Before we get into the main event of this update a little admin, on the 5th and in preparation for our January Charter, I moved Wilbur, my 1968 Morris Minor Van to Overton. Carrying on board my completed sack barrows.

So here we go, this winter we are focusing on repairing all of the roofs on the serviceable vans as well as a few extras to keep us in check for 2026.

On the 7th Tim and Stu took a trip to Dudley to replenished our supply of lorry side curtain sheets. Our thanks goes to Teversham Motors once again for the loan of their van

On the 8th with 3 vans in the running shed I made a start on stripping the life expired felt on B761651, this came away with relative ease and after preparation of a former lorry curtain side it was placed on the roof.

This was then secured by the east end roof hoop and weighted at the west end over night.

On to the 9th and after the over night “stretch” the west end roof hoop was fitted and both ends trimmed.

The weights were then moved over the Centre of the doors pulling the sheet over the width of the van whilst the noggin retaining plates were refitted.

This left the four corners of the sheet to be secured, these were tucked under the roof stapled and trimmed.

Van one ready for paint.

On to this weekend, 15th and 16th, and after a little shuffling, including a move into the carriage and wagon shed, we have now started the winter project proper.

First up, B771300, receiving the same work as B761651 last weekend, felt roofing removed, roof hoops and noggin retaining strips removed however a little wood repair was needed to the north west corner.

B785122 also received the same treatment as its sisters however a little more woodwork is required.

Rotten wood was removed and Jason gave angle grinding a go for the first time, slitting corroded roof bolts.

Tim and Mark tackling the wood requirements manging to complete the North side.

Jason and I looked at sheeting B771300. Again, same as last weekend, furniture removed from the sheet, East end hoop fitted, sheet weighted and stretched, Noggin retainers fitted, West hoop fitted. Excess sheet trimmed and corners stappled.

Thats 2 ready for roof paint and a 3rd making strides towards the same.

Another reminder, out first event for 2026 is now on sale, We see BR Standard 2MT 78019 join us running as 78064, the last Standard 2 built. Lilibet, my Scarab will be in action as well as other vintage vehicles as we host our first evening shoot in Overton yard, more details and how to book is detailed on our events page:
https://nvrwagons.co.uk/courses-and-experiences/