Armoured Cars v. Pay Bandits
Page 37
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
VEH1CLES differing completely from the type usually used on security runs will be employed for a new service which has been started in Grays. Essex, to beat the payroll and snatch gangs. They are ex-W.D. armoured cars and are said to be virtually impregnable.
Behind the venture is Grays' oldest taxi and car hire firm, and already Essex and Kent police have shown considerable interest in the scheme.
Mr. Frank Williams, managing director of the firm, thought of the idea after seeing a model of an armoured vehicle. After prolonged negotiations he obtained some similar vehicles from the Ministry of Supply.
When we bought the vehicles," he explained, "they were useless for our needs because they had, open tops. On the other hand, the basic shells were immensely strong. some of the armour plate being up to an inch and a quarter thick, and we decided to match this strength with a specially built top of equal strength."
Now, in completed form, the vehicles weigh 31tons and are completely secure against attack. There is no glass to be broken and the vehicles can be driven on twin periscopes mounted in the roof.
If attack should come, then the vehicle --named the "Paladin" by its makers— holds a number of surprises for the marauders. To minimize for the occupants the effect of battering by other vehicles the entire driving compartment is lined with foam rubber up to 4 in. thick.
Safe-breaking Even if attackers did gain entry, they would have to break into a steel safe secured by a combination lock to get at valuables carried.
At the first hint of trouble prearranged counter-measures come into operation. Sprays saturate all money carried with indelible dye and other secret devices make things unpleasant for any attackers.
For several weeks now a prototype Paladin has been on trial in Essex and during demonstration has met with considerable approval, not Poly from the police but from industrialists anxious to safeguard their payrolls.
The Paladin bears the new ste.vice's crest and motto—"Noli obtundere tentare," meaning "Don't bother to try.