Unofficial Clothing in the Western Desert

[pete]

Does anyone have any photos of any unofficial clothing being worn in the Western Desert, such as Scottish Cardigans, Cords for pants etc?



Pete

[peter monahan]

I don't have anything anymore. There was a good book, edited by Len Deighton the mystery writer, that came out years ago on some anniversary of the Desert War - 40th? 50th? One thing it did have which you might be able to find were a series of cartoons about "The Two Types", who were two British officers in very unofficial clothing and kit, which the artist based on people he'd net while stationed in Eygpt. The other avenue would be to Google or check books for photos of the Long Range Desert Group, who dressed for comfort, far away from any critical eyes!

[Dave Alexander]

Len Deighton wrote a book back in 1967 "Ironmongery of the Desert & the Private Armies in El Alamein" published by Sphere. Probably some photos in there. Don't think the book is still in print but you might find one on e-bay or through the publishers.

[Dave Alexander]

Should have mentioned Sphere is now part of Penguin.

[Kiwi Ric]

Hello Pete, I have some info on my website about some of the non issue knitware used etc. might be of some help? (shamless plug)

-Ric

[pete]

.

Rick you have a really well done website! Thanks for your help, the photos are really great! I have a friend who was part of the group that found the kit bag with the Pistol, Jumper and letters deep in the western desert somewhere. I posted some of his photos here on another thread.


Pete

[GHarvey]

I'll have a dig through the collection of 1RTR photos are there are quite a few of lads looking 'non standard' there.

Western desert recce




Those two i put up on here last night and the second one looks distinctly random in terms of apparel. Pretty sure everything the chap inthe first pic has is probably issue though.