Beginners

Following a great summer in 2002 we decided to try caravanning. My experience of caravanning was with my parents back in 1960’s when caravans ran on gas for cooking and lighting. We spent  the autumn trying to select a unit that appeared to satisfy our requirements. We eventually settled on a two berth Lunar Clubman circa 1993. At the time it was our pride and joy, purchased in November 2002. With Christmas almost on us we decided to wait for the New Year before venturing forth. As we were both still working, it was decided that a weekend away would be a good place to start. A site was selected, Morton in Marsh, and a reservation placed for Saturday night 11^th January 2003. Arriving early afternoon after an uneventful  journey we spent time getting the unit level, filling the water, fixing the waste water barrel and last of all, connecting the mains power lead.  As it was our first outing we decided to treat ourselves to a pub meal in the local hostelry to celebrate. Returning to the site in the late evening we noticed that the air temperature gauge in our car was registering minus five degrees C. Once back in the caravan the gas heater was ignited long enough to allow us both to climb into our bed and snuggle up unde the duvet. The heater was turned off as neither of us fancied sleeping with a gas heater running. When we awoke it was obvious that the temperature was still well below zero. Nipping out of bed long enough to light the heater, only to discover that we had Butane, not Propane, so the heater cut out within a few minutes. After coaxing the gas ring to heat enough water for a cup of coffee, it came time to brave the elements. On exiting the caravan we were surprised to see a number of our neighbours gathered near us and enquiring as to our wellbeing. It was then that our neighbours pointed out that our van was showing signs that the windows were frozen, on the inside. After a short conversation we were enlightened to the benefits of electric heaters, electric kettles and electric toasters. On reflection and with hindsight it did seem funny to have mains power and all it was running was the fridge where it was warmer inside than outside. Our next visit to the shops included purchases of electrical items and a change to Propane. Since that trip we have enjoyed many holidays around the UK and continent but still remember our first weekend.

Elva & Trevor