Motor Transport Army Service Corps

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Army Service Corps were originally formed in the 19th century to supply the British Army with all kinds of goods, services and transport. A ‘Corp’ comprised both British and non-British labourers, carriers, and storemen, enlisted to ensure the soldiers had the food, equipment, and ammunition they needed to fight.  

 

During the First World War, companies of the Motor Transport Army Service Corps (MTASC) were billeted in Wells, where they trained before active service. The MTASC were well received in the city, with many local organisations happy to support the war effort by making the companies of the corps welcome. Phillips City Studios recorded many of the proceedings.

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In 1918, the corps received the "Royal" prefix for its service during the First World War and became the Royal Army Service Corps. It also played a crucial role during the Second World War. In 1993 it was merged into the Royal Logistics Corps, which continues to perform many of the logistical functions the ASC originally handled.

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This bowl was presented to Mrs Thomas of the Wells Young Men’s Christian Association by MTASC for her efforts ‘in appreciation of services rendered’. 7th July 1915 (Bowl in the museum collections 2024.57).

 

Photographs:

2025.9/1&2: 139 Company of MTASC about to leave Princes Road, Wells for the front.

 

2025.9/3: MTASC troops with Mr & Mrs Trudgian outside Trudgian's Confectioners, No.2 Broad Street, Wells. Described on the print as 'our billett'.