This April, following a substantial restoration project, Hardy Signs was commissioned to supply and install customised graphics to a unique vintage vehicle in the Burton upon Trent.

The iconic ‘Barrel Van’, previously used to advertise the beers of the Everards Brewery, has been returned to its former glory by the volunteers at the National Brewery Centre.

The 1961 Austin Morris was originally commissioned for Whitakers of Halifax to market their Cock ‘o’ the North brand. It was then used for a Wine Company as a promotional vehicle finally ending its working days at Everards Brewery.

Having been forgotten in storage for many years it was rediscovered some four years ago and in need of repair. The vehicle volunteer group has now restored both the engine and the bodywork allowing Hardy Signs to apply the finishing touches with customised graphics.

Working closely with the NBC volunteers and the brand team at Everards – a suitable design and layout were established and the brightly coloured decals were produced.“The bespoke shape of this particular vehicle meant that we would need to use a vinyl wrap film” explained Scott Sudale of Hardy Signs Limited.

“Our experienced installers would need to allow for the curvature and the many fixtures and fittings on the surface – whilst maintaining a ‘hand-painted’ feel… the results are very impressive”.

“Everyone at the National Brewery Centre is delighted with the finished vehicle” added Vanessa Winstone, Collections Officer at the National Brewery Centre.“Hardy Signs’ expertise has been invaluable on the project – the vehicle now forms part of a fine collection of vintage vehicles related to the Brewing industry including land rovers, Model T Ford and a Leyland Beaver lorry.