Enthusiasts have gathered in the city to celebrate the commercial vehicle’s 70^th anniversary.

The response the humble Morris J-type van elicits during a display like the one we saw in Bendigo today is part of the vehicle’s appeal for enthusiasts like Peter Bateman.

“It’s amazing how many smiles you get from the complete cross-section of humanity,” he said.

From people reminiscing about the days when seeing one of the vans trundling down the street meant goods and services like freshly baked cakes and bread were on their way, to the children amused by the colourful vintage vehicles parked along the Bendigo Town Hall, Mr Bateman saw and heard it all this morning.

Related: Morris J-type vans celebrate 70th birthday

The Morris J-type van was launched during the Commercial Motor Show at Earl’s Court in London 70 years ago this month.

Many of the vehicles Mr Bateman and his fellow enthusiasts brought with them to Bendigo to mark the milestone had been restored.

However, a so-called ‘barn find’ seemed to attract the attention of many walking past the display.

Mr Bateman said the van was to be restored in the style of the Harrington’s Bread livery, in the bakery’s trademark green hue and with original Harrington’s stickers on the side.

The vehicles might have been stationary today, but the enthusiasts are planning on giving them a stretch tomorrow morning.

Mr Bateman said the plan was to assemble at the Bendigo Railway Station from about 11am, departing for the Morris Minor Garage in Harcourt about 11.30am.

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