1957 Bedford CA Van

More details and pictures to follow shortly..First introduced in 1952, the Bedford CA was a light delivery van built on a separate chassis with production continuing through to 1969. The chassis allowed specialist bodywork to be fitted such as the Dormobile and Campervan conversions and was offered in either short or long wheelbase with carrying capacities of 10cwt, 12cwt or 15cwt. The basic van, with its two opening rear doors and sliding front doors, despite being the mainstay utility vehicle of the period, is an uncommon sight on our roads nowadays.

This Bedford CA is 1 of 2 specially prepared vans for the award-winning Alan Bennett film 'The Lady in the Van' starring Dame Maggie Smith. The van offered, was purchased as a fully restored vehicle by the current owner and was subsequently distressed to mimic the true story of Miss Mary Shepherd, who resided in a Bedford CA van on Alan Bennett's driveway for over 10 years. The van is featured extensively throughout the film and is towed away and even painted by Dame Maggie on camera. In addition, it features in the title of this classic piece of British cinematography directed by the National Theatre's Nicholas Hytner.

The van itself is presented in good order with excellent rust-free bodywork, hand-painted Maggie Smith paintwork, a rebuilt engine, 3-speed manual transmission and electrics reported to be in good working order.

A unique opportunity, this 1957 Bedford CA is an early split-screen example of an increasingly sought-after classic British van and has genuine big-screen credentials to match. Any fan of Alan Bennett, Dame Maggie Smith or Bedford vans is encouraged to come and view this important piece of film history at the NEC restoration show.