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3rd February 2009: Bailey of Bristol Announce New Dealers and Say: "10% Surge in Demand in January".
As part of the ongoing expansion of its Retailer Network, Bailey has appointed a second tranche of new outlets in the first quarter of this year.
In total a further seven retailers have been added to the network, bringing the total number in the UK and EIRE to eighty - representing the largest single network for a caravan brand providing new and existing customers with unrivalled choice of sales and service options.
The new Bailey Retail outlets are as follows:-
Carlisle Caravan Centre - Harker, Cumbria
Eglinton Caravans - Irvine, Ayrshire
Five Bells Caravan Centre - Standford Le Hope, Essex
JR Leisure - Radcliffe, Manchester
Leisure Sales - Sandbach, Cheshire
Stewart Longton Caravans - Bolton-le-Sands, Lancashire
White Arches Caravans - Rushden, Northamptonshire
The expansion of the network coincides with a surge in customer demand for Bailey products since the start of the New Year. In spite of the much publicised adverse economic conditions reported retail sales for January actually increased by 10% compared to the same month last year.
Full details of both the Bailey Retailer and Approved Service Centre networks can be found by visiting: www.bailey-caravans.co.uk/dealers/dealers.htm

2nd February 2009: Bailey of Bristol will be introducing the new Pageant Sancerre to its model line up following the instant success of the recently launched Senator California.
The first caravan of its kind on the market, the California has received universal approval from the discerning caravan buyer and already heads this years top sellers list. Featuring a layout that comprises a rear nearside fixed bed complemented by an en suite transverse end washroom (including a fully lined separate shower cubicle), a U-shaped front saloon and well equipped central kitchen - all on a single axle - this model really does offer the best of everything.
Bailey has therefore reacted promptly to the surge in customer demand for this caravan by replicating the same layout in the Pageant Series 7 range.
Cloaked in a 5.6m x 2.3m (18'5" x 7'6") body shell the Pageant Sancerre strikes the perfect balance between interior space and exterior practicality and with an estimated MPTLM of 1450kg it will allow a wider range of tow vehicle owners to consider this layout option.
As with all Pageant models the Sancerre includes, uniquely for a mid-market caravan, the AL-KO ATC Trailer Control System as standard which in conjunction with the AL-KO AKS stabiliser makes it one of the safest caravans on the road. Whilst Italian styled furniture and Belgian fabric soft furnishings combine with a five star equipment list, including a new 115 litre Dometic refrigerator, a microwave oven and a branded stereo Radio/CD/MP3 player with iPod connectivity, to give Pageant the ultimate blend of style and comfort.
This model will be launched along with the new Pageant Ardennes at the forthcoming National Boat Caravan & Outdoor Show, NEC, Birmingham 17th - 22nd February (Stand Number 5292, Hall 5).

29th January 2009: The Manchester Central Caravan & Motorhome Show 2009 ran between 22-25 January 2009 and, despite the prevailing economic conditions, proved a fertile selling ground for exhibitors.
Over the four-day show, thousands of visitors flooded through the doors, all seeking the best deals on wheels for the holiday season ahead.
The event, which was running for its 13th consecutive year, is well established as the North West’s favourite leisure vehicle event, and boasts the region’s best choice of touring caravans, motorhomes and the ever-popular accessory megastore. Mindful of the challenges facing the industry in the year ahead, organisers Clarion Events had given the show the theme of The Great Escape.
The show was officially opened by the new Chairman of The Camping & Caravanning Club, Keith Jackson, who reflected that theme in his welcome address, emphasising in his speech that caravanning is bucking the downward trend in 2009: He commented that: "Despite the uncertain climate, our Club is continuing to grow and in terms of advanced bookings we are 15 per cent up than at the same time last year".
The event populated the entire Grade II listed venue. In the main hall, ‘lanes’ of the latest caravans and motorhomes were ready for the many visitors to see, try and buy. In Hall 2 the popular accessory megastore kept the consumers happy as they picked out the must have gadgets for the season ahead & making a return this year, holiday homes had a presence, which proved popular with those new to the pastime in particular.
Speaking as the event closed, Show Director Sam North commented that, “With the pound’s value falling and worries about jobs at home, it was great to see so many people visiting – and buying. This is a local show, for local people, and clearly our formula of offering an unrivalled choice, great value and engaging show features is the right one. We’re delighted that our exhibitors and partners had a successful event and that rebooking rates for 2010 are the highest we have ever had.”
Echoing this sentiment, Gareth Townsend from Roy Kellet Caravans commented: “The show has definitely been a positive one for us. There has been a good traffic of people coming through to our stand. Sales have been good and we have rebooked for 2010”
Many other exhibitors recorded good sales with Glossop securing deals on nearly 100 units over the four-day period. Campbells reported their sales levels this year came close to those made in 2007 when they enjoyed their most prosperous year of exhibiting at the show. On the accessories front, Riversway beat their performance in 2008 smashing all 2009 targets.

