO Secure wheel lock £215
  • AL-KO side lift jack £85
  • Wrap-around seating in addition to drawer chest £125

STERLING ELITE – Model Prices
Diamond £17,285
Emerald £18,485
Amber £18,675
Searcher £20,665
Explorer £20,865
    Factory fit cost options:

  • ‘Impala’ fabric scheme £250
  • AL-KO ATC trailer control system £435
    Dealer fit cost options:

  • Dometic B2200 roof-mounted air conditioner £1,745
  • Wrap-around seating in addition to drawer chest £125

2011 Adria Caravans: Altea season upgrades

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by Holly Tribe

Slovenian based caravan manufacturer Adria have joined the big British hitters Swift Caravans and Coachman Caravans in launching their 2011 season upgrades. To celebrate their 45th year in the industry, Adria have come up with refreshing new designs for their popular range of lightweight Altea tourers.

The four model series has had a total interior design revamp; darker wood is introduced on the cabinets and furniture, contrasted by gleaming white worktops and stylish new graphics adorn the exterior. A removable wheel arch cover insert with an awning skirt profile comes as a cost option, and there’s a new fixed bed layout introduced to the line-up.

Adria have implemented new tougher polyester wall technology which is hard wearing and very durable. The high-gloss plastic finish is championed for being more resistant to dents and scratches than aluminium bodyshells favoured by British manufacturers Bailey Caravans.

Front washrooms for weight distribution

The two six berth family friendly layouts, the Altea 542DK and 542DT, remain unchanged, while the Altea 432PX returns for 2011 as a marvellous small fixed bed, four berther. The lions’ share of the weight is held at the nose end where the farside washroom is positioned – this clever weight distribution allows these ‘vans to be towed by smaller cars. The compromise comes with the lack of a front window, but with prices starting at under £11,450 it should still be a very appealing choice for budget conscious caravanners on the search for a family sized tourer.

The 2010 Altea 390 DS housed a twin dinette, 4 berth layout which was cramped with a mini washroom. The layout has been improved for 2011 with a new transverse rear dinette which runs the width of the caravan and the washroom has is now opposite the kitchen on the farside.

Floorplans

    Adria Altea 390 DS

  • MiRO 938kg
  • Price £10,940
  • Length 5.81m
  • 4 Berth

    Adria Altea 432 PX

  • MiRO TBC
  • Price £11,450
  • Length 6.28m
  • 4 Berth

    Adria Altea 542DK

  • MiRO 1085kg
  • Price £11,950
  • Length 7.23m
  • 6 Berth

    Adria Altea 542 DT

  • MiRO 1070
  • Price £11,950
  • Length 7.23m
  • 6 Berth

Cost options include the wheel insert cover for £100 and carpets priced at £200.

Preview: The Lawns Caravan Extravaganza Weekend 2010

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by Holly Tribe

Caravan enthusiasts from all over the country will be descending on Cottingham this weekend for the annual Caravan Extravaganza.

The event takes place on the 4th and 5th of September in the expansive grounds of Hull University’s halls of residence complex, and seventeen of the UK’s biggest leisure vehicle manufacturers will be in attendance.

The event has a history of showcasing the industry’s newest products and gives caravanners and motorhomers a chance to get a first look at upcoming model updates.

This year, visitors interested in a new season touring caravan will be presented with a bumper crop of innovative new designs and brand new ranges from leading firms.

  • Where: The Lawns, Harland Way, Cottingham, East Yorkshire HU16 5SQ
  • When: Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th September
  • Admission: £3 per person, £7 per family (dogs admitted but must be on a lead)

New models

Swift Caravans, having just unveiled their 2011 offerings to widespread industry approval, will be there with the brand new Challenger, Conqueror and Sterling Eccles and Elite ranges. We urge visitors to go and check out the new panoramic sunroof on the Conqueror and Elite models which we think offer something really different.

Coachman Caravans will have their newly redesigned entry level Amara range on parade. Overhauled for 2011, the new models include an extra 5cm of headroom and new to the line-up is the Amara 655/6, a new twin axle, twin dinette layout.

Elddis Caravanswill also put in an appearance with a selection from their ten new models added for the coming year, and their re-designed Avante range. Lunar Caravans will most likely be showing off their two new additions which come in the form of the Lexon 530 and Clubman SB.

Retailers, dealers and holiday park representatives will stand alongside manufacturers to present related products and services. Catterick Caravans will have a large selection of items at their well stocked accessory shop in the Lawns centre. The National Caravan Council and the British Holiday & Home Parks Association will be there with staff on hand to answer questions and provide advice – and clubs such as the Camping and Caravan Club and Yorkshire Friends Ralliers will also be present.

