benimar owners' club MAGAZINE Issue No. 14 June 2004
benimar owners' club
founded April 28th 2001 Hon-President
Steve Reynolds
In this issue:-
Editors Column Letters WPC Eden Camp Report Penny' Ma' Denia Saga Peterborough Show AGM The road to Morocco Tyres Membership Chairmans Chat RDH Open Weekend Open Weekend Meet Darkest Sussex Rally Diary
My plea for more letters, articles and photographs in the last issue has worked a treat. Thank you very much to all those contributing. You see, you can do it if you try. Partly due to this response and partly fitting the publication in between moving house and holidays, this issue is a month early.
I will try and issue the next magazine in early August, and this will be an extra issue (5 for the price of 4) but only if you keep sending in articles - it's up to you.
I was very pleased with the good turnout at the Peterborough Show Rally and the AGM. Wasn't it nice to enjoy some warm sunshine for a change?
I noticed at the Peterborough Show a company selling refillable propane cylinders. They were made of Kevlar in a plastic case and were very light (empty) compared with the usual steel ones. They come with fittings and adaptors so that you can refill them at service stations or heating suppliers. They are not cheap but the refills will be much cheaper than Calor exchange cylinders. I read about 2 other firms offering steel ones (T B Turbo and Gaslow) so this looks like becoming a trend. Needless to say Ian Tilley (he who has everything) bought one at the Show.
I am in need of some new glasses and was in Specsavers recently. Guess who I bumped into ? Everybody !
We are due to move house in the near future, exactly when is anybody's guess at the moment. We are hoping to take our phone number with us. The ron@benimar.co.uk email address should still work but please be patient if things don't go according to plan. Why should they? nothing has so far.
If you are heading for the continent, beware - the French are getting very tough on traffic violations. There are heavy fines and endorsements for all sorts of transgressions. Read up in the press before you leave. Also, if you are plated at over 3,500kg the speed limits are slower. Together with the warning in the last Mag regarding changes to the Spanish "highway code" we are all at a lot more risk than before.
Even so - Enjoy yourselves this summer in your Benimars, wherever you go - and don't forget to tell me all about it.
RonSmith
The next issue is due out about early August, so input to me by 25th of July at the latest please.
Rattles and Europe
Harry Hodkinson
I was at the NEC show and whilst viewing the latest offerings from RDH I was much smitten by the new door lockers on offer, however the price for them is somewhat on the high side.
I have last years Anthus 6000ST and for some time I've been trying to find a place to use for a rubbish bin. I'm pleased to say that I have now cracked it, B & Q do a small door bin for around £12.00. It has a flat back so easily attaches to my van door. I've positioned it above waist height in the free van door section and it works a treat.
At present I'm rigging my van for a 3 month trip to the continent. To save annoying rattles whilst travelling I've installed some modified kitchen/bathroom fittings (again from B & Q) into my storage cupboards. I find these much better than the ones offered by the various camp shops and the prices are much the same. I can now use much more of the available cupboard space. I've also put in wire storage units into the storage locker and got my emergency continental gear plus jack also strapped down in the storage locker. With the addition of appropriate towels, I'm now practically rattle free.
I leave for Calais 28th April, I'll initially be in the Dijon area for about a week before moving on to Switzerland. In May I'll be in Austria before travelling over to Venice. After Venice I'll be over to Lake Garda until mid June when I'm travelling down to Siena, from there to the Island of Elba, finally travelling back into the South of France and back home for the 28th July.
Sorry to miss the AGM. The September French trip sounds interesting and I'll be pleased to have more information when available.
Waxoil Treatment by Rustbusters
Keith House
I have just had the new van undersealed by Rustbusters at Bournmouth. If anyone is thinking about doing this, I can only say, based on the job I have had done, go for it.
The van was precleaned with high pressure air prior to the process starting then the Waxoil underseal was applied very carefully to every part of the underside of the van including the spare wheel and carrier, next they remove all rubber bungs in the door panels front scuttle etc and inject at very high controlled pressure the waxoil process to every internal area. I now know that there is not any unprotected metal on the van. The cost is quite high, but in my humble opinion the protection obtained is worth it.
Baby Seats in Benimars
Pete & Joy Wilson
Thanks for the latest copy of the BOC newsletter, Pete and I continue to enjoy reading this communication and regret that we don't have more news and info to pass on. However hopefully we may be able to assist Dave and Louise Amende in siting their baby seat, as we had the same dilemma when trying to accommodate our grandson. When he was newborn, his baby seat was one that had to be fitted facing the rear using the 3 point seat belt, so he took prime position up front with granddad, while navigating nana sat in the dinette area behind granddad.
As he outgrew the smallest seat and progressed to the next size, in which he sits facing forward, we are able to sit him in the dinette area, fixing his seat with the lap belt, although we do prefer to site his seat so that he is facing the rear of van in order to reduce the risk of whiplash in the event of an accident. We hope this is helpful, but also recognise that not all baby seats are the same.
Meanwhile, we regret that we have to give you our 'apologies for absence' as we are unable to attend the AGM this year due to an unavoidable clash of commitment dates. So, please accept our apologies and if you see a Benimar heading out of Peterborough as you all arrive, you will know that it is only us.
R U Healthy? R U Insured?
Phil & Jean Bradbeer
We take out our annual multi-trip personal and vehicle insurance with Europassistance through the Camping and Caravan Club, as we have done for the last few years - keeping the strength of the Club around us.
