Solid bronze bell, approx. 11 in. x 10.75 in. dia., a 'scramble bell' of the type used to alert RAF airfield personnel of incoming German planes during the Battle of Britain. The side of the bell bears the stamped 'A. M.' [for 'Air Ministry'] with a crown between the letters, with a 'W D' with a 'broad arrow' between, indicating War Department issue. There also appears in black stencil the number '4' over 'NE'. The very top of the bell, above the black frame used to ring the bell, also bears 'A. M.', crown, and broad arrow stamps on one side, with the reverse bearing yet another 'A.M.' stamp and a date stamp '1940'. The clapper and top frame of the bell have been repainted, the interior of the bell shows much wear from use. Very good. The 'NE' designation may refer to No. 143 Squadron RAF, a coastal command long range fighter unit based at RAF Aldergrove and equipped with the Bristol Beaufighter.