'Morris'?

[David_Hayward (RIP)]

This ice cream van was registered in Middlesex in 1948. The photo says 'Morris' but it has eight-stud wheels of a military style although Bedfords of the period also had that style. The wheels look as though they have been repainted black as well as part of the tyres, atypical of post-war rebuilds. Body is Northern Counties of Wigan apparently.

Any thoughts please on ex-military Forward Control, around 10-15 cwt? Or cut-down FC truck?Click for photo

[Richard Farrant]

David,

Looking at it being a possible ex-WD 15 cwt, because of the 8 stud wheels and simialr wheelbase, I have to say that the front hubs do not appear to be either Bedford MW or Morris Comm. CS8 or C4. Another point is the rear hubs, the halfshaft flange is out further than the wheel studs, looking as if the rear hubs are normally fitted with twin wheels. It is not unlikely that the chassis is modified to forward control, it was not unusual for this to be done in those days.

At a wild guess, I may go for Commer, although you say the photo is marked as Morris. Can you trace the rego number?

Richard

[David_Hayward (RIP)]

I have checked regos...no evidence exists except it is late 1948, possibly early 1949 at the latest.