1946 Austin K2 to Join Collection

The Society is pleased to announce a further aquisition to enhance its collection, in the form of a 1946 Austin K2 2 1/2 ton dropside lorry.

The lorry is being aquired to serve two purposes - firstly, to improve and expand the growing recreation of a rural goods yard at Holt and to give the North Norfolk Railway's Junior Club a project which they can make their own, through which basic engineering skills can be taught.

The 2 1/2 ton machine was produced in great numbers between 1939 and 1949, being used widely by coal, timber and builders' merchants. Built in Austin's BMC Longbridge works in Birmingham, they were known asBirmingham Bedfordsdue to the similar appearance to the contemporary Bedford "0" series vehicle.

It is powered by a 3.5 litre six cylinder petrol engine of 27 RAC horse power. With a maximum speed of 35mph, the Austin K2 was often found working local deliveries. Various bodies were fitted - vans, chained flat beds (for breweries) and even some bus bodies for the smaller operator. The type aquired is a dropside type, which makes for easy loading, but ensures once full, the load is secure.

It is planned to undertake some works to the lorry, which include respraying and some minor mechanical works. It is intended that the latter will be undertaken by the Junior Club. A longer term project associated with the lorry will look to construct a Bolton & Paul style corrugated steel garage to compliment the Holt railway yard site.

The lorry is expected to arrive at the North Norfolk Railway in the new year. It will be in storage during the winter months. During the running season, it is intended to provide 'working museum' style displays with the van, along with use during NNR Special Events such as the Vintage Transport and 1940s weekends.