19th January 2009: Channel Tunnel back to full capacity during night of 9-10 February
During the night of 9-10 February 2009, Eurotunnel will reopen Interval 6 of the Channel Tunnel, the section in which re-equipping works – specifically the installation of the catenary – are currently being completed.
With a series of tests planned for the start of next month, full Tunnel capacity is about to be restored, barely three and a half months after reconstruction works began and significantly ahead of initial forecasts. From this date, Eurotunnel Shuttles and Eurostar trains will be able to travel through the Tunnel at their normal commercial speeds, instead of the current reduced speeds.
Eurotunnel’s reactivity has ensured that reopening of Interval 6 comes before Valentine’s Day and the start of half-term holidays in the UK: a traditionally busy period.
- Booking is now available for the new capacity on the Passenger Shuttles;
- From 10 February, the number of departures for Truck Shuttles will be able to increase to 6 per hour in each direction;
- Eurostar, which must reschedule its trains, will communicate separately on the date of its service change.
Jacques Gounon, Chairman of ’Eurotunnel, stated: “I congratulate all those involved, from Eurotunnel’s teams and the companies selected by the Group. They have delivered the restoration of interval 6 in record time. This performance means we can restore the speed and ease of Channel crossings that make Eurotunnel a unique product.”

16th January 2009: Bailey of Bristol - Sixty years and still going strong.
Bailey of Bristol has generated a turnover of £ 78 million in its diamond anniversary year - an annual total bettered only once in its sixty year history.
The company has performed strongly over the past twelve months in spite of what have generally been perceived as adverse market conditions. It has been quick to bring a number of innovative yet competitively priced new models to market, to ensure demand for its products remains high. As a result the company has made and sold in excess of 8,000 units this year, which equates to an increased market share of 38% - that not only cements its position as the UK's best selling caravan brand, but also now makes it one of the largest in Europe.
During this period Bailey has continued with its factory investment programme, most significantly by commissioning a state of the art £1 million laminating facility in October. The company has also spent £ ½ million upgrading its IT systems to enhance the sales and after sales service it offers its customers. Together these two developments not only show the Company's ongoing commitment to improving the quality of its products and services, but also its confidence in the future of the market.
This investment has been supported by new design initiatives such as the introduction of an advanced testing programme for caravan interiors, through FIRA - the UK's leading furniture technology centre, and the on-going sponsorship of the studies into caravan stability by the University of Bath. These partnerships are a continuation of the wider Bailey policy of constant improvement, working with independent experts to assist with the future development of its products.     
Sixty years after Martin Bailey founded FG Bailey Ltd in 1948, Bailey Caravans Ltd - the longest established volume caravan manufacturer in the UK caravan industry - therefore remains in great shape. Seen now by many as the market leaders in terms of innovation the company has ambitious plans for the future with a number of major project launches and a new investment programme scheduled for the next twelve months.
In celebrating this milestone Bailey would like to take a final opportunity to thank its customers, retailers and suppliers plus the members of the caravan media and consumer clubs for their major contribution to its continued success.

