benimar owners' club MAGAZINE Issue Issue No. 12 December 2003
benimar owners' club
founded April 28th 2001 Hon-President
Steve Reynolds
In this issue:-
EDITORS COLUMN MEMBERS LETTERS ACCEO WPC 2003 CHASSIS UPGRADE CHAIRMAN'S CHAT YORK SHOW RALLY REPORT EARLS COURT TICKET WINNERS RALLYE ROUSILLION REPORT The Alternative Rally SATELLITE TV IN SPAIN FOR SALE MEMBERSHIP RDH NEWS UPDATE SPANISH FOLLOW ON MEET DIARY DATES 2004 EDEN CAMP MEETINGFirstly a couple of moans.
1. A disappointing number of contributions for this issue.
I returned from Spain expecting a load letters, articles and photos for the
magazine awaiting me
There was a load of mail but it was all bills or junk.
I am sure that some of you must have been somewhere interesting in your
Benimars, with tales to tell, photos, sites to recommend or to avoid. Why not
share your experiences with the rest of us.
Consequently the magazine is 4 pages less this issue. so, if you want a bigger
issue you know what to do.
2. No one seems to be volunteering to marshal our rallies. Peterborough is OK
but all the other Show Rallies are short of marshals. It will be a shame if we
have to cancel them. Apart from Eden Camp we have no private rallies planned.
Perhaps socialising with fellow Benimar owners is not what you want.
So, if you feel you can contribute to your club by marshalling a rally please
contact Roy Gill.
If you have other ideas on what we should be doing instead please let me know.
Having got that off my chest here are a couple of reminders.
1. You are reminded that the Club's 3rd AGM will take place on Saturday 24th of
April during the Rally at the Peterborough Show. Even if you are not attending
the rally, why not try and get over for the day?
2. Another reminder, this time for your Membership Subscription which becomes
due at the end of December.
I am including a renewal form to make it easier - so you have no excuses.
I don't seem to have supplied many Club Stickers lately. Maybe newer members are
not aware of them.
They are a vinyl sticker of the club logo for attaching to the front and/or rear
of your Benimar. They are available from me, cost £1 each plus 40p postage per
order, cheques made out to Benimar Owners' Club.
Finally, the dreaded Festive Season is upon us and Judy and I would like to wish
all Club Members
A Merry Christmas and
hope that you enjoy your Benimar to the full throughout the coming New
Year.
RonSmith
The next issue is due out at the end of March, so input to me by 15th of March
at the latest please.
ARSPOOH
Ian Tilley
One of our club members has gone into production of a little wooden device to
fit to the caravan doorlock to prevent opening. This is the letter I received
when it arrived.
Dear Sir or Madam,
As requested, please find enclosed your order made on 21-7-03 at 11.17am, my
much improved ARSPOOH Mk 6 (patent pending).
As you will notice, it is made of the finest scrap wood available from any skip
anywhere in Britain. Although the retaining mechanism was discovered by myself
wrapped around a discarded brown paper bundle outside our local hospital
mortuary.
Precision engineered to nearly exact measurements and possible requirements,
your ARSPOOH Mk 6 is protected by a special coating of used chip fat then left
to harden in a litter tray.
Not only is my product an unbelievable unqualifying piece of scrap it will
undoubtedly enhance all our Benimars.
If, in the unlikely event that this product doesn't meet with your satisfaction,
or doesn't fit, sling it in the nearest skip (from whence it came). Your rights
are not affected but if the ARSPOOH Mk 6 should fail, check your belongings and
call the police and your insurance. I will have skipped it.
Love Ann and Brian
PS Instructions to follow.
PPS A Reclaimed Special Piece Of Ordinary Hardwood
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FIRESTONE TYRES - AGAIN
Geoff and Angela Bartram
May Day weekend on the A52 east of Grantham - BANG! The offside rear tyre
exploded and we pulled up as quickly as possible into the side of the road. The
verges were soft so we could not pull off the road and did not relish the
prospect of changing the offside tyre with traffic thundering past inches away.
As luck would have it we had recently joined MayDay, so we called on their
efficient services, and in little more than an hour we were on our way once
more.
However, we had now lost faith in the Firestone tyres, having read in the
magazine about other incidents, so we ordered a new set of Michelin Camping
Tyres from our local ATS. We also spoke to Rod, who gave us the phone number for
Bridgestone. We contacted them and their engineer came out to examine the
remains of the tyre. He insisted it was impact damage, and therefore
non-refundable, but took it to ATS to be removed from the damaged rim, where he
discovered that there was some tread separation, and so agreed to refund 90%
(that's 90% of some mythical trade figure).