However I was diagnosed with angina, informed the club - insurance OK. Six months later a letter to say that they wouldn't cover the angina. Arguments followed - you've already accepted. Finally they agree to continue the cover.
Then a visit to the hospital for a "beating heart by-pass (new technique), 6 days in the University Hospital of North Staffs (excellent) back home to recover, now OK. Telephone insurers to say I no longer have angina - it's cured. Great, they say now no insurance cover for any heart condition without a £200 surcharge! Oh dear - punish the aged and infirm. I telephone the Caravan Club, but they are not interested either.
The British Heart Foundation to the rescue. They have a list of insurers willing to listen and quote. Some ridiculous, some very good. We have ended up with an insurance company with normal rates who will charge an excess of only £140 if any problems occur.
The obvious answer is to stay young and healthy, don't become yet another parasite - oops sorry - senior citizen in need of the help of your club.
Phil Bradbeer
PS: In this crazy world they put frosted glass in the toilets of aeroplanes and clear glass in the bathrooms of Benimars!
How's your Fire Extinguisher
Anne Mitchell
We bought our Benimar (used) last August and assumed safety, with an alarm and extinguisher.
On testing (free) the extinguisher at the Peterborough Show it was found the French made powder canister had solid powder and was therefore useless. Ask East Lindsey fire officers about their system of dating canisters, recharging pressure etc. It is minimal cost, compared to life let alone the 'van insurance yearly costs. If you tip your extinguisher upside down and can hear the contents, they are solid.
Sounds like an idea to approach your local fire brigade and ask them to check your extinguisher - Ed
Log Books, Recalls and Beds
Anne & Nobby Bennett
We took delivery of our Aereo 6000 cdl in August 03. First thing I asked about was the service book, I was told by Paul at BCS that they take a long time coming through and I would have to be patient. So 8 months later I contacted RDH who managed to get me a Fiat service book with a certificate saying the vehicle was mine. I called into Fiats at Canterbury last week and they told me that its not the proper book but it will do, has anyone else had this problem.
Also Fiats told me there are 2 recalls on the vehicle one being water in the fuel pump, I was not contacted by anyone reference the recalls and if I had not called in that day I would not have known. ( I don't understand that. There have only been 4 recalls in total for the Ducato 2.8 and none of them relate to water in the fuel - see more in Chairman's Chat - Ed)
Also has anyone suffered with dips in their mattresses, at only 8 months old we are experiencing dips, I must say its only on the wife's side but it is a problem.
Our first rally was at Peterborough, April 04 and we would just like to say how friendly and welcoming we found everyone, we have booked for Lincoln and will no doubt see everyone again. Lastly we have booked our first trip abroad in August to the Loire valley Portsmouth to Cherbourg, any tips greatly appreciated. The Benimar is certainly the best investment I have made, apart from marrying the wife, at least I'm safe for another year.
Worst Postcard Competition
The idea is to find the "worst" post card, and send it to me. At the end of the year I will judge them and the "worst" will receive a prize at the AGM weekend. I am often asked what is the worst and the best way I can answer is - try and think "Why would anyone buy this postcard unless it was to enter a competition for the worst one" Good hunting.
Ron Smith
WPC 2003
Below is the winner of the 2003 competition. It was submitted by Chris Baines, and fought off stiff competition from Sylvia Tilley and Vi Jennings. The ladies scooped the first three places. Come on you men, don't let them win again this year.
All together for a P.O.W. wow.
Chris & Graham Baines
Having missed last years rally at Eden Camp due to being on the Spanish Rally, we took Chris' parents there for a nostalgic day out last summer. I must say, we spent a very enjoyable day at the ex Prisoner of War Camp Museum near Malton in North Yorkshire, looking, reading, touching and listening to the endless exhibits.
So having already visited the museum, we had mixed feelings about attending the BOC rally organised there for March 2004. However, it didn't take much of a prod from a few friends in the club to remind us how good it is to get together.
We arrived late Friday just before tea, to be warmly greeted by our Marshals Carol and husband Paul, not forgetting Chairman Ron with his mischievous grin and "must have got lost, did you." It was nice to be welcomed at the gate and we were soon pitched up on the hard standing alongside nine or so other vans. The camp had kindly provided us with our own meeting room, 'Hut 12' and it was there that most of the activities were centred.
How on earth Carol and Paul and their friends managed to gather together such a brilliant array of ideas to keep us occupied over the weekend beggar's belief.
That evening we were treated to a meal of Ten to One stew with Bread and Butter pudding for afters, served by three Land Army Girls complete with head scarves, pinafores and ankle socks. All this to the nostalgic accompaniment of music from the war years. Afterwards, a competition was held to test our numeric and logic skills!
Saturday was free to take in the museum and get together with friends, some predictably lost their way and ended up in the bar but eventually found their way to the wartime tea of dripping and bread, condensed milk, syrup, and jam sandwiches. Then back to the vans for a rest. We re-mustered at 8pm for an evening of games. The main event was a progressive Benimar Drive, a sort of Beetle Drive but utilising a rather angular
motorhome. Traditional favourites were provided for the juniors, (not forgetting the young at heart and feeble of brain!). These included Whip & Top, Skipping ropes, Marbles, Jacks and Bowls.
Next day, after a couple of air raid warnings and endless Doodlebug assaults (courtesy of the camp PA system), it was decided to take Sunday Lunch in the safety of 'Hut 12'.
