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  • Aldershot Raceway

    Address : Claycart Rd, Wellington Ave, Aldershot GU11 1SQ Location Aldershot Raceway hosts Stock Car, Hot Rod, and Banger Racing on sunday afternoons between February and October. Click here to find the next race dates . Stadium gates open at 9 a.m. for competitors and 10 a.m. for spectators at regular events. At Aldershot Raceway, you will find: Racetrack Grandstand Food stalls Toilets General Admission £20.00 Concession: (66yr’s & over) £18.00 Concession: Children (5-14yrs) Under 5yrs go free £8.00 Family Ticket: 2 Adults & 3 Children £50.00 Programme £3.00 Pit Pass £2.00 Car Parking £2.00 Payment is accepted on entry with cash or card. Prices are reduced when booking in advance . Parking The raceway features a large on-site car park with a parking fee of £2.00. There are a limited number of designated disabled parking spaces, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Accessibility The level concrete surfaces from the car park to the track make this venue accessible for visitors using mobility aids such as wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Approximately one-third of the track is viewable from these level surfaces, primarily near the car park, with the remaining area consisting of a grassy bank. The distance from the furthest point of the car park to the grandstand is approximately 125 metres. Conclusion Aldershot Raceway offers an exciting and accessible venue for racing enthusiasts and families alike. With reasonable ticket prices and convenient parking, it's sure to provide an enjoyable day out for all visitors.

  • Accessible Locations in the Surrey Hills

    The Surrey Hills offer some of south-east England’s most beautiful countryside. The hills were one of the first landscapes in the country to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1958. While known for its many walking and cycling trails, there's also a lot to see for less-able visitors, with many of the locations on this list having accessible viewpoints, c afé s and discovery centres. Newlands Corner Located 4 miles east of Guildford, Newlands Corner is right in the heart of the Surrey Hills. This location is ideal for all ages and abilities, with great views from the top of the hill without even needing to leave your car. Newlands Corner is also famous as the place where Agatha Christie disappeared in 1926. Facilities include: Café Discovery centre Kids play area Dormouse Trail - suitable for wheelchairs Public toilets Click here for more information Reigate Hill Reigate Hill offers a panoramic view of Reigate and the surrounding area, including Gatwick Airport, which is approximately 10 kilometers away. The lights from the town and airport make this location especially popular during the evenings, as well as during the day. Standing at a height of 234.7 metres with a drop of 100.1 metres, the hill provides plenty of seating options. Benches are scattered around the edge of the hill, and there is additional seating outside the café. A viewpoint adjacent to the car park and café displays information about the distance between your location and various points of interest. Facilities include: Café Public toilets Viewpoint Click here for more information Box Hill Box Hill is located in the North Downs, approximately 19 miles south-west of London. This location has views across the surrounding countryside, with the main viewpoint just 100 metres from the car park. Box Hill is also home to lots of wildlife and plants, including the Adonis blue butterfly and bee orchid. This location has paid parking, but National Trust members and blue badge holders park for free. At the National Trust Visitors Centre you will find: Cafeteria Information centre Gift shop Toilets Lunch area For more info, click here Denbies Hillside Denbies Hillside is situated just 4 miles from Box Hill . This location tends to be less busy than the previous recommendations, with fewer facilities, but it still offers great views. Denbies Hillside has paid parking, but National Trust members and blue badge holders park for free. At this location, you will find a small car park, a lunch area and the Café La Creme coffee van. For more info, click here Visit our map page to find more accessible locations near you. Our posts include info on parking, walking distances, wheelchair accessibility and places to stop and rest during your visits. Thank you for joining the community!

