Toad brake vans
 

Just been looking at photos of GWR brake vans. I see that each van's home base is painted on the side plus RU eg Hayle RU. What does RU mean?

Hi everyone. I'm still finding my way around and forgot to introduce myself before my post on Toad brake vans.
Despite my "name" I am 100% British but have lived and worked in Lisbon, Portugal for more years than I care to remember.
Born and bred on the Wirral, i am particularly interested in the GWR/WR, especially S. Devon and Cornwall where we spent summer holidays. Hence my particular post.
RU = Railway U.....?
Any one got an idea?

RU = return urgent ?

RU- could be resrticted use to the location the van is allocated to IE used for trip work at that locale,also could be allocated for maintenance at the location shown on the vehicle ?

Found this on another website re "toad" brake vans:-

Most Toads carried the name of their home depot on the side. The GWR had a practice of allocating Toads to fixed runs, allowing the allocated guards to build up experience on a particular route, and hence increase safety.

I'm thinking that vehicles like brake vans were either Common Use or Restricted Use. Maybe that's where the "RU" comes in.

Hello and welcome from me too. I see you are from the Wirral. I have a great interest in the Liverpool overhead railway. It was a fascinating construction, and a great pity it isno longer there.
Anyway enjoy the forum and look forward to your posts
Cheers
Phil

Welcome to the Forum Portinhol. I am almost certain that RU stands for Restricted Use hence the name of the place the Toad was allocated to.

Best wishes,

John H-T.