October 16, 2009
Sales were booming on the first few days of International Caravan and Motorhome 2009
After a year where sales of caravans and motorhomes increased despite the credit crunch, this year’s major caravan show was expected to continue the trend. However visitor numbers to International Caravan and Motorhome 2009 have exceeded even these expectations.
The number of people attending the show at the NEC in Birmingham has increased by just over 10% for the first two days. Meanwhile exhibitors are reporting bumper sales. The top five caravan manufacturers – Swift, Bailey, Lunar, Coachman and Elddis – sold just under 400 units between them on the opening day, worth over £6m.
Show director Sam North spoke to Caravan Times on Thursday and noted that some motorhome manufacturers had also sold units around the £100K price point. “It seems that manufacturers and dealers are shifting entry-level, mid-range and luxury units.”
He also noted how smaller items are also flying off the stands. “Accessory dealers are also reporting strong sales, with many already committed to taking a stand at next year’s show.”
For those who haven’t yet attended International Caravan and Motorhome 2009, North added that the footfall increase was likely to continue for the rest of the show, which runs until Sunday. “The weekend is traditionally the busiest, when a lot of families turn up, and we’ve done quite well with advance family ticket sales. We have a free crèche and a free activities area, sponsored by Gullivers, so we’re expecting another bumper few days.”
The good news however is that tickets for International Caravan and Motorhome 2009 at the NEC Birmingham are still available on the door at £14.95. Children under 16 are admitted for free.
October 12, 2009
The family-owned Staffordshire theme park won Best UK Children's Attraction for 2009
When taking children away on a caravan holiday perhaps the major issue to consider is activities. Keeping your kids occupied over five or ten days can require some preparation and research, especially when travelling to unfamiliar parts of the country.
If you’re visiting Staffordshire however then some of the hard work has been taken away from you, thanks to the Group Leisure Awards. Last week the readers of the magazine and website voted Drayton Manor Theme Park as the Best UK Children’s Attraction of 2009.
First opened to the public in 1950, Drayton Manor was founded by husband and wife team George and Vera Bryan. 60 years later the park has become an award-winning attraction located in approximately 280 acres of beautiful countryside.
The park is located on the grand estate of the Peel family whose members include Sir Robert Peel – who served as Prime Minister twice between 1834 and 1846. Still in family ownership, the theme park is packed with some of the largest, wettest and scariest rides in the UK. Complementing the adventure park is a 15-acre zoo and the hugely popular Thomas Land™, a park devoted to Thomas The Tank Engine. The park’s new attraction for 2009 is a 4-D Cinema.
Actress Tina Hobley and Jill Greed from "Dancing on Ice" present the award
Managing Director Colin Bryan was presented the award by actress Tina Hobley and Jilly Greed from Holiday on Ice, which sponsored the category. He explained “Not only are we winning industry honours but last season we saw record numbers of visitors come to the Park – so people are really voting with their feet.”
The theme park celebrates its 60th Anniversary at the end of October with a spectacular fireworks display and lightshow. For more information on Drayton Manor Park and the attractions on offer please click here.
October 8, 2009
Thinking of buying a caravan? Deals are on offer at the annual caravan extravaganza at the NEC
The jury is still out on whether the government’s decision to reduce VAT to 15% managed to stimulate the UK economy. One thing is for certain however: the rate will go back up to 17.5% at the start of 2010.
Consequently there has never been a better time to make a large purchase. And with a number of caravan manufacturers launching new ranges in 2010 and increasing prices, there are bargains to be had at International Caravan and Motorhome 2009.
Held at the NEC between 13-18 October the show is the largest caravan event in the calendar, where caravan manufacturers will be offering deals and discounts on their 2010 models. Meanwhile anyone placing an order at the show will benefit from the 15% VAT rate.
This year innovation in caravan design will be the focus, with caravan giants Bailey leading the wave. The UK’s longest-established manufacturer is unveiling its new Pegasus range of caravans (as first previewed here on Caravan Times). The range features construction and design innovations which have been two years in the making. Caravan fans have been excited by the prospect that the Pegasus will banish the problem of water ingress.
