The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 31st October 1915

31^st October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Enemy’s snipers more active.

Casualties 2 Lt W.B. Carslake wounded. One Other Rank Killed & one Wounded.

2nd Battalion – Officers 22.    Other Ranks 739.

To Hospital 1.

From Hospital 2.

Trenches: Very quiet.

E.K.B. Furze, Capt

1/6^th Battalion – Quiet day. The usual evening bombing took place during the evening – orders for relief, which was to have taken place were postponed 24 hours – during the night the bombers were very active – 14 dozen Mills Grenades were thrown – Casualties -

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

R. J. FEW Major 2/4th Queen's

1/5^th Battalion – ARMS.

The C.C.M.A. being in LUCKNOW examined the arms of the FYZABAD detachment. Those at H.Q. had previously been done.

7^th Battalion – Enemy machine guns more active than usual during evening.

M. KEMP WELCH CAPT.

& ADJT.

7^th (SERVICE) Bn. THE QUEEN’S (R.W.S. REGT.)

8^th Battalion – Relieved by 9^th Battn E. Surrey Regt. Lt Col Tringham joined from 2^nd Battn to take command. Relief complete 9.30pm.

W.R.G. Bye.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 30th October 1915

30^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Quiet day. Enemy appear very inactive and supposed to be Saxons.

Casualties one Other Rank killed.

2 Lieut A. Mundye joined & 2 Lieut H. Battiscombe returned from duty with Trench Mortar Battery.

2nd Battalion – Officers 22.    Other Ranks 738.

Major A.R. Tringham left to take command of the 8^th Bn, Capt K.T. Cox wounded.

To Hospital 2.

Quiet day in trenches.

1/6^th Battalion – The enemy were very quiet during the day. Work continued on our trenches – the new line from A.28.c 0 9 to G 4 b 2 5 was occupied. The enemy again shelled our support trenches & THE QUARRY during the afternoon, but ceased on our guns retaliating. Casualties Nil.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – The detachment from LEBONG arrived, the bulk of the Battn, being then together.

7^th Battalion – Our trenches were fairly heavily shelled by enemy from N.E. of LA BOISSELLE, & some damage was done to works.

8^th Battalion – Quiet. Weather Good.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 29th October 1915

29^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – SECTION Z 1 CAMBRIN.

Battn, paraded at 9am and marched to CAMBRIN. Relief of 1/Middlesex in Z 1 Section completed by 1pm. Quiet day.

Casualties Nil.

2nd Battalion – Officers 24.    Other Ranks 740.

From Hospital 2.

The Battalion left BELLERIVE today & marched via BETHUNE to the trenches at GIVENCHY. Very quiet. At places only 15 yds, away from enemy.

1/6^th Battalion – The morning passed quietly – at about 2.30pm the enemy commenced to shell our Support Trenches and Bn, Hqrs, (THE QUARRY) with 5.9cm shells this continued until dark despite the retaliation of our guns – very little damage was done considering the number of shells that were sent over. The usual bombing went on during the evening and night. Casualties – Wounded Lt F.L. Simmons - & other ranks 5.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

1/5^th Battalion – 7.30am Capt P.R. Whittington Lieut E.F. Evetts, Lieut C.R. Wigan and 144 N.C.O’s & men arrived from FYZABAD. 10 were left sick in Hospital & 2 hospital orderlies in charge.

7.15pm Capt Hodges and 4 men arrived with bulk of baggage.

S & T

Difficulties of transport at FYZABAD & LUCKNOW were experienced.

7^th Battalion – At 6.30am enemy fired a mine in front of TAMBOUR F 3 a 50 & shelled front trenches F 3 a & F 3 c slight damage done. A patrol under 2/Lt D. Neilson-Terry located sap joining craters F 3 a 50 to German lines, (in F 3 a & F 3 b).

8^th Battalion – Quiet day. Our snipers were active and accounted for some casualties.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 28th October 1915

28^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine.

2nd Battalion – Officers 24.    Other Ranks 738.

From Hospital 5.

2/Lt C.H. Pascoe struck off strength. The whole Battalion was on fatigue today. Digging trenches.

1/6^th Battalion – Day passed quietly – a little shelling took place – our snipers accounted for two of the enemy who exposed themselves while digging – During the night the hostile bombers were more active than usual, and attempted to bomb our machine emplacement – but could not reach it – A draft of 23 other ranks arrived. Casualties wounded other ranks one. Killed one.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

1/5^th Battalion – Ordnance S & T

The Battn, holds mobilization equipment on English & Indian Scale. It also holds serge clothing. Considerable difficulty at once arises as to whether serge clothing & many items of English stores are to be taken. Ever since landing in this country this difficulty has been pointed out and shirked. The Division were asked to wire for information.

