Prototype GUV Saved

The group are pleased to report that the very first General Utility Van (GUV), No W86500, has been saved from scrap. The 1956 BR Swindon built vehicle is unique in being the test bed for a fleet that eventually numbered almost 900, one of the main differences being it has two sets of doors on each side, rather than three sets that production batch GUVs were fitted with.

Although preserved by Pete Waterman many years ago, the vehicle had been in store at Crewe and is in "as withdrawn" condition, still carrying its drab engineers olive green livery it acquired when taken into departmental use (as ADB977442) during its latter BR days. Due to siding clearance earlier this year (2009) W86500 was sold for scrap along with some other dilapidated vehicles. These were cut up on site and the scrapman's equipment had reached the vehicle next door in the queue before a group member was informed and hasty arrangements to save it were made!

Following purchase, W86500 was moved by rail through Crewe station to the Heritage Centre on the 11th September where it could be moved on by road to the Churnet Valley Railway a week later. Three images of this move (involving quality DRS motive power!) are above.

With W86500 being the prototype GUV, we feel it fitting that the vehicle be preserved in as built condition, and work has begun immediately. The condition of the vehicle, despite its drab and rusty appearance, is relatively good with only the doors and some small areas requiring replacement. It is planned that full external restoration will be undertaken immediately. With luck visitors will be able to enjoy this vehicle (even if they know nothing of what it is!) before too long. Updates on the restoration should be available from this site. More information and images on this vehicle are available on its dedicated page (link at bottom of this page)