RAF No 217 Maintenance Unit Cardington Royal Air Force Badge c1950s

A rare original circa 1950's 'RAF No 217 Maintenance Unit' gilt and enamel badge, depicting an 'Axe' with motto "By Skill And Industry". Good condition, retaining original buttonhole fitting, no damage to the enamel, original gilt finish worn down to base metal brass.
Height 31mm.

RAF Cardington, Bedfordshire, produced all the gases used by the Royal Air Force until its closure in 2000.