A Tribute
to our Staff & Customers
Through a very
Challenging Time
A Tribute to our Customers and Staff
Reflections over the last 18 months and what it has meant to both customers and staff
2020 – Reflections on a Season Never to be Forgotten
We reached the end of the touring park season and were so pleased to have been able to remain open once the Government allowed us to do so on the 4th July.
We must say a huge thank you to all our customers who complied with changing Government regulations with good humour and understanding.
Rules & Regulations
A Season of Change
Masks not required, then mandatory in the shower blocks for example. Everyone seems to automatically know how far 2 meters social distancing is and despite the fact that sometimes visitors could not have their preferred pitch everyone seemed just pleased to be able to get their caravans, motorhomes or tents out and enjoy the local countryside.
For many holidaying at home in the UK, and in particular our little corner of West Dorset and East Devon there was much to discover. Visiting Lyme Regis or Charmouth, walking the numerous local footpaths and getting back to nature were enjoyable experiences for many.
Once they reopened the local nature reserves and national trust open spaces were particularly enjoyed together with our section of the Jurassic coastal path.
Weather & Wisdom
Fortunately with only a few exceptions the weather remained sunny and benign, especially during lock down when it was positively hot!
As the season progressed we began to observe how many visitors were new to caravanning and camping. It was lovely to be able to welcome them and we really hope their first forays into this whole new world of leisure will lead on to many further adventures for them.
We noticed that “old timers” were delighted to offer advice and help and a strong community spirit seemed to prevail.
Soldiering On
During the first lockdown, thanks to Government help, we were able to furlough all but four members of staff.
Helen and Jenny were busy in the office moving bookings or refunding deposits. No one told the grass that the park was shut and it continue to grow heartily during the spring.
The job of keeping on top of it fell mainly to Phil. Richard almost by himself worked down the ground and prepared the new pitches in the area to be forever known as Ashley Close with Davey supervising occasionally from a distance.
We all had to learn about strict shower block cleaning regimens and were especially grateful to Hazel and her team from Iclean.
Moving On
This year we were unable to open as planned until the 12th April 2021.
The last minute reprieve to reopen the shower blocks with all except showers was particularly welcome. This includes family rooms, disabled room, laundry and dishwashing together with our cubicle washrooms and loos.
Flying Seesaw & Changes to Staff
Flying Seesaw & Wildlife
Since mid January everyone has been busy on the park. This year the ground-staff have been building extensions to the Huck Net pyramid.
The amazing Hags Flying Seesaw was tried out by Davey and Kieron on completion and a new stand up children’s seesaw by Hags Ltd put in place.
Work on a new Nature Corner began and hopefully will be finished by the time wildlife photographer Ian Loats brings down posters detailing all the birds and butterflies he has photographed on this park over the last two summers.
Saying Goodbye & Hello to new Staff
Sadly this year Helen and Phil have been caught in the lockdowns in France and have been unable to return. Instead we welcome Lee and Cheryl from Cornwall ably joined by Sally from Axminster on a part time basis.
Last but not least Simon and I must thank all our staff. Anna and Anna, Helen, Jenny and Suzie in the office. Davey, Kieron, Mark, Phil and Richard, the outside ground staff and Hazel with her huge team of professional cleaners who worked tirelessly to keep our shower blocks safe and clean for their tireless work in 2020.
We look forward to
meeting customers both
old and new in 2021 and
to a more settled year
for everyone
Without them all and their constant cheerfulness, under quite challenging situations and enormous hard work, the season would have been both arduous and problematic.
Get In Touch, we would love to hear the favourite things you enjoy doing when visiting us
What's your Top Ten things to do in West Dorset and East Devon ? We might just feature your ideas and inspire others