A gentle stream of P.O.W's made their way there from the canteen with a hearty selection of 'Dambuster Stew & Dumplings' or Churchill's Steak & Kidney Pie and more. All this was followed by that delicious Carrot or was it Cabbage? cake, well it was wartime! Yumee.
Only too soon it was time for our goodbyes and promises of future rendezvous.
A big thank you to all involved, you really did us proud.
Eden Camp 2004 - Official View
Camp Commandant Paul Smeaton
Friday
A total of 13 units arrived. Sadly Richard and Chris didn't make it due to problems with their 'van. We were pleasantly surprised when David and Veronica arrived with their grandsons, because we had not seen them since Eden Camp 2003, a good advert for the rally. After everyone settled in, we proceeded to hut 12 for the evening's fn and frolic!
We started off with a little informal meeting to let everyone know what was happening over the weekend. We then moved on to the evening proper with a "wartime" meal of '10 to 1 stew" followed by Bread and Butter Pudding which seemed to be a big hit. In fact, Carol and Barbara got he shock of their lives when someone asked for more !!! Since neither of them can be mistaken for Delia Smith this just doesn't happen to them!!!. After the meal we moved on to a game or two. First was a little puzzle using dominoes, then a Domino Handicap, finally breaking up around 11:00pm.
Saturday
Richard and Chris arrived in their car to spend the day with us. Most of the day was spent looking around the museum which, for anyone who hasn't been before is very different and very interesting. Eden Camp is about 12 miles north of York. Around 5pm we met again in hut 12 for afternoon tea and Richard brought a cake sine Friday had been his birthday. This was followed by a video of the rally in the south of France.
We met again at 8pm for the evening's fun. This included a beetle drive (which was re-invented as a Benimar Drive), skipping and Whip and Tops. Everyone seemed to have a good time and we broke up around 11pm again.
Sunday
Coffee morning at 10am. The rest of the day was spent finishing off the museum or chatting with each other. We had lunch, which we fetched from the camp canteen and ate together in the hut. After a final looks at the museum people began packing ready to leave.
We thought that everybody had enjoyed their rally at Eden Camp immensely, so much so, that we were asked if we would consider doing it again! Since Eden Camp is so popular as a rally venue, the earliest date available was Oct 7,8,9th 2005 ! This has been booked and since it went down so well we have decided to do one more in 2006 !!! The dates for our final Eden Camp Rally are April 6,7,8th 2006.
Although this rally took a lot of planning and we put in a lot of hard work, it was our choice to do it and we enjoyed it. If anyone has an idea for a rally but feels a little wary of the responsibility, our advice is : GO FOR IT There are plenty of willing helpers and you will get so much pleasure from doing it - believe us !
All the best Paul and Carol
Ventura Warranty
Ken & Anne Mitchell
We are writing to let you know that we have recently had problems with the engine on our Benimar van. We had the engine checked out by a good mechanic and were told that the engine did need work. We then phoned the warranty company Ventura, supplied when we bought the van, to get authorisation for the work and discovered to our dismay that it is in Administration. They therefore would not authorise the work. We wanted to warn other members that Ventura is in Administration.
See article on Warranty Holdings (they offer the Ventura policy) in Chairman's Chat.
Smugglers
Carole Marston
We felt a bit like illegal immigrants as we arrived at Gate 3 at Peterborough Showground. We realised very quickly that our failure to book a place on the Benimar rally really meant TROUBLE. We asked for directions to the Benimar area. We told the marshals our friends had a place for us. They looked at us gravely. They shook their heads. They dashed away to consult colleagues. Eventually they returned pointing decisively towards our parking space. It would have to do. This was our first rally as new members of the club. The sun was shining and everything looked hunky-dory.
We accepted the place but really missed our friends! We parked up and went on foot to search for familiar faces. Eventually we found them and a plot was hatched! Later on that afternoon we were smuggled back into the fold with the help of papers. Great celebrations!
Hearing a bell we were told the barbecue was about to commence. As people set up tables and chairs and carried glasses we detected a subtle, delectable smell of barbecued sausages. Everything was so orderly. People were relaxed and informal. When we saw the food we were truly amazed. It was very tasty and delicious! The team responsible must have worked very hard and deserve many congratulations. It was a nice surprise to have wine provided by R.D.H. We had a thoroughly good time! The weekend was a great success. The weather was wonderful and the company friendly! Many thanks for an enjoyable event.
Penny 'Ma' the benimar mascot's diary...
May - Penny'Ma' is going to the Peak District
June - Penny'Ma' is going to Ireland
July - Penny'Ma' hopes to see you all at the Lincoln Midsummer Music Festival
Best Regards Alan & Jo Williams
And now for something completely different.
Paramedics were called to a road accident in Essex. When they arrived they found a young woman trapped in the car with blood all over the place.
"Where are you bleeding from" said the paramedic. "Romford" said the young woman.
CONTINUATION OF THE DENIA SAGA
Roy Gill
Saturday 13th March, John and June Harris called in on the Benimar Group for a natter and a nibble, the nibbles put on by Mary Pennington. The weather tried to spoil the occasion, but when the wine is flowing it is impossible.
In the evening we all went to the Arena restaurant to celebrate Sylvia Tilley's birthday. They had the local artist who painted a picture as we ate, then raffled it and Sylvia duly won, OK as a birthday present.
On the 15th Mary and George plus friends Harry and Shirley (Swift) left, the weather when they left was such that Denia Market had only 10 stalls instead of the usual 60. The next day Julia and Alex, Sylvia and Ian (plus Scraggy) all left.