7^th Battalion – SUB-SECTOR D 3. BECOURT.

Some artillery activity on both sides. Very little rifle & M.G. fire.

8^th Battalion – Still quiet, and no casualties. Weather – dull. The wire in front of trenches 24 & 25 is to be worked on tonight by wiring section.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 27th October 1915

27^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – G.O.C 1^st Corps was to have inspected us but it was too wet and inspection was postponed. 4 Other ranks joined together with Capt F.B. Storey and 2 Lieuts J.G. Buckner, O.S. Flinn, H.H. Richards, C.W. Farwell.

2nd Battalion – Officers 25.    Other Ranks 733.

From Hospital 6.

2/Lt C.G.D. Thrupp struck off strength.

1/5^th Battalion - LUCKNOW.

8.am Orders received from Army Headquarters to mobilise for field service.

Strength at this date was

Officers 28   Attached 1

Rank and File 793  Attached 5(R.A.M.C.)

Distribution was as follows :-

LUCKNOW   Officers 17, Rank and file 432.

FYZABAD      Officers 4, Rank and file 160.

LEBONG       Officers 2, Rank and file 118.

On Courses, leave, furlough, and regimental employment.   Officers 4, Rank and file 20.

Force D Attached 2^nd Norfolk Regt.   Officers 1, Rank and file 44.

En route to England

Invalided   5.

For discharge  10.

To take up commissions   4.

Orders were received as follows: - The S.S.O. LUCKNOW at 11pm on 26^th received the following telegram from Brigade H.Q. at ALLAHABAD “Please hold in readiness to mobilize and concentrate first fifth R.W. Surrey Regt to join 33^rd Infantry Brigade. If Regiment eventually moves it will be relieved by Half Battn, fourth Border Regt, from POON.

Orders mobilization and concentration will issue later pending on receipt of which leave men should not be recalled. All subsidiary action to be taken in direct communication with branches concerned Acknowledge”

This was communicated at once to C.O. The actual orders to mobilize were received by telephone from H.Q. 8^th Lucknow Division at 8am on 27^th & were “first fifth Royal West Surrey Regt, will mobilize at Lucknow as strong as possible. Field Service Clothing Winter scale and field service scale tentage. Movement orders will be communicated in due course”.

8.15am. On receipt of above orders absent personnel were immediately wired to return.

9.30am. All officers were informed & preliminary steps such as Medical examination, inspection of kits etc commenced.

10am. The C.O. & Adjt, visited H.Q. Division to ascertain what steps were to be taken to relieve detachment at FYZABAD & ascertained this was done by O.C. ¼ The Queens & arranged for this to be done on the 29^th inst. They also visited the S.S.O. & arranged for the O.C. The Queens to relieve them of all garrison guards and duties.

12.30 noon. Officers chargers & machine gun mules were inspected. 2 chargers were cast. As in peace the Battn, only held 8 & in war require 12 & 2 ponies.

1/6^th Battalion – The day was quiet, the enemy fired a few shells (H.E) into our support trenches but did no damage. Work continued during the day and night on new trenches – The usual enemy bombing went on during the evening but nether side did any damage as far as could be ascertained – Casualties wounded other ranks 5.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – The Battalion relieved 8^th East Surrey Regt in subject D 3 B & D Companies being in front line, A in second line & C in support. 7^th Bn, R.W. Kent Regt held E1 on our left 7^th Bedfordshire Regt D2 on left.

8^th Battalion – Very quiet day. German troops opposite surmised to be Saxons. Note for training in Rest Camp – The Snipers Section must be thoroughly organised. Weather rainy.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 26th October 1915

26^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine.

2nd Battalion – Officers 26.    Other Ranks 727.

From Hospital 1.
1/6^th Battalion – IN THE TRENCHES.

The day passed quietly – A great deal of work was required in the trenches, new trenches had to be dug – and trenches cleaned up. They were in a very bad state a large number of dead lying in and about the trenches from the recent fighting. The night was very quiet, spasmodic bombing on both sides from the left of the HOGSBACK TRENCH.

Casualties wounded other ranks one. 

2/4^th Battalion – Major Few returned and took over the command of the linked Battalions. During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – Nothing to record.

8^th Battalion – Day very quiet. German snipers active but no casualties occurred. Slight bombardment of support line in 26 by enemy but retaliation by 2^nd Belgian Battery stopped this.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 25th October 1915

25^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Heard we are to take over trenches from 19^th Bde, on the 29^th.

