The Royal Signals Museum welcomes Austin Champ restored by a National Serviceman who used it during training.
The Royal Signals Museum has welcomed the family of Mike Buckley (1937 - 2022) whose Austin Champ has been donated for public display. Having utilised the Champ throughout his period of National Service with the Royal Corps of Signals, when he served as a Cipher Telegraphist, Mike bought the vehicle in the 1970s.
Later taking a commission as a Detachment Commander in the Surrey Army Cadet Force, Mike oversaw the formation of the signalling section which was used to introduce cadets to radio and line communications. Due to his sympathetic restoration of the Champ, which includes working Larkspur radio sets and various antennas, as well as the distinctive blue and white signalling flag of the Corps, it was often used for training during annual camps.
Development of the Austin Champ started in 1947. Designed specifically for British and Commonwealth military use, its production aimed to replace an aging Jeep population and reduce dependency on foreign-manufactured vehicles. It features a Rolls-Royce engine under the bonnet, all-independent suspension, five forward and five reverse gears, as well as a built-in snorkel that allowed wading in water. The Austin Motor Company was awarded the contract to produce 15,000 vehicles at a converted aircraft factory in Birmingham.
Still in working order, Mike’s Austin Champ was driven onto Blandford Camp by his son, Paul Buckley. He was joined for the handover by his mother, Sheila Buckley, and his sister Ruth Brundle, as well as her children Rosie, Sam, and Joe.
Welcoming the donation, Adam Forty (Deputy Director of the Royal Signals Museum) said:
“Whilst I was sad to learn of Mike’s passing, it was a real joy to welcome his family to the Royal Signals Museum as we look to preserve the story of his service.
“His Austin Champ has been lovingly restored to working condition. In fact, the family recalled that Mike used the vehicle to drive Ruth to her wedding ceremony - what a way to arrive in style!
“A long-time friend to the Royal Signals Museum, Mike’s legacy gift will allow us to further illuminate stories of National Service in this important anniversary year.”
This year marks the 60th anniversary since the last National Serviceman left the armed forces. The Champ will go on display in the Museum’s upper gallery later this year.
ENDS
Notes about the Royal Signals Museum:
The Royal Signals Museum traces the fast-paced and complex history of the Royal Corps of Signals. The interactive displays at Dorset’s Museum of science and technology allow visitors to drive an armoured vehicle through a virtual landscape, direction find the enemy, set up a satellite network and practice Morse code. For more information, please visit www.royalsignalsmuseum.co.uk.
Picture copyright of Royal Signals Museum, 2023.
