Lorraine Kelly the ideal caravan guest

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A survey of caravan users has revealed the ideal celebrity holiday companion to be TV presenter Lorraine Kelly.

The Scot took almost a third (32 per cent) of the votes, with comedian Peter Kay taking second place with 28 per cent.

According to the poll of 1,200 Safeguard caravan insurance customers, Nigella Lawson (nine per cent) and Jamie Oliver (15 per cent) were also popular choices.

The rest of the top six was completed by Coleen Nolan, who commanded 11 per cent of the vote, and Rod Stewart, who took five per cent.

Commenting, Safeguard manager Rita Sadler explained that choosing a holiday partner wisely is an important part of a caravan break.

“We can see why Lorraine Kelly would make the perfect holiday pal as her down to earth chatter would keep you entertained on the journey,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Melton Times recently reported that a group of protestors have marked their one year anniversary of living in a caravan at a site where a telecoms company wishes to erect a phone mast.

Honda recalls Jazz in fresh blow to Japanese carmakers

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Japanese car giant Honda is to contact 171,372 owners of the Jazz model in the UK as part of a safety recall. The manufacturer is arranging an examination of the master power window switch on the first generation Jazz (2002-2008). The news comes as Honda has added 437,700 cars, mainly in North America, to its existing global safety recall over airbag inflation problems. The company has already recalled almost 4,000 Accord and Civic cars in 2008 and another 510,000 cars in mid-2009.

Readers of Caravan Times alarmed by recent reports of airbag issues should know that most of the faulty cars are found in North America and the recall does not affect customers in the UK. Honda vehicles sold in the UK are fitted with a different type of airbag to the one concerned.

The news however comes as a fresh blow to Japanese carmakers, after we reported last week how Toyota recalled over 180,000 cars in the UK over a faulty accelerator pedal. And today in a separate safety issue Toyota announced a global recall of some of its Prius model over a brake problem. This affects 8,300 in the UK and the maker intends to install updated software to faulty cars.

Honda Jazz – the switchgear problem explained.

Honda have discovered that the master window switch in the driver’s door of the Jazz can malfunction when exposed to large amounts of liquid ingress. For example if the window is left open frequently or for long periods during heavy rain this can cause issues. Water and other fluids can cause the window switch’s circuit board to malfunction and prevent opening or closing of the window. What has prompted this recall is that in rare cases, the circuit board can overheat causing melting or smoke or, potentially, fire. However there have been no reported cases of a switch malfunction causing fire to a Jazz in the UK.

The manufacturer explained that not all of the cars recalled will require a replacement switch. However it promises to fit all recalled cars with a waterproof skirt in order to prevent further water entry.

How to get it fixed

Honda UK intends to contact Jazz owners affected by the recall “as soon as possible”. In all cases they have assured that work will be carried out at no cost to the customer.

The firm have advised customers who have concerns to contact Honda (UK) Customer Relations on 0845 200 8002 for assistance.

Those affected by the Toyota Prius story should be aware that the model affected is the third-generation Prius (built before 27 January 2010). A full statement on the issue can be found here at the manufacturer’s blog.

New models from Lunar on show at Boat and Caravan

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The weather reports may be predicting further snow but the calendar tells us that spring is just around the corner. And with it comes families who will be starting to plan a UK holiday. The advent of the “staycation” last year saw more parents than ever show their children around Britain instead of taking a plane further afield. With this in mind, Lancashire caravan makers Lunar are releasing two new models, first on display at the NEC in February.

Both models are 6 berth caravans on single axles, yet Lunar claim that they will naturally be synonymous with the firm’s reputation of “lightweight luxury.” The Quasar 462 was recently acclaimed at the 2010 Which Caravan Awards as the winner of “Best Couples Caravan Under £13,500”, and the new larger version in this range hopes to receive similar praise in the family sector.

NEW – Quasar 556

The 556 builds on the success of the Quasar 546 and we are told fits into the same body shell as its stable mate. A double lounge model, it will have 5’6″ long front seating together with 6′ long rear seating (with full length lift up bunks above).

Lunar have promised that the Quasar 556 “will match the high specification of the current Quasar range”. Features will include a fully lined separate shower cubicle, a fully equipped kitchen, and plenty of storage options. Modern families should also appreciate an open plan spacious living area. As mentioned earlier, the caravan is on a single axle and berths 6 people. The MTPLM should be around 1450kg.

NEW – Lexon 570

The main feature on this 6 berth single axle caravan is the fixed bed offered. Lunar proclaim that the Lexon 570 will be one of the first 6 berth single axle caravans to enter the UK market incorporating a fixed bed setup.