2nd Battalion – Officers 26.    Other Ranks 726.

To Hospital 1.

From Hospital 2.

Reinforcement Capt the Rev, F.N. Waggett

1/6^th Battalion –VERQUIN.

The Battalion left billets at 10.30am at 20mins interval. Men did not take their packs with them, these were left with the Quartermaster. Dinners were eaten on the LA BOURSE VERMELLES ROAD & the Battn, proceeded from thence to the trenches about G.4 a where they relieved the 1^st Bn, The Welch Guards. The relief was completed at 7.50pm A & D Coys held front line trenches B Coy in support & C Coy in reserve. The night passed quietly except a few bombs were exchanged from bombing saps in front of our trenches.   

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – VILLE.

The Battalion, with 10^th Essex of 18 Division, 1^st Norfolk Regt & 1^st Dorset Regt of 5^th Division, & 7^th Gordon Highlanders & 7^th Black Watch of 51^st Division, was inspected by H.M. THE KING & M. Poincare at 11am 2 miles N of RIBEMONT. H.R.H. THE PRINCE OF WALES was also present. The parade was under the command of Major General F.I. Maxse. 2/Lt P.R. Woollett Joined Bn.

8^th Battalion –Battalion left camp at 2pm & marched to CAFÉ BELGE, DICKEBUSCH where tea was cooked. Guides from 9^th East Surreys met Companies here and Battalion took over trenches 24. 25. 26. From 9^th East Surrey Regt. Battn Hdqrs at I 32 b 6 3. Brigade Hdqrs at H 23 c 5 3. The weather was good. A new draft of 200 was left in segregation camp at RENINGHELST.  

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 24th October 1915

24^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Reinforcement of 50 other ranks joined. This a particularly good draft – practically all old time-serving men who have been wounded, with a good proportion of N.C.O,s.

2nd Battalion – Officers 25.    Other Ranks 725.

The Battalion left BERGUETTE at about 1.30pm & marched to billets at BELLERIVE.

1/6^th Battalion – Remained in billets. Church Parade. Officers again visited Trenches as on 23^rd.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – Orders received that Battalion would relief 8^th East Surrey in sub-sector D 3 on 27-28^th Oct. C Company relieved from mining fatigue by Company of 7 Royal West Kent Regt for inspection parade.

8^th Battalion – Lt, Higham attached to 24^th Divnl, Grenade School as Instructor. 1 Officer and 5 O.R. from Batt, sent to the school. 4 Coy Commanders & Major Piers visited new trenches which we are to take over. Trenches 24. 25. 26.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 23rd October 1915

23^rd October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine. Major S.T. Watson & Capt Hull of 6^th Battn, came over during the afternoon.

2nd Battalion – Officers 25.    Other Ranks 724.

To Hospital 4.

From Hospital 5.

1/6^th Battalion – Remained in billets. 2 Hour route march carried out. C.O. & Coy Commanders went to look over trenches in front of THE QUARRY about G 4 a which the Battalion were to take over.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – Preliminary orders received for inspection parade on 25^th Oct.

8^th Battalion – Training.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 22nd October 1915

22^nd October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – VENDIN.

Ordinary routine.

2nd Battalion – Officers 25.    Other Ranks 724.

To Hospital 6.

From Hospital 1.

The Battalion marched to some practise trenches close to LA RIQUELLERIE & then practised the attack & getting out of trenches.

1/6^th Battalion – Remained in billets. Bombing & Machine Gun classes carried out and Coys carried out 2 hours route marches.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – C Company relieved A on mining fatigue at BECOURT.

8^th Battalion – Battalion supplied 300 men as Trench Working Party under 104^th & 129^th  Field Coy R.E. Party met by guides at CAFÉ BELGE, DICKEBUSCH. Returned to camp 3am. New draft of 200 men arrived.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 21st October 1915

21^st October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – The Battn, paraded at 2pm to march to billets at GONNEHEM but this was cancelled while we were on the march owing to the 28^th Divn, being there. The Battn, went into billets in VENDIN instead.

2nd Battalion – Officers 25.    Other Ranks 729.

To Hospital 3.

1/6^th Battalion – Remained in billets. Battn, was inspected by G.O.C. 12^th Division (Major Gen. Scott) at 9.45am. Bombing and Machine Gun classes were commenced.

2/4^th Battalion – This Battalion and 1/4th Royal Sussex Regt. Were amalgamated. Major Beale of 1/4th R. Sussex Regt. Commanded the linked Battalions.

