Oxford OO Ford 400E Van Royal Mail

The Royal Mail fleet is still one of the largest fleets of vehicles in the UK. The use of mailvans expanded during the 1920’s and 1930’s, initially Fords, then Morris before a whole variety of other vehicles were used. Ford had been synonymous with commercial vans, but took a great step forward in the light van evolution in the mid 1950s when Ford of Britain introduced the Ford Thames 400E. Over 18,7000 were made over the ensuing 10 years, before it was superseded in 1965.

This model is in a red Royal Mail livery and has the registration 987 EXU. A circular Post Office stamp with No. 75224 is printed on the nearside cabin door and Ford Thames Diesel lettering appears above the black radiator, as well as across the rear doors. It certainly deserves a place in a 1950s slot in your Royal Mail vehicle time line.