Film Participation
Recently, The Trust was asked to provide 2 vehicles for use during the filming 'The Devil's Double'. We gladly obliged, taking along our Fiat TM69 Artillary Tractor and the Dodge M37 Wrecker. besides being a very interesting day, it generated much needed funds for The Trust coffers.
Ex-RAF Land Rover Series IIa Ambulance
Following the donation of this vehicle by the MAMF to The Trust, has now been returned to running condition by Martin Galea, who has kindly sponsored the enpenses incured so far. Cosmetic retoration to follow soon. We plan to debut this vehicle during the malta Commercial Truck and Bus Rally.
British Military - Mtarfa - 22 May & 23 May 2010
Following the successful participation in last years event, The Trust is looking forward to participating in this years event.
Malta Commercial Truck & Bus Rally
The Trust has been invited to participate in this years edition of the rally which is to be held this Sunday 25 April 2010 at Luxol Grounds, Pembroke. Please see link for futher information.
Colour Newsletter
The trust is currently working on publishing a seasonal colour newsletter. This will replace the bulletins that, in the past, were released via email.
Re-establishment of Military Vehicles Collectors' Club
The MHVT would like to congratulate the MVCC on their re-establishment and look forward to continued close co-operation with them
The following vehicles have recently been relocated to our premises in Hal Far
The Leyland Hippo has finally left Emmanuel Vella and Sons yard and is now housed at Hal Far
The DP3 has also been recovered from The Bezzina Ship Repair workshops
A Thornycroft MK7 Crash Tandem, DP1 Crash Tandem and Austin LD Pick-up have been donated to The Trust by George Said.
An Austin LD van is on loan to The Trust from George Said
Morris Commercial CS4 on loan to The Trust by George Schembri
A Land Rover TACR1 and Ambulance have been donated to The Trust by the Malta Aviation Museum Foundation
The trust has aquired 2 Dennis Ace Pre-WWII trucks plus an engine and miscellaneous for the eventual restoration of one of these vehicles.
We are also houseing for the MAMF a Karrier Mobile Control Van
The trust has donated a Humber Pig Armoured Personnel Carrier to the Malta Police for restoration and eventual exhibition in their museum
Resorations Update
Austin LD Van
The engine has been started without much trouble at all, work is under way to rectify faults with water pump, thermostat housing and overhaul of breaks and clutch.
DP1
This vehicle was aquired in 3 bits and work is in hand to reunite the chassis house and restore it to rolling chassis condidtion
Pig
The outer body shell has been cleaned and primed, the interior floor panels have been removed to allow access to the chassis and sub-frames. The Rolls Royce B60 Engine has been removed comple with gear box facilitate repair work on the engine. The opportunity will be taken to thoroughly clean and pain the engine bay.
ERF
John Bryan is makign progress on returning theis truck to its originalk configuration. The rear springs have been re-fitted and the brakes are nbing overhauled. A fifth wheel has been aquired and is awaiting re-fitting.
Bedford Bus
The engine and gear box have been removed for eventuial overhaul. The engine bay is being cleaned and primed. The removal of side panels is now underway to allow inspection and repair of the body frame work.
Dennis F8
This vehicle is still at Zinnu's workshops where it is being prepared for painting.
13 December 2009
The MHVT were pleases to have taken part in the 'PAQ PAQ for I-Strina' Chartiy Event. Several vehicles from the Historic Collection were on display, Bedford TK Fire Engine, Dodge M37 Wrecker, Land Rover Lightweight.
5 November 2009
Since our last update and number of new acquisitions have been made as follows:
Trojan 15 Van
Believed ex RAF any Trojan is worth saving for a manufacturer that ceased production 45 years ago. She is fitted with a Perkins 3 cylinder diesel but generally in very poor condition . The tray body in the rear of the box van indicates she was used to deliver fish
and the old civilian registration of 31397 can still be seen.
Trojan Senior Pick Up
This later Trojan model is probably rarer than the Trojan 15 and was likely a civilian owned vehicle from day one which we assess to be about 1958.