During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – In Billets, nothing to record.

8^th Battalion – The battalion remained in Camp G. at RENINGHELST (map HAZEBROUCK 5A) busily engaged in training and reforming, especially with respect to the Grenade Coy. 

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 20th October 1915

20^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – No parades possible as all the Battn, was employed in fatigue up at trenches etc.

2nd Battalion – Company Parades.

Officers 25.    Other Ranks 732.

To Hospital 5.

1/6^th Battalion – VERQUIN.

Rested in billets no parades – Equipment & clothing was inspected by O.C. Coys & the Bn, commenced to refit after almost 28 days of trench. Baths were arranged and almost the whole Battn, had baths in the CHATEAU VERQUIN.

2/4^th Battalion – Capt. McNaught went to hospital.

During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – Seven men of the Battalion attached 55 Brigade Mining Section were killed by explosion of a German mine East of TAMBOUR F 3 a.

8^th Battalion – At RENINGHELST.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 19th October 1915

19^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine.

2nd Battalion – Cleaning up & washing.

Officers 25.    Other Ranks 735.

To Hospital 2.

From Hospital 2.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion was relieved by the 13^th Royal Scots. The Battalion however left the trenches before the Royal Scots came in leaving 4 guides per Coy & one for Headquarters who met Coys of the Royal Scots at Railway Line and HULLOCK ROAD. The Battalion left trenches by Companies commencing at 9.30am and formed up at Transport Camp at VERMELLES at 12.45pm & marched to VERQUIN where the were billeted in empty houses sheds etc, & the Machine Gunners under canvas – Casualties wounded other ranks three.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – In Billets, nothing to record.

8^th Battalion – RENINGHELST.

At RENINGHELST.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 18th October 1915

18^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Quiet day. Lieut H.C. Williams accidently killed by L/c Linsney when returning to our trench during digging operation.

2nd Battalion – Brigade marched out from BETHUNE about 9.30am.

The Battalion went into billets at BERGUETTE some 1½ miles N.W. of BETHUNE.

Officers 25.    Other Ranks 735.

To Hospital 1.

1/6^th Battalion – Remained in trenches. Order for the relief were received; found working parties as above –

Casualties Wounded other ranks one

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – In Billets, nothing to record.

8^th Battalion – Quiet day, were relieved at 9pm by 1^st Btn Royal Fusiliers. Total casualties for 3 days 1Killed 9 Wounded (3 rejoined). The Battn returned to RENINGHELST at 1am.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 17th October 1915

17^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Quiet day. Working parties of 60 men as above in two reliefs only.

Casualties 2 Other Ranks killed.

2nd Battalion – Battn, relieved in trenches by 1^st K.O.Y.L.I. Relief complete about 1pm. Marched back to BETHUNE to billets.

Officers 25.    Other Ranks 736.

From Hospital 2.

2/Lieut Moore (evacuated to England) struck off strength.

1/6^th Battalion – Remained in trenches – enemy shelled the trenches – intermittently throughout the day, but did little damage. Found working parties of 250 men – Casualties Wounded other ranks three.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – 95 Trench Mortar Battery reported for duty in sub-sector. Enemy fired about 60 trench mortar bombs on to right of sub-sector, our artillery replied. Battalion relieved by 8^th East Surrey & returned to billets. A Company & 1 Platoon of B Company remaining at BECOURT to find mining fatigues in the TAMBOUR. Casualties, during period of occupation of trenches, Other Ranks Killed 9. Wounded 9, of these 3 remained at duty.

8^th Battalion – Quiet day. German snipers busy at night. Work on parapets continue. We are holding the line very weakly only 440 effective men.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 16th October 1915

16^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine. A few enemy’s shells fell near billets.

Working parties, 120 strong, were found by the Battn, at 6pm 11pm and 4am on the 17^th for improving GUILDFORD TRENCH.

2nd Battalion – Officers 26.    Other Ranks 734.

Killed 1.

Wounded 1.

To Hospital 2.

1/6^th Battalion – Remained in trenches, found working parties of 250 to work as above. Major Roberts who was in command of this party was wounded in the head by a rifle bullet, and died of his wounds shortly afterwards –

Casualties Wounded other ranks 4

Killed other ranks one.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – Enemy active with trench mortars & rifle grenades, effective retaliation obtained from howitzers. Enemy very quiet at night. Major C.A. Russell-Stower left for tour of duty with 18 Base Depot, Capt Le Bas took over command of A Company.

8^th Battalion – TRENCHES.

