Next week, from 3-7 April, a team of drivers and practicality testers from the Club and the magazines Practical Caravan and What Car? will put more than 40 of the latest model tow cars through their paces at the MIRA proving ground in Nuneaton.

It seems as fitting a time as ever to be joining the team at Camping & Caravanning.
The first breath of spring is in the air, grey is being replaced with splashes of colour, the evenings are getting longer, and plans are being put in place by anyone who loves the outdoors for how best to enjoy it for the coming season. It is a time of year filled with optimism and anticipation, which are two emotions I have in equal measure as I embark on my new role as Club Reporter.

The first daffodils are just opening here in the Midlands, which can only mean one thing. It’s nearly time for our annual spring tent testing sessions and photoshoot – one of my favourite events of the camping year.

As I write we’re mid-way through the Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show, which is the traditional curtain-raiser for the new camping season each year.