Mark Oaten Celebrates the work of Land Girls

Winchester MP Mark Oaten backs the move by Defra to introduce a new badge in recognition of the work of Land Girls during both World Wars.

Female war veterans who were members of the Women’s Land Army and Women’s Timber Corps can now apply to Defra for a new badge which finally recognises their contribution to the war effort. 

The Women’s Land Army (WLA), colloquially known as the Land Girls, was formed at the outbreak of World War II to work on the land, freeing the male workers to go to war.  By 1943 there were some 80,000 young women working in every aspect of agriculture to feed the nation.  The Women’s Timber Corps (WTC), also known as the ‘Lumber Jills’ worked tirelessly in the forests to provide timber for the war effort, felling trees, sawing timber and sharpening saws.    

Mark Oaten MP was keen to add his signature to EDM 847 tabled this week celebrating the hard work of these women.    

Mark Oaten MP stated:

“There is a plenitude of medals awarded for the tremendous efforts of our forces during the World Wars but this is the first time that those women who courageously provided Britain with food and timber on the Home Front are being recognised”  

“It is about time that these women get the recognition that they certainly deserve, it is a very fitting way to celebrate their brave work.” 

“I would encourage all Land Girl Veterans to come forward and celebrate their very valuable contribution to the war effort.”