The caravan builds on the current body shell of the single axle Lexon range. For this model however Lunar increased the internal headroom to 6′ 5″ and borrowed from other caravans in their lineup when it came to the interior. Hence the locker arrangements are derived from the Clubman, while the back panel is similarly a Clubman item.

Both the Quasar 556 and the Lexon 570 will debut at Boat and Caravan Show at the NEC in February, and will be available on retailer sites soon afterwards. Prices start from £5 for children under 16, while adults are £12 and senior citizens just £9.50. Tickets can be bought in advance online using The Ticket Factory, or alternatively call 0844 581 3000.

Caravan burglar caught out by a jar of mayonnaise

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Those who take up caravanning often cite convenience and accessibility as the main reasons for buying a caravan. As such, a large number of owners choose to keep their ‘van on their property if there is enough room. Unfortunately keeping the vehicle on a driveway or equivalent is not enough to deter thieves or opportunists, as a story in the Hartlepool Mail proved this week.

The newspaper revealed how a burglar was recently caught breaking into a caravan to sleep for the night after a row with his girlfriend. He was however caught out (and charged with burglary) after his fingerprints were discovered on a mayonnaise jar from the caravan.

The court prosecutor heard how the man had been “wandering the streets” after the row with his girlfriend, who had told him to leave their property. He eventually came across an open caravan which had been parked outside a house in Hartlepool. He promptly entered, helping himself to biscuits and mayonnaise found inside the vehicle. The incident was then discovered in September last year when his prints were found on the jar.

Most notable for caravanners is how this crime was made possible in the first place. The burglar explained that the caravan was open, therefore he simply climbed into it.

The story outlines the importance of maintaining vigilance when keeping a caravan on a property. Owners are regularly advised by industry bodies and insurance organisations to ensure that doors and windows are locked at all times, even if on the driveway. Caravanners are also advised to invest in an additional form of caravan security (such as a wheel lock or hitch lock) to avoid the caravan being towed from the driveway.

While such measures cannot altogether prevent theft or unwanted entry, using these devices can help deter would-be thieves as well as potentially improving insurance rates.

For more information on useful security measures for your caravan, please click here to see our “Getting Started” guide.

Caravan company notes increased turnover

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Unfavourable exchange rates in Europe and the trend for staycations have helped one Midlands-based caravan dealer notably increase its turnover.

Broad Lane Leisure saw a sales increase of 37.5 per cent during 2009, with used motor home sales doubling year-on-year, the Birmingham Post revealed.

Second hand caravan sales also rose by 41.4 per cent and spokesman Darren Brown explained that the transformation has been “astonishing”.

He revealed that the industry had been in decline before 2009 and that companies were more focused on survival than growth.

Mr Brown added that the change in fortunes was largely down to the financial downturn and its effects across Europe.

“Families can’t afford to go abroad for their longer holidays and people of all backgrounds and ages – from the wealthiest to the less well-off – are scrutinising the challenges, opportunities and freedom that owning a caravan can provide,” he told the newspaper.

Meanwhile, the Caravan Club is set to host its annual National Rally at the end of May, with around 10,000 caravanners expected to attend.

Scottish caravan park in fraud case

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A Scottish caravan park is at the centre of a fraud investigation after police began enquires over discrepancies with a cheque.

Two men and a woman have been arrested in connection with the alleged fraud at Lossiemouth’s Silver Sands Caravan Park.

Police began their enquires last August after investors in a caravan reported that they had paid almost £10,000 for a caravan, but later found that it did not belong to them.

There have also been other alleged cases of mobile homes being sold without the owners’ consent or knowledge.

The site is owned by Green Parks and director Deepak Johar revealed that the firm has been helping in the matter.

“We will continue to assist police as much as is necessary in the case,” he told the Press and Journal.

The three people arrested in connection with the allegations are set to appear at Elgin Sheriff Court today (February 8th).

According to the Silver Sands website, the park offers “miles of beautiful unspoilt sandy beaches” with rare seabirds and rock pools full of wildlife.

Botanist praises Yorkshire caravan park

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A North Yorkshire caravan park has won praise for its work in encouraging wildlife to set up home in the area.

Renowned botanist David Bellamy said High Bentham’s Riverside Caravan Par has carried out important work in improving the environment in the surrounding area.

According to the Westmorland Gazette, the site is one of just 20 around Britain to be given one of Bellamy’s 2010 Conservation Awards.

Owners Thomas and Jane Marshall have worked hard to protect and boost the park’s local animal and plant life.

Bellamy admitted to being pleasantly surprised by the couple’s efforts in improving biodiversity and revealed that they had shown initiative to carry out work that even he had not considered before.