16th January 2009: The Forest Holidays 2009 camping and caravanning brochure is now available.
Packed with information about the 21 Forest Holidays camping and caravanning sites – 16 of them in England, 4 in Scotland and 1 in Wales – the 36 page full-colour brochure also includes an easy-to-use Site Selector which allows you to compare on-site facilities at a glance.
Offering a unique holiday experience, Forest Holidays specialises in providing camping, caravanning and motor caravanning pitches in stunning forest locations which act as a gateway to nature and the surrounding area. You can choose from a wide range of activities or just relax.
For 2009, Forest Holidays is extending its popular programme of Forest Ranger led activities (available at most sites) and the brochure includes information about nature and discovery walks and talks with intriguing titles like Dusk Watch, Night Vision, Amazing Animals, Forest Survival, Young Explorers, Rove with a Ranger and Into the Wild. There’s also a Ranger Timetable detailing the weekly scheduling of these events, plus details of how to qualify for a 50% discount off the cost of Ranger-led activities.
The brochure has information about Forest Holidays’ new iRanger pre-recorded learning experience for those people who want to explore on their own, but still take advantage of the Rangers’ expertise by hiring an MP3 player with commentary pre-loaded. For 2009 this service will be available at the Ardgartan, Glenmore and Spiers House sites.
The new brochure also contains information about site refurbishments that Forest Holidays is undertaking for the 2009 season. These include a full internal refurbishment of amenity buildings – with upgraded toilets, showers and washing facilities – both at Ardgartan in the stunning Argyll Forest Park and at Cobleland in the Trossachs National Park. Cobleland will also have more Premium pitches and a full electric hook-ups upgrade, whilst Ardgartan will benefit from the addition of a Forest Retreat (a meeting area where you can collect local information and enjoy a coffee, breakfast or lunchtime snack) and a Forest Experience Room.
Also covered is information about the Forest Experience Card which reduces camping costs and entitles holders to reduced prices on on-site bike hire and Ranger-led activities. Cardholders can take advantage of specially negotiated discounts with participating local shops, restaurants and tourist attractions, plus a 20% discount nationally at the Go Ape chain of high wire adventure centres.
The new brochure also contains information about the different types of pitch that are available, all-year-round sites, adventure activities on or around sites (including an at-a-glance Activities Selector section), seasonal pitches and winter caravan storage.
The new brochure features Forest Holidays’ new branding, including a new ‘ash leaf’ logo which brings a fresh new look to the brand.
For a copy of the new brochure, phone 0845 456 6858, email info@forestholidays.co.uk or write to Forest Holidays, Heart of the National Forest, Bath Yard, Moira, Derbyshire DE12 6BA. The information is also available on www.forestholidays.co.uk.

13th January 2009: The Caravan Channel's latest TV prize draw has achieved a stunning 1,210 entries through both email and the show's phone line.
Some 776 people called in, and 444 sent emails.
The draw prize is a small but sophisticated satellite dish, receiver, and satfinder, valued at around £250, provided by specialist supplier Roadpro Ltd of Daventry.
Caravan Channel producer Chris Gosling says that the number of entries reflects the growing popularity and viewing range of the show. "We often have smaller prizes on offer, but this is our biggest single item," he said, "and having had this many replies, we'll now try to get more larger items as prizes!"

13th January 2009: The Camping and Caravanning Club has announced the appointment of Jon Dale as their new Public Relations Manager.
Jon took up the post on January 6 and will oversee and co-ordinate the Club’s day-to-day PR operation as it continues to move from strength to strength.
Jon has over 10 years of experience within the journalism/public relations industry having previously worked for a range of newspapers including The Hinckley Times and Leicester Mercury before spending the last five years as Communications & PR Executive at Leicester City Football Club.
Jon said: “I am pleased to be joining such a rapidly growing organisation and hopefully the experience and enthusiasm I have gained over the years within the press and public relations field will only benefit the Club during what are hugely competitive times within the industry.
“I have a passion for the outdoors, and having worked within a club environment previously, I will be using all of my knowledge to help deliver both informative and positive coverage on The Friendly Club and its crucial and intensifying role within the holiday market.”
Matthew Eastlake, Director of Marketing & Communications, added: “This is a new industry for Jon and he is excited by the challenge and opportunity of both promoting the great British holiday whilst helping to build and develop upon the good work that the Club undertakes.”

18th December, 2008: Atlas Holiday Homes in administration.
West Hull caravan manufacturer Atlas Holiday Homes passed into administration on Wednesday 17th Dec.. The jobs of 340 workers at the Atlas factory in Hull are now at risk.
Ucatt union official Dave Oglesby said move was a result of falling sales in the caravan industry.
To date there have already been over 1,000 redundancies from caravan industry firms based in Hull and the surrounding area..