Dodge M37 4x4 Light Recovery Truck
Donated by the AFM this vehicle is only just off roadworthy condition and could be a valuable working truck for the Trust once prepared
Fiat TM69 6x6 Heavy Artillery Tractor
Again donated by the AFM this extremely impressive beast joins the heavyweights of the collection and is a runner.
Canadian CMP Chevrolet C30 4x4
George Said active as ever of Ebay purchased this vehicle from Holland for restoration and a sound acquisition to enhance the collection. A neighbour of George also donated to him a Vauxhall Viva HA on condition he looks after it so this has also found its way to Hal Far.
Images of these acquisitions can be seen under the website photo file 'The Collection' .
Just a correction on the Austin K2 chassis that was acquired some months ago it was mistakenly noted that it had a later marque K3 cab which has now since proven to be a cab from an Austin K6.
The AFM also donated another Humber Pig to us so already having enough for a pig farm we have transferred it to a representative of the Malta Police Museum for restoration.
We also remain indebted to Mr. Andrew Bain for providing us two photographs of a mural found on the side of a building in Invergordon in Scotland depicting a fire firefighting scene clearly showing George Said's Dennis F8 reg. KSA363. These can be found in the website photo file 'Historic Photos' under Photogallery.
Restoration In Progress
The Bedford Air Crew Bus now owned by Johann Tonna is slowly but surely being sorted with James Schembri assisting as research on its history continues to draw a blank.
Work on the Dennis F8 of George Said is continuing slowly at Zinnu with the woodwork now largely finished and cab restoration well underway.
The Duple A body has arrived from the UK for the AEC Regal and Peter Skerry confirmed that work is anticipated to begin in the new year after more mechanical work and testing is completed on the restored chassis. About 35/40% of the body can be restored during the rebuild but it was largely needed to provide templates for the manufacture of the rest.
Meanwhile, work has continued on the first of the Humber Pigs with most of the paintwork preparation completed and parts removed for repair and refurbishment.
On a broader front we are pleased to confirm that the Jones KL10 crane, Iron Fairy and Dennis Mercury aircraft Tug are now inside the building which in itself has undergone a complete clean up making it more presentable for visitors and potential sponsors. A worthy effort by all concerned
The date and venue of the 2010 Commercial Truck & Bus Rally is still unconfirmed but it is widely thought that it will take place on Sunday 25th April 2010 hopefully at the Pembroke Luxol grounds.
The Trust are looking to hold an open day at Hal Far in the new year hopefully with some exhibits from outside to promote more interest in the retention and restoration of historic vehicles. More information will be issued in due course once arrangements have been finalized.
8 June 2009
Forthcoming Appearance
The Trust have been invited to attend an NGO event at Bay Street Complex, San Giljan on 21st. June where it is hoped that we will have two Land Rovers on display. Unfortunately due to weight restrictions nothing larger can be exhibited but we will be selling merchandise and attempting to attract new members.
3 June 2009
Restorations in Hand
Work continues on George Said's Dennis F.8 at Zinnu and on completion the Thornycroft Mk V Airfield Crash Tender (stored in Marsa) will follow for rebuild which should be a little less substantial. Preliminary work is also taking place on George's Bedford MWD which will finally be fitted out as a tanker and work is well underway on the 1955 Humber Pig. The Range Rover TACR2 remains in Marsa with the CPD awaiting attention. Vehicles remaining outside Hal Far are the Hippo tanker, Thornycroft DP3, two Bedford RL Trucks and the Scottorn Fire Pump Trailer. The decaying Ex RAF Scammell Scarab with trailer that we were forced to leave at the Medcast Hal Far facility appears to have been 'lifted' in more ways than one.
30 May 2009
AEC Regal Moves Along
Restoration, financing and fund raising for the AEC Regal coach has now been taken over by Peter Skerry although the vehicle will be on loan to the Trust on completion.
This is as a consequence of the financial demands on the Trust through its rapidly increasing number of vehicle acquisitions in urgent need of restoration and the demands likely in the event of permanent premises being found in the not too distant future. Work is now accelerating at Zinnu's Garage where the front and rear axles have been refurbished and refitted along with the engine and drive train. It is anticipated that the chassis will be driveable within a matter of weeks in readiness for the arrival of the Duple A coach body parts and templates from the UK kindly donated by Terry Partridge. It is planned to be the centerpiece of the second Commercial Truck & Bus Rally to be held in 2010 in an advanced state of restoration.
