[Nigel Watson]

Hi Manfred and all. Manfred has been in touch with me re his great carrier so I thought I would put some of my observations on here so that those of you who have MkII and MkII* carriers can help.

I think there is a possibility that Manfreds carrier may have started life as a Mortar Carrier. There are a series of holes on the rear armour which seem to form the pattern for the mortar barrel brackets, its retaining strap and the strap for the cleaning rod. The original position of the starting handle brackets on the axle cover are still evident, especially the ones on the lhs, and the position of the higher stowage for the handle is a Mortar Carrier configuration.

On the front the light on the drivers side is a MkI* style and not usual for the MkII*. If the carrier had been a Mortar Carrier that was upgraded, during the war, to MkII* then there was no reason to change the position of that light. Just a thought.

The front firing slot cover is also MkI* and Mortar Carrier spec.

I know the MkI* didn't have an expansion tank, but what about the MkII*? I think I can make out one in the mortar carrier photos although in a slightly different position.

So what do you all think?

The one thing it definitely is, is another saved carrier, and a great project, so congratulations to you Manfred.

Nigel