Reciprocal bombardment at 5.5am. No damage done by enemy. Otherwise quiet.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 15th October 1915

15^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – ANNAQUIN.

Ordinary routine.

2nd Battalion – Enemy’s trench mortars active during afternoon to which we replied not with little effect. Our field guns & finally howitzers were turned on which silenced the mortars.

At night certain amount of bombing & shelling in neighbourhood of HOHENZOLLERN.

Officers 26.    Other Ranks 738.

Wounded 3.

To Hospital 1.

Reinforcements Other Ranks 21.

1/6^th Battalion – Remained in trenches – found working party of 500 to dig new communication trench about G.12 c 21

Casualties Wounded O.R. 4.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – Enemy fired a few shells at F 3 c 1585. Orders received that Bn, would be relieved on 17-18.

8^th Battalion – Left for trenches. Men had dinner in field with transport. Arrived in trenches at 7pm and took over trenches by 9pm from Scotch Fusiliers (27 & 28 trenches) and 11^th Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders 29 trench.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 14th October 1915

14^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Quiet morning. A fresh bombing attack was organised to take place up GUILDFORD TRENCH so as to effect a junction with 138^th Bde, in HOHENEOLLERN, but this did not mature owing to our relief by Oxford’s at 4pm. The Battn, came back into billets at ANNAQUIN.

Casualties 1 Killed and 3 Wounded.

Draft of 17 other ranks joined.

2nd Battalion – Officers 26.    Other Ranks 721.

From Hospital 1.

2/Lieut C.G.D. Thrupp to hospital (not struck off the strength). Battn, relieved S. Staffs in trenches. Section A.1 QUINCHY – frontage HANOVER ST to CAMBRIN – LA BASSEE RD.

1/6^th Battalion – At 5am B Coy returned from the East Surreys. During the night the enemy were quiet. They shelled our trenches with heavy shells during the morning. The afternoon was quiet. The Battalion was relieved at night by the 7^th Bn. The Royal Sussex Regt, (36^th Bde) The relief commenced at 7pm & was not completed till 2.35am. The delay was caused by the fact that there was only one communication trench available for use – both by incoming and outgoing battalion. The Battalion on relieve went back to the old British Trenches – which it had vacated on the 10^th inst. The last Company got settled into their new trenches by 6am. (15^th)

Casualties – Killed other ranks one – Wounded other ranks 14. The Battn, was now in Bde, reserve to 36^th Bde – The remainder of 37^th Bde, was at NOYELLES LES VERMELLES.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – Between 1 & 3pm enemy fired about 70 light & heavy trench mortar bombs on to F 3 A 0 7, destroying 2 shelters & M.G. emplacements, no casualties. Damage chiefly done by shells similar to that fired by large howitzer, in this case they were fired from trench mortars. Our miners fired camouflet at F 3 c 5095 at 3.36pm, our artillery opened fire at once, our parapet at F 3 C 4095 slightly damaged.

8^th Battalion – At RENINGHELST. Brigade route march.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 13th October 1915

13^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Rehearsal for attack at 10am placing each bayonet man, bomber Vermoral sprayer man, spare bombers and working parties in the order that they will advance up NEW TRENCH. Zero at 1am when gas & smoke were started. Heavy rifle and machine gun fire was at once opened on our trenches. At 2pm the advance up NEW TRENCH was timed to begin. The Bde, bombers at the head of the attack were held up by rifle and machine gun fire from both flanks and the front, all directed on our sap head. The attack was held up for some minutes. Finally 2 Lieut A.R Abercrombie, 2 Lieut Tweedle-Smith and 2Bde, bombing officers with 6 men advanced out of our sap. 2 Lieut A.R Abercrombie and one man succeeded in reaching the German sap uninjured and advanced up this sap to its junction with LITTLE WILLIE. Here they waited for reinforcements. Finally 2 Lt A sent back the man with a message for supports, remained himself at the junction of the Comtn, trench with LITTLE WILLIE. The orderly was wounded on the way back & no message was delivered. At dusk 2 Lt A, advanced up LITTLE WILLIE and expended his grenades, placing a German machine gun out of action. He then returned safely to our lines and reported himself.

Five of our gas cylinders had been left in the quarry at Battn, H Qrs without our knowledge, by the R.E. One of these was hit by shell fire during the afternoon and caused considerable inconvenience to Hd Qrs before the source could be traced. A fresh attack  by Bde, bombers was timed to take place at midnight 13/14, but owing to a shortage of bombs it was not commenced until 5am and then only a short length of the trench (about 30 yards) was gained.