After they had gone, due to Nichol keeping his 'van immaculate, I decided to clean ours using Nichol's brush. As luck would have it I broke the brush. Ah well!!
We decided to stay on at Denia in spite of the weather and the dodgy electricity, the reason being there was to be the Fallas Fiesta in Denia the next weekend. It started on the Wednesday at 7am with a bang, heard in the camp over a mile away from the town.
For the fiesta they erect tableaux about 30 feet high in some of the small squares in the town, all very close to the buildings. These tableaux are made of wood and polystyrene, the people of Denia are renowned for their skill in making them. They do look good and they take nearly a week to erect. We went to view them, 10 in all, and they were very good some having a wicked sense of humour.
On the Thursday evening we went to see a firework display in a car park in the town centre. We were about 25 metres away but by the size of the bangs I reckon we should have been at least 50 metres away. One could feel the concussion in ones chest, still it was quite spectacular.
On Friday morning the parade of the queens started at 11am after the queens and their attendants had been to church. They met up with their respective band and paraded through the streets. All the females carried flower arrangements, but their dresses were something else: made of brocade with gold thread and shoes to match. All the hair of the queens and their attendants was to the same style. I am no judge of these things, I leave that to my better half, but it was spectacular. The men had their different costumes, not as spectacular as the ladies. How some of the little ones on the parade kept going I don't know.
After the parade we ate and retired to camp for a rest in preparation for the evening show. Like Thursday this started with a firework display, but we didn't learn the lesson, once again we came away with our ears ringing.
Whilst all the bangs were going off there were babes in arms trying to sleep. We then went for a drink to prepare for the finale. This I did not believe when first told of it. Bearing in mind the size of the tableaux and the proximity of the buildings and then setting fire to them, no wonder I did not believe it when told. To burn them they string firecrackers around the structure, punch holes in the body and then add some petrol, very effective. Whilst this is going on the fire brigade are hosing down the adjoining buildings. One wonders at the insurance implications. We intended to watch the two winners of the competition for the best tableau, but the second prize, one of Elvis and Fats Domino was late to start due to the fire brigade not setting up on time. As a result we missed the fire of the winner. Even then it was 03:30 before we hit the hay.
The following Tuesday we went to Altea by train, meandering around the countryside. The time keeping of the train was suspect, but the fares were not. Produce one's passport to prove one is a pensioner and there is a 50% reduction. It cost 6.40 euro (£4) for 2 people return. The trouble with Altea is the journey up to the church, which is a must do, if only for the view and to see some of the old streets. The journey up the short way involves a lot of steps.
At Denia the weather was still a bit dodgy, but at least the rain was warmer than England. We departed on 29th March, originally intending to go cross country instead of the coast, but guess what, there was snow on the route, so we went via the coast. We were as far as Gandia when the wind and the rain came. Horizontal rain, very heavy plus gale force winds. We had planned to reach the French border that day, but by Benicassim I had had enough. As we pulled into the campsite there was a river running through the camp gate. They had 110 mm of rain in 12 hours.
Next day the wind had stopped but the rain hadn't. As you drive down into Spain you cross all these dried up river beds and wonder when they were last full of water, and is it climate change? Well believe me, they do fill up and they were very full at the end of March.
We reached Le Havre with only one minor incident, when I touched an unmanned toll booth barrier with the front of the 'van. It doesn't half let off a lot of sirens. Just prior to Le Havre, with time to spare we called in at Honfleur, nice little town, very touristy. There is an Aire there with electric and water. It is at the Le Havre side and a gentle stroll into town.
To summarise where we stayed in France:
Leaving Le Havre, we headed to Alencon; camp closed but stayed on Aire by the gates even though there was no water. Next site near Brive le Galliarde, Ferme site at Noailles, about a kilometre from the motorway, with a shop by the entrance. Next stop Le Boulou, a kilometre from the motorway just before the Spanish border.
Coming back; Narbonne, Camping La Figurotta just off the A9 by Bizanet. Next Souterraine, Suisse Ocean about 5k from
the A20. After that Vimoutier near Lisieux, a municipal site very clean and tidy with an Intermarche across the road. The fuel pumps are a bit tight for a Benimar.
All in all a good holiday.
PETERBOROUGH SHOW RALLY REPORT
Roy Gill
Marshals for the rally were Ian and Sylvia Tlley, ably assisted by Paul and Carol Smeaton.
For certain, the marshals had their prayer mats working overtime, for the weather for the whole weekend was very good. It helps if the weather is good, not only for viewing the show, but also people can socialise and chat outside without being cooped up in their 'vans.
In all 38 units turned up, most on Thursday when the ground was a little soft after all the rain over the past few days, but no difficulties were had due to the conditions
Friday was the first official day of the show, plus communal barbecue of the Benimar Club. Wall to wall sunshine was the order of the day. It was quite pleasant viewing the show in the warmth, seemingly the best weather for the show for a long time.
For the BBQ Sylvia made a good spread to go with the burgers and sausages, the cooking of which was in the capable hands of Graham Baines, Pete Jennings, Paul Smeaton and Chairman Ron Smith. Graham looked particularly fetching in his pinny.
After the eating, and before the drinking became too serious, Chairman Ron welcomed new members and guests of members to the gathering.
Once the formalities were over, a concerted effort was made to clear off the wine kindly donated by RDH, for which members were duly grateful. There really was no problem in performing such an arduous task.
