Women's Voluntary Service Medal circa 1961, with original packaging and paperwork

A Long Service medal instituted in 1961 for 15 years of exemplary service with the Women's Voluntary Service. This medal comes complete with all the original paperwork telling you how to wear it, and in the original case and cardboard box.

The Women's Voluntary Services for Air Raid Precautions was established in 1938 and played a key role on the home front. After the war they evolved to assisting and caring for isolated people particularly the elderly. In 1966 they were renamed the Women's Royal Voluntary Service and in 2013 the Royal Voluntary Service. They still serve as back-up to professional services in times of crisis.

On the obverse a wreath of ivy is the symbol of steadfastness, and there are also rosebuds. On the reverse, below SERVICE BEYOND SELF, the 3 flower stems of rosemary, the woman's herb, symbolise remembrance and friendship.