Casualties:- 2 Lt c St L. Perfect 3^rd Kings Own Died of Wounds, 2 Lt A Tweedle-Smith Killed. Other Ranks 11 Killed, 4 Missing and 47 wounded. 2 Lt Carslake led a second bombing attack on Western face of HOHENZOLLERN and made a successful advance to cover some digging operations, he withdrew after expending his grenades without incurring any casualties.

2nd Battalion – Heavy bombardment by our guns on enemy’s trenches etc, followed by gas. Infantry attacked in the vicinity of HOHENZOLLERN REDOUBT & THE QUARRIES. Our Bde, held the trenches at CUINCHY & from there discharged gas to fog enemy as to real point of attack. Enemy’s gun retaliation very alight.

Officers 26.    Other Ranks 722.

To Base 1.

1/6^th Battalion – The early morning was quiet – at 12 noon our bombardment commenced & was instantly replied to by the enemy who did considerable damage to our trenches – especially the left front trench – HAIE ALLEY was also somewhat damaged – All (4 different lines) telephone lines to Companies were cut almost immediately the bombardment commenced, & and could not be mended till evening – At 1pm the smoke bombs were lighted – but did not form a very good barrage. They however drew a considerable amount of fire from the enemy. At 2pm the East Surreys on our immediate right assaulted the German trench between A.12.B 2 2 & G 12 B 5 7 & got into it.  At 4.30pm after repeated appeals for assistance from the Coy of East Surrey Regt in the German trench – one platoon of A Coy under Lt Pike & one section of D Coy was sent to his assistance. The platoon of A Coy succeeded in blocking the German communication trench at G.12 d 39 & held it. B Coy who were at the disposal of O.C. 7^th E. Surrey Regt were sent to support him at 4.30pm two platoons of this Coy were sent into the S.F.T trench behind the captured German trench & two were kept in reserve – Our Machine Guns made good practice on some of the enemy who were running out of the trench when the East Surreys advanced. At 10.50pm the platoon of A Coy & section from D Coy lent to the East Surreys returned – During the whole afternoon and evening the enemy kept up a lively artillery fire on our trenches, but did not do much damage. 2/Lieut Mann who had been sent to act as a Liaison Officer between the Buffs & the right of the 35^th Bde, did very good work during the day.

Casualties – Killed other ranks one. Wounded other ranks 15.   

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – Enemy trench mortar fire damaged about 10 yards of parapet trench 96, F 3 C 4590, their fire stopped by our howitzer fire.

8^th Battalion – At RENINGHELST. 2^nd Lieuts Payne Reynalds, Hopgood & Vipan joined for duty.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 12th October 1915

12^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Preparations for tomorrows bombing attack. Conference at 5^th Bde, H Qrs at 3.30pm.

2nd Battalion – Officers 26.    Other Ranks 722.

Wounded 1.

To Hospital 1.

From Hospital 1.

1/6^th Battalion – Orders were received during the morning that the 37^th Bde, in conjunction with the 35^th Bde, & 1^st Bde would attack the enemy’s line from HOZENZOLLERN REDOUBT to LENS LA BASSEE RD, about H.19.c. The battn, was only to hold its own line & assist the attack on either flank with fire & to demonstrate as if an attack was about to take place – 750 Threlfallite smoke bombs were issued to C & D Coys with which to make a smoke barrage – The enemy shelled our trenches during the afternoon in retaliation to our artillery who were registering on their trenches. The night was quiet. A double issue of preserved rations was issued – in case of necessity. Two officers joined the Battn, for duty, 2/Lieut A.W. Passmore and 2/Lieut W.R. Beeton.

Casualties – Killed other ranks one – Wounded other ranks 4.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – Right of sub-sector again shelled. Several Germans seen wearing variety of uniforms.

8^th Battalion – At RENINGHELST. 2 Lieuts Foord, Sanders, Wyndham, O’Connell, Wilcox, Tollemache & Carpenter joined for duty.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 11th October 1915

11^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – IN TRENCHES.

Quiet morning. Enemy’s aeroplane was brought down in the vicinity of SAILLY LA BOURSE after an air combat over our heads.

2nd Battalion – Officers 25.    Other Ranks 726.

Wounded 1.

To Hospital 1.

From Hospital 1.

1/6^th Battalion – The enemy shelled our front trenches very heavily during the morning & did considerable damage, our artillery retaliated & kept up a fire throughout the afternoon – The enemy showed little activity during the night & continued the work on the trench mentioned yesterday. No water was available in these trenches and all had to be brought up by water cart to G.11.D.7.3 & carried from thence in petrol tins to Companies. B Coy had to do all the carrying as no men of the other Coys were allowed to leave their trenches. Rations had to be issued in the same manner.