Saturday morning was declared a rest period to recover from the events of the previous evening and to prepare for the AGM, which went okay with routine business, followed by a birthday cake (the Club being 3 years old) and champagne. In the evening, some went to the variety show presented by Warners, the star being Mike Reid, others doing their own thing, whilst some went to the Harvester across the road for a meal. After the various groups did their own thing, most gathered around the marquee for a fat chewing session and the consumption of liquid refreshment.
On arrival at the show each couple was given a quiz sheet, the format of which was a series of initial letters of well known sayings and proverbs.
Sunday at the coffee morning with cakes produced by Ann Pool, Ron presented Mary with a prize for the least correct answers. For the Worst Postcard sent to Ron during 2003, the prize went to Christine Baines. Ron also requested that members continue to send in cards for this year.
Three announcements for forthcoming rallies were made :- Stratford on June 18-20, marshalled by Colin & Frances Varley, Lincoln Music Festival, marshals Mary & George Pennington on July 16-18, the third in deepest Sussex, Aug 6-9, give Pip Rowe a ring if you are interested.
Some members departed the gathering on Sunday afternoon, the rest leaving by noon on Monday. The worst part is saying cheerio to old a new friends one has met during the weekend and promising to meet again. The gatherings of the Benimar clan are if nothing else a friendly affair with not too much formality one associates with other groups, and long may it stay that way. So, if on reading this report, you want to enjoy a gathering of like minded people, keep an optic on the Magazine put out by Ron and take the plunge, you will not regret it.
To close, once again thank you to Ian, Sylvia, Paul and Carol for a splendid gathering.
The 3rd Annual General Meeting of the Benimar Owners' Club took place on 24th April 2004 during the Peterborough Show.
The meeting seemed to go very smoothly, which must mean that we do get some things right.
I am pleased to say that your existing Committee was voted in en bloc for the 2004/2005 term.
The two resolutions (one to bring forward the renewal period and the other to introduce a joining fee) were passed unanimously, so be prepared to pay up promptly when the time comes. You will be reminded in the appropriate magazine.
Steve Reynolds commented that after leaving the Club BBQ the previous evening he noticed how dead the rest of the club camp sites were compared with ours.
Janet Lawson
On March 4th 2004 we began our Moroccan adventure. After a night crossing to Cherbourg we set off through France, soon running into rain which was to follow us down to nearly Bordeaux. A quick pit stop at Leclerc to stock up on cheese and wine etc. Bruce is already moaning about the state of the 'van, so later on passing a "lavage" he decides to give it a clean (can't stand his baby being dirty). This should be interesting in Morocco!
We cross the Pyrenees into Spain, had lunch on top with snow all around us but blue skies and lovely warm sunshine. We were going to stop at Burgos but it was a bit late by then so we press on further, stopping at a restaurant for the night. Got an early start and set our sights on reaching Ronda, quite a drive but we make it and settle in to El Sur for a day's relaxing - lovely site and weather beautiful. Next morning finds us on our way to Algeciras, a lovely drive through mountains to catch the afternoon ferry to Tangier. The crossing is very good, the boat better than I expected, the shock comes at the other end. First is customs and Bruce being cautious has taken photocopies of 'van and scooter details and they want originals. This causes much "good tip" to the 3 different officials before they let us enter. First sight is not good, so many people, so much dirt about. Too late to go far so we desperately look around for camp signs, spot one, hesitate and before you know it we have someone in the 'van offering to take us there for "good tip" of course. Admittedly we would never have found it ourselves, quite a long way out, tucked away behind large metal doors and not bad, overlooking the sea. It could be made quite nice if they bothered. It certainly costs us and we resolve not to be taken in any more. Set off on the N2 to Chefchaouen over Rif mountains and down to Fez. Big mistake, the route is beautiful but the roads leave something to be desired. A sudden almighty crash has us looking round to find the cutlery drawer all over the floor, the jolting had brought the drawer out and broken the screw that holds it on the runner, first repair. Carry on a bit further and someone is pipping horn and flashing lights to stop us, pointing to the back of the van where our scooter is at a dangerous angle to the road and has a bent metal frame, which Bruce tries to kick back into shape. He puts extra bindings around bike and frame and we continue on hoping it hasn't done too much damage.
A little further on we have to stop again and tighten it up, hoping the road will improve now or we will never get there. According to my book campsite is just outside city of Fez, signs are very few and far between. Up pops a fellow on a moped "Looking for a good campsite in Fez?" he says "I show, you follow me". Here we go again and wonder what this will cost. Must be travelling for 20 minutes now, seems quite a good site west of the city. It's an enormous place and again we would never have found it. To give him his due he didn't ask for anything, but suggests his brother as a guide to look round Fez next day.
We drive round outskirts to look at city then stop by palace for photos, next the porcelain factory. How they sit sideways for hours chipping away I'll never know, but very interesting and I buy a few souvenirs. Now we go to medina, the old part of the town and this is a real experience of sights and smells! You could easily loose yourself along these dark alleyways and have to look out for donkeys laden down with goods. The old tannery is in the middle. We go up steps to the rooftop on the process, several store baths holding different coloured dyes, stench is unbearable, so a quick return to shop below where you are expected to buy, of course they can be very persistent. He shows us the entrance to the Mosque. To the west is mausoleum of founder of Fez but non-Muslims are not allowed in. On to a "beautiful house" he says, which turns out to be a carpet shop. We watch one of their workers, so fast and such lovely work. They are all so charming, offering mint tea and showing their wares. It is really difficult to leave without buying anything. In between all this we are taken to a restaurant for lunch, decide to try local dish a "tagine" of lamb (but I think they forgot the meat) had a mixture of starters and fruit after, very nice but quite expensive for Morocco. I think we have been taken in again!
