When the Regimental Association was given notice to quit the Redoubt Fortress by Eastbourne Borough Council, we were faced with removing General Von Arnim’s staff car along with the rest of the Museum collection.
The Invicta Military Vehicle Restoration Society were keen to become involved, and in 2016 a loan agreement was signed with them to strip and remove the vehicle and to restore it to full working order, so it could be displayed at military shows. The Society hoped to recover their costs by commercial ventures such as film work.
Sadly, due to the pandemic of the last two years, the financial situation of the Society deteriorated to the point where they could no longer continue with the project. The Regimental Association have been in negotiation with them regarding the return of the vehicle and we are delighted to report that these have now been completed and on Monday 20 December 2021, the Regimental Association Museum team recovered the vehicle which has now been returned to the collection, and is in safe storage.
The vehicle is 95% complete as it was at the surrender in 1943 and in full running order (there are only 3 surviving working models in the world). The vehicle markings and tactical signage still needs applying, and sadly the canvas hood requires replacing as the original disintegrated when it was removed from the Redoubt.
Donations through the web page are always gladly received, and these funds are directed towards the museum collection, of which the staff car is a significant part. Your generosity will help complete the vehicle.
