[Geoff Winnington-Ball (RIP)]

Our mate Nigel has done it! Here's the press release:

New Book “Universal Carriers”

A new reference book for the Universal Carrier range is being launched at War and Peace this year.

Three years’ research and compilation has led to a comprehensive reference source for these small tracked vehicles, with over 400 photographs and 100 diagrams used, many before unseen. Being published in three volumes, with the 304 page Volume One available at the show, they tell the story of the development of the carrier from the interwar years through to the postwar period.

The books are aimed at enthusiasts and model makers alike, but will also appeal to veterans and vehicle owners. The extensive use of photographs not only shows the vehicles but also the terrain they were used in and provide a good source for diorama modeling.

Volume One deals with the early Dragons, MG, Cavalry, AOP, Bren, Loyd and Universal MkI carriers, but also covers variants such as the Ambulance, Anti-Aircraft Unit and Bridging vehicles. Special equipment is explained with many original drawings showing the wading and flotation mechanisms.

There are chapters on the vehicle and crew weapons, engine and track details as well as the communication equipment that was associated with these vehicles. A full list of carrier WD Nos. is included in the Appendix.

Nigel Watson, the author, is also the owner of a 1941 Universal Carrier MkI* which will be at the show as part of a desert living history display, and he will be signing copies of his book at the Model and Victory marquees. Nigel’s father served as a carrier officer with the 8th Punjab Regiment, British Indian Army during World War Two.

The book will be available for purchase at his stall “The Bottomless Sporran”, Stall No. R6.

Well done, Nigel!

To all -- we'll sort out how to order the book through MLU when Nigel gets back from Beltring. Those going to the show please drop by his locations and introduce yourselves!