  • Ferring Beach

    South Dr, Ferring, Worthing BN12 5QU Location Ferring Beach, located in West Sussex, is a shingle beach nestled between the busier towns of Worthing and Littlehampton. The beach is dog friendly, making it the ideal spot for a relaxing escape for all the family. This stretch of coast is popular with kitesurfers and windsurfers, thanks to its steady breezes. At low tide, visitors will find rock pools, and the clean waters make it a great spot for swimming. What's There? At Ferring beach, you will find: Pebble and shingle beach Coastal walks Beach huts The Bluebird Cafe Car park Public toilets The Bluebird Cafe The Bluebird Café offers a diverse menu featuring seafood, toasties and sandwiches, burgers, and much more. With menus for breakfast and lunch, both with vegan and gluten-free options, there's something to satisfy every palate. The friendly staff and dog-friendly environment make it a perfect spot for all visitors. The cafe is open 7 days a week. Main cafe: Sunday – Thursday 8am – 6pm Friday – Saturday 8am – 8pm Hatch: 8am – 8pm The car park and toilets are open during café hours. Click here to visit their website Parking There is a large, free of charge, car park located right next to the beach. There are spaces reserved for disabled visitors outside the café, but theres no official markings for space size. The public toilets are located in the car park, opposite the cafe. Accessibility With beachside parking, this location is ideal for visitors who find it difficult to walk long distances. There is a wheelchair-accessible ramp leading up to the Bluebird Cafe's outdoor eating area. However, there is a step at the entrance of the cafe. Visitors can choose to order food either from inside the cafe or through the window outside. The beach can be accessed by short stony slopes from the car park, or via steps from the cafe's outdoor dining area. Unfortunately, this makes the beach inaccessible for wheelchair users, as there are no accessible walkways. Nearby beaches such as Bognor Regis, Worthing , and Brighton are much more suitable for visitors who rely on mobility aids. Conclusion Ferring Beach is a peaceful and charming alternative to its busier neighbours . Located in a quiet small town, it provides a perfect setting for a restful day out with family or friends. While it offers some facilities and scenic beauty, visitors with mobility needs may need to consider nearby beaches like Worthing or Brighton, which offer a wider range of accessibility features. Nonetheless, Ferring Beach remains a lovely spot for those seeking tranquillity, coastal walks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.

  • Alpicool C9 9L 12v Fridge Freezer: Tech Review

    The Alpicool C9 Mini is a 12-volt compressor fridge-freezer designed for use in vehicles. With its smart features and compact size, the Alpicool brand has become popular in the motorhome market. It's also quite affordable, with prices starting around £100—though it’s frequently discounted on sites like Amazon. In this tech review , we’ll be taking a closer look at the Alpicool C9 Mini fridge-freezer after a month of testing. We’ll explore its specifications, ease of use, and value for money, so you'll know if it’s the right fit for your needs. What's in the Box? Before we dive into the cooler itself, let's take a look at what’s included in the package. It comes with two charging cables—one for mains power and another for 12-volt sockets. The only other item included is the operation manual. Specifications and Dimensions Capacity ‎9 litres Noise Level ‎45 dB Form Factor ‎Portable Colour Black/gray Voltage ‎12/24 Volts (DC) Batteries included/Required ‎No Item Weight ‎6.1 kg User experience Set-up Setting up the cooler was straightforward, as to be expected from a mini fridge. The manual was concise, simple, and easy to understand. App Connecting to the app via Bluetooth was also a seamless experience. Once connected, you can monitor and set the desired temperature, as well as check the status of your leisure battery—making it particularly campervan-friendly. However, since the app requires a Bluetooth connection to function, you can't check the fridge’s status when you're more than 15+ metres away. This limits its usefulness somewhat, but it can still be handy if, for example, the fridge is stored away in a cupboard, and you want to monitor its status remotely. Controls Outside of the app, the Alpicool can be controlled with four buttons, these are: On/off Temperature up Temperature down Settings Press the settings button once to change the cooling mode, and press and hold it to set the battery protection mode. Click here for the instruction manual Construction The Alpicool construction is solid, and the display is bright and easy to read. However, the plastics don’t have the highest-quality feel—which is understandable given the affordable price point. The cooler is definitely up to the task, and I’d have very little concern about damage when throwing it in and out of the car or bumping it around in the boot. Positives Affordable Easy to set-up and use App controls Compact size Battery protection Freeze function Negatives Plastic feel Updated C9PT and NL9 offer more colour options, with improved aesthetics Who is this for? The Alpicool 9C is ideal for those seeking a compact cooler for camping trips, road trips, or use in small campervans where space is limited. Its size is both an advantage and a drawback. While the compact design makes it easy to transport and fit into tight spaces, it also limits the amount of storage available. This makes it more suitable for weekend getaways and solo or couple use, rather than extended trips with the whole family. Conclusion The Alpicool C9 Mini offers an affordable, compact solution for anyone needing a portable fridge-freezer for camping, road trips, or small campervans. Its user-friendly setup, app control, and battery protection features make it a convenient choice road trips. It's worth noting that Alpicool has introduced newer models, such as the C9PT and NL9, which offer more color options and improved aesthetics. Although I don't believe the functionality hasn't had any major updates. Overall, the Alpicool C9 Mini remains a solid option for those seeking a budget-friendly, space-saving cooler—perfect for weekend adventures and short trips. However, for extended use or larger storage needs, you may want to opt for their 12 or 16 litre models.