29 May 2009
RAF Austin aquired
A hybrid military ex RAF Austin K2 ambulance or K30 GS Truck has been acquired with a late K3 Cab still showing its original door marking of RAF99804. It is fitted with a 6 cylinder OHV petrol engine and ultimately is likely to be restored as a K2 Ambulance -Sort of 'Ice Cold in Attard'.
17 May 2009
Exhibits at Mtarfa
The Trusts Ex Enemalta Bedford TK-HCB Angus fire appliance along with Mario Zammits Land Rover Series IIA were amongst exhibits displayed at the Mtarfa
British Day. Although finally not placed in the ideal location the display attracted much interest and some donations were received along with the sale of merchandise.
This TK has been adopted by Trustee Mario Zammit who will look after the vehicle and finance its restoration other than of course any major remedial work that may arise in the coming years.
15 May 2009
Ex Dockyard Aircraft tug aquired
Perhaps unusually the Malta Dry dock has acquired numerous vehicles and equipment from 'airside' for some reason one of which this David Brown Aircraft Tug. Largely complete but in pieces this will be a very useful animal once operational as our towing responsibilities are growing daily. This vehicle is representative of a vehicle not being offered in the equipment listing for the forthcoming privatization.
11 May 2009
Arrival of the Bedford Aircrew Bus at Hal Far
After many years in the rear yard of Supreme Travel this ex aircrew bus has finally arrived at the Trust. Preliminary investigation shows that it has been re-bodied almost certainly with a British body indicating probably an on-base rebuild. It is longer than the aircrew bus and other differences include front facing seats and a partition between the driver and the passenger area. Subsequent to its service life we believe it was worked into the civilian market allegedly under the old Maltese registration of 17000. It also carries the initials 'M.H.P.' on the nearside. The investigation continues but if anyone has ever seen such a bus in the past or better still has a similar photograph we would be interested to hear from them.
24 April 2009
Arrival of the famous Bedford SHZG5 Miles Fire Tender
Famed for its presence at the scene of the Vulcan crash at Zabbar in 1975 this ex RAF fire tender is a very rare bird.. Probably the last surviving example of 80 supplied to the RAF in the mid 1950's this is a 5 star acquisition for the Trust in particular as a historic vehicle. It can be seen in virtually all news film taken at the time of the Zabbar crash. Inspired by its acquisition, Trustee Malcolm Mifsud tripped down to the street in Zabbar where the Vulcan crashed knocked on every door in the street and collected Euro.50 to assist in its restoration. There is film of its recovery under video clips
22 April 2009
Bedford Ambulance Fund
As you are all aware, sometime ago, the Trust had started to raise funds to purchase this vehicle. The asking price was Euro 2,330. Unfortunately, insufficient funds could be raised and therefore the funds that were raised (Circa Euro 600) were put at the disposal of the Trust and were used for minor restoration work, insurance and towing charges.
The Bedford has still not been sold and the Trust hopes to acquire this in the future when the economic climate improves and fundraising is more forthcoming.
28 March 2009
2009 Commercial Truck & Bus Rally
Organised by Peter Skerry this first ever event held in Malta represented a considerable success making all the hard work more than worthwhile. A first time turn out of 116 vehicles was in retrospect extremely impressive balancing a large number of no shows by
an equal amount of unknown vehicles that appeared literally out of no where and never seen before by the large number of enthusiasts. Both the Trust stall and that of the Maltese Transport News were busy and encouragingly it was perhaps the participants who enjoyed the event most. Well supported by the media and TV including Tonio Darminan of Paq Paq TV where more exposure was gained on the show two weeks later. It also provided a platform to highlight the plight of Malta's traditional buses as 'Heritage in Danger' with the implementation of the new integrated public transport policy, demands for private registration for former passenger carrying vehicles and one day event plates. This exposure has already produced some policy changes within the Government.
.
