The cape worn by volunteer nurse Esme Kathleen Robinson during the Second World War – £4500 at Sworders.
Robinson was based at Churchill Hospital, Headington, Oxford, from 1942-45.
The cape, consigned by her daughter, sold for £4500 (plus 25% buyer’s premium) at Sworders of Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex, on August 30, against an estimate of £800- 1200. Proceeds went to the British Legion.
Previewed in ATG No 2555, it was purchased by a private buyer located in Suffolk who was bidding online. The underbidder, also private, was also taking part via the internet.
The rear view of the cape worn by volunteer nurse Esme Kathleen Robinson during the Second World War – £4500 at Sworders.
The scarlet lining is decorated with 201 cloth formation signs and shoulder titles. At formal events (such as the annual VAD carol concert) Robinson was asked to wear her cape navy side up as the display of so many regimental badges was frowned on by her superiors.
It was during one of the concerts in Wheatley, Oxfordshire, that she met her future husband.
Esme Kathleen Robinson during the Second World War.
The cape was offered together with memorabilia including Robinson’s Soldier’s Service and Pay Book, Certificate of Enrolment, a VAD cloth badge and a Needlecraft for HM Forces kit.
