WW2 MkV* Trade Pattern Bicycle - RAF Westcott, c.1943

This is a rare Mark V* Trade Pattern bicycle and a genuine, useable vehicle of World War 2 having been looked after by one family for the past 40 years, as well as keeping some of the Cold War's darkest secrets at a UK government facility.

Ordered by the Ministry of Supply, the company of Hercules supplied 7,500 bicycles, while at the same time Phillips and Elswick Hopper were asked by the Ministry to help Hercules by supplying critical parts to make that order happen - official ledgers document these facts; presumably Hercules would have been unable to fulfil the contract without support. Built in 1943 this bicycle is typified by its austere finish as evidenced by the lack of chrome and featuring more blackened steel parts. When supplied, the bicycle would have been painted in a plain RAF blue-grey livery, which can be evidenced by the factory paint that remains on the 28 inch wheel rims. On acceptance by the Air Ministry, this particular bicycle was delivered to RAF Westcott - a strategic bomber base and the frontline hub for Operation Exodus, which repatriated 50,000 liberated POWs.

Now, postwar, the bike's history gets darker, as In 1946, the RAF base became the top-secret Guided Projectile Establishment. So secret was the location that it was omitted from OS maps, only appearing on aviation maps as a hazardous area for pilots to be aware of. Here, captured Nazi scientists worked alongside the British military, conducting highly dangerous tests on V1 and V2 rockets, the explosive Messerschmitt Komet rocket plane and volatile new fuel formulas. To confirm this, the bicycle bears the reference "UR 2732" and was further stamped on the frame "GPE 33" - marking this bike as essential airfield transport. On a sprawling test site where rocket fuel explosions were a lethal reality, a reliable bicycle wasn't just convenient; it was your fastest escape route to safety as discovered following the fatal accident resulting in the death of the German lead scientist. In 1947 a name change saw the base become the "Rocket Projectile Establishment", where government work continued until the 1990s.

Presented in riding order, this rare vehicle is in remarkable original condition, having had its frame repainted, likely during its service life while involved in Britain's space programme. Collectors now have an incredible, wide-open opportunity to undertake ongoing historic research as today, Westcott Venture Park in Buckinghamshire, still serves as a national centre for space propulsion, 5G communications and drone technology.

Collection only.

Code: 51905