  • Lefant M210P Robot Vacuum Cleaner: 1 Year Review

    The Lefant M210P is one of the most affordable robot vacuum cleaners on the market and can be purchased on Amazon for £99 or as little as £60 on sites like eBay or AliExpress. In this review, we'll examine the Lefant's price, performance, ease of use, and overall value for money. We will share both the positive and negative aspects of the product that we have discovered after nearly a year of use, enabling you to make an informed decision about whether it is the right choice for you. At a Glance Pros Cons Affordable Less effective on stubborn messes Ease of use Error messages Perfect for keeping on top of mess while out of the house Lack of 5GHz wifi support Specifications Product Dimensions ‎28 x 28 x 7.8 cm Capacity: 500ml Volume: 65dB suction power: 2200 pa Duration on one charge: 120 minutes Design and Build Quality The Lefant M210P features a design typical of most robot vacuums, characterized by a circular body, but it features angular elements on top, giving it a modern aesthetic. The vacuum has some weight to it and feels well-constructed for the price. The plastic body, especially in the lid, does have a bit of a cheap feel to it, but I can't complain too much with Lefant's clear target at the affordable end of the market. One important thing to note is the 12-month warranty that comes with the device, offering peace of mind in case of any issues later down the line. Performance We tested the M210P on a range of surfaces throughout the house. It performed well on both wood and carpeted surfaces but wasn't able to function on deeper rugs. The vacuum was sufficient for cleaning light items such as string, hair, and dust but struggled to remove more stubborn dirt. I found the device perfect for frequent automatic cleaning, but users will still need a more powerful vacuum for stubborn dirt on carpets. Usability The vacuum is easy to set up. After opening the box, the brushes need to be attached, the charger plugged in, and it is ready to go. It's fortunate that the app is not required to function, as it only works on 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, which means I couldn't get it working. This is a shame, as it means I am missing out on some features. The vacuum navigates rooms well, and I was impressed with its ability to untangle itself from loose cables. It pushes against curtains and cupboard doors to reach as much of the floor as possible. This is useful, but the vacuum does make some noise banging into things, although it does have rubber edges to avoid scratches. With only an on/off switch located under the lid and a single button on the top of its body, the vacuum is easy to control. The hoover automatically returns to its charging dock when running low, which is convenient if you leave the vacuum on while out of the house. It was only in oddly shaped rooms that the vacuum would get lost and not be able to find its way back home. One problem that popped up increasingly frequently over the year I owned this vacuum was a red error indicator displayed on the start button of the device. Even after cleaning, emptying, and making sure everything was functioning as it should, the error lights would occur after every two or three uses, requiring multiple resets to get it working again. Until finally, it refused to start at all. I did a lot of reading online and even replaced the battery, but nothing fixed the issue. The one saving grace was the offer to refund the device after 11 months of use. Maybe my device was faulty, but it's something to keep in mind. Value As one of the cheapest robot vacuums on the market, I was happy with the light cleaning it offers, saving time and making it easy to keep on top of messes. Buyers should be aware of other options on the market; often, spending a little bit more will unlock better features such as laser navigation, mopping or self-emptying. Recognizable name brands may also offer higher build quality and longevity, giving buyers greater peace of mind. Conclusion In conclusion, the Lefant M210P offers a budget-friendly entry into the world of robot vacuum cleaners. Ultimately, while it provides decent value for light cleaning tasks, potential buyers should consider investing a bit more for enhanced features and improved reliability available from other brands. If you're seeking an affordable robot hoover, the Lefant M210P could be a suitable choice, but weigh the pros and cons carefully to determine if it aligns with your cleaning needs.

