Original 1964 Dated British Army Overall Green Trousers - Size 3

An original pair of 'Trousers Overall, Green' which were made in 1964.

These trousers belonged to J. S. Ralli who was an officer in the British Army. He was commissioned into the Rifle Brigade in 1958 and had a long career in the military. He went on to the Army Air Corps and also served with the Gurkhas amongst other roles.

This pattern of trousers was designed to be worn with the matching 'Jacket Overall, Green' and was intended to replace the Denim Battledress issued during the Second World War and throughout the 1950s. This uniform was introduced in around 1962 and was the forerunner to the polyester lightweight trousers which saw extensive issue from the 1970s through to the 1990s. 

The trousers were designed to be worn as an overall for working but were also worn for field and combat roles in place of the DPM trousers or 1950 pattern trousers with cross belt waist. They offered a lighter weight alternative to the far heavier 1960 pattern uniform during the 1960s and 1970s. 

The trousers are made from a green coloured cotton drill and feature green-grey coloured plastic buttons as were often fitted to British military clothing during this period. Straight slash pockets are located to each hip and belt loops are positioned around the waist. The fly fastens with buttons and more buttons are located around the inside of the waistband to which braces can be attached. A large patch pocket is located to the rear.

The trousers retain their original label which is still bright and legible. It bears the title of 'Trousers, Overalls, Green' below which is the size of 3. The maker's name of 'H.M.P 59' is present which denotes Lowdham Grange Prison. The 1964 date and the War Department broad arrow are also present.

The original owner has had the waistband taken in which is masked by the seams but can be seen in the pictures when studied carefully. Due to this the trousers will fit a 32" waist depending on desired fit and when laid flat they measure - 

Waist - 16"
Rise - 15"
Rear rise - 17"
Inside leg - 29 3/4"
Outside leg - 41 1/2"
Cuff - 8 1/4"

The trousers are in good condition with some signs of wear and age. They are still totally wearable but please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that these are a pair of pre-owned, vintage trousers which may have small issues commensurate with age. 

A good example of this pattern of trousers in wearable condition.