It was made of a thick, felted woollen material and protected officers from the worst of the winter weather when out on patrol.
As early as November 1839, police orders indicate the men of the Birmingham Police were to be fitted for capes.
It was made of a thick, felted woollen material and protected officers from the worst of the winter weather when out on patrol. Usually made of Melton cloth, it was fastened at the neck using a hook and chain, adorned with a pair of lion’s heads. The chain was made of a soft metal alloy, so that in an emergency it could be broken, thus preventing the officer from becoming entangled.
It was very popular with officers. It was warm and flexible and many a tale has been told about hiding food and other items under the long, thick lengths of material.
Policewomen also wore capes from the 1950s. These were very similar to the men’s, but with the buttons and hook on the opposite side and with slits for the arms to go through.