5 March 2009
Malta's First Ever Historic Commercial Vehicle Rally
Peter Skerry is organizing the 2009 Commercial Vehicle Rally at Ta Qali on Saturday afternoon March 28th. The beneficiary will be the Trust is the sale of merchandising and fund raising. We are hoping for a number of other relevant stalls for this event one of which will be Maltese Transport News. The event will be widely publicized through the media including the press, radio and hopefully Television. Invitations have been favourably received by Malta's leading hauliers, Coach companies, Bus owners and there is an open invitation to all owners of older trucks, vans, pick ups, buses and ex military vehicles to attend at no cost and without specific invitation. We are working to make this a memorable day for members, owners and the general public with a specific intention to make this an annual event. Spread the work - there is only one place to me on the afternoon of Saturday 28th March 2009. It has the makings of the largest single motoring event ever to be held in Malta. Download flyer here.
16 February 2009
Restoration Update
The Dennis F8 Fire Engine is in Zinnu Body & Coachworks Luqa, for total refurbishment and the photograph shows the extent of the wooden coachwork and its painstaking replacement. It is hoped that the Thornycroft Mk V Crash Tender will follow for refurbishment when this has been completed.
Work on the AEC Regal has been halted due to bad weather and not expected to continue until the weather improves around March. The cab and the gearbox has been removed and the engine is ready to come out.
Work continues in England in the dismantling of the recovered Duple body but overall this will be a restoration over several years. Work has re-started on the Range Rover-Carmichael TACR2 but again what started off as a gearbox replacement in turning into quite a significant restoration.
Following the earlier announcement of relocation any restoration work has been limited to those outside of our temporary holding premises as there is no power or proper facilities to continue working in the present areas. Obviously they all have to be in readiness to be moved again at short notice which is delaying matters further.
14 February 2009
Another Bedford TK Fire Tender on Strength
Through a gracious donation by Enemalta we have acquired another Ex Oxfordshire Fire Brigade Bedford HCB-Angus Fire Tender in the wake of the Enemalta acquiring a replacement Mercedes Benz Tender. This vehicle still taxed and with VRT until May 09 is a reflection of its condition. It is be cleaned up now ready for an official handover to us by Enemalta at a press conference next month which will afford us some good publicity.
7 February 2009
New Acquisitions
Following the necessary departure from Medcast at Hal Far the situation provided an even larger problem for the Military Vehicle Owners Club and some of the other owners with vehicles located in the old RNAS hangar. The end result is that a large number of vehicles have been donated to the Trust. The list is shown
below and photographs can be found in the 'The Collection' under 'Projects and the Collection' on the Home Page.
| BHHC-Jones Iron Fairy Crane Ex RAF | 3 X M35A2 6X6 Troop Carriers |
| Jones KL10 6X4 Mobile Crane Ex RAF | 2 X Humber Pig APCs |
| M151A2 5 Ton Dumper | 3 X Land Rover Lightweights |
| 2 X Bedford RL 4X4 Trucks | Dennis Mercury Heavy |
| Land Rover Ambulance | Aircraft Tug |
| 2 x Land Rover SWB | 3 X Police Moto Guzzi Motorcycles |
| 1 Scammell Scarab + Trailer | 2 X Land Rover LWB |
| + Misc. Trollies, trailers and other equipment |
It would be foolhardy to suggest that all these vehicles will be fully restored. Some certainly will need to be cannibalized for parts and interest has already been shown by the AFM and CPD in a beneficial swap of vehicles which in any event would hopefully mean the outgoing vehicles would be returned in years to come in a much restored condition .
26 January 2009
New Temporary Premises
True to their word the Ministry of Industrial Parks have confirmed temporary accommodation at another facility in Hal Far. This literally is very temporary as they have another 'temporary' location very near by frankly in a superb building. Unfortunately, the Ministry by decree cannot assist us with any premises long term as we are an NGO or for want of explanation we don’t employ people or pay income tax as we are a registered charity. The situation regarding finding us permanent accommodation is with another Government Dept but suffice to say we are at least on the first rung of the ladder as against trying to get on it. The photograph gives some idea asto our temporary 'temporary' accommodation.