We explained that we were changing all the tyres because of the history of
problems but he told us they would only give refunds for any tyres that were
found to have actual damage. He also said they were unaware of any 'pattern' of
problems, and we were able to show him the various reports in the club magazine.
Some days later Bridgestone contacted us again to say they were concerned about
the apparent number of problems and wanted to investigate further, with our
co-operation. They asked us to have the van available in a typical loaded state,
and they brought along weighing plates and checked the weight on each individual
wheel and axle. As we use the van for short breaks, it is always lightly loaded,
many of the cupboards are empty, the only 'extra' being a 95kg scooter on the
motorcycle rack. We were within the plated limit of the vehicle, however the
loading limit per axle for the original Firestone tyres was 2130kg, and it
appeared that the weight on the rear axle was close to this limit. The rear
tyres were running at their ultimate stress limit, which may account for the
fact that it is usually rear tyres that fail.
Following these tests, Bridgestone agreed to give us a 100% refund on the
remaining four tyres as a no-fault goodwill gesture (that's 100% of that
mythical figure). They did say that they could have supplied equally suitable
new Bridgestone tyres.
Throughout this period Bridgestone were concerned and helpful; however the same
cannot be said for ATS. The tyre industry has a strange way of dealing with
refunds, where the supplier credits the retailer and the retailer passes the
paperwork round and round between offices until it disappears up its own air
valve. After ATS lost the first set of paperwork, Bridgestone sent replacements
and eventually, after making a nuisance of ourselves at the local ATS branch,
the cheques arrived (a total of about £240 for the five tyres). We were still
considerably out-of-pocket, and also had to replace the damaged rim, but are now
more confident that the new larger tyres are running well within their limits.
Thanks to the various members who offered information about this topic.
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All members will become personal members of ACCEO (See handbook for
explanation) for the new year. This will enable you to take advantage of various
offers/discounts and also to enable the club to partake in some rallies that are
open to members.
WPC 2003
I have received 11 entries so far for this year's Worst Postcard Competition.
They are from :-
Honor Hewitt
Tim Hewitt
Sylvia & Ian Tilley (3)
Paul & Carol Smeaton
Chris Baines
Graham Baines
Vi (2)
and one I can't read the signature.
They represent a good cross section of all that is worst in postcards, and will
be available for inspection at the Peterborough Rally, where the winner
announced
If you didn't manage to send in a card this year, don't worry you have all of
2004 to enter the next competition. Just send me the worst post card that you
can find
Ron Smth
If you have a Fiat Benimar with double leaf springs, camping car tyres and air
suspension, as most the later models have, you can get the chassis uprated to
3850 or 4150 kilos. SV Tech are the authorised company.
Leisure Batteries
Our "leisure" battery gave up during our visit to France and
Spain. The original one, fitted by Benimar was a 90 ah motor battery (as opposed
to a leisure battery). After some discussion with other members during the
French Rally, I concluded that Benimar may well have fitted a motor battery to
cope with the 12v microwave oven that were fitted to the motorhomes at the time.
The very high current, and particularly the start up current would probably
wreck a leisure battery which is designed to delivery low currents for long
periods.
I eventually replaced in with a 95 ah motor battery when in Spain.
European Motorhome Scene
I bought a French Motorhome magazine recently which proved interesting
reading.
There was a report on the major German Show at Dusseldorf - there was not one
British built motorhome present. Perhaps not too surprising, as, against their
European opposition they are badly built and overpriced, and most of them stuck
in a "Victorian" time warp.
It contained a review of the 2004 models of all (most?) of the manufacturers
selling in Europe (again no British mentioned).
The trend in Europe is towards the front lounge (utilizing the swivel cab seats)
and fixed rear bed. Many of them have an L shaped kitchen amidships. The latest
Benimar layouts are following this trend.
More and more makers seem to be using the low Alko chassis, either to give a
lower overall vehicle, with consequently better road holding or to provide a
double floor, with extra storage and better winterisation.
Lafuma Factory
Many of you will be familiar with the supremely comfortable Lafuma reclining
chairs. They are available in Britain but are quite expensive, even when taking
advantage of Show offers.
The factory is south of Lyon and you can visit and make considerable savings.
They also make all sots of outdoor items - tents, rucksacks, boots, clothing.
They do not always have the full range available however.
To get to the factory, heading North on the N7 between Valence and Vienne, turn
right on to the D1 to ANNEYRON. You will find the factory o your left as you
approach Anneyron.
