HCC LD Wadham Serene 252 FCG.

You will no doubt recall that the county 'Serene Model' LD's were larger than the Wadham GRP type.

The drop loading gear had a lot more chrome work with a large loading tray, which meant 'transverse loading' rather than 'end on'.

Also, until the Ford Transit's and BMC EA's arrived (1971-2) the horns were electric (fitted behind the grille) on Hampshire vehicles.

252 FCG entered service in 1962. - 427 FHO (same make & model of vehicle) was taken out of service in 1971 and acquired by St John Ambulance at 'Lee on the Solent'.

At the end of the seventies the vehicle was still in quite good condition and very solid, however, the head gasket needed doing and it required a new radiator.

Hence, it was disposed of in 1980 and replaced with a ex-Hampshire Transit ECG 95K (ex-Fareham Stn).

Thanks to Ron Lilly for the photo and information.