Birmingham Special Constabulary Water Works Guard Medal 1917-18. Bronze, unnamed as issued

The Birmingham Watch Committee approved the issue of this 'Home Front' War Service medal on 5 December 1918, for award to members of the Birmingham Special Constabulary who had been deployed as 'Water Work Guards' 1917-18

The water works and dam depicted on the medal is the Foel Tower located in the Elan Valley of Wales, and where 2 x officers and 25 x constables were permanently stationed. Just over 800 x other 'War Works Guards variously patrolled the installations located across the full 75 x miles route The water supply to Birmingham was sourced from Wales - 75 x miles away. A force of uniformed, and armed, guards was recruited and deployed in 1917-18 to guard the water works and water works supply line

The medal was awarded to the Special Constables who were deployed as Water Work Guards at any time during the years 1917-1918

Reverse of the suspension brooch retaining its original long hinged pin and clasp fittings as issued

When worn in full-dress uniform, the medal was 'pinned' to the tunic 'sans' riband

Reference 'A Guide Medal & Awards to British Police by Local Authorities of the United Kingdom (David Picton-King, 2020) it is estimated that between 700-850 x medals may have been issued

Condition: GVF

Code: 25606