Message from Dave Thomas Report from the 16th AGM New Club Website EU Travel Changes The Club Supporters Scheme Spirit of the Club Awards New ...
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Message from Dave Thomas
Report from the 16th AGM
New Club Website
EU Travel Changes
The Club Supporters Scheme
Spirit of the Club Awards
New Zealand Auto-Trail Group
Rally Reports
Spring Preparation for your Motorhome
“You can cut all the flowers,
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OWNERS’ CLUB MAGAZINE
Issue Number 113 March 2021
Contents Advertisers
www.atocuk.com
Contents……………………………… 3 Alan Rogers…………………………….. 52
Your Directors..……………………… 5 Aphiam………………………………….. 46
The Editor……………………………. 7 Brownhills………………………………. 16
The Webmasters……………………. 7 Cannock Resprays…………………….. 4
Chairman’s Chat…………………….. 9 Caravan Finder………………………… 48
Chelston………………………………… 6
Message from Dave Thomas………. 10
Comfort Insurance…………………….. 2
The Membership Secretary………… 11
Elite Motorhomes……………………… 20
The Trade Advertising Manager…… 11
Essanjay …..…………………………… 34
The Rally Coordinators’……….……. 13 Hill View Awnings……………………… 51
The H&S Officer…………………..…. 13 Marquis…………………………………. 14
Welfare Officer’s Report…………….. 13-15 Motorhome Protect..………………….. 8
The Club Secretary………………….. 17 Paintseal………………………………… 18
Visit our website
Report from the 16th AGM…………. 17-21 Puncture Control………………………. 42-43
New Club Website…………………… 23 SAP……………………………………… 50
EU Travel Changes………………….. 24-25 Solar Solutions…………………………. 38
The Club Supporters Scheme……. 26 Spinney…………………………………. 12
Tyne Valley Motorhomes……………… 22
Spirit of the Club Awards…………… 27
Van Comfort……………………………. 44
New Design Rally Slip………………. 30
West Country Motorhomes…………… 26
Board Member Profile……………… 28-29
Glastonbury Folk Tale……………….. 31 We thank all our advertisers for their valued support
MMM Part 2………………………….. 32-33 Trade Advertising Manager
New Zealand Auto-Trail Group…….. 34-35 Chris Tanner
Mobile: 07854 303665
Mini-Moon in a Serrano…………….. 36
Email: atoc.ctanner@gmail.com
Rally Reports…………………………. 37-41
Puncture Control Explained………… 45 The opinions, advice and information contained in this
magazine are offered solely to inform members as to
Taking your Dogs Abroad………..…. 45 matters which may be of interest to them.
Spring Prep for your Motorhome….. 47 The Auto-Trail Owners’ Club accept no responsibility for any
opinion, advice or information expressed by any person in
Letters Page Returns……………….. 49 any article contained herein and members should seek their
own counsel on matters before acting or relying on any
Rally Updates………………………… 51 opinion, advice or information.
Published by: Printed by:
Editor: Walter Brown Printers Limited
Carol Webb 92 Newton Road
Mobile: 07545 233815 Lowton Warrington WA3 1DG
Email: atoc.editor@gmail.com Tel: 01942 608 391
Email: walter@walterbrownprinters.co.uk
www.atocuk.com
www.atocuk.com 3 atoc.editor@gmail.com
www.atocuk.com 4 atoc.editor@gmail.com
YOUR DIRECTORS 2020-21
VICE CHAIR
07784 904 622
MANAGER
NON BOARD POSITIONS
WORKING TOGETHER ON YOUR BEHALF
www.atocuk.com
www.atocuk.com 5 5 atoc.editor@gmail.com
atoc.editor@gmail.com
www.atocuk.com 6 atoc.editor@gmail.com
Editor - email atoc.editor@gmail.com
Hello to you all. I am going to write my message without mentioning the
‘C’ or the ‘B’ word. I think we’ve all had enough of these to last us a life
time. My message is going to be about orange. Orange has always been
my favourite colour. Orange is the chosen ATOC colour for this year and I
am going to enjoy presenting the colour in the next four editions of the
magazine for 2021. So what does orange sybolise? I looked it up and
pleased to say it symbolises, energy, balance, enthusiasm, warmth,
vibrancy, flamboyancy and demands attention. Something we could all do with, I’m sure,
for a better year ahead.
I would like to thank those of you who have come forward with articles and tips. It makes
all the difference to me, as editor, to be able to stay in touch with you. It makes our
magazine real and personal to it’s members, it is very much appreciated. Without your
input, it just doesn’t work!
We are launching the ‘Spirit of the Club’ Awards, see page 27 for full details. It is very
exciting and I’m delighted to be involved as the organiser with this great incentive to
highlight members who really go the extra mile.
You may be happy to read there will be no hidden images of oranges, I’m just saying….
However, I will be asking 5 questions, typed in orange, based on articles throughout the
magazine. I will announce the first person to email all the correct answers and maybe
surround them in a fanfare of oranges in the next edition. I know we all receive our
magazines on different days, so, if you could include the date you received yours I can
take this into account when publishing the winner(s). If nobody responds I’ll knock this
idea on the head. Finally, the ‘Letters Page’ is back. Looking forward to hearing from you.
The deadline for the summer edition is May 12th.
Happy Springtime wishes to you all.
Carol
Webmasters - email atoc.web2020@gmail.com
As webmasters, we will have a regular spot here in the
magazine. Our article on Page 23 describes the journey we
have had over the past ten months, building the new club
website. We hope you take some time to visit and get to
know where everything is. www.atocuk.com
We are still adding to it and correcting any errors that we find. We look forward to hearing
from you so that we can keep the website up to date with the latest information, particularly
that associated with rallies - the main focus of our club. Please email to us any photos you
take that may be of interest to members, and any suggestions for links to useful websites.
