Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Police
Two women police officers in London, WW2
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Two women police officers in London, WW2
Two women police officers on duty wearing air raid helmets on a London street during the Second World War. They are WPCs Ivy Baxter and Beatrice Gargrave (both joined June 1937). Date: 1940s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14307062
© Metropolitan Police Authority/Mary Evans
Armband Baxter Beatrice Belt Colleague Colleagues Constable Constables Duty Equality Helmets Metropolitan Policewoman Policewomen Raid Shirt Officers
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative photograph, two brave Women Police Constables (WPCs), Ivy Baxter and Beatrice Gargrave, are seen on duty during the tumultuous 1940s in London, during the Second World War. The year is not explicitly stated, but the women's attire and the presence of air raid helmets suggest that this image was likely taken between the late 1930s and the early 1940s. The Metropolitan Police Force, the UK's oldest and largest police service, welcomed its first intake of Women Police Constables in 1915. However, it was during the Second World War that the role of policewomen became increasingly significant, as men were called away to fight, leaving women to take on a wider range of responsibilities within the force. Ivy Baxter and Beatrice Gargrave, both having joined the Metropolitan Police in June 1937, are pictured here in their distinctive uniforms. Their white shirts, ties, and belts are adorned with the iconic armbands that identified them as policewomen. They are seen carrying tin bags, likely containing their equipment, and wearing air raid helmets to protect themselves from potential bombings. The women's determined expressions and their shared glance speak volumes about their camaraderie and their unwavering commitment to their duty. This photograph is a testament to the vital role that women played in the police force during the Second World War, demonstrating their resilience, courage, and equality in the face of adversity. Ivy Baxter and Beatrice Gargrave, along with countless other policewomen, proved that they were more than capable of performing the duties of a police officer, paving the way for future generations of women in law enforcement.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
