In real life the TK Box Van was produced from 1959 to 1986 under Bedford ownership and then between 1988 and 1992 under new owners AWD. It was Bedford’s answer to the Ford D cargo van and was used extensively in all areas where commercial and military vehicles were needed. Its versatility saw it deployed as a box van, flatbed, troop carrier, tipper and recovery vehicle and it was a favourite with the GPO and fire brigades. It appeared either as a rigid truck or as a separate light tractor unit where it could be attached to a semi-trailer. The Bedford TK was assembled in Dunstable by Bedford (General Motors) and was also manufactured overseas in South Africa, New Zealand and Australia. The TK was two-wheel drive with a four-speed manual gearbox.  Like many Bedford vehicles over the years, the TK was a regular workhorse, being both strong and reliable.