WW1 National Fire Brigades Union Ambulance Red Cross firemans sleeve badge

A scarce pre-1918 First World War period 'National Fire Brigades Union Ambulance badge'; large gilded brass convex example, red translucent enamel cross to the centre on white ground, within a blue enamel title surround; the reverse impressed with maker's details 'J.R.Gaunt & Sons Ltd London' and impressed with low issue number '782'. Good condition, complete with original two loop fixings, damage to blue enamel top and bottom, gilt remains bright.
Diameter 42mm.
The 'National Fire Brigades Union' was formed in September 1887, it changed it name to 'National Fire Brigades Association' after the formation of the 'Fire Brigade Union' in 1918 to avoid confusion and distance itself from the trade union.

Code: 55230