WW1 set Wantage crutches

This was an adjustable crutch that was patented by Dr William Dunsmore Loveday MRCS LRCP during WW1. These crutches were produced at 5/- a pair and were built on the principle that the bodyweight should be supported by the hands and arms and not left to press upon the armpit. Thus they saved many men from "crutch palsy" and continous discomfort. Dr Loveday was practising as a doctor/surgeon in Wantage Berkshire at the beginning of the 20th Century. 1n 1916 he was Medical Superintendent of the Red Cross Auxillary Hospital in Wantage with over 500 patients. He was also a member and sometime Chairman for the Local Tribunal for hearing recruiting cases under Lord Derby's Recruiting Scheme. He was awarded the OBE in the King's Birthday Honours of 1918 for designing the "Wantage Crutch".