Tockwith Motorhome Services
If you live in the York area you may be interested in the above which is
being set up by Rudgate Auto Services. From April 2004 they are moving to new
premises and offer:
Servicing, Repairs and MOT
No size limit
Experienced, fully trained staff
Hook up facilities if you wish to stay overnight and courtesy car avilable by
appointment.
Collect and Return if you live within 15 miles
Call 01423 358302 or email
motorhomes@rudgatemotors.com
Congratulations
To Rick and Lisa Black on the birth of a son Lewis James on 10th
November.
That makes 4 - he is catching up with you Richard.
Metallic Benimar
There is a good chance that RDH will be showing an Aereo finished in a
metallic colour at the NEC Show in February.
Emailing using a mobile phone
Graham Baines is having trouble trying to connect his laptop to his mobile phone
in order to send emails. If anyone has done his successfully and can pass on any
tips he will be glad to hear how you did it. He will be in Spain for a couple of
months but can be emailed at graham_baines@onetel.net.uk
Practical Motorcaravan
The January 2004 issue included a favourable report on the Perseo. The
reporter collected it from the factory and went south visiting some
over-winterers. One couple featured were members Ian and Anne Robb, complete
with photo showing them looking very relaxed by their Benimar at La Manga.
Colin & Fances Varley
Our York Rally started with the arrival on Wednesday of Colin, who was the
marshal on this occasion, to set up the markers in readiness for the arrival of
the Benimar Group. Twenty three vans were expected but a couple of extras
arrived and were allowed on the site as there were spaces. Ray was one of the
early bird arrivals, reaching the site on Thursday and assisting Colin in
ensuring that everything was running smoothly.
Thursday evening saw everyone enjoying a Country and Western night followed on
Friday morning with a coffee morning hosted by Colin and Frances to welcome
members to the Rally. For those of us who are of the slightly older variety
there was a Rock & Roll night that evening, with excellent bands bringing
back, I am sure, many memories from our youth.
Saturday started with warm sunshine which seemed a good omen for the barbecue
that Frances was organising, however, the sun decided to take a trip, and the
weather became overcast. Despite this the barbecue was a great success and
everyone had a good time. Ray spoke on behalf of those gathered, thanking Colin
and Frances for all their efforts, especially Frances, who had provided an
excellent selection of food. Thanks was also given to those who had so kindly
lent a hand in the preparation, especially to the two boys who were a great help
in setting things up.
Saturday night saw Joe Pasquale performing in the marquee, for those who had
tickets and were prepared to brave the torrential rain that lasted most of the
night, at least it had held off long enough for the barbecue.
Sunday dawned misty but brightened into a warm sunny day. Frances and Colin
again hosted a coffee morning to thank everyone for coming and give general
information about forthcoming rallies. Ray thanked Colin and Frances for their
excellent performance as marshal and the consensus was that everyone had had a
good weekend and looked forward to the next, when they would have saved enough
pennies to take advantage of some offers available at such shows.
BUMPER STICKERS
Jesus is coming .... Look busy
Politicians are like Nappies. They should be changed regularly and for the same
reason.
Lead me not into temptation. I can find my own way.
....more on page 17
Costa Blanca motorhome site British owned Cabins and Camping Los Niguez is a
private family run site with just 3 statics and 6 pitches of 70-110 m2 (average
8m x 11m). Pitches have water, electricity and waste hook-ups. The site is open
all year round. Located in a flat rural area near Dolores, South of Elche, it is
easily accessible from the main autopista. There are endless walking and biking
possibilities. The site has a laundry / ironing, WC/Shower, cartridge waste
disposal point, a 12m x 7m pool, and a kids playground. There is also a shuttle
to Dolores 3 kms away most days for supermarkets, banks, post office and cafes.
Contact either Mike on 00-34-678-398-157 or Lynda on 00-34-647-356-945, or email
to HYPERLINK " mailto : cabinsncamping@vodafone.es for more info, prices,
etc. 10% Discount to Benimar Owners' Club Members
There were only 4 entries for the 5 pairs of tickets available.
The winners were :-
David & Evelyn Hill
David Sprason
Val Ayers
John and Doreen Farrow
Hope you enjoyed your visit to the smoke
MORE FREE TICKETS TO BE WON
Following on from the offer above, Clarion Events are also offering 5 pairs of
tickets to the Caravan & Motorhome Show in Manchester on 22nd-25th Jan 2004,
and the Scottish Caravan and Outdoor Leisure Show at Glasgow on 5th-8th Feb
2004.
