Original ATS / WRAC Dispatch Rider's Breeches

An original pair of Auxiliary Territorial Service or Women's Royal Army Corps dispatch riders breeches.

A more suitable replacement for slacks was introduced for women serving in the ATS during the early part of the Second World War and were labeled 'Knickerbockers, Serge. Motor Drivers A.T.S'. They were of a different pattern to these which were not made from bedford cord and slightly different in design. This pair bear the letter 'O' above the War Department acceptance stamp which either denotes 1942 or 1955. 

The breeches are made from a khaki green coloured bedford cord and feature suede reinforcement patches to the inside of each leg. The calf fastens with laces and the top of the breeches fastens at the sides as is common with ladies clothing from this period. The buttons are green coloured vegetable ivory (plastic) examples as used on wartime and post war British military clothing. Two welt pockets are located to the front of the garment and are set at an acute angle to the waist band. 

When laid flat the breeches measure - 

Waist - 13"
Hips - 19 1/2"
Rise - 15 1/2"
Rear rise - 19 1/2"
Inside leg - 20 1/2"
Calf - 6 1/2"
Cuff - 6 1/2"

The breeches are in good condition with no real signs of previous wear or use. They are very fresh and display well as can be seen in the pictures. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that this is a vintage workwear piece which has some flaws commensurate with age. 

A nice original period item which could suit a reenactor or fill a gap in a collection.