Series IIA: 88" Hard Top (1967)
We are not sure why peoples' eyes are so readily drawn to this vehicle. It is possibly simply down to her vibrant colour, but more likely it is the sheer quality of the restoration that has gone in to bringing this mid 60's Series IIA to represent an iconic British statement. What may surprise is that this is largely the work of a renowned Italian Land Rover enthusiast.
This is a regular Series IIA 88" hard top powered by the 72 bhp 2.25 Diesel engine that was introduced with this model. Naturally the livery and sign writing are spot on to represent the Land Rovers that were the workhorse of the Royal Mail in rural corners of Britain. We have resisted putting a 'fluffy black and white cat' on the front passenger seat as Jess didn't start working for the Post office until 1981. Much of PKH's character comes from the eyebrow windscreen shade which gives it such a purposeful appearance.
Such Land Rover's were the vehicle of choice of the Post Office for regular deliveries in the remoter parts of the UK. Towards the end of their period of duty, some of these Land Rovers got re-purposed as recovery vehicles for the regular delivery fleet.
This vehicle was discovered In Italy by a well known Italian Land Rover enthusiast who set about producing this vision of the past, Luckily for us, in more recent years, JLR Classics secured this remarkable example, bringing her back to the UK. You see before you the result. The guys at JLR Classics enjoyed telling us that, from the moment it arrived, this vehicle was the eye-turner in their workshop and showroom, outshining both the classic Range Rovers and swanky E-Types that surrounded her.
DVLA is not so accommodating nowadays. Once exported, a vehicle loses its original registration number. They were resistant to our remonstrations for the original number to be re-issued. So this vehicle has two number plates. When exhibited, you are likely to view this vehicle sporting the original number of its working life (OYB 754F). However it has to don another age-relevant number when we venture onto the highway.
In view of her looks you will not be surprised to learn that 'PKH' is not shy of the camera. It still works today as one of our vehicles available for corporate hire, photoshoots and exhibitions.
Phew. We have got to the end of this piece without mentioning the name "Pat"!
Part of:
Series II/IIA
Working Rovers
The Collection
Vehicle Owner: Land Rover Heritage Collection
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