20 January 2009
Marching OrdersFollowing a legal dispute with Medcast (who leased the Hal Far site where many of our vehicles are located) the Ministry of Industrial Parks have issued an eviction order that requires the premises to be empty by January 26 at which time the land and building will be sealed off. Whereas the Trust were aware of this dispute the immediacy of the eviction came very much of a shock. However, following months of discussion with various Government departments about our need for a permanent location, we had established a significant profile largely through the hard work of our patron Dr. George Said. As a consequence M.I.P have guaranteed us temporary accommodation - somewhere.
10 January 2009
Malta Assembled Austin 1100 acquired
A member has kindly donated a 1972 Austin 1100 which although is a little out of line in our aspirations it is one of those assembled in Malta. There were a number of Austin, Morris and Triumph models shipped from the UK in CKD form during the 1960's and 70's which is not widely known. Most of these models were identifiable by a Maltese 8 pointed star badge found for example on the rear door pillar or on the front wings near the door. Further details about these assemblies can be found on the following website: www.aronline.co.uk, if anyone is interested.
7 December 2008
Dream come true
Since he was a young boy George Said has had a passion for fire engines and one in particular - the mid 1950’s Dennis F8 fire engine. This highly manoeverable
type saw service with the Admiralty dockyard and probably subsequently the Malta Police Fire Service. Unfortunately they are all long gone but this prized exhibit was found is Scotland. Having served with several fire brigades in Scotland it found its way to a museum from where George acquired it being surplus to requirements.
It is now on the high seas from Scotland due later this month where it will be immediately transferred to Zinnu’s Garage for some minimal restoration and respraying.
As always George places his vehicles at the disposal of the Trust and we look eagerly look forward to it arrival.
2 December 2008
Range Rover TACR2 in restoration
As part of the significant teardown necessary to replace the gearbox a number of other factors have come to light. It would appear that there are a number of local modifications been made to the vehicle that were not evident in the original model. These are being removed with a view to not replacing them but investigation is necessary to found out exactly how it was constructed in the interior prior to refurbishment. Another job that is taking a lot longer than at first envisaged but not uncommon in this scope of work so a bill of material is being established to ensure we have everything necessary to put it back on the road in original condition.
30 November 2008
Supreme Coaches donate another vehicle
Now an established supporter to the Trust Mr. Reno Abela has donated an ex British Forces 1960’s Bedford A Type Aircrew bus which will be restored. We are still trying to fully identify the vehicle and whereas these were normally RAF there seems to be some indication on the remaining paintwork that it may have been ex Royal Navy.
Again resting in his yard for a number of years it is hoped that it will be delivered to Hal Far in the coming weeks. A photo can be found under The Collection section
22 November 2008
Bedford OY to go but she will be back
The Bedford OY truck recently acquired is to be sold on to Bezzina Shipyard & Repair Ltd. where it is to be fully restored and converted to at least resemble a Bedford OX Type tractor with a Scammell coupling. It is to be finished in RAF colours and was sought as the motive power unit for the “Queen Mary” aircraft trailer that Bezzina currently has under restoration. The good news is that when it is fully restored and the Trust finally get the much sought after display premises we urgently require the pair will return on loan to the Trust (hopefully along with a few other of their excellent vehicles) for the public to enjoy. A photo of a similar combination can be found in our Historic Photo Collection.
14 November 2008
AEC Regal Update
The chassis cab still continues to be slowly dismantled at Zinnu as a part time venture. The cab is now off and in due course the engine, drivetrain, suspension and all the ancillary equipment is to be removed in order that the bare chassis can be plugged and sent away for shot blasting and painting. This is a time consuming and tedious but important task ensuring our capability will endure putting it all back together again. Each part has to be cataloged and inspected for reconditioning, restoration in readiness to be put back once the chassis is returned. Zinnu has recently visited the UK to inspect the Duple A Body kindly donated by Terry Partridge. Plans are underway for the dismantling of the body which will comprise of both re-useable parts and templates for new construction. You will notice from the photograph that this is a 30 ft model when our requirement is for a 27’6 body. The longer body has just another panel inserted so it is no deemed to be too much of a problem shortening it. One of the distinguishing features of the 30’ are the line of windows along the roof rim which we will not require as it was not on the shorter model and therefore not on this particular Regal when she was with Wallace Arnold. It is in poor condition but largely complete. Terry has very kindly also offered to pay for the dismantling costs for shipping and plans are in the making to fit this into a 20’ sea container for transit to Malta. Not easy being a 30’ body but nothing we cannot handle. This will be a long and expensive project but well worth the effort. The support from Terry and numerous UK based Friends of the Trust is quite incredible and we will not let them down.
