76AK013 Oxford Diecast Austin 3 Way Van Wynns

WYNNS was established in Newport, Monmouthshire, in 1863. Its founder, Thomas Wynn was originally employed on the railways, but soon saw a need for an improved "onward distribution" system after goods were unloaded from the trains. Using a fleet of horses and carts, he transported goods that were delivered directly to Newport by rail and soon formed an association with a local flourmill, delivering flour to bakeries and shops in the local valleys. An association that carried on until well into the 1950s, when the mill had to close.
After the death of Thomas Wynn in 1878, his 15 year-old son, Robert Wynn (who later gave his name to the company) took over the business with the help of his eldest sister, Emma. The business continued to grow and Robert saw the possibilities for heavy haulage as the steel works in Newport were developed. In 1890 he built a boiler wagon capable of carrying 40 tons of heavy machinery with the propulsion still provided by up to 48 horses.
The K8 (3 Way) Van commenced production in 1947 and the van cost £535. It earned the name 3-Way due to the door configuration. To assist loading and unloading, it featured double doors on the near and offside, as well as opening near doors. With a payload of 25 cwt and a short wheelbase, it proved a very nippy vehicle for delivery purposes. The van was discontinued in 1954, by which time over 26,500 had been manufactured.
This little K8 is shown in the WYNNS livery and carries the registration EDW 640.