We would like to take this opportunity to wish the very best of luck to Val & Tony Spencer,
who have taken over the role of Rally Coordinators. We hope you support them, as you did
us. We hope to see some of you on a rally field in 2021! John & Sally
www.atocuk.com 7 atoc.editor@gmail.com
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Chairman’s Chat I hope that you were able to have a good Christmas and could celebrate the New Year despite stricter Government regulations being imposed at the last minute. The year has not started as we had hoped, and we are still subject to tighter restrictions, which we are told will remain in force until the number of infections significantly reduce. The programme of vaccination is starting to have an impact and it is pleasing to see the number of infections and deaths coming down, but they started at an extremely high level and so will take time to reach a level where restrictions can be relaxed. Today it was announced that the number of people who have passed away from the pandemic has passed 100,000, and my sincere thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of those affected. I am writing this at the end of January to meet the deadline for publishing the magazine, and unfortunately, the pandemic does not make it easy to predict how things will develop. It could well mean that the first few rallies of the 2021 programme will have to be cancelled because the campsites, which are hosting the rallies, have had to remain closed. Even though the present restrictions will eventually be lifted, we are led to believe that the Tier System will return, which will, if you remember, restrict the number of persons who are able to gather indoors. That may well mean that the Factory Rally will not be able to take place yet again. The situation frequently changes, and it is almost impossible to predict what impact it will have on any of our rallies that are due to take place in 2021. It is, therefore, important that you check the Rallies Update section of the website www.atocuk.com to establish what the latest situation is before travelling to a rally. I have still not been able to obtain a date for the Yeovilton Air Day and must assume that it will not take place again this year. It is another victim of the coronavirus along with Glastonbury Music Festival. The Chelsea Flower Show has now been moved from its normal slot next May to September. Our rally at Glastonbury Football Club is still on schedule to take place and there are still a few places left. A lot of changes have been made to the range of models now being produced by Auto- Trail, but due to the NEC Shows last October and this February being cancelled, I thought it would be good idea if Dave Thomas wrote an article to let you know what has been happening behind the scenes. His article is produced on the following page, but you can view all the full range of models now being produced on their website www.auto- trail.co.uk. I am pleased to announce that one of the companies that advertise in our magazine has agreed to sponsor an award called “Spirit of the Club”. Full details of this new award are set out in this magazine and on the Club website. Many companies are facing difficult times during the pandemic, so try to support our advertisers as much as you can. Stay safe and I look forward to when we can all meet up again. Tony www.atocuk.com 9 atoc.editor@gmail.com
Dear members 2020 has been a year I am sure we all want to forget. This last year we have lost friends and family to this terrible virus and I am sure going back a year we would have not forecast the destruction brought about by Covid-19. Life as we know it has been put on hold for a whole year, but we all have to be positive and look forward to better, happier times. With anti-viral drugs now being rolled out, let’s hope that in a few months, things can start to return to some form of normality. I am sure your Motorhomes hardly turned a wheel last year, which has no doubt added to your woes and frustrations. From a business viewpoint, it has been a very challenging year, as we had to shut the factory on the 23rd of March as all non-essential retail outlets were ordered to close and as a result we couldn’t ship vehicles. We furloughed 90% of our staff but continued with R&D and Finance, as we were halfway through a development plan and bills still had to be paid. We started the factory back slowly towards the end of May, under totally different conditions, with staff separation, cleaning stations around the site and sanitizer for every employee. Keeping all staff safe and well was our main priority. Retail outlets reopened in June and since this point dealer sales have been very strong, particularly vans and smaller Motorhomes. Vans used to make up around 30% of our retail sales, but this has now changed to approx. 55%, as new first-time buyers come into the market. Our Expedition van range has performed particularly well, being the cheapest van from any major manufacturer in the marketplace, yet still retaining many important features. For the 2021 season we also took the opportunity to revamp our Tracker range of vehicles, to ensure that they were all under 3500kg, as driving above this weight is becoming more restrictive. The vehicle has been lowered to improve its handling, however, the interior height has been raised to allow the fitment of an optional electric drop down bed. A number of the layouts have been reworked with more interior features, but in order to gain interior length and lose weight, we have had to remove the spare wheel from the vehicle rear and fit it conventionally under the vehicle. Last but not least, we have re-launched our Grande Frontier range of A class models, with three layouts in the offering and one under 3500kg. This has been a long project as we wanted to get it right and we have already retailed a number of models, with dealers receiving stock soon. This is not a high-volume product, but we feel a major manufacturer must have a vehicle of this type in the range, as we know we have lost sales to European competitors in this sector. With 2021 under way and the country into its’ third lockdown, it would appear that once again the factory rally may have to be cancelled. There are tentative plans for the NEC show in October, but nothing has been finalised. Whilst this is frustrating for us all, we must do all we can to protect those who are vulnerable to this terrible virus. I am sure things will soon return to more normal conditions, but in the meantime stay safe, keep your spirits up and look forward to planning your travels later in the year. Kind Regards Dave Thomas www.atocuk.com 10 atoc.editor@gmail.com
