Fire Engines Photos

These started life as ATVs converted to canteen vans for reformed AFS in late 40s/ early50s

Added by Neal Glover on 26 March 2023.

The Austin K2 was indeed a very versatile unit. Apart from its original role as an ATV, it was adapted to all kinds of roles both during WWII and by independent fire brigades afterwards. Because they were numerous, newish and had a useful carrying capacity, they continued with many brigades as towing tenders, with the addition of a water tank and first aid hose reel system. But others rapidly became emergency tenders, foam tenders, BA tenders, general purpose utility vans, mobile workshops , hose wagons, maintenance vehicles and - as illustrated here - canteen vans. There are no records of any ice ream trucks, but just about everything else!

Added by Rob Johnson on 26 March 2023.

As the new owner of this vehicle I'm trying to gather the history behind this wagon. Built in 1941, probably starting out as a ATU or a ATV with NFS in 1942 in the E & C area. later into the NFS when it was reformed. Not sure when it became a Mobile canteen or where it was stationed. Any info most welcome.

Added by Paul Gasson on 19 June 2025.

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