28th November 2008: Swift Group pass on full reduction in VAT
The Chancellor’s announcement that VAT will change from 17.5% to 15% from Monday 1st December has a significant impact on ‘big ticket’ purchases and the Swift Group intend to pass this reduction on to the customer in full, making it good news for anyone looking to buy a new caravan, motorhome or holiday home.
Depending on model, this means reductions in recommended retail prices of between £220 and £410 on Swift Group tourers, £632 and £1338 on Swift Group motorhomes and £92 and £245 on Swift Group holiday homes.
These reductions include all Swift Group brands including Autocruise motorhomes.
More good news is that option prices will also be reduced exactly in line with the VAT change with specially priced option packs being rounded to whole pounds for ease of promotion.
Nick Page, Commercial Director for Swift Group commented ‘By passing on immediately the full reduction in VAT charges to the customer, the Swift Group is putting the best price possible on its market leading products to help customers in these challenging financial times.’

28th November 2008: Bailey of Bristol has invested in the future with the commissioning of a new £1 million laminating facility.
This new production cell manufactures the caravan side and ceiling body shell panels and incorporates the latest high tech computer controlled machinery which will improve both production efficiency and accuracy as well providing additional environmental benefits. 
In production sequence order the new line comprises of the following pieces of equipment:
Assembly Station
Assembly of individual components used in panel make up
Uses a laser positioning jig for increased consistency in assembly
Bead Applicator
Bead application bonding system
Gives a better bond integrity than traditional spraying method
Uses 20% less glue which reduces both production costs and the impact on the environment
Vacuum Presses
Flat bed laminating presses
Features a four tier 'multi-daylight' arrangement that allows individual loading of panels which also results in better bond integrity
CNC Router
Preparation of panel for assembly process
Now a fully automated system to improve accuracy of operation
Once working at full capacity this manufacturing cell will produce a ready to use side or ceiling panel every seven minutes.
This project was facilitated by the extension of the large panel lamination plant, carried out in 2007, which created 40% more usable production space in this part of the factory. The new line is the first of three which, market conditions permitting, the company plans to install in this building over the next eighteen months.
In a separate development the company has also invested £500,000 in a new computer software system that will enhance the service it currently provides its customers and suppliers. The first phase of the installation was completed in September with two further phases planned for early next year.
Together these two initiatives not only show the Company's ongoing commitment to improving the quality of its products and its customer service, but also the company's confidence in the future. Whilst adverse economic conditions have affected the industry this year, Bailey remains optimistic about the future and will continue to invest in its products to ensure they remain the UK's best selling touring caravans.

11th November 2008: The Swift Group, Britain’s only manufacturer making touring caravans, motorhomes and holiday homes, has announced a major review of its multi-brand operation to combat dealing in a smaller market which is being seriously affected by the current economic downturn.
The company will refocus all of its activities on the Swift, Sterling and Sprite brands of tourers and Swift, Bessacarr and Autocruise brands of motorhomes. The other brands will be phased out over the coming months. The Abbey and Ace brands of touring caravans and the Ace brand of motorhomes will cease to be manufactured when all customer and dealer orders have been fulfilled.
“All existing orders, including those placed at the recent NEC Show, will be produced and existing customers of these brands will continue to be looked after by the Swift Group. The move to this new strategy will be handled carefully to make sure we have a smooth transition which should not effect existing customers,” Commercial Director Nick Page commented.
With major shares of both the touring caravan and motorhome markets, this new strategy is aimed at simplifying the company’s operations to enable Swift and its dealer network to trade effectively in a reduced market and still offer the customer a wide choice of products and styles.
“The current economic downturn gives us an ideal opportunity to tackle the challenge of restructuring the company to operate in the different world we all face going forward. The current conditions are likely to be with us for several years and by taking this action now it puts us in great shape to cover all our markets from a more manageable cost base. The business had become too complex for the size of the market,” Chairman Peter Smith commented.
Although the company will stop producing certain brands sometime next year, owners of these products will still receive full aftersales and warranty service as normal. All dealers of Swift Group brands will be able to offer one or more of the new portfolio of products depending on their circumstances, once again giving customers maximum choice.
From next year, the touring caravan product range will consist of the Swift Charisma, Swift Challenger and Swift Conqueror ranges, Sterling Europa, Eccles and Elite ranges offering a total of 41 models. These two brands offer customers completely different styles and colour schemes, with a further choice of soft furnishing options in each range. The Sprite range of 6 models will continue to offer outstanding value at the starter end of the market.
Motorhome products will be available under the Swift, Bessacarr and Autocruise brands, providing a wide choice of both modern and more traditional design.
Swift motorhomes will comprise the Sundance, Bolero, Voyager and Kon-Tiki ranges, with Bessacarr coming in the E400, E500, E600 and E700 ranges, totalling 35 models with both overcab and low profile designs. Once again, they also offer a wide choice of soft furnishing options. The Swift line up is completed with the Mondial range of camper vans.
Autocruise will continue to offer three ranges of coachbuilt models, the Star, Star Plus and Driving ranges and four camper vans including the new MPV style Pulse model.
The company will continue to manufacture the Swift ranges of Holiday Homes that have set new standards in design and style in this market. The Burgundy, Moselle, Chamonix and new Champagne ranges will continue.
The new ranges will be on show at the Manchester Central Caravan and Motorhome Show 22 to 25 January, The Scottish Caravan Show at the SECC 5 to 8 February and the Boat, Caravan and Outdoor Show at the NEC February 17 to 22.