Membership Secretary The deluge of renewals is now drying up as we come to the start of February. It has been a frenetic time this year made a lot worse by the pandemic playing havoc with the postal system and delaying many items. The membership now stands at around 760 vans with a steady trickle of new members joining us, a few with new vans. We still have a lot of renewals outstanding, even after sending out a reminder email. This did bring in some amendments with some members telling me that they had sold their vans or were not renewing for various reasons. I think that the drop in numbers is mainly due to the travel restrictions imposed on us over the last year. I have had some members just send in a cheque with a post it note. One just sent a cheque with no note at all. PLEASE send in the renewal form, either from the magazine or off the website. I need to keep a record of all your latest information and it saves me having to search through hundreds of records on the computer. I have had quite a few members ring me to say they tried to renew through WebCollect but were unable to do so. I have spoken to WebCollect but they say there is no problem with their system so I’m at a loss as to why it should be difficult. If you are one of those so affected please just send in the renewal form with your cheque to continue your membership. If you have moved in the past 12 months, while you may have let me know, please can you remember to change your address on WebCollect, as I will think you have moved and changed back to your old address. It has happened. Hope to see you on a rally field somewhere. Carol Trade Advertising Manager Dear Members I hope you are all keeping Safe and Well and are looking forward to being able to go out and about again. With this in mind and despite all the Covid restrictions I am pleased to announce: ‘The Club Supporters Scheme’. I am extremely grateful to those companies who, despite these challenging times, have agreed to support our Club not only by advertising in the Magazine but now by joining ‘The Club Supporters’ Scheme’ (see page 26). These Supporters will be offering members either a discount, added benefit or special offer when goods are purchased from them. During the coming year I hope to be able to add more companies to this scheme. On the following page you will also find details of a new ‘Spirit of the Club Awards’ which is being sponsored by Engineer Aftercare Warranty and ValetPRO. The awards will be presented at the Clubs 2021 Annual General Meeting at Cheltenham Racecourse. Please don’t forget to let me know of any company who you know of that we could welcome as a Club Supporter. Looking forward to meeting you all as soon as we can. Chris www.atocuk.com 11 atoc.editor@gmail.com
www.atocuk.com 12 atoc.editor@gmail.com
New Design Rally Slips See page 30 in this magazine to
Available on Club website see an example
‘New in Post’ Rally Coordinators’
This is our first month as rally coordinators and we are still finding our feet. Firstly, we'd
like to thank Sally and John for all their help and support (and patience!) during the
handover and for leaving us with a full rally programme for this year. Also, thanks to
Glen Perkins for his advice and encouragement.
Back to the rally calendar, unfortunately the first one of the year, Barnstones in February,
was cancelled due to Covid. The good news is, April and Malcolm have re-booked it for
next year.
So that's a start for the next year's calendar, which we are looking forward to putting
together and we would be pleased to hear from anyone who is thinking of stewarding a
rally for 2022.
Let's hope that the rest of the rallies for this year will be able to go ahead.
Fingers crossed! Best wishes to all, stay safe.
Tony and Val
Health & Safety Officer
At last, there seems to be a light at the end of the tunnel now that the vaccinations are
being rolled out.
An item I need to bring to your attention are the 18th electrical regulations. Not a very
engaging subject but unfortunately, they may have an impact on us. One of the
regulations says that any hook up lead must be 25 metres +/- 2 metres with no joins
or splitters. While most of us would use a single lead to a standard hook up power
point. There have been instances where many leads have been taken off a single
power point e.g. Cheltenham, so this is now prohibited. As I understand it, it is all to
do with the RCD sensing a problem. Changing the length and load, may remove the
safety features but I’m sure an electrical expert out there can give a fuller explanation.
For those in the Caravan and Motorhome Club there is the same rule in their
handbook.
I’m looking forward to using our Auto-Trail again instead of a static exhibit! Stay safe
and stay sane.
Peter
Welfare Officer’s Report
Hello everyone, with 2020 behind us now and the beginning of 2021
sees most of us having/or had the coronavirus jab, let’s hope as this year
progresses it gets better for us all, our families and friends, our club and
social life and the world in general. As I am typing this report we are in
lockdown and the weather conditions are bad. I hope when you are
reading this all that is behind us and the March rallies are able to go ahead and
we can all meet up with our friends again on the rally field (or in Wetherspoons!).
cont…page 15
www.atocuk.com 13 atoc.editor@gmail.comBuy. Collect. Service Your motorhome from any of our 13 Nationwide NCC Approved Branches
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14 atoc.editor@gmail.comI will name a few members who have been poorly or had operations over the winter.
Karen (Kaz) Deere spent a week in hospital and is recovering now. Eileen Everard had a
hip replacement. Pete Haywood has been in hospital following an operation. Joan Taylor
had a bad fall just before Christmas and spent the festive season in hospital. John
Challiner, Kay Ashton and Audrey Read also had operations. I am pleased to say all are
on the way to recovery. Tom Davies has been, and still is, poorly over the winter period.
I do have some happy news to report next, as you read in the last magazine, our
Company Secretary Kay Ashton celebrated a Civil Partnership with her long-term partner
Mike Kemp. In October, Sue Nightingale married her partner John Phelan.
Congratulations to both couples for the happy news in such a bad year.
