A request for pictures and memorabilia relating to Scammell Lorries from the proprietor of the Highwayman pub in West Watford has prompted several readers to write in with memories, images and clarifications on the Highwayman transporter.

Arthur How, of Abbots Langley, wrote: As a member of the drawing office at Scammel Lorries during the early 1960's I am writing to point out that the Scammell Highwayman was never a tank transporter. It was introduced in the 1960 as a 4x2 motive unit for use with semi-trailers, as an articulated vehicle. It had, if my memory serves me correctly, the first forward control cab produced by Scammell for HGVs (now LGVs) and was of traditional coachbuilt construction.

"At this time Scammell, along with other commercial vehicle manufacturers and Standard Triumph cars, was part of the Leyland Motors Group. The Italian stylist Michelotti had been engaged to design the body of the new Triumph Herald car and Leyland's chief executive, Sir Donald Stokes, brought Michelotti to Scammell to re-style the Highwayman cab. This resulted in a glass fibre product, with a series of ribs at the front, which was very elegant and attractive and heralded a new method of cab production for Scammell."

John Fadelle, of Abbots Langley, added further detail on the Scammell Highwayman. He writes: "As a Scammell historian I was pleased to see that the Highwayman is regaining its original name. During my time at the works the bar was always decorated with a few Scammell pictures.

"However, the Scammell Highwayman was never supplied as a tank transporter as it was not heavy enough nor intended for use off-road; the biggest load it was designed to carry on its trailer was about 32 tons.

"It was developed in the post-war years for general goods work and was particularly popular with the oil companies, as an articulated tanker for deliveries to filling stations. Some of the heavier versions intended for carrying machinery were operated by Hallett, Silberman and Co out of their depot at Greenhill Crescent, Watford.

"The last Highwayman was made in (I think) 1971 and very few remain in active service. However, Carters retain a few for transporting their steam fair."