28th October 2008; NEC show bucks industry trend with increased visitor numbers:
International Caravan & Motorhome 2008, which ran from 14 – 19 October, provided some relief from the global trend of economic downturn as tens of thousands of visitors flocked to the NEC. Exhibitors reported strong sales with almost all bettering pre-show targets and some exceeding previous years performances.
As the definitive industry event, the show offered the very best choice of 2009 models, ready to be delivered in time for the new season, and suiting every taste and budget. It also provided an enormous display of accessories and expert advice from dealers and clubs. From the enthusiast to the novice, the traditionalist to the uber-cool, all visitors were catered for.
Thought by all manufacturers to be the perfect launch pad for products fresh to market, this year was no exception. Explorer and Bailey were among many exhibitors that choose the NEC to showcase new lines.
Rachel Moncrieff from The Explorer Group commented; “It has been an absolutely fabulous show and we have done so much better than expected. The response to our new stand from visitors and our competitors has been phenomenal and very complimentary. Our motorhome stand has been very busy too and the preview of the 2009 model, which is new to the public, has been very well received."
Simon Howard from Bailey Caravans commented; “It was exceptionally busy on Saturday, we sold more on that day than we had at the same point last year. I think it was the busiest Saturday I have experienced since I have been coming to this show. We have seen a great deal of first time buyers on our stand”.
Sales weren’t limited to motorhome and caravans either with the holiday parks and resorts also enjoying success. Bob Jones from Allens Caravans remarked; “It has been a particularly successful year considering the economic climate. We have enjoyed lots of sales and have many more leads to follow up. On the whole, everything has been wonderful”.
Accessory retailers at the show were able to buck their trend of declining sales, Alan McCarthy from Fiamma commented; “We have been surprised by the success and everyday sales have been up on the same time last year. In general retail we are not doing so well as last year, but at the show we have done better”.
Sam North, Show Director commented; "The show was a great success. Our visitor attendance for the week is just shy of 70,000, which is an increase on last year. Feedback from exhibitors is that they met not only keen caravanners & motorhomers but also lots of young families looking for an affordable holiday option.
“The high quality of visitors was reflected by the number that bought a new caravan or motorhome, cementing International Caravan & Motorhome as the event in the industry to be seen at.”
Dates for International Caravan & Motorhome 2009 are already booked and the show will return to the NEC for the fourth consecutive year from 13 – 18 October.

22nd October 2008: NEC Show sales bring light to economic gloom, says Swift Group:
Sales of Swift Group touring caravans and motorhomes gave a clear indication that, despite the economic gloom, people still want to spend on self catering holidays. With total sales of just under £20million the overall performance was only marginally down on last years record figures.
“We went into the show with fairly low expectations and the final result clearly shows that there are still plenty of people out there who will not give up their holidays and see owning a touring caravan or motorhome as the ideal way to beat the current economic gloom.”
“We had a wide mixture of people buying over the 6 days. Our normal buyers were out in force hunting out a bargain and it was particularly pleasing to see large number of families with children at the weekend looking at our products for the first time. With flights and overseas holidays all going up in price, investing long term in one of our products now makes a lot of sense,” Nick Page Commercial Director commented.
The Group launched several new products at the show and with an aggressive marketing programme offering significant “cash back” offers the combination of well specified and designed products and competitive pricing created sales that were well ahead of expectations.
Swift sold nearly £10 million worth of touring caravans and £7.5 million worth of motorhomes. Autocruise, which is owned by Swift Holdings (UK) Limited, also sold a further £2.5 million worth of motorhomes, including several of the new MPV style Pulse model.