I always leave the sad news to last. On December 31st came the shock news that Rod
Wright had passed away. Rod, and Cath his wife were very active members of our club
helping out at rallies, especially Warner’s show rallies. Rod will be remembered by
members attending show rallies as he would have parked you up along with his friend
Kurt, while Cath helped Kurt’s wife Barbara. Rod will be sadly missed. Another member
who has sadly passed away is Margaret Strong, who liked to be known as Betty. Betty
passed away on Christmas Day after a short illness. Her husband Brian, known as Brin,
said it was her favourite day of the year. Brin was comforted by that. Our condolences to
Cath’s and Brin’s family at this sad time. I also have to report to you that a couple of ex-
members have sadly passed away. Iris Turner passed away on 24th November. Iris’s
husband Cyril, passed away a couple of years ago. Iris & Cyril were founding members of
our Club and kept the same motorhome throughout. In immaculate condition I was
informed. I was also informed and then received a long email from Eddie Goldsbrough,
an Isle of Wight ex-member. I am sure a lot of members will remember Eddie and Lesley
who were members of our club for many years until they left about 4 years ago. They had
3 beautiful red setter dogs and a cat with them on their travels, well Lesley sadly passed
away 7th January this year, our condolences to all the families mentioned. Typing this
makes me realise we must make the best of every day, embrace each other, our friends
and families while we can. If any member ever wants an address to send bereavement
cards please contact me, and I can oblige, but only for bereavements, and of course when
I have obtained the consent of the said families.
Take care of yourselves, and of each other, and hopefully we will be meeting up again
soon.
Thank you Letters Received from Members
Best Wishes
I would like to thank the board and
Joyce x Thank you to the board ATOC members for the flowers I
for the lovely flowers I
received following my received after my visit to hospital
operation to screw my just before Christmas. I was lucky to
femur together after a fall get my hip replacement completed
on the 23rd December, I and I am on my way to a good
am progressing well and recovery.
covid permitting hope to Hoping this year will be better than
see you on a rally field last year and see you on the rally
sometime this year. field sometime.
Regards, Joan Taylor Eileen Everard
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www.atocuk.com 16 atoc.editor@gmail.comReport from 16th AGM held on 1st November 2020
A year that will be remembered by historians for the Covid-19 pandemic and remembered by
the Club for the new technology utilised but unfortunately limited face-to-face interaction.
The 2020 AGM had to be run ‘virtually,' with only the Directors present and most voting was
made via MiVoice. 341 members took advantage of the voting process. The Directors
became screen stars for under an hour, trying to portray the year that was marred by the
effect of the virus. Many rallies were cancelled and when they did run, people had to
socialise in small bubbles of six, rather than all those at the rally meeting together, hence we
missed the games, raffles and group laughs. However, we were able to still enjoy a few very
successful rallies.
Tony (Chair) welcomed all those who would watch the video and follow the AGM. He proved
to be a ‘wizard’ during this year, keeping up with all the changing legislation related to
whether we could rally through 2020. Joyce (Welfare) helped us to remember members who
had sadly died during the year and relayed how the members would miss them.
Since the last AGM, different Directors have joined the Board, some were co-opted after the
2019 AGM to fill positions, planning to only stay for a year. So, we lost Sally and John who
had worked hard to support rally stewards through this year’s uncertainties and John and
Sheila resigned just leading up to the AGM. Carol Webb took on the role of Magazine Editor
and has proved invaluable; we look forward to future editions.
Our Club President, Dave Thomas, wished the Club well and he said after the lockdown
sales had been positive as people needed to enjoy ‘staycations’.
As Acting Secretary, I had found taking on the post during lockdown demanding especially
as a relatively new member but it was great to meet people on a couple of rallies that did
take place during the year and had the opportunity of contacting quite a few others for their
awards and plaques. Carol Knill, our Membership Secretary, reinforced the fact that new
member numbers have increased. Kay (Company Secretary) then went through the
accounts and told us that our funds were stable and the subscriptions of new members and
the continued support of advertising, has been positive. For 2019, Kay was able to ensure
that the Club did not need to pay Corporation Tax and reminded us that vehicle excise duty
on new vans has been retracted. Full accounts have been published on the Club website.
Cont.. page 19
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www.atocuk.com 18 atoc.editor@gmail.comThe following two motions were proposed by the Board and passed by the membership. There were no member motions proposed. Motions as submitted under Club Rule 12 Board Motions: Motion: It is proposed the members’ agree a maximum subsidy by the Club, of £12,000 to be put towards the Club’s 30th Celebration Rally in 2023. Explanatory Note: The Board has enlisted Glen Perkins to lead, with Board Members, the organisation of the 30th Celebration Rally 2023. The Board has received proposals and explanations of costs and requires the members to agree a maximum of £12,000 to run the celebration. Motion passed Motion: It is proposed that Rule 12(c), which currently reads: All Notices of Motion or Resolutions and all proposals to amend the Rules of the Club shall be signed and dated by the Proposer and a Seconder. Be amended to read All Notices of Motion or Resolutions and all proposals to amend the Rules of the Club shall be signed and dated by the Proposer and a Seconder with different membership numbers. Explanatory Note: This is to establish a broad level of agreement across member of the club Motion passed The Board thanked John Cleave, Sally Boswell, Sheila and John Huffer for their work this year. It was then our privilege to announce the names of the members who had achieved shields and/or plaques. (See page 21) www.atocuk.com 19 atoc.editor@gmail.com
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Members Awards 2020
Congratulation on Completing Over Top Ralliers for 2019
100 Rallies Colyn and Jill Burkill/Chivers
David & Debbie Wort 101 Michael & Priscilla Tinn
Brian & Janice Eley 100 John & Sally Cleave/Boswell
Gerry & Maureen Barnett
Members Receiving 25 year Plaques
Derek & Liz Harrison Fellowship Awards
Colyn & Jill Burkill/Chivers
Members Receiving 20 year Plaques
Michael & Priscilla Tinn
Ray & Gill Payne John & Sally Cleave/Boswell
Walter & Anne Kane Gerald & Maureen Barnett
Dennis & June Paul
Members Receiving 10 years Plaques John & Sheila Huffer
Scottie & Barbara Scott
Stuart & June Pursey
Alan & Julie England
Mike & Julie & Alfi e. Freeland
John & Joan Owen
Terry & Jan Smith
Neville & Gloria Swain
Duncan & Elizabeth. Longworth/Taylor
Colin & Ceri Lowton
Ken & Val Binks/Summers
Roger & Anita Gough
Phil & Kathy Cooper
David & Sue Heighs/Holmes
Peter & Toni Shakeshaft
Steven & Christine Heise
Alan & Chris Bust
Alan & Adele Rooney
Maureen & Sarah Martin/Wynn
George & Christine Crosswell
John & Ann Challinor
Dave & Margaret Whitlam
John & Wendy Morgan
Peter & Jill Broughton/Knight
Mike & Josie Turk
Will & Di Dancer
Joan Hewitt
Graham & Marion Baker
Frank & Sue Del Vecchio
Ken & Joyce Pugh
Colin & Hilary Meldrum
Anthony & Helen Buller
Michael & Felicity Edwards
Rodney & Cath Wright
Keith Arthurs
Colin & Julie Goodfield
John & Mary Ballinger
Tony & Audrey Read
Meeting closed at 11.27 a.m.
