OXFORD 1/76 Bedford RL Parachute Regiment OXFORD

OXFORD 1/76 BEDFORD RL PARACHUTE REGIMENT

Our Bedford RL warhorse, which Bedford manufactured from the mid 1950s to the early 1970s, makes its third appearance as a military vehicle, deployed with the legendary Parachute Regiment. Dressed in deep green with a green- grey roof and mid green canvas sides, the vehicle sits on a black chassis with black interior and deep green wheels. The lettering on the sides is in white and includes the famous Paras badge – the Pegasus wings with a fully extended parachute in the middle. Their slogan Spearhead of the Infantry, printed in white along both sides of the RL body encapsulates the Regiment’s role perfectly. Our model carries a military registration plate 19 FG 62. Note too, for this release, the addition of a roof hatch and side boards.

The Regiment was formed in 1941 on the recommendation of Winston Churchill, who appreciated the daring early wartime successes of this unique arm of the British military. Subsequent official recognition saw its status as the airborne infantry regiment comprising four battalions – 1^st Battalion UK Special Forces; 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th Battalions Airborne Infantry. It has been and continues to be at the forefront of key British Army operations, putting into practice their regimental motto ‘Ready for Anything’. Known colloquially as the Paras, their distinctive uniform includes the famous maroon beret and winged pale blue and white sleeve badge. The Parachute Regimental mascot, a Shetland pony ‘Pegasus’ is always seen out on parade on ceremonial occasions.