Casualties: Killed O.R. 2 – Wounded O.R. 24.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – Enemy active against right of sub-sector with artillery & trench mortars.

8^th Battalion – At RENINGHELST. Inspection and address by Lieut General Capper G.O.C 24^th Division.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 10th October 1915

10^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Received orders at 8am that the 5^th Bde. Would relieve the 21^st & part of Guards Bde, today. Marched off at 11am BANNEQUIN where Battn, stopped for dinners. Relieved 1/Coldstream Guards by 6pm, Battn, H Qrs in Quarry. G4 a 2.5. 

2 Lieut G. Wheeler with 14 trained signallers and 19 machine gunners joined.

2nd Battalion – Officers 25.    Other Ranks 730.

To Hospital 3.

To Base 1.

The Battn, relieved today by 1^st S.Staffs & went into billets in HARLEY STREET as support, “C” Coy, remained in a defended post just in rear of the firing line (GUINCHY SUPPORTING POINT).

1/6^th Battalion – Took over front line trenches from G.12.D.5.5 to G.18.B.66. The relief commenced at 2.30pm and was completed by 5.35pm C & D Coys were in the front line A Coy in support & B Coy in reserve  in old German 1^st Line trench G.17.B. The night passed quietly. The enemy were busy all night digging a trench from about H.7.c.2.4 to H.7.c.2.0

No Casualties.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – Enemy fired mine at 6.5am, small crater formed at F.3.C.4595, some damage done to our saps & some of our miners gassed, artillery fire from both sides followed, ours firing first enemy trench mortar fire damaged M.G. emplacement, trench 99, F 3 A 05. Our miners fired camouflet at 6.30pm, German charge also exploded by camouflet. A large mound & small crater made at F 3 C 37, about 25 yards of our trench was destroyed at F 3 c 25 65. Good work was done in repairing damage, by Capt Le Bas. Corpl Green, Ptes Bolton & Cardew.

8^th Battalion – At RENINGHELST. Church parade in field for the Brigade. The following message was read out by the Chaplin from Brig, Gen Mitford :- General Mitford who is unwell and unable to be present today, has asked me to say the following words to you on his behalf :-

“72^nd Inf, Brigade: Last Sunday the Brigade went into action for the first time, only a year after they came forward at their country’s call. The way the brigade advanced under very heavy machine gun fire from flanks and rear has evoked the approbation of the Divisional and Corps Commanders. You were an example in steadiness and determination to carry out your task, not only to the new armies but to seasoned troops who could not of done better than you did. As I say you carried out your task but had to retire. Yet do not think it was a failure, for it was not, as you caused 16 of the enemy’s Battalions of reserve to be brought up in to our area and taken away from the French just south of us, thereby enabling the French to make an appreciable advance. I should like all of you who know the relatives of those who are not with us to make known to them how gallantly they fought, and how nobly they served their country in whose service they fell, & what prestige they brought to the names of the regiments to which they belonged. Men of the Queens, Buffs, East Surreys & West Kents, you have added glory to the ancient regiments of which you are the children, you have made the 72^nd Infantry Brigade a name of which none of you can be other than proud & which I know in the future you will never allow to diminish. I feel it is a great honour to have had the chance of commanding such troops on service and I shall never forget the ground about Hulloch Village”.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 9th October 1915

9^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Usual work. Received orders that the Battn, would take over trenches on the 11^th from Guards Bde.

2nd Battalion – Officers 25.    Other Ranks 731.

Wounded 1.

Major H.W. Smith joined & takes over command.

Exceptionally quiet day.

1/6^th Battalion – remained in same trench & found working parties. Orders were received to relieve 6^th Buffs, in front trenches on the 10^th.

Casualties wounded other ranks 2.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – Enemy working parties reported active, more of them were seen looking over parapet than previously.

8^th Battalion – 2^nd half Battalion returned at midnight from the trenches.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 8th October 1915

8^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Received orders to stand to at 3.45pm owing to a German attack N.W of HULLUCH. Order cancelled at 11.30pm.

2nd Battalion – Officers 24.    Other Ranks 738.

2/ Lieut A.W. Portal wounded.

2 Killed.

3 Wounded.

To Hospital 2.

Reinforcements: 2/Lieut N.F. Furze.

2/Lieut E. Hobbs joined.

Our front line & support trenches were rather heavily shelled between 12 noon & 4pm. Parapet blown in at places. 

