Park Home News goes to print

We're proud to announce that the first copy of Park Home News independently published here at Turnpike Farm goes to print tomorrow.

Like many of our projects it has been a real team effort, with Robert (author of 'How to Sell' and other leading business books) leading the advertising sales, Jessica Juby and Lucy Wright both contributing valuable editorial and administrative support, and myself as editor writing feature pieces and co-ordinating the project.

While I've worked on many publications in the past including the Chapelfield Magazine, a variety of printed newsletters, brochures and more recently as a feature writer for Park & Holiday Home magazine, this has really been a dream project I've thoroughly enjoyed. Of course I'm working alongside a true master of the written word - Robert has several published books translated into several languages and selling around the globe, and is a regular contributor to several national, regional and enterprise publications. To read some of them take a look at www.robertashton.co.uk.

With 80,0000 copies of Park Home News being delivered direct through the letterboxes of park home owners throughout the UK the magazine is also a great way for advertisers to reach a specific audience and they've been quick to recognise its potential.

I can't wait to get stuck into the next issue. Meanwhile If you'd like a copy of this issue to find out more about what living in a park home is all about just drop us a line.

Bella

Excursions 2010

I've just returned from Excursions 2010, a great exhibition for the group travel industry, and an opportunity for lots of great attractions to network for new business.

What was really nice about this event was that those attending didn't suffer the irritation of spending a small fortune to get a hot drink (it was free in a central area where a visual display of exhibitors was showing).

Crucially, there were also plenty of chairs so visitors could take breaks and stay a little longer because they were refreshed, engaged and comfortable. As we've worked on lots of large events I know that all these factors can make a real difference in

terms of the feel good factor and return visitor numbers.

Rather than being bombarded with high priced snacks, exhibitors were more than willing to offer samples of their regional fare to those passing by and there was a really interesting mix there, from historical exhibits and costumed characters mingling with the crowds, to stunning gardens, hotels, stately homes tour operators, service providers and the media.

If you're in tourism or travel it's a great date for the diary - I've already got next year's date in mine!!

Setting a good example

Well done to John Lewis for their 'can do' attitude.

When customers, staff and children were stranded in their High Wycombe store during the snowy spell they just made the most of it and provided food and beds for all who were stuck.

While many stores might have found plenty of good reasons not to do this, they recognised the potential value and ran with it.

The result? Lots of very positive national coverage in the press, online and mainstream news channels. Probably worth the value of replacing the goods 100 times over and a great time of year to stand out head and shoulders above the rest. Great reactive PR.