BUF started (VBCW)

AS you can see this is a 20mm Austin Utility effeminately known as a "Tilley". This is the 1936 version of which approximately 300 were built. They are so widely loved and collected around 160 of those 300 are still in existence. Granted many of those a wrecks but there are some really nicely restored versions. The "Tilley" saw both commercial and military service and thus I think makes a very nice addition to VBCW setting.

This figure is By Frontline Wargaming as is 1/72nd scale. I have added British Union of Fascists (BUF) markings to the doors as well as front and rear panels. Many of the commercial "Tilleys" had an enclosed rear pick up van section, but this one has a canvas tilt. The model paints up very well and has the feel of something very useful in real life, but when the fighting starts will no doubt get squashed like a bug.

I needed to get some VBCW figures done after my spray debacle just to get back in the saddle. While I work out exactly  what I need from Tim at IT Miniatures . I have some ideas and will send him an order through in the next few days. What I do know is that the two main forces involved will be Anglican League (AL) and British Union of Fascists (BUF) as they are the two most active factions locally. The planned game will most likely be part of the "Kent Campaign" briefly mentioned in the source book which concerns the BUF marching on Canterbury held by the AL. The campaign was halted at the river Medway. so that gives non VBCW players a tiny insight into what's going on.

The "Tilley" Needed something to transport. I have used some SHQ 20mm figures early war British Expeditionary Force. The majority of the figures and vehicles used in the game will be Frontline and IT but I will need to use a few others to flesh the ranks out. As I already had these It made sense to use them. So the "Tilley" carries 4 troops, a commander, and 3 other ranks. Their planned function is as a rapid reaction team. Armed with a medium mortar and a Boyd's anti-tank rifle they should be able to deal with a wide range of threats.

On the smaller pictures you can see BUF armbands and "Lightning Flash" insignia. They are all wearing Black tunics which is common in the BUF, but not compulsory. The commanding officer also has a black helmet which signifies him as something different from the Other Ranks. I have yet to fix where these troops come from, or any other details as that will depend on the scenario we actually end up playing.

That's it for today, thanks for reading. Hope you found something of interest and I will post again on Friday. Til then keep calm and roll some dice.
All the best Clint