Courier Vans are used for high security mail and parcels traffic, accompanied en route. A number of Brake Second Corridor (BSK) coaches were converted for the purpose. Rebuilding retained the lavatory, and the adjacent compartment, for the use of the courier. The windows of the second compartment were plated over, and the third compartment was completely removed and a roller shutter door fitted in the bodyside at that point. Before rebuilding, this coach was BSK 35197.
The first Courier Van conversion was carried out at Cardiff Cathays in October 1986.
K. Parkin, British Railways Mark 1 Coaches, Penryn 1991.
