Family with 70-year history of running caravan park say sell-off plan is 'unfair'

A car towing a caravan caught fire on the M25 near Waltham Abbey. Essex County Fire and Rescue Service extinguished the blaze by 11:07 am. One man suffered burns to his fingers and received first aid from firefighters.

Cliff House Holiday Park, containing about 200 caravans, was saved with no sign of damage after a major wildfire at Dunwich Heath, one of the largest in Suffolk's history. The fire, which started Wednesday night, grew to the size of 220 football pitches, prompting evacuations and a major incident declaration. Firebreaks reduced the presence to eight engines for overnight operations. The park remains closed without power, and RSPB Minsmere is closed until further notice. The National Trust reported habitat loss for rare species and launched an emergency appeal.

Mick Tyler, warden of Dunwich Cliffs Estate, evacuated residents from 137 caravans after returning from hospital where he had taken his wife with a broken leg. The fire started at Dunwich Heath around 5:30pm, and by 11:30pm the site was cleared. About 40% of the caravans were evacuated, with some residents leaving on their own. The caravans were undamaged by the fire.

A 30-metre wooden archway shaped like a pair of legs has been installed at the entrance of Reminiscing Holiday Park in Kersey, Suffolk. Local group RAGE criticised the sculpture, while park officials reported an increase in booking inquiries.

Buying or hiring a caravan involves significant upfront costs that first-timers often underestimate. Hiring for a long weekend typically costs a few hundred pounds, second-hand caravans start from a few thousand pounds, and new models are considerably more expensive. Additional costs include a suitable tow car, one-off purchases such as security locks, levelling equipment, kitchen and bedding essentials, and an awning. Running costs include fuel, gas, insurance, breakdown cover, and storage. Site fees range from £15 to £25 per night for basic pitches and £40 or more for premium sites. After the initial outlay, caravan holidays are often cheaper than equivalent hotel stays, especially for families or repeat trips.

Natural Resources Wales has issued a reminder to campervan and motorhome owners after a series of issues at two popular Welsh locations. The agency stated that Dinas Rock Car Park and other car parks in Waterfall Country are for daytime visitors only and not suitable for overnight stays or camping. Owners are advised to use local campsites and authorised overnight facilities. The agency also highlighted an increase in fly-camping and littering, which harm the environment and local communities.