FROM the starched caps worn by nurses to the realistic training sessions, there have been many changes to the Oxfordshire British Red Cross since 1909.

To mark the charity’s 100th anniversary this week, it has released a series of photographs charting its proud history.

The British Red Cross is made up of volunteers who help people in crisis, as part of a global network.

The earliest known picture was taken in 1911 and features a smartly dressed detachment outside an Oxfordshire country home. Details are scarce, and it is not known where it was taken.

The smart uniforms can also be seen as members of the charity proudly beam as they march Mary, the Princess Royal, during an inspection in the 1930s.

Members of the branch can turn their hands to a variety of skills, and a picture taken in the Second World War reveals caterers showing the contents of their mixing bowl during a visit by the then branch president.

Over the years formality was relaxed and this is shown in a series of photos taken in the 1960s and 1970s depicting members fundraising and practising.

Marian Faulkner, service manager for the Oxfordshire branch, said the pictures perfectly captured the development of the British Red Cross.

She said: “Looking at the pictures gives a great sense of nostalgia and it’s important they are preserved.

“You can see how rigid the uniform was at first, but that eventually made way for a more practical form of dress.

“I’m sure many people who see the pictures will even remember some of the faces.”

Emily Oldfield, information assistant for the British Red Cross Museum & Archives, said: “Although the uniforms, procedures and vehicles have changed throughout the years, what has remained the same is the symbol of the Red Cross and its ethos.”

On Monday, dignitaries from across the county paid tribute to the charity at its Abingdon HQ.

Richard Dick, High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, said: “I’m struck by the work the charity does locally and how much effort is put in by the volunteers.”

Among occasions when the service was called on recently, was the 2007 floods when volunteers cared for up to 120 people a day at Oxford United’s Kassam Stadium after being evacuated.

Lawrence Lee, president of the Oxfordshire British Red Cross, said: “We’re thrilled to have reached this milestone.”

bellery@oxfordmail.co.uk