Theresa May is looking for surviving Bevin Boys in the area to come forward to claim a unique veterans badge as a tribute to their sacrifices during and after the Second World War.
The Bevin Boys scheme was introduced in 1943 by the Minister for Labour and National Service, Ernest Bevin, in response to an increasing shortage of labour in the coal mining industry. The scheme ran between 1943 and 1948 and involved recruiting men aged between 18 and 25 years to work in coal mines rather than in the armed forces. Some 48,000 men were either selected or volunteered under the scheme.
Theresa says, “It is important that we never forget the sacrifices that were made both at home and abroad during the war. The Government have decided that to mark the valuable contribution of the Bevin Boys by awarding them with a special badge. If you are a Bevin Boy living in Maidenhead, or you know someone who is, please come forward to claim this fitting tribute”
The first badges will be issued in March next year, to coincide with the 60th anniversary to the demobbing of the last Bevin Boy. All Bevin Boys, whether they are ballotees, optants or volunteers are able to apply. Applications will also be accepted from the widows of Bevin Boys who passed away on or after 20 June 2007 provided a copy of the marriage and death certificate are attached to the application form. Applicants must complete an application form, available by calling the Service Personnel and Veterans Agency helpline on 0800 169 2277 or 01253 866043, or by visiting www.veteransagency.co.uk