Summary provided by Chris Vinall, Club Secretary
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Byermoor, Burnopfield, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE16 6NS
Telephone: 01207 272 777 www.tynevalleymotorhomes.com @tynevalleymotorhomes
www.atocuk.com 22 atoc.editor@gmail.comNew Club Website - www.atocuk.com By now, many of you will have noticed the new look to the club website. We hope you find it easy to navigate. We are not able to maintain the same level of current information that was provided by Dennis Paul on the old website, but our aim is to offer links to websites that give the information our members need. To this end, we would welcome suggestions from you of any sites you have found useful or informative. When we took this on last year, we had no experience of website maintenance, let alone building, so it has been a steep learning curve. We had already become Acting Rally Co- ordinators for that year, where the Rally Programme had already been compiled by Dennis, so had to concentrate first on getting a Rally Programme organised for the following year. We did make a start at building a new site, as the support for the old one was to be discontinued. Dennis had been looking at various options but had not made a decision on which path to take. We took the decision to stay with the current provider, as we had found their helpline easy to access, with almost no waiting time to be in contact with an English assistant. Also, this meant that we had one support team for both sites, everything in one place, for the period where we were maintaining the old while building the new. We have kept them busy with questions like, “How do I get this to look right on the phone as well as on laptops and tablets?” We were also occupied in the Shall we? Shan’t we? discussions around whether to hold this or that rally due to Covid regulations, as well as other board matters. 2020 was a nightmare year for us all. Even after we stepped down from the Rally Coordinator role at the AGM, we were still busy compiling and proof-reading the 2021 Rally Book, a task that we have done for many years and are happy to do for as long as we are needed. So, apart from a few brief forays, it was not until the middle of November that we returned our attention to the building of the new website with determination. We would spend a day constructing a page, only to decide to change it all the next day, having discovered a feature we hadn’t realised. There are so many different ways to skin a cat! By the second week of January, we became aware that, despite our best efforts, iPad users were not seeing the pages in the way we had constructed them. Our website builder app allows us to preview the view on laptop, smartphone and tablets such as Samsung. Not being iPad owners, we rely on friends to tell us when things look strange. We have now made adjustments that we hope have helped. Our main aim is to provide a website that gives clear information about the club to members and anyone thinking of joining, as well as a place for sharing photographs and buying/selling motorhome related items and even motorhomes! We hope we have achieved this but will continue to add content as it becomes available, and as time allows. We hope you like it, and that you will let us have any comments or suggestions for content. John & Sally www.atocuk.com 23 atoc.editor@gmail.com
European Travel Changes There are new changes that will impact European plans that you may have for later in the future. Listed below are the important changes, effective from January 2021. For the most up-to-date information, visit the UK Government website - www.gov.uk Passports Different validity rules now apply to UK Nationals visiting Europe. You must check your passport validity online as you may need to renew it earlier than planned. On the day you travel to the EU, you’ll need your passport to have at least 6 months validity remaining and be less than 10 years old (even if it has six months or more left). NB - burgundy passports, whether with ‘European Union’ on the cover or not, remain valid alongside the new blue passport. Visas Tourists will not need a visa for short trips to the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland of up to 90 days in any 180 day period. NB - time spent in Croatia, Bulgaria, Cyprus and Romania doesn’t count towards your 90 day EU limit. European Health Insurance Cards European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) remain valid until their expiry date within the EU but not in Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Iceland. From January 2021, new Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) will replace UK EHIC’s and will provide the same access to state medical healthcare within the EU. Make sure you get travel insurance that covers your needs, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Meat & Diary Products You are not able to take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions, e.g. certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food required for medical reasons. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website. Mobile Phone Roaming Surcharge free roaming will no longer be guaranteed when travelling in the EU, although the big network providers have said they have no plans to change their charging structure. Also, whilst there is a UK government regulation which protects against ‘unexpected charges’ by setting a limit of £45, above which the phone company needs the customer agreement. It is recommended you check with your network provider before travelling. Queues at Ports You may experience possible queues at ferry ports and Eurotunnel terminals at peak times, it is recommended that you allow more time for your journey. Keep yourself up-to- date with travel social media feeds where possible. www.atocuk.com 24 atoc.editor@gmail.com
International Driving Permit
You can still drive in most European countries with a UK driving licence and it won’t be
necessary to have an International Driving Permit (IDP). However, depending on which
country you’re visiting you may also need an IDP if you have:
• A paper driving licence
• A licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man
For more information, please check gov.uk/driving-abroad/international-driving-permit.