As before, if you would like to take up this offer send your name and address
and membership number to Pip (see page 2 for address) and keep your fingers
crossed.
Entries for the Manchester Show to reach Pip by Dec 30th.
Entries for the Glasgow Show by 13th Jan 2004.
Roy Gill
French Rally - Sept 7th - 21st 2003
Marshals for the rally were Shirley and Barry Morton.
The rally was scheduled to commence on Sunday 7th at Estavar - Campling
L'Enclave. In their enthusiasm most had arrived on Saturday and established
themselves in the area allocated to the Benimar Owners' Club.
Saturday evening most of the ralliers enjoyed a snifter in the bar at the
entrance to the campsite - purely t relax after the long drive down.
Sunday dawned to a typical English Summer - damp and overcast, ideal to relax
and recuperate. In the evening Shirley and Barry had organised a Sangria and
Nibbles soiree in the campsite hall, where Barry gave us a welcoming speech and
explained some of the events lined up for the week at Estavar. He also gave a
general layout of he area. The draw for the Boules Competition was also made.
Monday, in contrast to Sunday, was bright and sunny - ideal for a stroll in the
countryside around Estavar, guided by Barry. The glorious weather compounded by
the altitude of Estavar (4000ft) and energies expended on the walk meant that
body liquids had to be replenished. The bar at the campsite managed that more
than adequately.
During the walk, the ladies were collecting wild flowers to be pressed for a
competition organised by Shirley. The men were to collect labels from wine
bottles. Unfortunately there were not many wine bottles lying around which meant
that we had to keep buying wine.
The weather on Tuesday was poor, so a trip by cars and motorhome was made to the
nearby Four Soleil (Solar Furnace). Very interesting but one wondered how on the
day we visited. They did have an English language film to explain the place.
On Wednesday we had a coach to take us up to Lac Bouillouse (6000ft altitude).
The scenic drive was excellent and the poor weather of Tuesday had left a
covering of snow on the high peaks, just to complement the already stunning
scenery. Once at the Lac there was a choice of way marked walks, or if we wanted
lounge in the sun by the restaurant and bar.
After a super walk up to many lakes the coach took us to Mont Louis, an old
walled town. There we stayed for about 45 mins then on to Font Romeu, a winter
ski village and tourist town. Some of the ladies had some retail therapy whilst
others partook of the obligatory altitude drink.
Once back at the camp, we all relaxed and then prepared for an evening meal at a
restaurant in Llivia a nearby Spanish enclave. The coach was laid on for the
trip. The meal also served as a surprise birthday party for Ann Pool, whose
birthday was on that day. A very good party it was.
Thursday was deemed a well deserved rest day. We did consider a ride on the
local little yellow train, but chickened out in the end.
Friday was barbecue day, so the morning was spent in collecting together all the
necessities. The barbecue was scheduled for 13:00 hours and we then proceeded to
do what one does at these things with plenty of good food, drink, company and
glorious weather. The only drawback was clearing up afterwards.
Saturday was yet another glorious day and saw us off to Llo a village 4 miles
away famous for its thermal, sulphur baths. Some went for a swim, some went for
a walk up the gorge and lunch, some of the more intrepid did
both. After which it was back to the camp.
Sunday the 14th was departure day from Estavar, so he morning was spent packing.
It was deemed wise not o depart en-masse as a convoy of Benimars would not be
popular on the wisting mountain road down to Argeles sur Mer. There was quite a
lot of traffic on the N114 - in both directions.
We all made it to Camping Paris Rousillion at Argeles by about 15:00, where we
all set up and then proceeded to watch Ian perform the "Tilley Tango"
as he manoeuvred his van for what seemed an age in order to receive the best
picture on his satellite television.
On Monday morning some of the men went to a caravan spares shop to see what was
on offer. As it turned out - not a lot. On the same day he boules competition
started in earnest.
For the evening Barry arranged a trip to the local Ten Pin Bowling Alley. Quite
a while since most of us had partaken of the sport.
Tuesday morning saw a squadron of ancient "mods" plus 2 cars go for a
trip to Collioure, once a fishing village now a holiday resort. Once there we
had a mooch around the town, then a meal followed by a trip in the Tourist
Train. A drink by the sea and the then time for the journey back to camp.
Dutifully on Wednesday morning the men were taken to Argeles market by the
womenfolk.
For Thursday Barry organised a session on Go Karts for those that were that way
inclined. We each had 10 minutes. The highlight was to see Chairman Ron roaring
round the track like the proverbial fly, overtaking all and sundry, then came to
a sudden stop when he tried to overtake some track boundary tyres. That slowed
him down for a while then he did the unthinkable and punctured one of his tyres.