20th October 2008: Freedom North East 2000 Caravan Club to Present Meningitis UK with Charity Funds.
During 2008 Freedom North East 2000 Caravan Club (FNE 2000 CC) has been raising funds for their 2008 chosen charity Meningitis UK. Currently the amount raised stands at £2,300.
The presentation of the total amount raised will be presented to the Charity on Saturday 1st November 2008 at 8pm at the Northallerton Rugby Club. This will be a part of the clubs annual awards night. The total amount will not be known until the evening of the presentation as money is still being collected.
Events throughout the year by family and friends of the club have included:
Freedom Duck Race (news releases on 26 January and 1 June refer), sponsored hair cut, auction, talent show, the clubs personality of the year vote and a parachute jump.
Chairman of the Club Neville Simmons said: “ 2008 has seen the club raise a magnificent amount for Meningitis UK, the committee, members and their friends have worked extremely hard over the months and the amount raised is a gratifying result of the hard work. Raising funds for this Charity became even more apparent when recently one of the members was rushed into hospital with suspected Viral Meningitis; thankfully she is making a good recovery. I thank everyone involved this year and look forward to helping another worthy cause in 2009.”
Website: Freedom North East 2000 Caravan Club

16th October 2008: The Camping & Caravanning Club has announced some new site openings for 2008:
Tavistock in Dartmoor lies to the west of the famous National Park. Exploration is the order of the day at this site, with paths, lanes and river views all accessible by foot. Nearby attractions make this site a treat for everyone. Opening date: November 2008.
Polstead in Suffolk will give conservation lovers a treat, as it is situated on the edge of a well known conservation area. With opportunities for both relaxation and nearby activities in this stunning area of the country, you will never be lost for things to do! Opening date: February 2009.
Dartmoor Barley Meadow will take your breath away with majestic wooded valleys and wind swept tors as standard. To the East of the National Park, the family will find a variety of attractions at their fingertips. Opening date: March 2009
Ashbourne in Derbyshire is perfectly sited for enjoying the peaks and dales of the area. With excellent local events and activities, you can construct your perfect holiday, whether this is arts, wildlife or history. Opening date: April 2009
Skye, on the Isle of Skye, at the shore of Lock Greshornish, provides visitors with stunning scenery and dramatic history. There is plenty for all the family to do, from Otter spotting to a tour of the Talisker Distillery. Keep your eyes peeled for the area’s famous Highland Cattle! Opening date: April 2009.
Club Site pitches are available to members and non-members alike. Full details of all new sites and opening details please refer to www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

8th October 2008: The Hull Daily Mail reported yesterday that East Hull firm Cosalt Holiday Homes has announced the potential loss of about 280 workers due to a slump in the company's order books.
Atlas Holiday Homes, based in Hull, has also made about 80 job cuts as sales of static caravans and holiday lodges decline.
Cosalt's parent company, Grimsby-based Cosalt Plc, said it was selling the Hull caravan and lodge business in June this year.
According to a statement made by the company at the time, is was trading below expectations due to the economic climate and conditions specific to the caravan industry.One worker said: "People don't want to place orders because they don't know whether we will be here. There are no orders coming through and they don't expect any so there's no reason to keep staff on."
Senior GMB official Ken Vincent said unions had been called to a surprise meeting with the firm's managers last week to discuss the situation.
He said: "We were told the company didn't have any orders beyond October 31. We are in a three-month consultation, which means the last workers to leave will be on New Year's Eve."
Mr Vincent said the unions were due to meet with managers today to find out what is going on with the sale of the company.
The losses at Atlas come on the back of a separate announcement the factory will close between Friday, October 17 and Monday, November 3, during which workers will be unpaid.
Cosalt Plc refused to comment on the redundancies and no one from Atlas Holiday Homes was available.

