• Restored on the Channel 4 TV show ‘Find it, Fix it, Drive it’

• Support Vehicle for a Land speed record

• Historic Vehicle

The Morris LD Ambulance was introduced with a more compact design to save length so that the vehicle was easier to manoeuvre without losing valuable space behind the driver’s seat. There were three iterations of the van, with the final one receiving a more fuel efficient and powerful 2.2 litre 4-cylinder engine.

The vehicles became a popular choice for campervan conversions after they had finished their service years and has attained classic status.

RTE 242G can be seen being restored in 2019 on Channel 4 (More4) Season 1, Episode 4 of ‘Find it, Fix it, Drive it’. The show is still on the Channel 4 website and App to be seen by interested parties. In the episode we see the vehicle become part of history as it is restored for the purpose of serving as the support vehicle for a 500cc vintage motorcycle land speed record, the record was set at 115.6mph during the episode.

 After the event the vehicle came to the current keeper that intended to export the vehicle to a collector abroad, however, due to current market conditions, shipping prices have increased and so it has been decided to offer this piece of history for auction.

Prior to the show, the vehicle had received a previous conversion from Ambulance to campervan.

Supplied with a V5 document and printouts of the vehicle’s tax status, which is exempt and now classed as a historic vehicle.

The rear of the Race Support Vehicle is a blank canvas for the next owner to decide their own setup. Both front seats appeared in good condition for their age and were still supportive. An inner arch on the rear was either left unpainted after restoration or replaced, the future owner can decide whether they would like to colour match the cream of the one adjacent or go for a different look.

 The interior panelling appeared to be in good condition with superficial marks and scuffs but the owner was unaware of any damage to the interior. The rear fold out step was also functional and folded without hindrance.

During the restoration in 2019 the vehicle received new paint, this was a thorough job as can be seen in the TV episode, resulting in a fantastic finish that still presents in excellent condition today. All the windows were also replaced during the restoration and the owner advised everything functions, however, both front doors retaining straps will need replacing, currently, a trusty pair of cable ties are standing in, the hinges themselves appeared in good shape and doors swung open without issue.

Walking around the vehicle no deep scratches or obvious dents were noticed, the owner was unaware of any body panel that would require remedial work. The side railing would benefit from a clean and polish and the door handles were pitted on both sides but still functioned.

The vehicle has not been used regularly over the past 18 months but does fire up and the owner advised that as far as he is aware all the gears, the motor, and the electrics function.

He couldn’t see a reason why it couldn’t be driven away, although potential buyers may want to consider transporting the vehicle due to the extended period without use and lack of retaining straps for the driver’s and passenger’s door. A general look over of the vehicle shows tyres that have legal tread but are looking old.

Vehicles with such relevance as RTE 242G rarely get offered for sale. With the restoration work, connection to a land speed record, and TV feature this humble Morris Ambulance has become part of history and is not to be missed. Whether the vehicle is to be used to support future vintage land speed record attempts, kept as a show vehicle, or just enjoyed with friends and family there is no question that it is truly unique and will always have a story to tell.