Later, talking to an English couple on our site, they give us one or two tips and say you have to be as crafty as them. They are doing the city tour the next day and are taking a packed lunch. The camp is the most expensive they have stayed on at 110 dirhans a night (£7/8) but say they get much more primitive lower down. I'm beginning to wonder what I've let myself in for. At least the roads are a bit better as we head for the Atlas mountains and desert. It's a lovely ride through forests of trees, snow still on the top. You wonder how people live miles from anywhere, it must be a very harsh existence. Have been told of campsite at Meski like a little oasis, source of river among palm trees and good stopover at 40 dhs. Heading today towards Tinhir and Todra gorge, driving through small sandstorm on the way. The gorge is awe inspiring and we take several photos. Getting a bit late so we decide to camp at first site we passed on entering. French and Germans there already. It has a swimming pool which looks quite appealing, but better still hot showers - wonderful - even proper "English" toilets - a real find. As it is Bruce's birthday today we splash out on a meal in a restaurant. We have to order in advance and we were the only customers but proves to be very good.
Pressing on through the desert, another sandstorm, it gets everywhere, very windy so we park by the police station in Tazenakt and have a walk. Buy two Berber blankets as covers in the 'van, have to haggle a good price, ten the fellow that helps always wants a little something for himself. As soon as you park children appear as if by magic asking for "stylos or bonbons". Their little faces are so appealing it is hard to resist. I pass them a few sweets and they run off quite happily. The trouble is they come back with fiends but you have to say "No more".
Back to bumpy roads again, the one to Tourandant is rather narrow; you have to play chicken to pass by and most of them won't give way. Park by city walls, lovely to feel warm sun again after such a cold and windy night. We take a walk into the centre for a bank but it is not working, buy some nice bread and return for lunch. Meet an English couple staying in a hotel there, they seemed to think the place was wonderful; no accounting for taste.
On the road again for Agadir, looking for a site, very long front, nice hotels, much more of a tourist place. Eventually, with luck, we find ourselves on Boulevard Mohammed V and right by the site. Usual basic facilities but we do have electricity, relax in the sun awhile, then take a stroll to the front. Think the world and his wife are out; we don't have his many people in the height of the summer holidays. A treat tonight we barbecue some steak we took with us and oven chips, a meal fit for a king! Very hot today 32 C and we have the scooter off for the first time and go to Majane to restock. They have some lovely gardens and parks near the front, bougainviliea is beautiful but they never seem to finish anything properly. Very large sandy beach, have my first paddle, not bad, then we are accosted with little man offering doughnuts. He gives me one and jabbers away. Then he gives Bruce one, we don't really want them but thank him and go to walk away promising to see him next day. He gets quite excited about us seeing "patron" to pay (apparently it is buy one get one free) so I flaw him by handing mine back! Another day relaxing while it is so hot we have a tootle up the coast where we are told there are loads of wild campers along the headland. Lovely beach, some surfers rushing in to catch the waves. At the far end we see an English 'van and talk to a couple from Newcastle. They spend 2/3 months there as do many others but tell us robbery is rife, especially in the little village we passed and were intending to go for a drink - think we will wait till we get back to the camper. A couple from Jersey call by and have a drink, they are touring the opposite way to us and spending longer over here. Quite taken with our 'van, they have a Bessacar but intend to change soon as it is so difficult and expensive to get off the island. Lovely evening tonight, still 20 C - shall miss this back home.
Had our first glimpse of goats climbing up the Argan trees to get at the fruit camping just outside Essaouira for night, walk along the front into town. Good fish market here, wide sandy beach and plenty of wind surfing. It is rather packed on the site, parked up b a wall, they say it will be empty tomorrow. Arrived in Marrakech, were getting better at this and managed to find the campsite ourselves, on the Casablanca road, I looks quite good. We set up, have lunch and a little siesta, get the bike off and go in search of Majane, we passed on the way here as we are short of bread and milk etc. As always we manage to spend a fortune in these places, come back with two seat covers (much cheaper than back here), we have to sit on these, and a load of shopping. It is amazing what you can carry.
Treating ourselves to strawberries and ice cream, at about 25p a punnet we are not exactly breaking the bank. A baguette 12p, 6 large tomatoes 12p, bottle of orange 50p - wish we had these sort of prices at home. From what I have seen so far it looks a bit better and cleaner here but we'll know more tomorrow. Did I say cleaner? Well when you have seen one souk you have seen them all. We drive in and park by what we think is one of the gates which will lead on to the main square. Accosted again, by waiter from one of the hotels who knows a little English and proceeds to take us a tour of the Berber crafts market. Admittedly, some of the work is very good. How they produce it in the terrible conditions is beyond me. After about an hour of wandering up and down alleys we finally get through to him where we want to go and that we need a bank in order to give him a tip. Take a taxi (he pays) to a hole in the wall, settle up, he the points us in the right direction to the square. As we wander through someone else tries o guide us. I keep saying "No thank you" and "au revoir monsieur" but these people can be so persistent and everywhere we turn he's on our heels. Made it to the centre at last, spot a nice restaurant overlooking square and finally give him the slip. You get a good view of life from here, all the fruit sellers, snake charmers and shoe cleaners, with the sound of the Mezin above it all. Lunch is good, we just have to find our way back now. Get tired of walking and flag down a taxi, so relieved to see our little scooter still intact and take route back through the Palmarie to camp.