  • Bramber Castle

    Address : Castle Ln, Bramber BN44 3WE Location Bramber Castle is a ruined Norman motte-and-bailey castle situated in the village of Bramber, West Sussex, that overlooks the River Adur. It is currently managed by English Heritage and is free to enter. What's there? At Bramber Castle, you will find one tall section of the castle's walls structure remaining, as well as smaller sections of the wall dispersed around the surrounding grounds. There are also some remaining foundations that can be seen pictured at the bottom of the page. Throughout the castle's grounds, visitors will find information plaques sharing details about the castle's history with illustrations depicting the castle before it became ruins. Visitors will also find views over the local farmland and town. There's plentiful open green space, making this location perfect for dog walks and picnics during the summer. St Nicholas' Church is located next to the castle on the hillside and dates back to approximately 1073. The church is still mainly Norman, with some rebuilding and restoration work from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. The church is still practising today, with services held every Sunday at 8:30 a.m. History Bramber Castle was founded by William de Braose and was held almost continually by the de Braose family and their descendants from 1073 to 1450. A descendant (also named William de Braose) was suspected of disloyalty, and when the king demanded his sons as hostages, Lady de Braose refused. The castle was confiscated, and she and her sons died in prison. King John briefly held Bramber Castle from 1199 until 1216 and even ordered its repair and restoration. It was later returned to the de Braose family before finally being held by the Mowbrays. Subsidence on a large scale led to the ruin of the castle during the 16th century. The castle ruins and its 12 acres of land were acquired by the National Trust in 1945 and are currently managed by British Heritage. For more information about the castle's history: Click here Parking There is a medium-sized car park located approximately 50 metres from the castle. It's open 24 hours a day, with a parking fee of £2 for non-British Heritage members. There are no specified disabled parking bays. There are large potholes, and many of the parking spaces are on a fairly steep slope. Accessibility The site features a steep slope leading up to the castle, which unfortunately will make it inaccessible for wheelchair and mobility scooter users. The slope is approximately 50 metres long; once at the top, the surfaces are grassy but fairly level. Surfaces will be slippery after rain. There are no benches at this location, apart from a single felled tree (pictured below). Dogs are welcome at the castle. There are no public toilets at this location. Conclusion Bramber Castle is a perfect location for a family picnic, with plenty of space for ball games. Although little of the castle remains, there's still plenty to learn about what at one time would have been a substantial structure. It's unfortunate that the steep hilltop location may stop some visitors from being able to access the grounds.

