Introducing Ellie..

Hi all
My name is Ellie Grandison as one of the newest members of the LTVVWC committee, I have been asked to make a contribution to Wheelspin, so I thought you might be interested in a brief history of my fascination with VW Campers.

It all started many years ago at the age of about 4 when my parents bought Barn Door Splitty. The memories of the holidays to Devon & Cornwall, and the day trips out to the coast have stayed with me for the last 30 ish years. Dad kept the Bus for about 5 years, by which time he had 5 daughters, and the Bus had to go. I have spent the last 20 years admiring other VW Campers, Splitties and Bays.

So 4 years ago myself and hubby Mark decided to take the plunge, having spent many weeks looking for a van at the right price, we met Trigger from Thingamies Beetles in West Drayton. He found us a van, a 72 1600 Devon type 2 Bay with a pop-top. No show winner, but reliable and fairly solid. We have customised the interior, adding a rock and roll bed, moving the cooker, sink and fridge. New curtains and carpet, etc.

We joined the club a couple of years ago, and had never been to a club meet or organised event until last summers Cornwall Run to The Eclipse. We did not know quite what to expect, travelling all those miles in convoy seemed to give us a sense of camaraderie, and the look on other peoples faces coming in the opposite direction, seeing all the Campers and Beetles made us chuckle all the way. We met a lot of good people, and had an excellent week, having survived, and with our 6-year-old daughter Mica’s full approval, we will be heading south again this summer with the club.
I have joined the committee to help where I can and also aid Fitzy with the Hardcore Campers, a new section of the club organising camping events for any club members who want to get away a couple of times a year. So hope to see you all in Cornwall….

Bye for now