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Accession 346 23/02/02
1944 AEC
Matador recovery vehicle.
This type of
vehicle was commonly used for recovery duties by bus companies in
the post war period. Built in 1944 and thought to have originally
been used by the RAF, it was one of three Western National acquired
in 1970, this particular one coming from Allens Motors, Abingdon,
Berks on 8th May that year. It had previously been used by Kennings
of Shrewsbury. Regarded as a spare time job, the Central Works at
Plymouth gradually converted the vehicle to its own specification
and built the attractive workshop cab for the recovery crew. It is
also fitted with crane, winch and other heavy towing and lifting
equipment. In July 1974 it was assigned the current registration
number when a change of legislation prevented recovery vehicles
being used solely on trade plates. After sale to Torbay Borough
Council in July 1984 the vehicle was dry stored for many years and
is remarkably complete. It was then purchased by WHOTT member, Colin
Billington, and donated to the Trust. It continues to be sponsored
by Colin. |
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