A great turn out

Last year 24,000 people attended the first two days of the show, and with the rise of the ‘staycation’, a similar turn out is expected this year. A three day trade show follows from Tuesday to Thursday in the subsequent week.

Event organiser David Ritchie told the Yorkshire Post: “With more travel companies going bust more people seem to want to have holidays in the UK so that’s good for the caravan industry.”

For more information visit their website: www.lawnsandbeaulieushows.com

The top five caravan sites in Cornwall

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by Adam Shaw

Since the Victorians first invented the concept of ‘the holiday’ people have been flocking to Cornwall for its mild climate, miles of Jurassic coastline, and cultural heritage. Yet Cornwall has seen a lot of changes since the Industrial Revolution first brought holidaymakers by steam train to its towns and beaches. The tin and copper mines have closed and many working farms now supplement their income by serving cream teas and Sunday dinner.

The Victorian image of Cornwall as England’s tropical seaside resort remains and attracts millions to the county every year and with the recent improvements to the A30, it has never been easier to hitch up your caravan, drive down and breathe in the sea air.

According to the South West Tourist Board Survey 2009, visitors to the South West said that the best place to visit was Cornwall (20%). Caravan Times has been visiting many Cornish touring parks in the past month and now we are ready to give you our guide to our top 5 sites in Cornwall.

It was a difficult task to choose from so many quality parks, but choose we did! As caravanners can now expect comparable basic facilities (clean toilets, showers, hook-ups) from most parks, we based our selection on parks that stand out for their unusual features, exude a particular character or charm, or can boast outstanding achievement. Here are the results in no particular order.


Trethem Mill Touring Park
St Just-in-Roseland, TR2 5JF
Tel: 01872 580504
Website: www.trethem.com

In a quiet, secluded area of the unspoilt Roseland Peninsula, Trethem Mill has been wooing caravanners and winning awards since the present owners, Ian and Jane acquired the site. Having scooped the prestigious Enjoy England 2010 ‘National Caravan Holiday Park of the Year’ award, they are now the pride of Cornwall. The pitches and flowerbeds are beautifully kept and although the grounds and facilities are pristinely maintained, the site never seems fussy.


Godrevey Caravan Club Site
Upton Towans, Hayle, TR27 5BL
Tel: 01736 753100
Website: Godrevey Caravan Club Site

Godrevey has the privilege of standing side by side with (in my opinion as a local) one of the top beaches in Cornwall. Stunning is a word that is over-used in travel writing and rarely justified, but in the case of Godrevey beach it is well deserved. Walk over the dunes and you are soon rewarded with thrilling views to St Ives or out to Godrevey lighthouse on its rocky island.
The lifeguarded beach is several miles long and popular with watersports enthusiasts and kite flyers. The sand is soft and the sea as clear as mineral water. The site is owned and run by the caravan club and meets the high standards that have come to be expected by all members, but it is the location that really sets this site apart.


Kenneggy Cove Holiday Park
Higher Kenneggy, Rosudgeon, Penzance, TR20 9AU
Tel: 01736 763453
Website: www.kenneggycove.co.uk

This site is loved and nurtured by the owners and has built up a tight group of loyal returning customers. The beach at Kenneggy Cove is a 10 minute hike down the coast path and is far enough off the beaten track to be relatively private and unpopulated, even during peak season. There is an unmistakeably Mediterranean feel to the site and it is very popular with discerning visitors from the continent. Hot croissants and coffee served on the breakfast patio completes the picture as you sit back and drink in the view.


Trewethett Farm Caravan Club Site
Trethevy, Tintagel, PL34 0BQ
Tel: 01840 770222
Website: Trewethett Farm Caravan Club Site

Watching over one of the most dramatic views of any site in Cornwall, Trewethett Farm is just short drive from Tintagel, the rumoured birthplace of the legendary King Arthur. The cliff top walks to Boscastle and Tintagel cannot be bettered and the view you can have from your caravan of the cliffs around Bossiney Cove and the wide expanse of the Atlantic ocean will stay with you well after your holiday has ended. Trewethett Farm is all about the view and it’s enough to make you go back time after time.


Trewan Hall
St Columb, TR9 6DB
Tel: 01627 880484
Website: www.trewan-hall.co.uk

Trewan Hall is an beautifully kept 17th century stone mansion and is a grand place to stay. There is plenty of space in the 36 acres of woodland to roam around or spread out in the well-kept grounds and the old buildings are a joy to explore. In addition to the standard facilities (which are outstanding), there is also a library and reading room, a theatre where local folk musicians and theatre companies entertain, games rooms and a beautiful outdoor heated pool. There is a sense of history and timelessness to this site that is unique in Cornwall and visitors I spoke to described a sense of nostalgia that spanned the years. Kids ride in the trailer at haymaking time and there is a feeling of community and safety in this idyllic rural retreat.

