Nearly 50 years of history…….

The nickname “Black Rats” originated in the early 1970s as a reference to officers in the Metropolitan Police Traffic Division in London. It was initially a derogatory term inspired by their strict enforcement of traffic laws and their distinctive black uniforms, which included long black canvas coats and black Everoak Corker helmets. These coats, when unbuttoned, resembled rat tails, leading to chants such as “Scurry, scurry, it’s the Black Rats.”

In 1982, a traffic officer named Michael Bartlett, with a flair for graphic design, sketched the iconic Black Rat logo on a napkin while at the Bermondsey police garage. Recognising its potential, he adapted the design for T-shirts and car stickers, which he sold to colleagues. The proceeds were donated to the Police Widows and Orphans Fund. Although the concept faced some initial resistance from senior officers, the logo gained significant popularity among members of the traffic division.

By 1984, the Black Rat logo had transcended its origins, appearing in diverse places such as on Everest expeditions and even on military aircraft. In 1990, Bartlett revived the merchandise to raise funds for Bliss, a charity dedicated to supporting premature and sick babies. This reinforced the logo’s reputation as a symbol of unity and charitable giving.

To protect the logo from third-party exploitation, it was trademarked, ensuring that no one could profit from the Black Rat symbol without permission. This move helped safeguard the logo’s integrity, its associations and charitable efforts.

In 2013, following the tragic death of a serving police officer, the founders of Black Rat Merchandise launched an official website. This initiative supported the Traffic Patrol Orphans Gift Club, which assists the children of traffic officers who have been killed or severely injured while on duty. Over time, this endeavour evolved into Blue Light Gift, a Community Interest Company (CIC). This transformation ensured that the organisation fell in line with modern standards of reporting and transparency, while also maintaining its commitment to the original mission and heritage of supporting police families and officers in times of need. 

As the initiative evolved, the guardianship of the Black Rat logo has been passed down, still remaining in the hands of dedicated volunteers. The core remit remains unchanged: to raise funds for the families of fallen officers and to support mental health initiatives within the police community.

Today, the Black Rat logo continues to appear on a wide range of merchandise, including badges, caps, hoodies, T-shirts, and stickers. It remains a cherished emblem of camaraderie among traffic officers and a vital tool for raising funds for worthy causes.