One of the most talked about caravans in years
There will also be a new kid on the block this year with a no less exciting design. Online caravan forums have been buzzing with rumours about the revolutionary ‘Stealth’ caravan range from design gurus Dunster House. Making its debut with the tag line, “A Caravan To Aspire To”, the vehicle is designed and built by a business best known for its log cabins, garden offices and carports. Caravan Times were the first to bring pictures of the new Stealth, and you can find an interview with Alex Murphy of Dunster House here.
International Caravan and Motorhome 2009 is attended by all the major manufacturers and retailers and represents a great opportunity for novice and experienced caravanners alike to see what the industry can offer. Visitors will be able to get free, expert advice from exhibitors on technical aspects and equipment for touring.
If you’re unable to make it to Birmingham, worry not. Caravan Times will be blogging live from Caravan and Motorhome 2009 with photos and videos of the major releases as well as interviews with the key players. Click here from Tuesday 13th October and feel free to add your comments below each article.
October 7, 2009
Liberal Democrat MP Lembit Opik uses a motorhome to reach constituents in far-flung places
It has not been a good year for MPs, with many voters claiming they are more out of touch than ever after the expenses scandal. But when it comes to getting back in touch with voters, it seems that some are prepared to go the extra mile.
Literally in the case of MP Lembit Opik. The prominent Liberal Democrat recently conducted a political tour to meet his constituents in rural areas…using a motorhome.
A constituent voices his concerns to Lembit Opik from the comfort of a motorhome
An avowed fan of motorhomes and caravans, Opik hired the Fiat Burstner to provide a “roving surgery” for the people of Montgomeryshire. His office placed adverts in the local press informing villagers that the MP would be visiting their area and constituents could raise their concerns to him in person.
A spokesperson for Lembit Opik explained further. “The tour took place over four days from 7th-10th September. During that time Mr. Opik visited 10 villages per day, and would stay overnight in the motorhome before carrying on the next morning.”
“Elderly people in these villages might find it difficult to come into Powys to see him. This way, he can come to them and hear their concerns. If anyone had an issue they needed to discuss they could enter the motorhome, sit down and have a chat.”
Lembit Opik (seen here meeting a constituent) is an avowed fan of motorhomes
Often in the headlines for his choice of female company (he dated “Cheeky Girl” popstar Gabriella Irimia) Opik is also known for his support of the caravan community. He holds the post of Parliamentary Advisor to the Caravan Club, and is co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group “Adventure and Recreation in Society”.
October 6, 2009
After the Government's "scrappage scheme" was extended last month, there are good deals to be had on the California
Back in August, Caravan Times revealed the first images of the new Volkswagen California. The vehicle is the latest in a line of legendary ‘microbus’ vehicles from VW that stretches back to the Type 2 splitscreen. As the first ever minivan it gained cult status in the 1960s with young adventurers and travelling families. And sixty years after the first incarnation, the new California is set to arrive on our shores in early 2010.
Caravan Times has been informed that prices are set to rise for the new range due to increases in specification as well as inflation. With this in mind the latest deals for the current California look especially good value.
Volkswagen have been enthusiatic participants in the Government's car scrappage scheme
Last week Business Secretary Lord Mandleson announced an extension to the Government’s popular scrappage scheme, a voluntary scheme for motor dealers where they give you £2,000 off a new vehicle if you let them scrap your old one. Volkswagen are using this scheme to offer some compelling personal finance deals. The California starts from £36, 780, yet when taking the scrappage scheme allowance into account a Personal Finance plan would be reduced from £349 a month (5.9 per cent APR) to only £315 a month (7.5 per cent APR).
The scrappage scheme proved more popular with buyers family cars than recreational vehicles, but Head of Marketing for Volkswagen David George believes the campervan has never been more accessible. “Who could resist escaping for weekends and holidays in a new Volkswagen campervan? Thanks to the Government’s ongoing scrappage scheme, these vehicles can now be an even more affordable part of your lifestyle.”
