A Bedford J2 with a Remarkable History
Our Bedford J2, registration UVE 593K, has a fascinating history spanning more than five decades, from its early days transporting staff for the National Blood Transfusion Service to an appearance in British cinema.
First entering service in July 1972, this distinctive Bedford vehicle has passed through several owners and periods of preservation before joining the A D Rains Coaches vintage collection in Brinkworth, Wiltshire.
Today, it forms part of our collection of classic British vehicles available for special occasions and events.
Early Years with the National Blood Transfusion Service
The Bedford J2 began its working life in July 1972 with the National Blood Transfusion Service in Cambridge.
Rather than operating as a conventional public service bus, it was used to transport staff.
Vehicles like this played a practical role in supporting organisations and their day-to-day activities, providing transport for employees and other operational requirements.
This connection with the health service gives the Bedford J2 an interesting background that sets it apart from more traditional passenger coaches.
A Changing Life Through Different Owners
After its early service in Cambridge, the Bedford J2 passed through several owners and operators.
In June 1982, it moved to Reynolds of Caister, Norfolk.
By August 1999, the vehicle was with Dunkley & Field of Coulsdon, during a period associated with its preservation.
It subsequently passed to Field of Chertsey before moving to Whiteside of Wimborne in December 2010.
In February 2012, the Bedford J2 joined Griffiths, trading as A D Rains Coaches, in Brinkworth.
Each change of ownership forms part of the vehicle’s journey from a working staff bus to a preserved example of British transport history.
Featured in Made in Dagenham
One of the most memorable chapters in the Bedford J2’s history is its appearance in the British film Made in Dagenham, released in 2010.
The film tells the story of women working at Ford’s Dagenham plant who campaigned for equal pay in 1968.
Their actions became an important part of the wider movement towards equal pay legislation in Britain.
Crossing the Picket Line
Our Bedford J2 appeared in a scene depicting a vehicle crossing the picket line.
Its period appearance made it suitable for a production recreating the atmosphere of Britain during the late 1960s.
This film appearance adds another interesting chapter to the vehicle’s history, connecting it with a story about British industrial relations and social change.
Preservation and British Transport Heritage
Many classic commercial vehicles have survived because of the efforts of owners and enthusiasts who recognised their historical value.
The Bedford J2 is an example of a vehicle that continued to have a useful life long after its original working role had ended.
Its history includes service with the National Blood Transfusion Service, subsequent ownership by transport operators, preservation and a role in film production.
Together, these experiences make it an interesting part of the A D Rains Coaches collection.
The Bedford J2 Today
Today, UVE 593K remains part of our vintage vehicle collection in Brinkworth, Wiltshire.
Its distinctive Bedford styling and compact proportions give it a very different character from the larger Leyland coaches in our fleet.
For enthusiasts, it represents an interesting surviving example of British commercial vehicle history.
For those planning a special occasion, it offers the opportunity to include a classic vehicle with a story extending well beyond ordinary passenger transport.
Enquire About Hiring Bedford J2 – UVE 593K
If you’re interested in hiring our Bedford J2 for a wedding, heritage event, special celebration or group occasion, we’d be pleased to discuss your requirements.
Please let us know your preferred date, journey details and approximate passenger numbers so we can advise on availability and suitability.
Contact A D Rains Coaches to make an enquiry.
You can also explore our complete Vintage Coach Hire collection to discover the other classic vehicles in our fleet.