1939 BSA 498cc s.v.Model WD M20 Military Registration C 375615

Owner : Chris Davies, Portsmouth Civilian Registration 200 EBK  

This motorcycle was found in 1979 in Malta GC where it had been abandoned with several other wrecked vehicles when the British Army left the island. It cost £325 to purchase and transport back to the UK . It was displaying Malta Garrison Tac signs and Military Police number plates. The frame number was issued in 1939.

It was restored by Chris Davies, the present owner. Under 10 coats of desert sand paint was found the original gloss black. Under the Maltese Cross on the petrol tank was found the Desert Rat (Jerboa) Tac sign of 7 th Armoured Division. Under 'M P 4' on the number plate was the wartime vehicle number C 375615.  

It is probable that the motorcycle was requisitioned early in the war from a BSA dealer and sent directly to the Middle East theatre as no green or khaki paint was found. It took over 12 months to locate the many missing parts for the restoration and the search continues to this day.

Although originally restored in desert colours, the motorcycle was repainted in khaki for the 1984 Normandy Tour. As the owner is a former Royal Marines Policeman, it now depicts a Provost Company machine of 117 Royal Marines Infantry Brigade at Keil , Germany in 1945.