6 November 2008
Bedford TK-HCB Angus Fire Appliance
After considerable efforts by all concerned with scuffed knuckles and colourful language the Bedford was finally fired into life and a video clip is attached to show it taking its first steps after quite a time. The icing on the cake was the fact that the guys managed to get the fire pump working for no real apparent reason but the problem was the engine was pushing out more water than the fire pump. There is a lot of work needed on this vehicle including engine, brake system, fuel system, the interior, external light fittings and the wide range of additional equipment that fire engines tend to carry. However, a source of parts has been established and again our good friend Aidan Fisher is standing by in Manchester to acquire any bits and pieces we cannot get hold of locally. One of our local ‘Friends of the MHVT” James Schembri has taken a real interest in this and since he has been tinkering away at it we have now declared him the auto electrician of the Trust as he has established a lot of the wiring sequence by trial and error. Well done Sparky Schembri and good work by Mario and Malcolm.
15 October 2008
AEC Regal Start
A short recording of the sight and sounds of the Regal can now be found here.
Enjoy.
Regal fires after at least 12 years in a field.
AEC engine guru Francis Sammut managed to fire up the 7.7 litre Diesel engine with minimal effort but sound preparation surrounded by members of the Trust, mechanics and bus drivers at Zinnu's garage with a standing ovation. A small puff of blue smoke
and she purred like the cat she once was. A massive tonic for continued restoration.
After a week preparation of checking all relevant parts to ensure no immediate blow up would occur this engine is a credit to the engineers at AEC Southall.
Relatively clean oil was found in the sump and water remained in the engine block jacket whilst all parts that should have been covered in oil were exactly that. The transmission and in particular the advanced vacuum brakes for the period will need some parts and renovation but again a clear signal she is ready and willing to take us to the next level.
Newly acquired M35A2 Trucks on loan from Medcast
Charged with enthusiasm the MHVT boys took off to Hal Far and then started one of the
two M35A2 former US Army trucks kindly loaned to the Trust by Maurice of Medcast.
A truly memorable day.
1 October 2008
Fort Rinella - Inspiration to our Trust
A recent visit to the Fort Rinella Battery , a sister to the Malta Historic Vehicle Trust within the Wirtartna.org or in translation Malta Heritage provides a tremendous inspiration to us all as to what can be achieved by a handful of dedicated enthusiasts.
We salute their achievement and if we can replicate it in our own way in respect of our
interests - we shall be justly proud.
25 September 2008
AEC Regal on the move again
After power washing and the fitting of two replacement front wheels the Regal departed Bezzina Ship Yard and Repair facility en route to Zinnu's Garage at Luqa where the engine is to be prepared for starting prior to the teardown of the chassis for shotblasting and painting. Work continues in the UK under the leadership of Terry Partridge in recovering useable original parts from the Duple A Body kindly donated to the Trust.
Where parts are not recoverable sufficient remains are available to make templates for the in part replica body to be constructed by Zinnu's Garage next year.
13 September 2008
1956 Coventry Climax Forklift Arrives
Purchased sometime ago by George for loan to the MHVT this day proved to be the day when bad luck finally caught up with us. Having been grazing harmlessly for sometime
outside Hal Far Fire Station this former inventory item of RNAS Hal Far was to be moved to the Medcast facility at Hal Far.
Our hearty 10 ton forklift kindly lent to us by
Medcast decided to give up the ghost whilst reversing back with the Covmax aboard
outside the fire station. No amount of encouragement from jump leads to Big Tasty Burgers would shift the beast so in the end the Covmax was towed back by The Trusty power of Mario Zammits Land Rover. 3 Days later after much spanner work and
colourful language the two fork lifts joined together again at Hal Far both requiring a little attention.
2 September 2008
Bedford MWD Recovery
Mr. George Said has purchased a Bedford MWD which he will either restore or trade
for something a little rarer. Eitherway restoration will be made by MHVT for the
Bedford or its trade back and of course it will be loaned or purchased by the Trust
subject to Georges wishes. The exercise of trading vehicles forms part of our policy
provided of course that we are recovering a somewhat rarer vehicle than the one being traded. More information in due course.
