Original WW2 Canadian Battledress Trousers - 33rd Tank Brigade

An original pair of Canadian made Battledress trousers which belonged to 15927 Brigadier C H Montague O.B.E. who served with the Royal Tank Corps during the interwar period as well as during WW2 when it had become the Royal Tank regiment. He was the officer commanding 33rd Tank Brigade from December 1942 until March 1944 whilst they were operating Churchill tanks. I have not been able to uncover where he went in 1944 but the family believe he was part of the party which liberated Belsen concentration camp which suggests he was stationed in North West Europe following his transfer and the subsequent landings in France during 1944. 

This pattern of trousers was introduced at the beginning of the Second World War and saw widespread issue with Canadian troops throughout the conflict. Many British soldiers, particularly officers, also wore Canadian made battledress if they could get it as it was perceived to be of a higher quality than British made battledress. In cut it closely follows the British 'Battledress, Serge' issued at the beginning of the war. It is however made from a darker, greener shade of serge and features Canadian pattern buttons.

These examples have been heavily worn and were almost certainly used as a 'work' pair. The First Field Dressing pocket has been removed and the map pocket has also been taken off and moved to patch the leg at the knee. There is a large area of wear to the right need also. 

Inside the trousers the original markings are still present and state the size as No.10. The Canadian War Department broad arrow marking is also present. 

The trousers will suit a 34" waist. When laid flat they measure -

Waist - 17"
Inside leg - 31"

The trousers are in heavily worn condition which is reflected in the price. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that it is a vintage, pre-owned item which may have small issues commensurate with age. 

A well worn pair which have wartime history.6

This is a vintage item which is 'sold as seen'