All in all quite spectacular. From the sublime to the gor-blimey Sylvia G did a
passable impression of the quen as she waved to the spectators as she meandered
round the course.
From there we went to the local beach to see the "sights". Ann Pool
was the only one brave enough to venture into the sea.
Friday morning saw the final of the boules competition, Graham and Christine
Baines v Ron and Judy Smith. In a close called game, the winners were Graham and
Christine.
That afternoon saw most of us sitting tall - in the saddle - an hours horse
riding. No wonder cowboys are bowlegged!
To round off Friday, Barry and Shirley had organised a meal at a local hostelry
- very good indeed.
Ron gave a few words of thanks to Shirley and Barry, and. read out a poem penned
by Julia Tinsley which summed up the rally perfectly
Shirley presented the prize for the boules, plus a prize to Vi Jennings for the
best pressed Flower Arrangement. Brian Swanson received the prize for the most
wine labels.
Ian Tilley read out an "alternative" report of the meet, I am not sure
that the editor will publish it in total.
Saturday was again market day and once again the men fulfilled their duties and
tried to appear interested. In the evening there was an informal gathering where
we sat and after feeding set about putting the world to right.
On Sunday he rally ended, we gave our thanks to Shirley and Barry and went our
various ways.
The general concensus was that Shirley and Barr had organised an excellent meet.
there were all sorts of activities for those wishing to participate - and most
did.
Thank you Shirley and Barry
The Journey Down.
Ian & Sylvia Tilley.Cahors - Ian selects campsite in Cahors. Looks in the
Caravan Club book. As usual he picks the cheapest option. Drives down the road
following his Tom Tom Navigator - It says "turn left at the next
road." The road was marked no entry. Stops van. Police are behind Pete's
van. Moves on fast!! Gets to the site. Site closed at the end of August. Did not
read the book properly. Idiot!!
At the next campsite Scraggy the cat escapes. Pete & Ian chase him up the
campsite road. Eventually they catch him.
Pete & Vi Jennings. Let's go to Andorra! Gets on their new scooter. It's
only done 66 km. Downhill 7 miles to town. Great fun. Shop till we drop. The
rain starts. Thunderstorm. Rain eases off. Back on the bikes and up steep hills
to the campsite. Pete loses his traction on the bike a couple of times on the
wet and steep road Lack of power and heavy load! About 3 miles from the site
Pete's bike decides to slow down & finally stop. Pete panics. Vi who has a
fear of heights looks over the edge of the road into the gorge and nearly passes
out. Pete decides to push the bike up the hills. Ian & Sylvia go back to the
site and Ian returns to help. By this time Pete is completely out of breath but
still struggling up the hill. Vi has completely lost it - moving onto the road
with cars whizzing past. Ian had to take her to the other side of the road so
that she could pass the gaps in the roadside barrier. Eventually Pete and Vi
were persuaded to take Ian's bike and Ian took their bike back to the site. The
next day Pete got his confidence back and rode his bike. Surprise, Surprise Vi
appeared and got on the scooter and drove it round and round the campsite. She
had never ridden a scooter in her life.
Walking down the road whilst shopping for booze at Le Escalet [Andorra], Pete
was watching his wife looking at the expensive jewellery in the shops. He was so
worried that she would go and buy, he did not look where he was going and
stumbled into a hole in the pavement, fell over and rolled down the road. I am
sure the shoppers thought he was drunk.
Richard & Christine Hall. From their minicruise and landing in Spain, they
went to Orio. On leaving the Orio campsite Richard came out of the exit of the
Spanish site and as usual a tight squeeze. Crunch. The marker light on the
passenger side was attacked by the restaurant, scratched the van and broke the
light. As usual Christine got the blame - not watching where she was going.
Brian & Ann Swanson Brian drove off the ferry at Caen. Looked at a faint
sign on the port road saying Caen he turned round the corner and found he was
heading back onto the ferry.
First Day
Barry & Shirley Morton Pete said to Shirley that reception had warned him
about the ants. Shirley became rather agitated wondering how she would cope with
11 vans and ant sprays. When Pete said they would have to choose their ants, 3,
6 or 10 Amps, the penny dropped.
Tim & Honor Hewitt. Honor wanted to get a five Euro token for the washing
machine. Ian offered to take her and her washing to reception as it was at the
other end of the site. Honor jumped onto the bike and they both fell over nearly
grounded. After recovering they scooted down to reception. It was shut. No
token. Returned to base. Honor ended up washing Tim's smalls in Sylvia's washing
machine as they were travelling home to Spain the next morning.
