Deliver the mail and more with Heljan's new PMVs for 'O'
Heljan’s latest additions to its acclaimed O gauge range brings to market one of British Railways’ most recognisable utility vehicles — the two-axle Parcels and Miscellaneous Van (PMV) or Covered Carriage Truck (CCT) as some were later recoded.
These latest ready-to-run models for the scale capture the rugged versatility of the original vehicles, while unlocking some of the more obscure liveries and uses seen by these vans, too!
The leftfield livery - post mainline duties, ADS4 under care and maintenance of BR's 'Mecchy' division carries this bright orange livery and 'Breakdown Packaging Van' lettering. Its contents? Most-likely wheel chocks, rail and locomotive jacks, track 'spreaders', 'packers' and a raft of lifting chains we'd imagine!
The PMV was a mainstay of Southern Railway’s non-passenger coaching stock, introduced in the 1930s to carry parcels, mail, newspapers, and perishable goods. Officially classified as 'Parcels Vans', they soon earned the nickname 'Utility Vans' for their widespread use across the Southern network and beyond. With a robust wooden body and distinctive end vents, the PMV became a familiar sight on dedicated parcels trains, or behind passenger services right through the steam and early diesel eras.
Heljan’s new O gauge model captures every nuance of the original design, from fine rivet detailing and accurate Southern-style livery options to its underframe components. Options include pre- and post-war liveries such as SR green, BR crimson, BR blue, with weathered versions available off the shelf, in addition to our wealth of customisation options, too, ensuring broad appeal to collectors and layout owners from the 1950s through to the 1980s (and beyond given a multitude of uses post-active service).
Sprung buffers and screw-link couplings are quite tactile. Factory-weathered examples like this BR crimson-liveried version offer a budget entry to better realism. For a more personalised customisation, look to our options upon checkout.
Ideal for branch lines, mainline expresses, or station yard scenes, these PMV vans add operational interest and authenticity to Southern-themed O gauge layouts.
Available now from our stock, don’t miss your chance to add a classic (that we'll happily customise if you like) to your discerning O gauge collection.
