Despatch Rider in Normandy: Airfix BSA M20

Compared to a lot of the models and figures that I’ve finished recently, or those remaining in the WIP drawers, this repurposing of an old Airfix motorbike was fairly quick!

While I was going through my bits box looking for figures and detritus for my dug in Beach Group, I came across this old chap. I say old, it came into my possession about 35 years ago when Carpet Wars (you can read about them on the blog here) were in full swing, and it was second hand then.

I based him up and then promptly forgot him as he was nudged down the WIP drawers by more exciting shiny things. I’d planned to use it as a test figure to practice on before buying some of the AB Motorcyclists/Despatch Riders.

DESPATCH RIDERS IN NORMANDY

From the first few hours of the assault on the beaches of Normandy, Despatch Riders (DRs) with their mechanical steeds were an important resource. Despatch riders were tasked with delivering critical messages, orders, and reports between headquarters, units, and commanders on the front lines. They were often exposed to enemy fire, challenging terrain, and adverse weather conditions, making their job incredibly dangerous and demanding. The success of military operations could depend on the DR’s ability to swiftly and accurately transmit information.

On the wargaming table they could be used for communications, part of a HQ, or just for cool factor.

A FAMILY CONNECTION

One of my Great Uncles was a DR following the British landings on Gold beach. He very rarely spoke of his experience. Regrettably now, all I remember is a story of how he had to sleep in ditches by the side of the road and doing his best to avoid booby traps and snipers.

BSA M20 MOTORCYCLE

It appears to be a BSA M20 motorcycle Airfix chose to model as part of the RAF Recovery Set. The BSA M20, manufactured by the Birmingham Small Arms Company, became a workhorse of the British Army during the war. Its rugged design, reliability, and maneuverability made it an ideal choice for despatch riders. With a 500cc side-valve engine and a top speed of around 65 mph (105 km/h), the M20 offered a balance between power and control, enabling riders to navigate the challenging terrain of Normandy.

BRINGING THE MODEL BACK TO LIFE

Once glued on an mdf lozenge, I followed my now trusty formula for basing and preparation for painting. Firstly I texture the base using Vallejo’s grey Pumice. I could use sand and PVA but I’ve found this quick and easy, less mess, and a little more forgiving on brushes when it comes to painting the base.

Next step is the usual Halfords Grey Primer applied by rattle can. Leave to dry overnight. I left it several weeks. I’ve then blocked in the main colours before an all over wash of Agrax Earthshade.

I’ve then followed my usual recipe for SCC15 for the motorcycle as found in one of my earlier posts here. The only change when painting the rider was to paint the boots Vallejo Chocolate Brown rather than black-grey as I do on British infantry.

A Nuln Oil wash to the engine areas and tyres, some highlighting, and then it was onto the usual Normandy recipe for the base.

DECALS

In between painting stages I’d been looking up photos of DR motorcycles in Normandy and it appears a fair few have the AoS stencilled on both sides of the tank. Now the tank is rather small in 1/76, so finding suitable decals was going to be tricky. Ideally I wanted 40 for an Infantry Division HQ or 79 for Provost (Military Police). 

Luckily Dan Taylor Modelworks came to the rescue! Going through my box of decals I found the remaining decals from the Sword Beach Vehicles set. A pair of 69s in white – that’ll do! 

So here’s the finished article, representing a DR of the Junior Infantry Brigade within a British Infantry Division. Just the ticket for 3rd Division on Sword Beach, or 43rd Wessex during the later stages of the Normandy campaign.

I’ve surprised myself at the result, I might just stick with this one now instead of the AB figures!