29 August 2008
UK Provision for Friends of the Trust
Following considerable interest in the UK over the AEC Regal recovery a number
of UK residents have requested membership. In order to make this easier arrangements
have been made through the good office of Maltese Transport News. If you would
like to join us please send a cheque for GBP.16.00 in favour of Mr. S.Harvey to his
address at 18 Windrush Court, Windrush Drive, High Wycombe HP 13 7UL. Your
cheque should be accompanied by a completed membership form which can be downloaded from this website. Your membership card will be sent to your address
direct from Malta.
28 August 2008
AEC REGAL UPDATE
The AEC Regal has been removed from Cancu and is now at the plating shop.
It has been dismantled and initial signs are that the drive train is complete, the
clutch is free and with some expert help that has already been offered we believe
that we maybe able to get the engine started. Zinnu Garage at Luqa has offered
to find a steering wheel for us with some other parts and we have come to an
agreement whereby Zinnu will rebuild the cab and restore the wings.
It is our initial objective to restore it to the chassis cab status, hopefully driveable
and then review the chances of being able to restore it with a full Duple A coach
body very much in the way it was when it was new as delivered to Wallace Arnold
Ltd. of Leeds in 1947. It worked its way around a few coach companies before being
purchased by George Wimpey and used as a site bus. It arrived in Malta somehow we believe in 1964 then disappeared until it arrived at Cancu's field around May 1998.
27 August 2008
BEDFORD OY SECURED
A new acquisition has been made in the shape of a 1940's Bedford OY Truck. The
chassis has unfortunately been shortened for a tipper body but some discussion
is ongoing about the possibility of converting it so a Bedford OX tractor unit
primarily to go with a Queen Mary Trailer that has been promised to us on loan
once suitable premises are concluded. However, this depends upon a number of
issue regarding the current wheelbase, ride height and acquiring a suitable fifth
wheel. A fair amount of restoration is required but it is registered and towable.
A photograph is shown of it arriving at Hal Far for pre restoration in inspection.
22 Aug 2008
RECOVERY OF AEC REGAL
The Trust has successfully negotiated the donation of a 1947 AEC Regal I Chassis Cab
By Mr Reno Abela of Cancu Zejtun. It was today removed from a field where it was
half buried in rubble in preparation for its transport to the plating shop for dismantling
and cleaning. The photo shown is the Regal standing outside the offices of Cancu.
The vehicle although a classic to enthusiasts never had a working life in Malta and
other than the deterioration and vandalism over several decades it remains largely as it
arrived. More information to follow.
19 Aug 2008
NEW TRUSTEE
We have pleasure in confirming the appointment of Mr. Peter Skerry as a further
Trustee to our organization. Peter maybe better known as the Resident Correspondent
of the Buses Worldwide publication, the quarterly 'Maltese Transport News' and his
contribution to the excellent UK website CCMV promoting the Maltese heritage of
old commercial vehicles on our islands. Specifically he has already been instrumental
in negotiating with vehicle donors and in lease agreements for other vehicles we hope
to display in the future.
Bedford TK Fire Engine rescued from the scrapheap.
Following a tip off from the Civil Protection Department (who were called out to fight a fire in the vicinity), George Said went to have a look at a field and a number of vehicles residing in it. A meeting with the field’s owner led to a recce the following Saturday by the rest of the team. >>read more
1 June 2008
Philip de Domenico - An Appreciation
It is with great sadness that we hear of the passing away of our dear friend Philip de Domenico. Philip was a great collector of British militaria, and especially of Second World War vehicles. He was well known in the exhibition and rally scene in Malta and it was always a great pleasure to see his big friendly smile right by his treasured wartime Willys during such events. Philip was a fountain of knowledge when it came to British wartime equipment and he was, although Maltese, a true Englishman at heart! Philip was one of the driving forces behind local vehicle and militaria preservation. He will be very sadly missed by all of us. Our sincere condolences go to his wife Victoria and to his children Simon and Jonathan.
The Board of Trustees