If you have enjoyed any of these sites or are a regular visitor, we can only apologise for sharing your secret! For more information (or if you agree or disagree with the top five chosen) you can click here to visit the group pages in our Caravan Times community or use our forums

TALKBACK: Swift Caravans answers your questions on 2011 models

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by Marcus Dubois

In this edition of TalkBack we focus on the new 2011 models from Swift Caravans. We put your questions to Richard White of the Swift Group at the manufacturer’s official launch in Willerby, Hull. Four of the firm’s most popular ranges have been completely redesigned: the Swift Challenger and Conqueror and Sterling Eccles and Elite. Standout features include a panoramic front sunroof to allow extra light into the cabin, and a new revised interior look featuring wipe-clean “Impala” fabric.

The questions in this episode include thoughts from readers about quality control in the caravan industry, as well as whether GRP sides will return to Swift models. In addition we passed on queries from readers about future models from Swift, including whether the firm would bring back the Bessacarr range or create a six-berth Sterling Elite model.

Click here to send us your questions for the next episode of Talkback

August Bank Holiday traffic advice and alternative routes

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by Holly Tribe

It’s summertime and it’s the bank holiday, yet for many around Britain there has been a distinct lack of sunshine after a week of heavy rainfall. No matter – this just gives the British caravan contingent a chance to prove their mettle and not let a bit of drizzle dampen any spirits.

Despite a dubious forecast from the weathermen, the AA have predicted that a massive 16 million vehicles will be on the road this weekend as holiday makers look set to make the most of the last Bank Holiday of the summer.

But for most, the huge number of extra vehicles usually means staring at brake lights for at least couple of hours at some point in their journey.

David Hawes, patrol manager for RAC told online travel experts Expedia: “Getting stuck on the motorway is irritating at the best of times, and can make a disastrous start to a bank-holiday break. With so many great roads and picturesque drives to choose from in Britain our advice is to enjoy the drive.”

We couldn’t agree more, getting snarled up in traffic isn’t anybody’s idea of fun. Which is why we’ve compiled this list of traffic black spots and alternative routes to help you along your way.

The road less travelled


Bristol to Cornwall

Avoid the M5 corridor between Exeter and Bristol, and take the scenic route through Shepton Mallet and Honiton, via the A37 and A303 then continue along the A30 which winds around Dartmoor National Park and into the heart of the Cornish countryside.

London to Brighton

If you find yourself en route to the beaches of Brighton this weekend, you can avoid the notorious M23 bottlenecks by taking the road between Godstone and Lewes on the A22 – entering Brighton from the West.

Manchester to Blackpool

Blackpool has for years been a hugely popular destination for holidaymakers. If you’re approaching this seaside city from Manchester, avoid the M6 and M55, and take a route from Burscough and Kirkham, via the A5209, A59, A5072 and then the A583 which leads you into Blackpool.

Yorkshire Dales

Be warned, caravans are prohibited on the road up to Sutton Bank in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park due to a very steep 1 in 4 gradient. There’s an alternative recommended route for caravans via Coxwold, Wass and Ampleforth, which meets up with the B1257, but some streets through these villages can be narrow so do take care.

Traffic Black Spots

Some of the areas you may want to avoid this weekend include the M4 Junctions 10 -12 around Reading and the A1(M) Junctions 44 and 45 around Wetherby in Yorkshire which are likely to suffer heavy congestion due to the Reading and Leeds music festivals.

The M56 junctions 11 and 12 around Runcorn in Cheshire are also likely to be busy due to the Creamfields music festival which will attract around 40,000 visitors. The M25 London Orbital is also likely to be particularly bad from Friday afternoon onwards as hordes of city folk make a break for the country for the weekend.

Get up to date traffic news from the AA’s Roadwatch service.

Cheap petrol and good weather?

Well, one out of two isn’t bad! Asda have dropped their forecourt petrol prices for the weekend, a litre of unleaded will cost no more than 110.9p and 113.9p for diesel. The supermarket chain has 180 forecourts across the country, and you can click here to find your nearest outlet.

Forecasters have predicted wet weather over the weekend, but given the infamously fickle nature of the UK’s meteorological system, you’d be advised to keep a weather eye on the horizon and pack for rain or shine wherever your intended destination may be.

Click here to get up to date weather reports from BBC Weather.

Have you got any alternative route suggestions? Let us know in our forum topic here.

2011 Sterling Eccles and Elite caravans: pictures, layouts and specs

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by Holly Tribe

Swift Caravans have launched their new Sterling Eccles and Elite models which have undergone a total redesign for the 2011 season. The models will be on show at the Lawns Extravaganza near Hull on the 4th and 5th September and will be arriving at retailer sites later in the year.

