Original 1943 Dated Civil Defence Air Raid Warden's Battledress Blouse

An original Civil Defence A.R.P 59A Austerity Pattern Rescue Party Battledress blouse dated 1943 and badged a Senior Warden.

This pattern of blouse was introduced in mid-1942 as an austerity measure and replaced the earlier pattern which did not have exposed buttons. Officially designated 'Blouses A.R.P 59A' this pattern was made from heavier wool and was intended for use with Rescue party workers (although this was not always the case as is borne out by the number of original non rescue party badged jackets I have had). The blouse features black plastic buttons and a steel waist belt buckle, typical of those used on battledress jackets manufactured in the mid-war period. 

The jacket comes complete with its original insignia which includes embroidered 'Warden' shoulder titles, Civil Defence breast badge and two rank stripes which denote that the original owner was a senior warden. To the bottom of the right sleeve are three war service chevrons (ARP 170) which denotes 3 years of service. What is particularly special about this jacket is the medal ribbons mounted at the chest. These are well made from brass and include the 1914-1918 War Medal and the Mercantile Marine War Medal. This means that the original owner served in either the Merchant Navy or as a fisherman during the Great War - a rare ribbon to find on a jacket. 

The jacket is also fitted with am 'old gold' yellow coloured lanyard as was often worn with the battledress blouse. An original ARP nickel plated brass, 3" long whilst is fitted to the end of this and is undoubtedly original to the jacket. 

The original label is present to the interior and is bright and legible. It states the size as No. 6 which will fit someone of up to a height a 5' 6" with a 35-36" chest and a 33-35" waist. The maker's name is 'The Rego Clothiers Ltd' and the 1943 date is present below this. The War Department broad arrow marking is also present to the label. Below the label is a War Department acceptance stamp which is surmounted by the letter 'M' which denotes 1944 as the year of issue.

The jacket is in good condition with only limited signs of wear and use. There is some damage to the area title fitted to the breast but overall the jacket displays well. This is a vintage, pre owned item however so may have small issues commensurate with age. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing. 

A nice original WW2 Civil Defence jacket which would make a great addition to any collection.