Description

1952 Morris Cowley Van

Incredibly rare survivor; offered from a deceased estate; owned since the mid 1960s; thought to have had only two owners in total; local car; in need of restoration

No Reserve

Based on the Morris Oxford Saloon, these MCV’s were first introduced in 1950. By 1956, approximately 30,000 had been produced. The majority were dispersed to countries such as Canada, Australia and New Zealand and used commercially for farms and small businesses. After being worked hard for many years, it is thought by the club that less than 200 still survive and possibly only 30 in van format. One must highlight that these figures are worldwide so this particular Cowley Van might be one of only a very small handful indeed left in the UK.  
It should be highlighted that although it has survived and is still registered with the DVLA, it will need an extensive restoration before returning to the road. The engine does turn but it has been stood for a considerable time.  
The  registration appears to have been first issued in Exeter, although it is highly likely that the local owner (now sadly passed away) has had the van within his family since new after being passed down from his father. He once took it for a very long drive apparently, visiting every corner of the UK, no doubt taking the odd kip in the back. Apart from this we understand it was only used for local short journeys until being laid up, so one can assume, but not guarantee, the mileage showing is genuine at only 30,700. The executor of the estate fondly remembers collecting chip butties from the local chippy in Leominster in the early 60s so it has certainly been in the area since then.  
An opportunity to obtain a good project to get on with over lockdown, you will need a few patient spare hours but any necessary parts will be low cost and once finished you will have a very rare van that will be admired by every Morris enthusiast at club meetings and shows across the country.

Further information - toby.service@brightwells.com