Beschreibung:

Air Raid Precaution. WWII ARP handbell by Fiddian, engraved A.R.P. and "Fiddian", light wood handle and brass top nut, 26.5cm high, together with a WWII armband worn by a Fire Guard, yellow lettering on blue cloth, 20cm long plus a black metal box inscribed in white lettering A.R.P., P.12. SEC F.78', 20cm high x 30cm wide x 19cm deep (Qty: 3) A quote from the 'Air Raid Precaution Handbook No.8, The Duties of Air Raid Wardens': "The cancellation of the local gas warning will be by handbells, rung through the streets of the [warden's] sector. Handbells may also be used to repeat the Raiders Passed signal but only if gas is not about. Handbells will in fact be an "All Clear" signal, which is different from the Raiders Passed signal, since the latter will be sounded on receipt of the message from the national centre, whether or not there is gas in the locality." Samuel Fiddian sold his business to James Barwell in 1840, who then continued to use the name on brass items such as this bell.