Green Cards
When driving in Europe from January 2021, you will need to carry a Green Card as proof
of relevant insurance for your car, motorhome and anything you may be towing.
Contact your vehicle insurer who will provide this.
GB Stickers
It is required that you display a GB sticker on the rear of your vehicle. This applies
irrespective of whether you currently have a number plate which includes the GB
identifier.
Arriving into European Countries and Returning to the UK
At border control you will no longer be able to use EU-fast track passport control and
custom lanes. You will need to use separate lanes from EU, EEA and Swiss citizens
when queuing. You may need to show a return ticket and show you have enough
money for your stay.
Duty-Free Purchases
Duty free sales of alcohol and tobacco beyond UK security controls will now apply on
the same basis as non-EU destinations. When returning to the UK you will no longer be
allowed to bring unlimited amounts of alcohol, tobacco or other goods for personal use.
An example of limitations include, 42 litres of beer, 18 litres of still wine, 4 litres of spirits
or 9 litres of sparkling wine, fortified wine or any alcoholic beverage less than 22% ABV.
200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco.
It is recommended you visit GOV.UK for the full list of limitations.
As travel regulations are subject to change, it is recommended to check the
Government websites for the most up-to-date information prior to travelling.
Useful links:
www.gov.uk
www.abta.com
ec.europa.eu
Q 1: Which members are about to become Great-Grandparents?
www.atocuk.com 25 atoc.editor@gmail.comThe Club Supporters Scheme
All the Companies listed below have agreed to join the new Club Supporters’ Scheme by
offering discounts or added benefits of a varying degree.
Please discuss what offer, discount or added benefit applies to you before/when you
make your purchase or buy into one of their services. You will need to provide proof of
membership with each individual organisation.
We will continue to invite additional companies to join the scheme, which will increase the
benefit opportunities to all ATOC members.
Look out for the updated list on the website as they join and of course in the next
magazine.
Chris Tanner
1. Alan Rogers 9. Motorhome Protects
2. Brownhills 10. Puncture Control
3. Cannock Resprays 11. SAP 13. Solar Solutions
4. Caravan Finder 12. Spinney
5. Elite Motorhomes 13. Tyne Valley Motorhomes
6. Engineer Aftercare Warranty 14. ValetPRO
7. Essanjay 15. Van Comfort
8. Hill View Awnings
Q 2: What type of tape was used to keep knives from rattling around in the drawer?
NOMINATION FORM
ATOC ‘Spirit of the Club Awards 2021
Q
Name of Nominee
Please give details as to why you are nominating this person:
Nominated by
Signed
Membership No Date
Please return to Carol Webb, at atoc.editor@gmail.com before 30 September 2021
www.atocuk.com 26 atoc.editor@gmail.comNew - New - New - New - New - New - New - New - New - New
ATOC Spirit of the Club Awards
We are delighted to announce the launch of the Annual 'ATOC Spirit of the Club
Awards’. These awards are sponsored by Engineer Aftercare Warranty and ValetPro.
All members are invited to nominate any member, who they feel, has gone the extra
mile.
The nomination can be for any reason you feel this person, or couple, merit. For
example: supported and or promoted our club; helped you or others out; cheered you
up and taken the time to speak with you and check you were OK; offered a lift to a
town that was that bit too far to walk or was just kind to you and made you feel
included, anything you feel deserves a nomination. It is one vote per person.
There are three ways to make your nomination:
• Our Club website - www.atocuk.com / Our Club / Competitions and Awards. Full
details and an online nomination form can be found on this page.
• Email me at atoc.editor@gmail.com and I will send you the link to the online
nomination form.
• Postal vote, there is a nomination form on page 26 of this magazine. My address can
be found in the rally book on the Netley Marsh Rally page.
Your involvement in this is crucial so please be sure to make your nomination. The
closing date for nominations is Thursday 30 September 2021.
Awards Organiser - Carol Webb
Prizes Sponsored by 1st Prize
Engineer Aftercare Warranty and ValetPRO
1st Prize £100
of Motorhome
Cleaning and
Finishing Products
1st Prize
2nd Prize 3rd Prize
2nd & 3rd Prizes
Motorhome Cleaning and
Finishing Product Kits
www.atocuk.com 27 atoc.editor@gmail.comBoard Profile #3
Joyce - Welfare Officer
Joyce joined the board in May 2010 and has held many positions during
this time, starting off with the ACCEO Representative, then Assistant
Rally Co-ordinator. For the last nine years, Joyce has been our Welfare
Officer, during which, five of those years was our Vice Chair. Stepping
down from Vice Chair in 2020.
Joyce and her husband Ken, joined the club in 2009, she knew immediately that she wanted
to be part of the running of the club. Joyce put herself up for election at the first AGM after
joining. Having been self-employed her whole working life, Joyce knew she could offer
reliability, common sense and be depended on in all duties for whatever role.
Being used to organising events and dealing with people, she knew she could work as part
of a team, or independently, if necessary. Helping out at all the big club events and rallies,
helping with booking in the members and the meet and greet. She also ensures the little
extras that we all appreciate. The buying of birthday and anniversary cards or thank you
cards and gifts. Ken is very supportive and helps out too.
Although an element of Joyce’s role as Welfare Officer brings her sadness, she realises the
importance of it. Staying in touch when members are poorly, in hospital or indeed when a
partner loses their loved one. Feeling grateful for the friends she has made, her role has kept
her in touch with so many people, on the phone and on the rally fields. Depending on
members to let her know when people have been unwell or sadly passed away. A big part of
Joyce’s role is to make that call, during and afterwards ensuring to keep in touch as and
when. A small gift or bouquet of flowers on behalf of the Club is organised by Joyce, this is
to let that person know, we are all thinking of them.
