I'll try and keep this thread on topic but firstly thanks for the kind words guys.

Tim,the bed wood is Exterior grade Marine ply 8'x4'x3/4" it's just a tad shy on the width but I supported it underneath with large repair washers along the side angle strips.
It's had 5 coats of walnut marine varnish and has aleady been christened by our beautiful spring weather.i.e. Rain,snow frost etc,it seems to be holding up.
Like I say it's purely a temporary measure.
I'm also planning on adding some bed strips,probably in aluminium or stainless to complete 'the look' as it might be a while before I can get the correct timber and strips.
You're quite correct about the climate as well,it should really be called the Wet coast!

1950 Chevy Advance Design 3100 in Scotland
In the Stovebolt Gallery
More pix on Flickr.
I've definately got this truck thing in my blood ... my DNA sequence has torque settings
"Of all the small nations of this earth,perhaps only the ancient Greeks surpass the Scots in their contribution to mankind" Winston Churchill.