Users Story - Jonathan's Morris Minor LCV

We spoke to Jonathan about his lovely old Morris Minor LCV.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR VEHICLE.

In May 1953 Morris Minor LCV production started. In June '53 the WTW620 was built and dispatched July '53. It is the oldest surviving UK van and 3rd oldest in the world. Believed to have been sent to an estate belonging to the Queen. It was then given, or was in the ownership of, the mechanic that looked after the vehicles on the estate. Parked up in 1963/4 and purchased in 2014 by a friend.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU OWNED IT?

Since December 2022, I took on looking after the van and decided I needed to drive it to shows rather than use a trailer. Four new tyres, a bit of wiring, and a brake check, and not forgetting a good coat of Lanoguard underneath we were ready for the road. In March 2023 the first ever MOT was passed. 800 miles covered since then to many shows and car meets.

DOES YOUR CAR HAVE A NAME!!

The van has been given the name 'William Thatcher' but we just call it 'The Old Van' at home.

HAVE YOU ALWAYS LOVED CARS? HOW DID THAT BEGIN?

I have been it the motor trade running my own restoration business for 18 years. It all started when I finished a restoration off for my parents.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST CAR?

My first car was a 1957 2dr saloon Morris Minor, restored and sold 22 years ago, so that I could purchase my minor pickup.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE ROAD TRIP?

A trip to chateau Imptney for MMOC National Rally, and a good drive to Coventry for the LCV registers 70th anniversary rally.

CAN WE SEE YOU AT CAR SHOWS?

The van can be seen at shows mainly around Shropshire.

...AND THE FINAL QUESTION - WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM VEHICLE AND WHY?

I have many projects of my own but my dream car, or the one I would like is a Volvo Amazon Estate, mainly as I can't transport my family in the LCVs!

If you'd like to have your vehicle's story featured, please get in touch.  

Email: info@lanoguard.co.uk

Phone: 0330 100 1959