In the Papers

Having a grandchild as your only holiday companion can be a daunting prospect but, as Jackie Holland discovered, Eurocamp was a triumph

Families love Eurocamp - well, our family certainly does. My first experience was more than 20 years ago when I took my two sons, then aged 12 and 10, to the South of France to sleep under canvas.

We were very impressed by the facilities for kids (they made so many new friends and had so much to keep them amused that we hardly saw each other). We were amazed that our tent was so well equipped and had brilliant kitchen facilities. It even had separate bedrooms with proper beds. It wasn't like camping at all.

Now, I was at it again with my grandson James, 12, this time in a deluxe Monaco mobile home at Eurocamp's parc near St Valéry-sur- Somme in northern France.

It has to be said that it wasn't an easy task getting him there. He pulled screwed-up faces at the thought of spending so much time alone with Granny when he'd rather be with his chums. Yet, at the end of our stay, I had trouble persuading him to come home.

Set in the sprawling, leafy grounds of Château de Drancourt, three swimming pools, a golf range, tennis courts, a private cinema, two bars, a takeaway and a fantastic bistro set in converted stables were just some of the facilities on offer. It was heaven for kids - one family we met were on their 20th visit - and James soon began behaving as his father had done all those years ago, hanging out with his new buddies (mostly British and French) and returning rosy faced when hunger set in.

Our three-bedroom mobile home had a kitchen that I would have been proud to have called my own and a private bathroom with shower.The location was superb for country walks and one day we headed into St Valéry, strolled along its cobbled streets, had lunch in a wonderful pizzeria overlooking the Somme, then walked the 3km back again.

The local area offers a wealth of day trips too - we really enjoyed our steam-train ride around the Somme Bay.

Then, while I relaxed at the bar at the parc and chatted to adults, James was off again playing football with his friends. The owners of Château de Drancourt have created a wonderfully safe, family atmosphere. "Can we come back here again soon, Gran?" asked James. That's what I call a triumph.

Jackie and James Holland travelled with Eurocamp, staying at Domaine de Drancourt. A seven-night holiday starts from £308 in a luxury tent, £450 in a standard mobile home and £562 in a Monaco Deluxe. All prices are for two adults and up to three children, and include return Dover-to-Calais ferry crossings. Eurocamp has special offers for families throughout the season.Visit www.eurocamp.co.uk or call 0870 366 7552.