30th May 08: Campers camp out in their thousands during National Camping and Caravanning Week
Almost 100,000 campers pitched, hitched and drove their way to a camping adventure this May Bank Holiday as part of National Camping and Caravanning Week 2008.
According to the audit, undertaken by The Camping and Caravanning Club, the total number of people camping out under the stars amounted to 95,388. “This is only the tip of the iceberg”, said Robert Louden, Director General of The Club. “Our members were out in their thousands, enjoying camping on award-winning Club, Certificated and independent sites as well as locally organised events and in back gardens. The Club believes that, had we captured absolutely everyone who was camping on that night, around 250,000 people were potentially camping.
‘The impact of these figure are that around £3million* were spent in rural economies on the audit night alone. This is great news for businesses, suppliers and the UK countryside.”
With forward bookings at 10%, The Club believes that camping is becoming more popular and certainly more accessible. People are searching out places to camp which suit them and their lifestyle choices coupled with superb equipment which caters for how they want to camp.  
On top of this, campers are able to wake up and experience the truly ‘wild’ side of camping. A web survey of wildlife sightings during NCCW confirmed that campers saw owls, osprey and a whole host of other animals and creepy crawlies from the comfort of their accommodation.
“Camping is the only way to get the most out of the enormous variety of special places and experiences which are totally unique to our shores,” continued Robert.
*Research into local spend from The Camping and Caravanning Club

7th May: Care-Avan Hi-Tec Exterior Cleaner ‘APPROVED BY AVONDALE’
Derrick Hemingsley's Care-Avan cleaning products company, always a keen supporter of The Caravan Channel, has just had one of it's products fully tested and approved by Avondale Coachcraft Ltd. Care-Avan's products are already fully approved by Bailey, and Derrick says that they're delighted to have this additional confirmation of the range's quality and suitability.
Care-Avan's website is at: www.care-avan.co.uk

9th April: Bath Chew Valley Caravan Park has joined the The Caravan Club network as an Affiliated Site. It is at Bishop Sutton, Somerset, and is an adults only site . . .
With a real ‘garden’ feel to it, the 35 hardstanding pitches are set amongst lawns, shrubs and flower beds. Top quality facilities include a heated toilet block, laundry, on-site dog walking area around a recently established area of woodland, extensive lending library, Wi-Fi and tourist information centre.
The site is an excellent base for exploring nearby Bath with its historic spa and shops; Bristol and Weston-super-Mare are within easy reach. The Mendip Hills and West Country attractions are nar enough for days out, while Chew Valley Lake, only 800 yards from the site, is a haven for fishermen, bird watchers and walkers alike.
Catherine Ford, Head of Sites Marketing for The Club, commented, “We are delighted to welcome yet another site to our network this year which will increase the choice and availability of pitches for our members.”
Keith Betton, owner of the Bath Chew Valley site, said, “We are really excited about this affiliation with The Caravan Club, this has given us a new opportunity to broaden our customer base and welcome members to this beautiful and historic area.”

8th April: The Camping and Caravanning Club, has appointed Simon McGrath as Editor of publications, a role which encompasses Camping & Caravanning Magazine . . .Simon takes up the post on April 28 and joins the magazine, which has increased its ABC figure by 3.5% to 209,042*, from Group RCI, the global leisure travel provider and holiday exchange company. For 10 years he has helped to develop RCI’s European range of publications and communications and, since May 2000, Simon has edited Holiday, the RCI Magazine which is the company’s membership title.
During his career, Simon has also worked as a journalist for a range of newspapers including the Northamptonshire Evening Telegraph, where he was a Deputy News Editor, and the Buckinghamshire-based Advertiser and Review Series.

20th March: Despite a worsening Euro exchange rate in recent months, the price of Camping Cheques is remaining fixed at £10.30 in Sterling - a price has been unchanged for 3 years. Camping Cheques say that their deal is both reassuring and good value, and that the deal applies to all 575 sites within their list
They also have an offer on Brittany Ferries' Poole-Cherbourg and Portsmouth-Caen routes of just £130 each way (car and passengers), with caravans going FREE on certain off peak sailings. In addition the company is offering 3 FREE Camping Cheques (worth £30.90) with every return ferry booked through them.

Businesses & Organisations in Caravan, Motorhome & Camping related businesses
are invited to send their press releases and information to this email address: production@caravanchannel.co.uk