Ron & Judy Smith Ron had been having short shelf life with his leisure
battery. He decided to check the acid level on site. >
As he did not have access to club funds he used rainwater to top up the battery.
Ian visited the loo. The team had found a special toilet for his use. [Special
child's loo]. He was forced to sit on it and a photo was taken. Rotten lot.
Mike & Dawn Bottle First on site. We've got the best site. Up with the
awning and out with the mat & chairs. Later set up the satellite TV with the
automatic aerial. After half-hour searching - no picture. Damn - forgot about
the trees.
Second day.
Alec Waugh & Julia Tinsley Heavy rain. Julia went out to remove the car from
the trailer. Soaked. Alec was watching from inside the van.
We decided to help Alec move the car trailer so that they could move the van to
get the awning out .The trailer was moved but then Alec had to cut the branches
off the tree that he had driven through when he arrived.
Julia was missing her cleaning lady. She was getting annoyed with the dirt in
the van from the wet ground. Ian said, stop sweeping, as he would fix it. A few
minutes a cleaning lady turned up complete with uniform, hat and Hoover. Julia
was delighted, only one Euro. Ron took picture of Julia and the cleaner [Sylvia
Tilley].
Third Day.
Next day Mike went on the walk round the local area - ended up with 2 blisters
and had to bath his feet.Everybody else went for a drink. No pub drinks for him.
Julia & Alex. Pete & Vi, Ian & Sylvia had just filled the scooters
with petrol. As they drove off they found Julia & Alex lost in the village
looking for the road to the next town for a supermarket. Sylvia went with them
to show the way. Unaware that Ian & Sylvia had stopped Pete & Vi went
onto the campsite. After a while Pete thought that Ian & Sylvia had had
problems and returned to the petrol station. As he left the campsite on the high
road, Ian came in by the other gate and Pete missed him. 10 mins. Later Pete
arrived back on site.
Fourth Day.
Mike & Dawn. Mike took 8 people in his van to the mirror generating station
powered by the sun. On his return to the site he changed his pitch. Now he can
receive the TV.
Fifth day
Richard & Ian On the bus trip going to the lakes Richard sat in front of
Ian. Ian could not see the views. On the return journey Ian sat on the other
seat so he could see out of the front window. Guess what Richard sat in front of
Ian!!
Roy Gill got on the bus. Everybody said watch the step. Roy did and hit his head
on the roof. Ann got on the bus and fell down the step.
Sixth day Thurs.
Vi went into a bank to get some Euros. She went in through the first security
door but would not shut it before opening the second. She was scared she would
be shut in. A French lady then pushed the outer door shut and Vi shot through
the second door into the bank.
Seventh day Fri
Sylvia Tilley saw a rat in the loo. She told everybody and from then on none of
the ladies used the loo at night or they went in pairs.
Ann & Brian Ann tried to get a box of red wine from an upper cupboard in the
van. The box fell down and spilt some of the contents onto a seat in the van.
The box flew through the air out of the door followed by the seat, Ann ran out
and poured a bottle of white wine onto the seat to neutralise the red wine.
Brian got the blame!
Eighth day. Pete went to the Llo swimming pool and gorge. Walking over a bridge
he tripped over an iron ring on the footbridge. Vi, and the two Sylvia's were in
the swimming pool and decided to gang up on Richard and threatened to remove his
trunks. Richard dived out of the way and lost his specs in the pool. All went
back to the campsite. Later Pete came out of his van door backwards and fell
down the step with his legs in the air. Ann was called to bandage up his ankle.
He was then told to rest his leg for an hour. Pete sneakily peeped down her
front and was given a dirty look. Ann is now known as Nurse Gladys Emmanuel.
Ninth day.
Graham & Chris Baines.
Graham forgot to charge his Tom Tom navigator system. Lost all his maps. Chris
had to replace the computer.
Chris had a nightmare about a rat. She though the rats nose was pressed against
her nose. She awoke with a scream, banged her head on the luton roof, and woke
up Graham who nearly had a heart attack.
Ian set-up site at Argeles and set up the satellite TV. He only got one station
but thought this was all he could receive until he saw Graham receiving all the
stations on a bin lid. Ian then decided to move the van, so he removed the
windbreaks, awning, mat, chairs etc. He then spent the next three hours moving
the van in various positions on his site until he got clear of the trees
blocking the signal. He spent the next two hours setting up camp again.