“This couple deserve all the support they can get and there are plenty of other tourism businesses in Cumbria and the rest of the UK which could take a leaf from their book,” he told the newspaper.

The awards are judged by assessors on how the park owners manage their land as a haven for wildlife, reduce resources use, deal with waste and support their local communities.

Caravan park gets lawfulness certificate after almost 60 years of existence

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A caravan park in Durham has been given its first certificate of lawfulness despite being in the same position since the end of the Second World War, according to the Northern Echo.

The certificate was handed out by Durham County Council’s planning committee, which will allow the park next to Finchale Abbey to continue in its operations.

Aerial photographs, sworn statements and rental records provided evidence of the longevity of the camping and caravanning park, which is currently home to 67 permanent residential caravans and 41 touring caravans.

Principal planning officer Peter Herbert was responsible for suggesting at the meeting at Easington that anecdotal evidence was available and that at no time had planning permission been sought in the past.

Meanwhile, the site has gone through an upgrading period relatively recently, as work was carried out in 2003 after a local fire officer and the council’s environmental health department were concerned about the condition of some of the caravans in use.

Finchale Abbey has been with its current owners since 1951 and lies within close proximity to the River Wear.

Caravans best way to explore the great outdoors

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Neil Oliver took the opportunity to promote the benefits of holidaying in a caravan as he opened the Scottish Caravan & Outdoor Leisure Show, the Glasgow Evening Times reports.

The Scottish author, historian and broadcaster spoke positively of how locals could enjoy a break on their own doorsteps through the number of caravan opportunities available.

Running for four days from February 4th, the event is held at the SECC in Glasgow and gives visitors the chance to see the latest product models, alongside experiencing cooking and wine demonstrations and gaining advice on how best to manoeuvre a caravan.

According to the publication, Mr Oliver highlighted that a caravan break could be a wise choice for those who have been left cash strapped as a result of the global economic climate within the last year.

He said: “Scotland has beaches that can contend with some of the world’s top holiday spots. Why travel abroad when you have some extremely beautiful sandy beaches, right here on your door step?

“A staycation can offer low-cost holidaying and caravanning is the best way to explore the great outdoors.”

Boat and Caravan – Show Preview

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Last year Caravan Times visited International Caravan & Motorhome and was dazzled by the array of gleaming objects on display. With two brand new caravan designs on offer in the Bailey Pegasus and the Stealth from Dunster House, the hardware fans amongst us were spoilt for choice. However if poring over caravans exclusively is a little too much, there’s a show in February that promises to cater for every whim of the outdoor enthusiast.

Boat & Caravan 2010 is held at the same venue (Birmingham’s NEC) from the 23-28 February but caters for a wide variety of touring lifestyles. Caravan fans who also enjoy camping and boating will find plenty on offer here, while those who are newcomes can benefit from lots of beginners events. With leading clubs and organisations in attendance to help answer questions and give advice, Boat & Caravan is a great place to get started. We contacted the organisers to find out what caravan fans can look forward to this year. In Part Two next week we’ll look at some of the other activities on offer…

Touring Caravans

In 2009 the caravan community witnessed a mini-revolution in the Pegasus from Bailey Of Bristol which premiered at International Caravan & Motorhome. This year Boat & Caravan can boast their own first when the new Olympus is revealed for the first time. Like the Pegasus this uses Bailey’s new Alu-Tech body shell construction technique, but the manufacturer explained to us “it will be equivalent to the Pageant range in our classic construction portfolio.” Considering how the Pegasus is now Bailey’s best-seller, expect this new caravan to be the star of the show.

2009 also saw the launch of the most radical design in caravans with the Stealth from Dunster House. At Boat & Caravan the team are introducing a brand new glossy silver/grey nosecone alongside the existing black. Take a look over at Stand 5205A.

The best of the rest sees iconic American brand Airstream continue their European range with a new improved version of the Bambi (pictured) to be found on Stand 4096. Continuing at the luxury end, Coachman have invested heavily in design with VIP, Pastiche and Laser ranges given a full makeover. Take a look at the brand new single axle Amara 560/4 on Stand 5190. In addition, Lunar and Elddis both have new models for 2010. The former will be showing their range at stand 5170, while the latter are presenting three new models on Stands 5275/5290.

Awnings and Accessories

Leading manufacturers Isabella will be showcasing their brand new annex called “The Future”. This exciting new product is cleverly designed – easy to assemble with only one lightweight pole. Also in awnings Europe’s largest producer Dorema will be launching a new collection of budget and porch awnings under the new STAR CAMP label. Discounts of up to 40% can be found at Stand 5250.

