Handsworth Dairies Wales and Edwards Milk Truck DOG 639C

Shrewsbury-based Wales & Edwards was particularly associated with building three-wheelers. Stability was not a problem as milk floats do not move fast and their greater manoeuvrability was useful in cities with their many cul-de-sacs.

Production began in 1951 and continued for over 40 years. There were three sizes in the range, this being the middle one. This style of cab, built in glass fibre, was introduced in 1956 and remained in production until replaced by a new design in1970.

Handsworth Dairies bought the first of many W & E trucks in 1954, DOG 639C entering service in July 1965. It is displayed in its original cream and maroon colours but carries the Birmingham Dairies trading name adopted around 1968. DOG 639C retained these colours until its retirement in 1983 when it was repainted yellow prior to becoming a yard truck at the Selly Park depot.

Preservation

DOG 639C was donated to the museum in November 1986 and a major restoration was carried out between 2007 and 2009. Its glass fibre cab was largely useless so parts of two more were used to make one good cab. The cab you see is basically five pieces glued together!