MP raises awareness of availability of Women's Land Army Badge

2.14.40pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 29th Jan 2008

Women's Land Army and Women's Timber Corps lapel badge now avaliable

Mark Hunter local MP for the Cheadle constituency has welcomed news that former members of the Women's Land Army and Women's Timber Corps are now eligible to claim a lapel badge similar to that worn by service veterans.

The badge, which has been specially designed by the Garter King of Arms, will bear the Royal Crown. Members of the Women's Land Army (WLA) or Women's Timber Corps (WTC) who served during either the First or Second World Wars are eligible to apply for a badge, which will be awarded to surviving members as of 6th December 2007. Unfortunately Badges won't be awarded to spouses or families of deceased members, except where their death occurred after 6th December 2007.

In support of the campaign Mr Hunter said: "It's good news that the Government is now prepared to recognise the contribution of WLA or WTC members in this way, and I would encourage all who are eligible to apply. Women working during the war contributed so much to the war effort, often leaving behind comfortable homes to work long and gruelling hours in the fields and woods of the UK. Their work not only allowed more men the freedom to fight on the front but it kept our country going during the war time food and timber shortages.

This badge recognises and honours their contribution and the fact that without their work the war would not have been won."

If residents feel that they might qualify for the badge they are welcome to contact 0161 4861359 or write to Mark Hunter's Office for an application form at:

Mark Hunter MP

Hillson House

Gillbent House

Cheadle-Hulme

SK8 7LE