In accessories technology giants ALKO-KOBER will demonstrate the new Mammut caravan mover, designed to manouevre the vehicle over kerbs and rough terrain. Watch the eye-catching live demos at Stand 5180. Other innovations include Propex Heating and Leisure’s new water heater designed especially for caravans, which you can find at Stand 3281. Finally you can see the latest in satellite television systems for caravans with Maxview showcasing five new systems, while Oyster Sat Tech will be launching a keenly priced Caro range.

Show details

Boat and Caravan is taking place between 23-28 February 2010 at the NEC, Birmingham. For more information you can visit the website, boatandcaravan.co.uk.

Adult tickets cost £12.50 in advance and £14 on the door, while children are £5 and £6 respectively. Senior citizens can attend for only £9.50 when booking in advance.

The best news is that a free show guide (£5 RRP) and free parking (worth £8) are both included in the ticket price. The Show is open daily from 10am – 6pm.

Remember to look out for Part Two of our Boat and Caravan guide next week, where we’ll be looking at some of the action-packed events on offer at Boat & Caravan.

Rise in the number of people taking out caravan insurance

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Many more caravanners are stepping up their efforts to take out insurance as a result of the recent cold weather, it has been noted.

Insure My Caravan has witnessed growth in its customer base as owners become weary of problems occurring within their properties.

Meanwhile, there is the added risk of accidents taking place on roads, with caravanners aware of the increased risk that the snowy and icy conditions pose.

Managing director of the company David Quick said: “We have found that there are many people who have suffered badly this winter with the amount of snowfall we have got here in the UK.

“People are having to make claims, or are looking for caravan insurance to ensure they have cover should conditions worsen or accidents occur on journeys.”

Among the things that caravan insurance covers are theft of a vehicle, any damage caused to another caravan and the loss of any belongings kept inside.

There is also the likelihood that those who own a cheaper caravan may be able to take advantage of reduced caravan insurance quotes.

Toyota GB director speaks to reassure British customers

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Caravanners who use a Toyota as a towcar may be affected by fears of a “sticky” accelerator pedal in a number of the carmaker’s best selling lines. The global car giant is in the process of recalling millions of cars worldwide in order to attempt to address the fault.

GB director John Williams has spoken today to offer a message of reassurance to customers. He stressed that the company were “truly sorry for letting our customers down” while in the video he outlined how Toyota will manage the recall of customer’s vehicles in the UK.

“First of all, I’d like to start by reassuring our customers that there is nothing more important to us than their safety. I drive a Toyota, my family and friends drive Toyotas, and I wouldn’t allow my loved ones to drive our cars if I didn’t believe they were safe.”

He added, “This is a very rare situation that takes place. There is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position, or return slowly to the idle position. If you do notice that your accelerator pedals is slow to return, or starts to stick, then please contact your Toyota retailer immediately, or call our customer relations freephone line.”

Williams explained that the cause behind the fault is a worn accelerator pedal mechanism. “As a result of this wear, combined with certain environmental and operating conditions, friction in the mechanism may increase and intermittently result in the accelerator pedal being hard to depress, slow to return, or in the worst case sticking in a partially open position.” He again urged customers to contact their dealer or use the customer helpline.

How it started

Toyota has previously apologised for the issues, but explained that only 26 cases involving accelerator pedals had been reported in Europe. It is not aware of any accidents in the UK which relate to the fault. However fears continue after the widespread reporting of the death of a family of four who died when their Lexus E350 crashed in San Diego, USA. A recording of a 911 call reveals one of the passengers called to report the accelerator had stuck, with the car subsequently reaching 120 miles per hour before crashing.

UK recall of affected vehicles

Toyota GB has communicated details of the 180,865 affected UK vehicles to the DVLA. The total is made up of certain models from seven Toyota ranges:

AYGO (February 2005 – August 2009)
IQ (November 2008 – November 2009)
Yaris (November 2005 – September 2009)
Auris (October 2006 – 5 January 2010)
Corolla (October 2006 – December 2009)
Verso (February 2009 – 5 Jan 2010)
Avensis (November 2008 – December 2009)

Manual Aygo models and all versions of RAV4 are not included in the UK recall. No Lexus models and no other Toyota passenger cars or light commercial vehicles are affected in the UK.

Details of how cars will be fixed

The first shipments of the parts required will begin arriving in the UK next week and Toyota will be in a position to start repairing cars from 10 February.

The repairs will be carried out by qualified Toyota technicians, at Toyota-approved service centres. GB director John Williams explained the procedure “should take 30 minutes” to complete.

Anyone who has been affected by this story is advised to contact Toyota GB Customer Relations on 0800 1388 744. In addition there is a dedicated recall information page provided by Toyota.

Have you been affected by this story? If so please feel free to send your thoughts and opinions to us at editor@caravantimes.co.uk