There are some nice hotels and gardens here but you still get the grotty parts, the dust and rubbish that is so much a part of Morocco. It is certainly a different culture to what we are used to. Travelling back up coast now, don't think any of these drivers ever take a test, puts my heart in my mouth at times when they just suddenly pull out. We pass through Rabat, a very big place, no camp signs, don't think I can face another big city, so we carry on to Mouley Bouselham. This could be really lovely if they just spent a little time and money on the place. Some very nice houses going up and the camp will be very good when it is finished. You have the "Merga Zerga" (blue lagoon) with outlet into the sea, high sand dunes on one side - a paradise for bird watchers and very good for fishing. We watch them bring in their catch, everyone crowds round, the locals come to buy, but we already had our tea sorted. Decide on an early start next day to hopefully catch a morning boat back to Spain. Of course things don't go quite to plan in Morocco. We get there in good time, told next boat is 1 pm, but there is no sign of it. They mean it arrives at 1 pm, and takes another 3 hours to unload lorries and containers, only have 1 tug to collect the containers. After 4 hours we finally get on board and sail a short time later. Lovely crossing, sit out on deck all the way - a beautiful day. The welcoming site of Gibraltar on our right and Spain ahead, we will soon be back in civilisation.
Viva Espana !
On his first day at work a new zoo keeper was given 3 jobs: clean out the fishpond, clean out the chimpanzees cage and clean out the apiary.
He was cleaning the pond, when a fish jumped out and bit him on the nose. Enraged he killed it with his shovel, then wondering what to do to hide the evidence, he fed it to the lions. Next he had nearly finished in the chimpanzee's cage when two of them attacked him. He killed them with his shovel, and fed them to the lions too. He then started on the apiary and had just opened the hive when the bees swarmed all over him. Guess what. He swatted them furiously with his shovel until they were all dead, and then fed them to the lions.
The next day a new lion arrived at the zoo. He asked the other lions what the food was like. "Pretty good" said one "yesterday we had fish, chimps and mushy bees."
TYRES - Thinking of replacing yours?
If you are considering replacing the tyres on your Benimar then the following may be of interest.
Continental have recently extended their Vanco 10 range (I think the 10 stands for 10 ply as opposed to the normal 8 ply). They offer extra load carrying capability and better performance. As most motorhomes are driven at or beyond their maximum weight the safety advantages are obvious.
If you have a recent Benimar it will have come with Michelin Camping tyres of 215/75 x R16C. These have a load index of 113/111 .
The Vanco tyre of the same size has a load index of 116/114 which means a max axle load of 2500kg (200 kg higher than the Michelin).
Older Benimars (like mine) came with 205/75 R16C tyres of various manufacturers. They have a load index of 110/108, whereas the same size Vanco is 113/111 giving a max axle load of 2300kg (180 kg more than standard).
I have read a review carried out by a German magazine Pro Mobil, which tested 8 different tyres fitted to Ducato Hymer A class and hightop motorcaravans using sophisticated measuring equipment and experienced drivers.
The Continental Vanco came out top. All 8 were very similar in dry braking from 62.5mph. There were marked differences in the wet however. In braking from 50 mph the Vanco stopped in 31.9 metres. The Michelin Camping took 39.8 and the Michelin Agilis 41.5. Worst was the Bridgestone (who own Firestone) at 48.9 metres. When the Vanco fitted 'van stopped the Michelin Camping one was still doing 22 mph and the Bridgestone 29 mph.
In the aquaplaning test on 6mm of water the Vanco aquaplaned at 53 mph, the Agilis at 52 mph and the Michelin Camping at 47 mph.
If you would like to know more visit: www.motorcaravanning.co.uk/vehicles/tyre_test.htm www.promobil.de www.conti.de
PS Alan Williams tells me that his local tyre depot reckons Vanco are softer than Michelin, that's why they perform better, but will wear quicker; not a problem for motorhomes though. Vanco generally in stock, Michelin to order, Vanco are £5 cheaper.
NEW MEMBERS
A warm welcome to the following new members :-
Nick & Penny Williams of Lenham, Kent
Tony & Carina Lewis
of Plumpton Green, East Sussex
and welcome back to :-
Tim & Debora Hall of Southampton
(the last of the late renewers)
Changes at BCS
Down at Herne bay I hear that Paul Glicksman has bought out the other Paul and is also taking on an experienced fitter. Paul tells me he had a successful Newbury Show which should result in a few new members,
Raffle Prize
A sexy knitted doll, kindly donated by Vi Jennings, was raffled off to the men only after the AGM. The raffle raised £25.50 and the lucky winner was first time rallier Alan Williams. I think he has named her Penny Mar and look forward to hearing how she gets on. (see elsewhere)
ACCEO
You should all have received your first
magazine "ACCEO matters" . One of the advantages of being an ACCEO member is that you may be invited to some of the other clubs' rallies.
I have included two in the Diary. One that is convenient to visit the Lincoln Christmas Market in early December and the other is the ACCEO National Rally at Alne, near York in October.
