Volunteer Civil Force Winston’s Bobbies VCF Supporters Badge

A rare original example of a 'Volunteer Civil Force' small gilt and enamel lapel badge, depicting 'Saint George and the Dragon' atop a central device with conjoined letters "VCF" inlaid with blue and white enamel within a laurel wreath with motto "Law and Order" below, the reverse with maker's details "J.R.Gaunt London". Very good condition, retaining original pin fittings and perfect enamel.
Height 26mm.

The 'Volunteer Civil Force' headquarters 'Ruskin House, Rochester Row Westminster, SW.' was founded on Trafalgar Day, 1911 by 'William Mailes Power' at the instigation of Winston Churchill (it was later to be known as Winston's Bobbies), patriotic volunteers were raised to assist in the maintaining Law and Order and to supplement the regular Metropolitan Police in times of strife such as the 'National coal strike of 1912'. On the outbreak of the First World War the 'V.C.F' were emboided as a Labour battalion and most of the remaining personel were absorbed by the '28th County of London Battalion (Artist Rifles). Supplement to the London Gazette, 29th June 1917 Page 6493 under heading "Labour Corps" has the entry "William Mailes Power to be temp. Capt. 13 Mar. 1917".
The 'Volunteer Civil Force' was not re-formed after the war.