Joyce is a good fit for this role, she finds it easy and natural to get along with members. She
enjoys talking to people and is always at the end of the phone for members to chat to.
Before retiring in 2002, Joyce and Ken worked in hospitality, owning their own business.
They have worked together all of their married lives until they retired. They currently live in
Warrington, Cheshire, moving here shortly after retiring. Prior to this they lived in Llangollen,
North Wales where they lived for all of their working lives.
Both Joyce and Ken were born in Birmingham. As well as motor
homing, they have done a lot of travelling. Joyce enjoys gardening,
reading and particularly likes quizzes and crosswords. They have
been married 54 years, they have 3 children, 2 grand-daughters and
are soon to be Great Grandparents.
Congratulations, Great-Grandparents to be
www.atocuk.com 28 atoc.editor@gmail.comBoard Profile #4
Chris - GDPR Officer & Trade Advertising Manager
Chris first joined the board in November 2016. She was
approached by the then Chairman, in August of that year and asked
if she would take on the role of Membership Secretary. Chris did,
and held that post until August 2019, taking over as Acting
Secretary in November 2019 until June 2020.
A new position of GDPR Officer, came into force which Chris currently holds and has
done from 2017. As well as this role, Chris has held the Advertising Manager role from
June 2020 along with the Publicity Manager which she has recently picked up from
November 2020.
After joining ATOC in 2008 and enjoying rallying, making so many new friends, Chris and
her husband Peter wanted to give something back, so became Rally Stewards.
As GDPR Officer, Chris is responsible for ensuring through the contracting process that,
all members of the Board of Directors and Rally Stewards comply with the Clubs GDPR
Policies and Procedures maintaining confidentiality about the information members have
submitted to them.
Chris has recently taken over the role of Advertising Manager. This involves selling
advertising space in the Rally Book and the Magazine to businesses in the Leisure and
Insurance Sectors. Chris is also trying to expand a list of additional businesses who are
willing to make special offers and discounts. Many of the businesses contacted so far,
have been willing to support the Club in this way. The role of Publicity Manager goes hand
in hand with advertising, Chris plans to do her best to promote the Club as soon as we are
freed from the current COVID Restrictions.
Things that inspire Chris about her roles, are the challenge of supporting and promoting
the Club to all Auto-Trail Owners’.
Before retiring, Chris was an Administrator & Catering Manager in the Care Sector and
then joined Oxfordshire County Council Social Services as a Contracts Officer. The skills
and experience from Chris’s background, working with people throughout her working life,
being involved in scheduling the management of providing services, meet the
requirements necessary to help and support the Board.
Chris lives with husband Peter, Daisy (the dog) and Nicky (the
cat), not far from Woodstock in Oxfordshire in a house they had
built. She enjoys crafts, knitting, sewing, cooking, reading and
walking and helping Peter in the garden. They are looking
forward to being able to spend time with their daughter and
son-in-law, and especially their 7 year old grand-daughter for a
great big hug. They live in Manchester and have not been able
to visit since March 2020, Facetime and Zoom have allowed
them all to keep in touch.
www.atocuk.com 29 atoc.editor@gmail.comExample of New Rally Slip
The new rally slip is
available now on our
website. Download and
complete electronically or print
and complete by hand.
Our old slips are still
acceptable!
N o
o t r ?
W ure
e a s
r
T1,400 Members!
We only need one of
you for this
important role.
Please call
Tony Read on
07703 952729,
to find out more .
www.atocuk.com 30 atoc.editor@gmail.comGlastonbury Folk Tale Glastonbury - admittedly your first thoughts are of the well known Music Festival and a certain group of rather unorthodox pagans and mystics. But look beyond that and you will find that Glastonbury and Somerset have a raft of folk and legendary traditions. Glastonbury lies on the edge of the Somerset Levels and many moons ago was an island amidst an inland sea. This island was known as the Isle of Avalon. One of the local claims to fame is the Glastonbury Thorn, which grew on the Wearyall Hill. It's legend dates back to the time of Jesus' crucifixion and concerns Joseph of Arimathea who was a wealthy uncle of Jesus. After Jesus had died on the cross it was the responsibility of his family to bury his body. Joseph undertook this duty but decided to flee back to Somerset due to fear of persecution by the Romans. Before he left, Joseph made himself a staff from the tree which provided the Crown of Thorns and destroyed the rest of the tree to prevent it from being used again for that purpose. On leaving the boat near Glastonbury he began to climb Wearyall Hill and, as his staff sank into the damp ground, it began to blossom, took root and became known as the Glastonbury Thorn. Apart from this miraculous feat it also has the added peculiarity of blossoming both at Christmas and Easter. A branch of the blossoming tree is delivered to Her Majesty the Queen every December. The original tree was unfortunately destroyed in the winter of 2010 but its cousin survives in a local churchyard. In recent times a sample of the Thorn underwent scientific analysis with the blessing of Local Authorities. They were delighted to be informed that the DNA from the tree showed that it was a rare species of Hawthorn. This tree can only be found in a small area on the borders of Syria, Israel and Palestine. A famous landmark near Glastonbury is the Tor on which stands the 15th century tower of St. Michael’s Church. An earlier church on the spot was destroyed by an earthquake in September 1275. One of the legends attached to Joseph was that he became the custodian of the Holy Grail, the cup used to hold the wine at the Last Supper of Jesus and his disciples. When Joseph fled to Somerset he brought the Holy Grail with him and buried it at the foot of the Tor for safe keeping. All at once a spring of red water appeared which was attributed to the colour of the wine used in the Holy Grail. The spring still exists in the Chalice Well Gardens and its healing waters are a site of pilgrimage for people from all over the world. Other tales concern the legendary King Arthur, the burning of the cakes and the magical sword Excalibur. The King and his Wife Guinevere were allegedly buried in the now ruined Abbey. If you attend the Glastonbury Rally you can discover all of these things for yourself. Audrey Read www.atocuk.com 31 atoc.editor@gmail.com
MMM
Member’s Motorhome Modifications Part 2
Member - Bill Burchill - 2007 Tracker
Bill has kindly provided 3 visual and
explanatory solutions to some little niggles. 1
Q. Do you have anywhere to put a drink when
relaxing on your sofa in your motorhome?
