Wartime badge

“I recently found this badge or medallion when metal detecting in Perthshire,” says a Broughty Ferry reader. “The initials appear to stand for Perth War Dressings Organisation,” he says.

“I had never heard of such an organisation, but I believe it dates to the end of the First World War. The Imperial War Museum in London were donated one in 1919 but they had always misidentified it as Perth War Dressings Association and they have agreed recently to change their identification to what I suggested.

“I wonder if any of your readers know any more about this organisation. The one I found is currently with the National Museum of Scotland as they may want to keep it.” emails Innes Duffus. “Apart from providing employment, Dundee people must not forget the many things it has done for the city.

“One example is that, after discussions with management, the company agreed to try to reinstate the chiming of the clock in the Old Steeple church free of charge.

“It had been silent since 1939 when all the metal work, including the hammers and links, were removed for the war effort. Michelin staff had to ensure the weight of each bell and make a hammer of suitable weight.

“All the links to the bells were replaced and connected to the clock. The Trades confirmed that pre-war they rang the Westminster Chime and all of this was set up on a computer.

“This not only allowed changes to be made to the time but allowed the bell ringers to cut off the clock chimes during bell ringing. Not to do so might well have caused damage.

“I recall sitting on the balcony in the Overgate Centre drinking coffee and in touch by phone with the engineers finetuning the strength of the chime.

“Although this was a gesture, I happen to be aware that this gift to Dundee cost in the order of £12,000.”