MP ENCOURAGES 'LAND GIRLS' TO APPLY FOR COMMEMORATIVE BADGE

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 29th Jan 2008

Lorely Burt MP is encouraging surviving members of the Women's Land Army in Solihull to apply for a commemorative badge to give official recognition for the part they played in feeding the nation during the Second World War.

Although disbanded in 1950, members of the 'forgotten army', that helped keep Britain fed by toiling on the land from dawn to dusk, can now qualify for a commemorative badge to mark their service to the nation.

Lorely Burt MP said:

"I welcome the Government's announcement of a commemorative badge for former members of the Women's Land Army and the Women's Timber Corps.

"While Hitler was trying to starve the nation into submission, young women milked, ploughed, threshed and toiled from morning until night as the countryside was drained of its male workforce.

"Around 20,000 'Land Girls' still survive, and I would be delighted to assist any women in Solihull who wish to claim the commemorative award in belated recognition of their efforts all those years ago.

"Please ring my office in Solihull on 0121 706 9593 and my staff will be only too pleased to help."