Tenth day.
Seven people went with Barry to the caravan spares shop approximately 5 miles
away from the campsite. They had a list of 20 items that they wanted. There was
only a technician available in the shop and after struggling through the list
they ended up with only 2 light bulbs. He could not order anything as he said
that the boss was on holiday, it was the end of the season and he was not
allowed to order anything.
Eleventh day.
Ian and Graham drive on his scooter to the Internet cafe at 7.45pm. Ian takes a
wrong turn at the roundabout. Drives for a couple of miles, realises they are
going to end up in Perpignan, so they turn round and eventually get to the cafe.
Cafe shuts at 6.00pm.
Ann went bowling with the group. She threw the bowling ball using the rounders
method - hop, skip wiggle and bowl. Barry was completely put of his stroke after
seeing this new technique.
Twelfth Day.
Julia made her evening meal and went outside to lay the table. The table had
disappeared. Alex had put the table away. In trouble again.
Thirteenth day.
Went to Go Cart Racing. Ron "Schumacher" Smith drove so fast that he
was called into the pits for a tyre change. He had punctured a tyre. Sylvia Gill
decided that it was not very elegant to race round the track and she gracefully
drove gently round, waving royally as she passed the stand at 10mph.
We went down to the beach where we all looked at a hedgehog sitting on a French
woman's tummy. She was only wearing a bikini top. Graham said Well there has to
be a bit of mystery hasn't there?
Sitting round the camp fire [Roy's lamp] at 11.00pm we were all shocked by a
strange apparition appearing out of the darkness. Out came the wooden stakes
{tent pegs] to destroy the vampire. It was Vi in her shroud [silk nighty and
curlers [clothes pegs]. A quick flash [rear of nighty up] was given by the
vampire and we responded with camera flashes to dissipate the evil being. The
apparition disappeared back to her coffin [Benimar]. We must have been so noisy
as to raise the dead.
Fourteenth Day.
Playing the final boules game, Ron was behind in points. It was stated from the
audience, "that when Ron gets behind, he gets very up tight and it affects
his balls". Many titters were heard from the audience.
Pete, Vi, Ian & Sylvia went up to the Gorge de Lavall. Pete couldn't get his
> bike started to return down the hill. Ian & Pete coasted all the way
down the gorge and came to a halt at the bottom. The bikes were then started.
One Euro saved again.
Somebody said that there was some consternation about damage to virgins if we
went horse riding. A shortish male [Graham] said "Virgins". Do me a
favour. The only virgin in this club is Ian's wallet.
During the discussion regarding the size of horses to ride, it was suggested
that Ian had a Shetland pony. Chris then said, "I could manage a
donkey". No comment.
Richard tried to stop his horse from cantering. He kept shouting -Stop you
B-------. The horse only went faster. It only understood French.
Christine had been having trouble with her leg during the week and found
difficulty with walking.
After she went horse riding they all went for a shower to remove the smell of
the horses. Christine and Richard were caught by Vi doing naughties in the same
shower. Nowt wrong with her leg now!
Ian Tilley
Since the BBC have moved their transmissions from the Sky Package there has been
changes to the Digibox settings and programme availability in Spain south of
Tarragona.
The default transponder setting for the South beam has changed. Using your
remote control, press Services then 4. Now in succession press 0,1 and Select.
This will give you access to the Installer Set-up screen. Press 2. Using the
keypad on the remote control, change the Frequency to 12.034. Using the Down
arrow key, change the Polarisation field to H. Press the down arrow key 3 times
and press Select.
Switch off the power for 30 seconds and then align your dish to receive a
signal.
On Signal Test the Signal Strength should be visible but no Signal Quality.
The Lock Indicator should show OK.
Network ID = 0002.
Transport Stream = 07ea or similar.
If the dish is aligned properly, after pressing the Sky button and then 501 for
Sky News the programme should appear. You can then go to the TV Guide on the
controller and you will see all the stations. You will only be able to select
the News programmes, Channel 5, BBC Parliament and the usual free shopping
programmes. Probably better than nothing. (I understand that Channel 5 is now no
longer available - Ed)
To receive BBC and ITV you would need a 1.8 meter dish with a 0.3 LNB on a
concrete base looking at the Northern Beam. Heavy to carry and difficult to
align. Maybe not for Nichol Thompson?
A further tip, if necessary, is to align your LNB 15 degrees from the vertical,
in a clockwise direction as viewed from the LNB into the dish. This helps the
signal strength in the southern regions.