  • Installing Insulation: Peugeot Expert Campervan Conversion

    Welcome to the fifth instalment of our camper conversion series! In this post, we'll be insulating the walls of our 2020 Peugeot Expert. You'll find a step-by-step guide along with helpful tips and tricks for your own conversion project. A full   walkthrough video   is included at the bottom of the page. Tools Used: 10mm thermoacoustic insulation: Link 3 Rolls of Dodo EVO fleece 50mm: Link R eflectix insulation : Link Aluminium tape: Link Measuring tape and pen Scissors Adhesive spray Why did I pick these items? 10mm Thermoacoustic Insulation I initially ordered 10mm-thick insulation so it would fit between the grooves in the van's floor, beneath the plywood flooring. I continued using the same roll for other sections throughout the van. Although thinner options like 7mm or 5mm were available, the slightly thicker insulation will also help to reduce road noise and isn't much more expensive. Evo Fleece Evo fleece is made from recycled plastic bottles, making it both sustainable and cost-effective. It's non-irritant, so it's safe to handle, and it doesn’t absorb moisture, which lowers the risk of mould growth. Thin Reflectix Insulation This was a gift from a family member, and I wasn't initially sure where to use it. When I realised that using the thicker 10mm insulation between the walls and plywood lining would reduce the available space, I decided that a single layer of Reflectix would be a good compromise, even though its R-value is relatively low. Step One: Installing the 10mm Insulation I started by installing the thermoacoustic insulation on the inside of the doors, as well as in the recessed sections of the van's walls. This continued from the wheel arches we began working on in part one of the series, when we were sound deadening the van. Cutting and sticking the insulation wasn't difficult, but it was time-consuming. If you have larger arms, you might find it tricky to reach into the smaller or deeper sections of the van's doors. Step Two: Reflectix Before fully covering the upper sections of the walls with thermoacoustic insulation, I first applied thin reflective insulation to the outer areas. This helped to maximise the coverage while also allowing room for the EVO fleece, which will have the greatest impact on temperature regulation. For the install, I sprayed both the walls and the Reflectix with adhesive spray, waited a minute for the adhesive to go tacky, and then secured them together. Tip: It's important to keep the doors open for ventilation while using the spray. Step Three: Finishing 10mm Insulation After installing the Reflectix, I finished installing the 10mm thermoacoustic insulation on top of it in the recessed sections of the van's walls. Next, I covered the seams with aluminium tape to create a fully reflective surface. The tape will also help to smooth out the insulation on the upper sections of the doors, which will be carpet lined later on. I'll be covering this soon in a future update. Step Four: Wire Prep Before we could install the thermofleece, I had to prepare the wires for the roof lights. I cut a length of wire matching the AWG of the LED hub I'll be using for the roof lights and ran it through the walls of the van. Tip: I cut a coat hanger so it could be used as a hook; this made retrieving the wire from inside the van's walls much easier. Although I used some standard wire I had on hand, cables specifically designed for vehicles would be better—they're thicker to prevent damage from vibrations. To avoid unwanted tension, I left plenty of slack so the wire wouldn't be pulled tight. I also wrapped the sections of wire that would be in contact with the metal edges inside the van's walls with protective tape. Step Five: Installing EVO Fleece We filled the cavities in the walls and doors with the EVO fleece. I used the coat hanger again to push the fleece into place, as well as to pull it through the small cavities at the top of the van's walls. After stuffing small pieces of the fleece into the deeper sections of the doors and walls, I found folding the fleece saved time when filling the larger spaces. Where necessary, I applied a small amount of adhesive spray to help secure the wool. Tip:  You don't need to pack the fleece tightly. The air gaps within its structure are essential for optimal performance. What's Next? In the next instalment of our campervan conversion series, we’ll be carpet-lining the exposed metal inside the van. After that, we will be reinstalling the ply lining – this time either painted or varnished. For more van content, visit my YouTube channel here . Click here for a full list of all our campervan conversion posts Full Walkthrough Video:

  • Peugeot Expert Campervan Conversion: Sound Deadening

    Welcome to the first instalment of our camper conversion series! In this post, we’ll walk you through the process of removing the ply lining and adding sound deadening to your van. We’ll provide a step-by-step guide along with tips and tricks that will be helpful if you’re planning your own conversion. A full walkthrough video is included at the bottom of the page. What You'll Need Item List 40 x Sound deadening mats: Link 10mm Sound deadening/insulation roll: Link Aluminium foil tape: Link Tools Used Hand and electric screwdrivers Stanley blade Drill (for stubborn rusted screws) Measuring tape Gloves Step one: Removing the Ply Lining Removing the ply lining from the van's walls and doors can be done fairly quickly with the help of an electric screwdriver. Along the bottom of the doors, there were a few screws that had to be removed by hand due to lack of space. Beneath some sections of the ply lining, you’ll find additional layers held in with expansion clips. These clips can be a bit fiddly but are removable by hand. Some of the doors had a thin felt-like cover glued on them, which could also be removed by hand. Tip:  Be sure to keep all the screws and clips for reinstallation. If the wood is still in good shape, you can reuse it after varnishing, painting, or carpet lining. Van with all ply lining removed Step Two: Installing Sound Deadening Mats For this step, you will need: Sound deadening mats Sharp knife Gloves (mats are sharp when cut) We initially ordered 20 sound deadening mats but soon realised that we needed more for adequate coverage. Ultimately, using 40 mats provided generous coverage for our van. Use a Stanley knife to cut the mats to fit into hard-to-reach areas. Gloves should be worn when applying the mats, as the edges are sharp after being cut. Step 3: Removing the Ply Floor and Applying Acoustic Thermal Insulation The final step in soundproofing the van is adding acoustic thermal insulation to the wheel arches to reduce road noise. I'd recommend removing the plywood flooring for easier access and to make way for future work. However, this may not be necessary for all builds. Removing the Ply Flooring We found that the screws in the metal trim were only connected to the plywood flooring itself, while the screws in the wood were fastened to the van's floor. A few of the screws were rusted and required drilling to get out. The ply floor came out in two sections, making removal easier. There was one section of metal trim that had to be removed to separate the pieces. Note:  Flooring can vary from van to van; some are glued down, which could affect your removal process. Cutting and Applying Acoustic Thermal Insulation Items Used: 10mm thermal insulation sound deadening roll Knife Tape measure Cardboard and a pen - to measure shape and copy to insulation Aluminium foil tape We started this step by measuring the wheel arches with cardboard to create accurate templates for the insulation. This was useful as the wheel arches are non-uniform shapes. We then copied these over to the sound deadening insulation to get a good fit without wasting any materials. After sticking all the sections down we used aluminium foil to mask the gaps, creating a complete reflective surface. This also serves as the first step of insulating the van. What's next? The next step of our campervan conversion will be the bulkhead removal. Stay tuned for future updates; or become a member for email notifications. Click here for a full list of all our campervan conversion posts Full Walkthrough Video:

  • Peugeot Expert (2016 - present): Bulkhead Removal

    Welcome to the second instalment of our camper conversion series! In this post, we’ll walk through the process of removing the bulkhead from our 2020 Peugeot Expert. We’ll provide a step-by-step guide along with tips and tricks that will be helpful if you’re planning your own conversion. A full walkthrough video is included at the bottom of the page. Tools used: Ratchet with 10mm socket Electric screwdriver (for floor removal) Step One: Removing the First Section The bulkhead on the Peugeot comes apart in two sections. The top section is easily accessed, while the lower half took a little more time, as the plywood flooring was blocking the last lower four bolts. We loosened the bolts with a 10mm socket. After that, they could be removed by hand. At this point the upper section of the bulkhead can be removed. Step Two: Removing Obstructive Flooring To reach the lower bolts, we had to remove the plywood floor. While this might not be necessary for all vans, we decided to do it since we'd need to lift the floor before adding insulation later on in our conversion. We found that the screws in the metal trim were only connected to the plywood flooring itself, while the screws in the wood were fastened to the van's floor. A few of the screws were rusted and required drilling to get out. The ply floor came out in two sections, making removal easier. There was one section of metal trim that had to be removed to separate the pieces. Note:  Flooring can vary from van to van; some are glued down, which could affect your removal process. Step Three: Removing the Lower Section of the Bulkhead Once the floor has been removed, you will be able to easily reach the final four bolts. Remove the lower four bolts, and the final section will be released. What's Next? In the next instalment of our campervan conversion series, we’ll focus on insulating the floor of the van. Once the insulation is in place, we’ll move on to reinstalling the plywood floor and upgrading it with vinyl flooring. Click here for a full list of all our campervan conversion posts Full Walkthrough Video:

  • Installing a "Turbo 3 Low Profile" Roof Vent: Peugeot Expert Campervan Conversion

    Welcome to the fourth instalment of our camper conversion series! In this post, we'll be installing a roof vent on to our 2020 Peugeot Expert. You'll find a step-by-step guide along with helpful tips and tricks for your own conversion project. We used a "Turbo 3 Low Profile" roof vent, as it only requires one 80mm hole and uses a single screw to secure it for an easy installation. A full walkthrough video   is included at the bottom of the page. Tools Used: Roof vent: Link Drill Drill bit for pilot hole 80mm hole saw: Link Hammerite anti-rust paint: Link Sikaflex 522: Link Flat file: Link Measuring tape and pen Footstep/ladder to reach the roof: Link Step One: Cutting the Hole I began by measuring 150mm from the raised groove. Then, measuring across the raised section, which was 250mm wide, I marked a line at the midpoint of 125mm. Once I was happy with the measurements, I drilled a pilot hole to make sure I was as accurate as possible. After that, I switched to the 80mm hole saw. I started drilling from inside the van upward until the shape of the hole was visible from the top. Then, I climbed onto the roof and drilled downward—this was much easier. Tip:  If you plan to stand on the roof, only put your weight on the structural points to avoid dents or damage. Step Two: Preparing The Surface After cutting the hole, I made the mistake of painting the exposed metal before checking if the fan fit correctly—which it didn't, as the hole was slightly too small. I used the file to make the hole slightly larger and reapplied the paint after I had checked that the vent was fitting correctly. Step Three: Installing The Vent The vent came with three different sized screws to account for different roof thicknesses. After selecting the appropriate screw and adding the included rubber washer, the vent was ready to install. The instructions didn't say Sikaflex was required, but I used some to be on the safe side and avoid leaks later on down the line. I spread Sikaflex around the rubber contact point that would meet the roof. After removing a piece of misshaped plastic from the screw socket with a Stanley knife, I was ready to secure the vent. I started by carefully hand-screwing the vent to avoid disturbing the Sikaflex. Once loosely attached, I tightened it further with a screwdriver. Once secured, I clipped on the bracket which opens and closes the vent. The final step was to use a wet paintbrush to spread the Sikaflex evenly. It was a bit messy, but luckily, it’s out of sight. What's Next? In the next instalment of our campervan conversion series, we’ll be adding insulation and prepping the wiring for our leisure battery setup before reinstalling the ply lining walls. For more van content, visit my YouTube channel here . Click here for a full list of all our campervan conversion posts Full Walkthrough Video:

  • Link Between Hypermobility and POTS/Dysautonomia

    In this blog post, we'll explore the connection between hypermobility, POTS, and other forms of dysautonomia. We'll examine how your sixth sense (proprioception) influences the nervous system, the physical effects hypermobility can have on blood pressure, and how to determine if you yourself are hypermobile. What is POTS? First, let’s define POTS. Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) falls under the umbrella of dysautonomia—a group of conditions related to dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system . The term “autonomic” means “self-governing”, referring to the system that controls involuntary functions you don’t consciously think about. This includes breathing, digestion, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, sweating, and more. While some individuals with dysautonomia can identify a single cause, many cases result from a combination of multiple factors. For more information about causes of POTS: Click Here POTS and Hypermobility How It Works Proprioception (joint position sense) Proprioception is your body's ability to sense its position and movement in space—often called the “sixth sense.” When a person is hypermobile, this sense can be impaired, leading to decreased awareness of their body's position. For example, someone with inaccurate proprioception might believe their ankle is straight when it’s actually slightly tilted, or think their arm is tucked in when it’s marginally extended. This misperception can result in frequent twisted ankles, bumped elbows, and other injuries. All these bumps and sprains can lead to hypervigilance. Growing up, children with conditions such as joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS) or Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) have to learn to pay more attention to their position and surroundings than their peers. This hypervigilance causes us to dial up the autonomic nervous system, particularly the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for fight, flight, or freeze responses. Over time, these high levels of adrenaline affect how we react to the world, living with higher rates of anxiety. This constant upregulation of the adrenaline system can also result in an immune system that is constantly on high alert, potentially increasing susceptibility to mast cell activation syndrome and heightened reactivity to vaccines, infections, and stress. As a result, people with hypermobility may be more prone to developing chronic health conditions- such as POTS. Physical Effects of Hypermobility People with hypermobile joints may also have more flexible blood vessels. This can impair the systems responsible for regulating blood pressure when transitioning from a reclined to a standing position. Normally, when a person stands, their blood vessels contract to maintain an appropriate blood pressure; however, in individuals with hypermobility, the structures that control this contraction can be less effective. Instead of contracting, these vessels expand, leading to blood pooling in the legs and away from the heart and other vital organs. This, combined with increased adrenaline levels resulting from proprioceptive dysfunction, can create a cycle of heightened physical responses to activity and stimulation. Many people may notice early signs such as fainting or feeling faint during sports or experiencing tiredness or heaviness when standing for long periods of time. This predisposition often becomes more pronounced during adolescence and young adulthood, influenced by hormonal changes during puberty or increased stress from exams and work as one transitions into adulthood. This is why many seemingly active and healthy young people develop POTS in their late teens and early twenties. Am I Hypermobile? If these traits or experiences sound familiar, or you have a history of being unusually flexible—perhaps excelling in activities like gymnastics, ballet, or dance—it could indicate hypermobility. How to Test for Hypermobility The Beighton score is a test that detects joint hypermobility syndrome. The test uses a nine-point scoring system that measures the flexibility of the following joints: Base of both thumbs Elbows Knees Knuckles of pinky fingers Spine The test consists of two sections: the first involves a physical exam to assess joint flexibility, while the second includes questions about the patient's history of hypermobility and joint pain. Click here for more information about the Beighton test. Note: Around 3-10% of the population is hypermobile. Being hypermobile doesn't automatically mean you have or will develop POTS. It's important to remember hypermobility is just one piece of a larger picture, and each person's condition is unique. Conclusion I hope readers find the information in this post, along with the further reading provided below, helpful (and maybe relatable) in shedding light on some of the underlying factors contributing to POTS. Useful Links: Joint Hypermobility Syndrome: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21763-joint-hypermobility-syndrome Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and POTS: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ehlers-danlos-syndrome-and-pots Hypermobility and POTS video: https://youtu.be/Cm16Hryi6eE?feature=shared Beighton Score: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/24169-beighton-score

  • Climping Beach

    Address : Climping, Atherington, Littlehampton BN17 5RN Climping Beach is a pebble and shingle beach located in West Sussex, England, known for its peaceful rural setting. It has been designated as a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is also a Local Nature Reserve. Dogs are welcome on the beach all year round, making it a popular spot for dog walkers. However, the area has become neglected over time. Large pebble sea defences now block the views from the car park and make it more difficult to access the beach than in the past. Additionally, all amenities such as toilets and cafes have closed, so visitors should plan accordingly. Parking There is a medium-sized car park with space for around 18 cars. There are no disabled parking spaces. Parking is free. Accessibility The steep slopes and stony surfaces unfortunately make this location unsuitable for visitors with limited mobility. Visitors who struggle to walk long distances but can climb short, steep slopes may manage at this location due to the beachside parking. Conclusion Due to its lack of accessibility features, Climping Beach is unfortunately hard to recommend for visitors with limited mobility. Its isolated location helps keep it quiet and peaceful. If you are able to visit, you'll experience a unique coastline away from crowds, perfect for those seeking tranquillity. Visitors can find more accessible beaches nearby at Bognor Regis or Worthing .

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