FIAT Ducatto recalls
Subsequent to Nobby and Anne Bennett's letter, I investigated the recalls for the Ducato 2.8. There have been four which are detailed below:-
R/2000/116 Fuel Tank Mountings
Build date 01/8/1999 - 31/03/2000
Vin ZFA230000573129 - 589998
R/2002/079 Handbrake
Vin ZFA24400006194400 - 6227275
R/2002/169 Water in ABS control unit
Build date 01/05/2002 - 30/04/2002
Vin ZFA2440007000001 - 7073743
R/2003/027 Chafe on dasboard support
Build date 1/05/2001 - 30/04/2002
Vin ZFA2301200006133293 - 6227258
More details of these can be found on www.vosa.gov.uk/vosa/apps/recalls
If your Vin number matches any of these I suggest you visit your local Fiat dealer. If you hear any different, please let me know.
Warranty Holdings
Warranty Holdings have gone into liquidation. They are owned by Ford and one of, if not the, leading suppliers of warranties. Irregularities were recently discovered resulting in the removal of some senior officials. Fraud investigations are underway.
They are the company that RDH (along with many of the rest of the industry) use to provide the extra years warranty on Bemimars. The news is not all bad however. Grant Thornton have been appointed as Administrators and they say that the insurance companies involved will honour all valid claims, although it may take a little longer to settle claims.
The number to ring is 0870 532 9696.
If you have any problems RDH will help as much as they can.
RDH Service Van
It is hoped to resurrect the service van at some of the major shows that we rally at. More details in the next issue
New Benimar
There will be a twin axle Benimar (based on the Alko chassis) at the Earls Court Show, if all goes according to plan. It is all a bit secret but I think it may be similar to the Euromobil Activa, and probably about 7.8 metres (26') long.
Remember - you read it here first !
As part of their celebrating 20 years in business RDH are holding an Open Weekend on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th July at their headquarters in Beeston near Nottingham.
There will be a good display of Motorhomes to tempt you and the workshops will be open for inspection. You will be able to meet all the staff and put a face to the name.
Opening times 10:00am to 08:00pm on Saturday, 10:00am to 06:00pm on Sunday.
There will be an ongoing BBQ during Saturday and Sunday.
LINCOLN FOLLOW-ON & RDH OPEN WEEKEND MEET
To coincide with this there will be an informal meet at a local site.. If you are attending the Lincoln Music Festival rally the previous weekend, why not stay in the area and then come along.
The site is Park Farm, Risley, which is about 8 miles from RDH.
It is a Caravan Club CL with a rally field attached.
The meet will run from Wed 21st July until Sun 25th July (4 nights).
As parking at RDH is very restricted, transport will be available to RDH and back on both Saturday and Sunday.
There will be a walk on the Friday to a local pub for lunch, so bring your boots. There is a barn available in case of inclement weather.
Price is £5 per night, or £7 per night with a hook up.
There are 8 electric hook-ups. If you require a hook-up they are available on a first come, first served basis.
Book your pitch by contacting Ron Smith
Directions:- From Junction 25 of the M1 (A52 Derby - Nottingham).
At the roundabout take the road heading North signed to Sandiacre, Risley.
In ¾ mile continue straight over cross roads (traffic lights) signed Stanton by Dale.
In ¾ mile turn left, signed Dale Abbey.
In 1 mile turn sharp left by cottages into farm road.
Rally field is on right in 300 yds just in front of farm house.
Our rally field is at Sellings Farm in a quiet, beautiful wooded area of Sussex with Petworth House & Park within 10 mins drive. Country walks, cycle rides and eating will help pass the time and there are a couple of pubs a country mile away.
American supper on Saturday evening
Water and C.D.P.
Dogs on leads at all times (pheasants)
Own Sanitation essential.
Fees: £6 per unit per night.
First come first served
So please call asap to book,
Pip Rowe or Vic Paine
2004
June 18 - 20 Stratford
Marshals - Colin & Frances Varley
RDH will be there
Book through Stone Leisure (Motorhome Monthly)
Tel: 020 8302 6150
July 16 - 18 Lincoln
Midsummer Music Festival
Marshals- George & Mary Pennington
Helpers - Roger & Helen Foster
RDH will be there
Use Booking Form in MMM
Book by June 25th
July 22 - 25 Risley, Notts
Lincoln Follow-On & RDH Open Weekend Meet
Marshals - Ron & Judy Smith
See separate article on previous page
July 24 - 25 Beeston
RDH Open Weekend
See separate article on previous page
Aug 6 - 9 Sussex
Somewhere in Sussex
Marshals - Pip Rowe & Vic Paine
See details on previous page.
Sept 10 - 12 Shepton Mallet Outdoor Leisure Show
Marshals - urgently required
RDH will be there
Booking Form in Motohome Monthly
Sept 17 - 19 York
Northern Motorhome Show
Marshals - Paul & Carol Smeaton
Helpers - required
RDH will be there
Use Booking Form in MMM Book by
Oct 13 - 18 Alne, nr York
Invite to the ACCEO National Rally and AGM.
See booking form with the ACCEO matters issue 52
Dec 2 - 5 Lincoln
Invite from "The Castaways" to their Lincoln Christmas Market Rally.
See ACCEO matters issue 52, page 6.
2005
Oct 7 - 9 Eden Camp
North of York
Marshals - Paul & Carol Smeaton
If you know of a suitable venue for a club rally (the handbook tells you what is expected) and are willing to marshal get in touch with the Event Co-ordinator, Roy Gill, to fit it in the schedule.
Roy Gill