The Sterling brand models have a light Oregon pine finish, which is lighter than the Mali Acacia woodgrain offered in the Swift Conqueror and Challenger equivalents. Both come with th cost option of a new ‘Impala’ stain resistant, easy clean upholstery alternative in a tactile nubuck texture.

All the new models sport a new exterior shape. A glossy GRP front panel curves up to meet the roof rails, and a flat roof ensures 1.95 meters of headroom down the length of the cabin. Thicker sidewalls and a strong bonded roof help with thermal efficiency and a panoramic sunroof make the interior bright and airy.


2011 Sterling Elite

There are five layouts to choose from in the Elite series, ranging from the entry level Elite Diamond to the twin axle four berth Elite Searcher.

These caravans retain their metallic silver side walls in 2011 and also gain a new panoramic, wrap-around sunroof which comes as standard, pictured in the Elite Emerald opposite. The sunroof is accented either side in black for continuity with the front window set.

    Elite Diamond

  • MTPLM 1,470kg
  • 2 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £17,285

    Elite Emerald

  • MTPLM 1,650kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £18,485

    Elite Amber – improved layout for 2011

  • MTPLM 1,855kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £18,675

    Elite Searcher – open plan with dresser/TV unit near door and tower fridge freezer adjoining the kitchen area

  • MTPLM 1,855kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Twin axle
  • Price £20,665

    Elite Explorer – front parallel lounge, tower fridge freezer, transverse ‘island’ fixed bed and rear washroom

  • MTPLM 1,825kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Twin axle
  • Price £20,865


2011 Sterling Eccles

Eight flexible floorplans make up the 2011 Sterling Eccles range. All models have new granite effect kitchen sinks, and the Topaz and Moonstone models also have them in the end washrooms. Both the twin axle models have on-board 30 litre water tanks. The upholstery is finished with a neutral textured plain chenille fabric with contemporary accent swatches, or the stain resistant Impala comes as a cost option, as pictured in the Eccles Topaz opposite. The panoramic sunroof may also be added as a factory fitted cost option, with prices expected to come in at under £500.

    Eccles Topaz

  • MTPLM 1,420kg
  • 2 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £15,685

    Eccles Moonstone

  • MTPLM 1,615kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £16,785

    Eccles Jewel

  • MTPLM 1,545kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £16,635

    Eccles Ruby

  • MTPLM 1,620kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £16,975

    Eccles Quartz

  • MTPLM 1,620 kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £16,975

    Eccles Amethyst

  • MTPLM 1,825kg
  • 6 Berths
  • Twin axle
  • Price £18,675

    Eccles Coral Improved layout with larger kitchen

  • MTPLM 1,775kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Twin axle
  • Price £18,165

    Eccles Solitaire New layout with front parallel lounge, two fixed single rear beds, and rear washroom.

  • MTPLM 1,605kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £16,975

VIDEO: 2011 Swift and Sterling Caravans Review

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by Marcus Dubois

Swift Caravans has completed a striking redesign of four of its existing ranges. The Swift Challenger and Conqueror have been updated for 2011 alongside their Sterling counterparts the Eccles and Elite.

Using the latest 3D automotive technology Swift has shaped the new caravans for greater aerodynamics, and all four models now use a similar and striking design language. On the Swift Conqueror and Sterling Elite the standout feature is a panoramic front sunroof which brings a greater amount of light into the caravan, while inside roof lockers are to be found on either side.

In this video our editor was present at the first viewing of the new models and takes you through the standout features of the 2011 ranges. In addition we hear from Richard White of the Swift Group about the development of the new caravans, and get a first opinion from esteemed caravan journalist Andrew Jenkinson who casts his eye over the tourers.

Click the image below to be taken to the video feature.

Caravan advert star searches for on-screen wife

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A 77-year-old former scooter engineer is searching for the woman who once played his wife in a 1959 caravan advert.

According to the Berwick Advertiser, Ken Strugnell is hoping to find his on-screen partner to tell her that the BBC is remaking the TV ad as part of a programme to be released later this year.

The original saw a then 26-year-old Mr Strugnell towing a fold-away caravan in his Lambretta scooter with sidecar from Emsworth to Bosham Quay.

On arrival, his character and his wife and daughter get to work setting up the 6ft 6in mobile home right on the beach.

The star admitted that the caravan was probably too small to catch on, but suggested that it might be nice for his co-star to see the remake.

He has already been in touch with the 54-year-old woman who played his daughter to let her know, but Mr Strugnell’s real wife had her own theory on why the idea did not last long.

“There’s a moment when the wind catches the caravan as he’s putting it up and it looks like it might fall off the quay into the sea. It doesn’t, but it’s very funny,” she told the newspaper.

Meanwhile, the newspaper recently revealed that a local campsite has applied for permission to add a further 51 caravan pitches to its site.