Hope this helps. (With extractions from Nichols article - Issue No. 8)
PROTEC COVER
To fit Europe 6000 ST with Left Hand door. Green and Breathable.
Only 12 months old and in as new condition.
Cost £400 - Will accept £250 ovno
Call Fred Claringbould on 01227 860376 - Canterbury, Kent
You are reminded that membership becomes due at the end of the year. If you
have not already renewed, please use the renewal form enclosed and send it to
Jane who is eagerly awaiting it.
NEW MEMBERS
A warm welcome to the following new members :-
David & Linda Hall of Irnham Lincs Alan & Alan Dennis of Whitley Bay
Christopher & Gillian Barman of Southampton
Terry & Brenda Dunbar of Mostyn
Alan & Marion Brown of Brentwood
Phi;ip & Patricia Chapman of Tunbridge Wells
Mel & Barb Jones of Colchester
Phil & Val Adams of Nottingham
Steve & Liz Love of Whitstable
Ian & Joann Whitt of Lockington
Harry & Patricia Hodkinson
of Macclesfield
George & Mary Adams of Chichester
Alan & Patricia Harvie of Romford
Kenneth & Jaqueline Tilbury
of Folkestone
RDH hope to have an experienced fitter shortly as replacement for Steve
Irvine who has now left the company.
This could mean that the Service Van could be resurrected in the not too distant
future. Lets hope so.
Work on "next door" at Beeston is ongoing. The security fence is up,
Gate ready and next will be to tarmac the area.
RDH have been appointed dealers for Chausson Motorcaravans and Caravans.
Chausson are also owned by Trigano, are made in France (about 6000 motorcaravans
a year) and will complement the Benimar range. They will retail at about £25K
to £40K and don't offer the same quality or versatility of layout options that
Benimar offer.
There is a good chance that Benimar will look at using the ALKO chassis for the
Europe and Top with a double floor.
I would be very interestedtosee any development in this area.
Ron Smith
This turned out to be a very low key affair with only 3 'vans deciding to go
that far south.
Michael and Dawn Bottle had to leave the French Rally early to call in to the
Benimar Factory for some remedial work and arrived early.
Ian and Sylvia Tilley came more or less straight down and eventually Judy and I
meandered down the coast arriving 10 days later.
While we were there the days were split between the men working hard helping Tim
tile round his pool, while the women went on spending sprees at all the local
markets. Typical !
BUMPER STICKERS (cont)
There are two types of pedestrians - the quick and the dead.
Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
HARRIS UPDATE
I am pleased to report that John and June Harris are at last getting somewhere
with their dream house near to Javea in Spain.
Some of you will know that they sold up in the UK and have spent a torrid time
since while many problems regarding their building plot were resolved.
They now own the plot, have found a good (by Spanish standards at least) builder
and construction is well underway.
They are planning space to accommodate an additional motorhome
and when they move in (estimated at around April ) they will be pleased to see
any friends. They can be contacted on (0034) 676088466.
Jan 21 - 25 Manchester
Caravan & Motorhome Show
Feb 5 - 8 Glasgow
Caravan & Oudoor Leisure Show
Feb xx - xx NEC
RDH will be there
March 26 - 28 Great Driffield
Motorhome & RV Show
Rally cancelled - no marshals
April 3 - 4 Eden Camp
Marshals - Paul & Carol Smeaton
See write up opposite
April 22 -25 - Peterborough
National Motorhome Show
Club AGM on Saturday afternoon
Marshals - Ian & Sylvia Tilley
Helpers - required
BBQ on Friday night
RDH will be there
May 14 - 16 Newbury
Southern Motorcaravan Show Marshals - urgently required
BCS will be there
June 18 - 20 Stratford
Motorhome & US RV Show
Marshals - urgently required
RDH will be there
July 16 - 18 Lincoln
Midsummer Music Festival
Marshals - required
RDH will be there
Sept 10 - 12 Shepton Mallet Outdoor Leisure Show
Marshals - required
RDH will be there
Sept 17 - 19 York
Northern Motorhome Show
Marshals - required
RDH will be there
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 on 01229 585632, to fit it in the schedule.
Roy Gill
The meet is Friday, Saturday, Sunday 2nd-4th April 2004.
Cost is £9 per unit per night, which includes admission to the museum
throughout the rally.
Since we are not rallying on our DEFFRA certificate, guest units will be
welcome, with the usual £2 guest fee pr unit per rally.
Please contact me on:- 01709 583432 (up to 2 weeks before the start so that I
can let Eden Camp know how many units to expect.
Paul Smeaton