A. If the answer is no. Here is a solution.
A small shelf fitted between the wall and
wardrobe. Made of 15 mm edged ply and
fitted with 2 x 6 mm dowels into the wall and 1
screw inside wardrobe.
Q. Do your glasses rattle on the move?
A. If the answer is yes. Here is a solution.
2 Most parcels these days are packed in foam,
some of which Bill saves, especially the flat
sheets. Cut a piece of foam to the size of the
space you have. (Thin sheets can be stuck
together with silicon sealer.)
Next, measure the base of your glass. Now
find a fruit or veg tin, the same size. (You’ll be
amazed at the different sizes they all come in.)
When you’ve used the contents of the right
sized tin, this leaves you with a cutter, press
and twist into the foam to cut the shape out to
hold your glass.
Q. Do your knives rattle about in the drawer ?
3
A. If the answer is yes. Here is a solution.
This knife rack will solve your problems.
The base is screwed to the wall first, making
sure one of the knife guards covers the screw
head. Use double sided tape (3M) to attach
the knife guards to the base plate. Knives are
now easy to reach, pull knife out of guard,
leaving the guard firmly on the rack. Knives
now safe and sharp!
www.atocuk.com 32 atoc.editor@gmail.comMMM CONT…
Member - Kevin Covey - 2016 Chieftain
Since we’ve had our present motorhome we have towed a car on an A frame. Our
electric bikes were carried on a Thule tow bar mounted bike rack on the rear of the car,
which was good as it allowed us to take both.
The downside was, when
arriving on site I had to take the
bikes off to use the car, if we
didn't use the bikes it seemed a
lot of unnecessary work.
After giving it a lot of thought, I
came up with this.
By using 6mm steel plate folded for
strength and drilled for a towball,
sprayed white and fitted as photo. I
had the plate folded up where I
used to work so it was easy for
me.
So at least now I can leave the
bikes on the van if not needed,
easy life!
Q3: What page is the Wot No image on?
www.atocuk.com 33 atoc.editor@gmail.comwww.atocuk.com 34 atoc.editor@gmail.com
New Zealand Auto-Trail Club
In November 2019, my husband Bill and I, visited
New Zealand. We did a 12 day cruise visiting many
cities and places of great beauty. Throughout our
stay we noticed many motorhomes, all makes and
models, we also came across some Auto-Trails.
We have done several cruises in the past, mainly departing from Southampton Docks, and
often noticed a row of new Auto-Trails’, queuing to board a transporter ship. After our
visit to NZ in 2019, I planned to find out a bit more about where these new vans were
destined.
My search led me to the New Zealand Auto-Trail Owner’s Club website.
(www.autotrailusers.nz) I decided to make contact via email and I have been in touch with
Sandy Dougherty. Sandy takes the leading role in the club and has been more than
helpful, it’s been great to get to know her.
The Club was first convened in 2013. They have 554 full members and 248 associate
members. Interestingly, they keep a table of what member owns what model of Auto-Trail.
As yet, the Club is not formally incorporated, nor does it have a membership fee or official
committee. The aims of the Club is to meet socially either at occasional rallies, or when
members meet unexpectedly or by arrangement, when on the road somewhere. (All
members agree to share their contact and motorhome information when registering); They
share ideas and help each other solve problems and issues regarding their motorhomes and
motorhoming in general. Only members residing in New Zealand and own an Auto-Trail
have access to a comprehensive membership list, however all members can contribute to
the Member Forum after registering and logging in.
Carol Webb
www.atocuk.com 35 atoc.editor@gmail.comCongratulations
to
Mr & Mrs J Phelan
A Mini-Moon in their new Serrano
T
here has been so much fun and excitement going on for the newly married, Sue
Nightingale, as many know her as, and John Phelan. They were married on the
17 October 2020, at Pontefract Registry Office, followed by a reception at the
beautiful Rogerthorpe Manor, near Pontefract. Unfortunately, they could only have 8
guests at the wedding, this proved to be OK because it was just their immediate family,
sons, daughters and their partners. Three to four weeks before the date, the
Government announced that only 15 guests, including the bride and groom, could
attend wedding receptions, instead of 30. They had to reduce the numbers by half.
Unfortunately many of their friends and their grandchildren could not attend, which was
obviously disappointing. They couldn’t have dancing or singing, they made the best of
the day and had a lovely time, and although slightly cold, the weather was perfect.
The following weekend they went away in their ‘new to them,' Auto-Trail Serrano (they
love it), for a short mini-moon to North Yorkshire, the original home of Emmerdale
Farm. They had a lovely weekend and enjoyed being away in
their new van. This mini-moon was just the beginning of trips
planned. Sue and John had a special trip to Spain booked
which would last several months. In fact, as this article is
being written, they are there now.
Details provided by Mrs Sue Phelan
www.atocuk.com 36 atoc.editor@gmail.comYou can also read
