RAF Handforth No 61 Maintenance Unit Royal Air Force MU badge.

A scarce original early Queen Elizabeth II period 'RAF No 61 Maintenance Unit gilt and enamel lapel badge'; the central device depicting an unidentified long beaked bird with wings stretched and Latin motto below "Copiose et opportune" (Plentifully and in time). Very good condition, retaining original buttonhole fitting, enamel perfect , service wear to original gilt finish.
Height 32mm.

61 MU RAF was first stationed at RAF Handforth. At the end of WW2 in September 1945 it moved to RAF Cranage in Cheshire. It would remain there until March 1954 when the unit appears to moved back to RAF Handforth and was disbanded circa 1959. RAF 61 Maintenance Unit was an Aircraft Equipment Depot.