There was good news for the motorhome industry this year with record attendances at the annual motorhome award show in Birmingham. Those figures were coupled with record sales which should put the wind back into the sails of businesses for 2014. Held at the NEC in Birmingham over 5 days in October, the event came just in time for peak holiday season purchases and was no doubt buoyed in part by the consumer confidence that is creeping back into Britain.

Figures for attendance have risen year-on-year to 100,179 for the event which is organised by NCC (National Caravan Council). The show itself was spread across 11 halls to accommodate over 400 separate companies, including big names such as Adria, Swift and Bailey. Saturday 19^th of October was the busiest day, with people taking their day off to visit and peruse the range of luxury vehicles on offer.

The awards were opened by television presenter and model Melanie Sykes (famed for the Boddingtons adverts), bringing an air of glamour and excitement to the packed show. She shared her own memories of holidaying in caravans with her family, and was later joined by top TV chef Ed Baines who wowed audiences with demonstrations of camp style cookery.

The prestigious titles of Motorhome of the Year went to the Pilote Référence P716 LPR (see images) due to its all-round performance. Both the range of equipment and the pricing of the vehicles were highlighted for why the vehicle took the top gong this year. Other categories and winners included:

• Campervan of the Year: Bilbo’s Celex LWB
• High-Top Van Conversion of the Year: Adria Twin SLX
• Compact Motorhome of the Year: Bürstner Brevio T600 & Hymer Compact 404
• Family Motorhome of the Year: Bürstner Ixeo Time IT 745
• Fixed Double Bed Motorhome of the Year: Pilote Référence P716 LPR
• Fixed Single Bed Motorhome of the Year: Rapido 766FF
• Non-Fixed Bed Motorhome of the Year: Bailey Approach SE 625
• Luxury Motorhome of the Year: Niesmann + Bischoff Arto 66F

Taken into consideration when judging the vehicles were such factors as space, practicality of use, special features, driving/handling, and comfort.

Expectations have been raised for next year after the extensive range of motorhomes on display. The event is pencilled in for October next year with the hope of even bigger crowds and greater sales.

To view a whole range of brands, models and types of motorhomes then contact Glenns Leisure Vehicles today. We stock a wide range of motorhomes so there is something for everyone – from families to couples – just tell our professional team what you’re looking for and they’ll be happy to help you find and view the best vehicles for you.