tourer-ex-banner-final-hedgehog300compTV and radio presenter Matt Baker was at The Caravan, Camping and Motorhome show on Caravan Club Day, Tuesday 17th February, and after opening the show, he helped to launch The Caravan Club’s ‘Tourer Explorer’ initiative.

The Caravan Club recognises that touring holidays in a caravan, motorhome or trailer-tent are great for families, or grandparents holidaying with grandchildren. The freedom and flexibility they provide are the reason why they are so popular and every weekend can be a holiday, plus anything that allows children to spend more time in the great outdoors is beneficial.

In 2015 The Club will extend its ‘Tourer Explorer’ offering with sixty-five Club sites designated as ‘Tourer Explorer’ family-focused sites and free activity booklets will be available at them all.

Also in 2015 a series of ‘Play Day’ events will take place in August, plus children’s pocket money items will be available, and two very important mascots will be on the scene to oversee it all and ensure that all ‘Tourer Explorers’ in The Club are inspired!

Matt Baker talked to show visitors about the benefits of encouraging children into the outdoors and announced the names of the two new ‘Tourer Explorer’ mascots, Andy Venture and Holly Day– named by 10 year-old Kayleigh Wright from Hucknall, Nottinghamshire, who entered a children’s competition was run by The Club. Kayleigh attended the show and was invited on stage by Matt to collect her prize and help him reveal the names.

The Caravan Club’s stand featured a ‘Tourer Explorer’ Zone for the duration of the show, where children could pick up a show treasure trail form to complete while at the show. The trail encouraged them and their families to visit dealers and manufacturers across the show. They could also meet Andy Venture and Holly Day and have their photos taken with them.

Of caravanning Matt Baker said, “Caravan holiday are great for families to get closer to nature and give all ages the experiences of the great outdoors and simple pleasures like rock-pooling, climbing trees and just getting muddy. Growing up on a farm meant I was lucky enough to always be outdoors and this has continued to be one of my passions.”

Director General of The Caravan Club, Nick Lomas said “We were delighted to welcome Matt Baker to the show to announce the names of our two ‘Tourer Explorer’ mascots. Matt is a great role model for the outdoor life and is well known for his love of the British countryside. The Club wants to spread the word about touring, not only as a great holiday experience but as a fantastic way to pursue outdoor interests, such as cycling, walking, wildlife watching or surfing. A caravan or motorhome really helps families of all ages to explore the UK and have great adventures that are fun and flexible. Every weekend can be a holiday!”