If you’re interested in learning more about the current California, please click here.
October 5, 2009
This is the latest creation from eccentric customiser of motorcycles Mike Cross. A motorbike with a kayak for a sidecar, towing a caravan...
It is the kind of madcap invention that gadget man “Q” would demonstrate to James Bond. A motorbike that combines a caravan with a kayak? The stuff of fiction, surely.
Father-of-three Mick Cross thought otherwise. The notoriously quirky builder of motorcycles has come up with an unusual invention: a bike which has a sidecar containing a two-seater kayak, and which tows a two-berth caravan pod.
His company in Bitteswell, Leicestershire specialise in custom-made motorbikes and sidecars and Cross admitted that many of his customers who buy his creations are ‘a bit eccentric’. He explained the theory behind creating this bizarre vehicle.
“The bike is mostly used for charity events and motorbike shows, but with a boat and caravan on board we can pretty much take it wherever the mood takes us.”
The caravan itself is an adapted version of a ‘teardrop trailer’, an increasingly popular style of mini-caravan that was recently brought over from America. These miniaturised caravans usually only have sleeping space for two adults and often have a basic kitchen in the rear.
If you’re curious the bike will be on display at the Classic Motor Show at the NEC in Birmingham next month. Priced at £13,000, the bike can be purchased from Mike Cross at MPC. Telephone 01455 559123 or http://www.uralmotorbikes.info/
October 2, 2009
Old age pensioners see touring as one of the 'things to do before you die'
You’d be forgiven for thinking that cruises and bowls are the things old age pensioners look forward to when retiring, such are the stereotypes. However a new study commissioned by insurers Aviva higlights a growing band of ‘Go.A.Ps’ who describe the first year post-work as ‘brilliant’. And in a poll of pensioners asked about ‘things to do before you die’, touring Europe in a caravan was right up there in third place.
In first place 47% surveyed said they would love to visit some of the Seven Wonders of the World, while learning a language made second place. Meanwhile a few results from the top 10 will surprise some: 12% of pensioners said they would like to go out with a younger man or woman before they die, while 11% said they’d like to drive a Ferrari.
Todays new pensioners are more active than ever, with an average of eight social engagements a week. These pensioners aren’t partying solo however, and stressed that romance is a “top priority” and their relationships have never been so good. And the post-work buzz continues when they were questioned on the hoary old subject of age. Those asked believed society won’t consider them “old” before at least 68, and so ‘look forward to enjoying themselves for years’.
Skydiving was a surprise entry in the Top Ten for pensioners...
Twenty years ago those surveyed believed that they would spend retirement babysitting for their grandchildren, gardening and reading. Yet today’s pensioners are taking up photography (25%), going out with friends, and have a list of things to do that include starting their own business and skydiving.
As the ‘baby-boomer’ generation of the 1950s grows into the pensioners of today, Caravan Times is reminded of a quote from former prime minister Harold MacMillan in 1957: “You’ve never had it so good”.
October 1, 2009
What happens next? BBC car show Top Gear in flying caravan stunt...
What happens if you attach a caravan to an airship? The question may sound like a joke, and the answer might seen an obvious one. Yet that wasn’t enough to put off the intrepid bunch at BBC car show Top Gear, who hooked up a caravan to a bright orange airship.
The airship was carrying presenter James May and was set to land on a cricket pitch in the village of Eltisley in Cambridgeshire. However strong winds blew the craft half a mile off course, and it crashed into trees and hedges in a farmer’s field.
No injuries were reported after a BBC film crew dashed to the scene to check on the presenter and his team. Emergency services had been placed on stand-by, but were not required after a helicopter filming the stunt gave the all clear.
For once, Captain Slow didn't use the excuse of being stuck behind a caravan. Instead he tried the 'flying caravan' one.
The “caravan airship” was taking part in what was believe to be the end of a classic Top Gear race. The craft piloted by James May (nicknamed ‘Captain Slow’) was pitted against a Lamborghini driven by co-presenter Richard Hammond. Unfortunately poor light and weather conditions meant that the segment intended for transmission in November has been shelved.
