When I opened the roof last week the rubber seal on the pop-top which had partially stuck to the GRP roof, pulled off and was hanging in festoons. It was full of water and green slime and felt very loose when I pushed it back in place.

This morning I pulled the seal down in sections and went round the van squeezing the seal every four inches or so with a pair of pliers. When pressed back into place the seal snapped into position and feels much more securely attached.

To prevent sticking in the future I sprayed some silicone lubricant onto a cloth and wiped it over the the part of the seal that contacts the roof when the pop-top is secured.

While up the ladder I checked and cleaned the gutters and awning rail which were choked with dirt and leaves. It's amazing how much muck gets in there and how quickly.

Incidentally, while up the ladder I was hailed by a passing motorist who asked me if I wanted to sell the Eriba. Thinking he was a prospective owner/member I chatted to him over the fence only to discover that he was a second-hand caravan/motorhome dealer looking to make a fast buck. When asked if I'd pass on to him the 'phone numbers of anyone wanting to sell an Eriba I politely declined.