Nicknamed the “Cherry Tarts” by the British Union of Fascists “they had their origins in an evangelical youth organisation founded by the Bishop after trips to Spain and America. Those officers and member that chose to volunteer were formed in to the paramilitary Bishop’s Guard at the start of hostilities, retaining their characteristic red beret. The force was augmented by a number of army instructors and Great War veterans, who were able to develop the units training, making it a highly competent military force.
It was badly blooded assaulting the Grenadier Guards position at Tewkesbury. It went on to fight again at Worcester and following the retreat from the Severn valley campaign it fought a brave and successful rear guard action under the command of Colonel Skipper Hare.
The picture above shows the Greenish Karki jacket of local manufacture, with navy blue trousers and of course its traditional red beret.“
Information obtained from the Anglican League Source Book produced by Solway Crafts and Miniatures Publications.
The Bishop of Bath and Wells was so impressed by the strength of faith shown by the Carlists in Spain, he gave his militias a somewhat continental look topped off by red or cherry berets. In game terms they are not much better than other Militia but their “faith” makes them Elite in morale terms.
Flag bearer
Leader with SMG
Bren Gun Team
Bren Gun Team
Seven riflemen
I have another twenty of these to do to finish off the platoon and as you can see they will also fit right in with the Partisans as well.
Great baking on your tarts Dave, really nice rise to them ! LOL
Thanks Dave and with the two box sets of Atlantic Miniatures raisin the dough for this faction has been a real beat up as it was easy as cherry pie!
Nicely done, Dave! 🙂 I like the flag bearer!
Thanks John. The faction including supports and should be finished this week.
Great looking squad! Excited to see the rest of the platoon. This is quite a nice force you have put together.
I have almost finished them and they will figure in posts over the next few days.
Great work on these Dave.
TA. A very simple uniform to paint and churn them out.
Nice work- I guess you can mix in the previously posted figures to make a bigger force if needed.
Cheers,
Pete.
Thanks Pete. Yes most can be mixed and matched although VBCW is strictly a platoon game with 30 approx. figures and a few supports so there will not be much need to mix and match.
This squad of nutters looks great. I think you’ll need an Edmund to counter The Bishop of Bath and Wells, though!
He is waiting to be painted!
Now that’s a cunning plan, my lord!