Top Gear is famous for its madcap missions and silly stunts but this is not the first mishap. Richard Hammond was in a life-threatening condition in 2006 after an accident in a drag racer. The presenter crashed at speeds of around 300mph and was airlifted to hospital from where he made a full recovery. Two years later Jeremy Clarkson escaped from his own high-speed car crash and suffered only minor injuries.
Top Gear will be broadcast for the first time in HD from November 15th. And if you can’t wait till then, please click here for some classic TG.
September 30, 2009
The all-new Discovery 4 has won its first gongs at the Caravan Club's Towcar Of The Year Awards
Earlier last month Caravan Times got wind of the latest version of the iconic Land Rover Discovery. And we decided that on specs alone, the Discovery 4 had every chance of becoming one of the ultimate towcars. At the top of many caravan owner’s wish lists would be a 4 X 4 with a strong engine and impeccable on-road manners, and the latest from Solihull seemed to tick all those boxes.
It’s not just our opinion either. Those in the towcar world have bestowed not one, but two awards on the off-roader. The new Discovery 4 scooped up two accolades at the Caravan Club’s Towcar Of The Year Awards 2010, which took place at the Royal Automobile Club in London last week. These are the first ever awards given to the new Discovery, which went on sale in UK dealerships earlier this month.
The Discovery won ‘Best Towcar Over £32,000′ as well as the award in the category ‘All Wheel Drive Over 1800kg’. The all-new car beat off strong competition from the likes of the Lexus RX450h, the VolvoXC70 and XC60 and the twin threat of the Mercedes E and C class vehicles. Testing was carried out at Millbrook Proving Ground to determine the car’s towing ability, dynamics when hitched, acceleration and braking.
Driving judge Barry Williams of The Caravan Club spoke very highly of the vehicle at the award ceremony. “The Land Rover Discovery 4 stood out among an astonishingly good selection of cars in the two classes it entered. It will go anywhere and offers an impressive array of caravan-friendly features. I’m sure it will be a popular choice with our members and their families.”
Innovative technology helps the driver of a Discovery 4 tow their caravan
When it comes to towing, it seems the Discovery 4 has few equals. With a class-leading 3500kgs towing ability, new technologies have been added such as Tow Assist. The program helps the driver peform accurate towing manoeuvres, but there is help at hand if all goes wrong. Trailer Stability Assist is a system that initiates engine torque reduction and braking interventions when the driver has lost control while towing. So if the system detects swaying or random steering movements, the program kicks in.
Land Rover’s UK manager John Edwards was excited to receive the first awards from the caravan community. “”We are delighted to accept these awards from the Caravan Club and to see the new Discovery 4 winning awards for its all-round capability and towing credentials.”
The Discovery 4 went on sale this month at Land Rover dealerships – for more information please click here.
September 29, 2009
Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks are offering 25% off this autumn
Last month Caravan Times reported on the uptake in people booking caravan holidays beyond the traditional summer months. The Caravan Club recently issued a guide called ‘Autumn Touring’ which aimed to tempt members out to enjoy the great outdoors at ‘unusual’ times of the year.
And popular North Devon holiday park Woolacombe Bay have noticed the trend, and are offering caravanners an even greater incentive this autumn. Savings of 25% are on offer for breaks of a minimum of three nights in duration. The offer is valid for holidays taken up until 24 October, and is offerd at all four of the Parks in the seaside village of Woolacombe.
This means a three-night pitch for a touring caravan – including ‘all weather’ pea gravel pitches – now costs from just £39 per party.
Guests will enjoy heated shower/washroom facilities and have use of all park facilities including heated indoor pools, tennis, nine-hole golf, 10-pin bowling, cinema and children’s clubs. In addition there is nightly entertainment with cabaret featuring a star guest.
Click here for more information on this deal and Woolacome Bay parks. And to make reservations? 01271 870343.