1/6^th Battalion – Remained in same trenches – The enemy bombarded our trenches throughout the afternoon & did considerable damage to parapets etc. During the evening the 6^th R.W. Kent Regt, attacked enemy’s trench about G.12.d.39 & during the attack the Battn, stood too in case required. The attack which was at first successful was subsequently bombed out of the trench & the W. Kents retired to original line – Casualties Killed Other Ranks 4 Wounded other ranks 24.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – Enemy active in afternoon with field guns, trench mortars & rifle grenades chiefly directed against TAMBOUR.

8^th Battalion – RENINGHELST.

1^st half of Battalion at RENINGHELST 2^nd half at the trenches. Major Peirs returned from the trenches C/S/M Laing wounded.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 7th October 1915

7^th October 1915 –

 
1st Battalion – Ordinary Routine including practice throwing live hand grenades.

2nd Battalion – Battn, relieved 6^th Wilts in A.2 Section at CUINCHY. Opposing trenches in many places not more than 40 yds apart. Ground full of craters.

Officers 23.    Other Ranks 738.

To Hospital 2.

From Hospital 2.

1/6^th Battalion – Remained in same trenches & found working parties as on previous day – A draft of 55 other ranks was received. These however did not come up to the trenches till morning of 8^th having stopped the night in the Transport Lines at VERMELLES.

Casualties Killed O.R one Wounded 4.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – SUB-SECTOR D3 BECOURT.

The Battalion relieved 8^th East Surrey in sub-sector D3. A B & C Companies being in front line & D Company in reserve.

8^th Battalion – RENINGHELST.

2^nd half Battalion relieved first half Battalion who returned from trenches to  RENINGHELST.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 6th October 1915

6^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – AVELETTE.

Ordinary Routine. Lieuts H.C. Williams, A.R. Abercrombie, and 2 Lieut B.M. Grey joined the Battn.

2nd Battalion – Officers 23.    Other Ranks 738.

To Hospital 6.

From Hospital 5.

From Detention 1.

Reinforcements: Major A.H. Tringham.

2/ Lieut R.C.G. Foster.

2/ Lieut J.C. Young.

2/ Lieut J.T. Roberts.

1/6^th Battalion – Remained in above trenches & supplied working parties to dig trenches in front line – Casualties Wounded other ranks five.

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – In Billets, nothing to record.

8^th Battalion – Remaining half of the Battalion left HOUTKERCQUE for RENINGHELST in which they were put under canvas.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 5th October 1915

5^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Received orders at 12. Noon to move to AVELETTE (near HINGES). Reached new billets at 6pm.

2nd Battalion – Officers 19.    Other Ranks 738.

To Hospital 1.

From Hospital 1.

1/6^th Battalion – At 12.30pm – Bn, received orders to move to OLD British trenches along Hullock Road about G.10.D. Two Bn, of the Brigade took over front line trenches one Battn, in support and Queens were in Brigade reserve – The move was commenced at 2.30pm. Coys marching at 15mins intervals by communication trench to VERMELLES & thence by another communication trench to CHAPELLE DE NTRE DME DE CONSOLATION. Great congestion of troops were experienced on the HULLOCK ROAD and the relief was not completed until 10.15pm we relieved the 1^st Bn, The Welch Guards 0 The trenches were in a very muddy state & very narrow – which made passing in them impossible - & this delayed matters – The men who were carrying 1 blanket & waterproof sheets were very done up by the time they arrived -  Wounded other ranks one.  

2/4^th Battalion – During this period the Battalion was employed digging trenches on and around LALA BABA and garrisoning the trenches by night.

7^th Battalion – In Billets, nothing to record.

8^th Battalion – One half of the Battalion under Capt Bye left HOUTKERCQUE to attach themselves to units of the 27^th Brigade in the trenches for instructional purposes. This meant a march of about 18 miles in heavy rain and through deep mud. They arrived in trenches very exhausted at about 1am.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 4th October 1915

4^th October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Ordinary Routine.

2nd Battalion – Officers 19.    Other Ranks 739.

Wounded 1.

Relieved during afternoon by 2^nd Bedfords. Billets in LE QUESNOY.

1/6^th Battalion – TRENCHES.

Remained in trenches. The trenches were shelled intermittently all day, but most of the fire was directed against ours & French guns of which there was a considerable number about this point. – Found working parties as on 3^rd at 8pm orders were received that the Battn, would move on the following day – Casualties – Wounded other ranks 9 Killed one.

2/4^th Battalion – Capt. Hull having been admitted to hospital, Capt. McNaught assumed command of the Battalion. The Battalion moved into dug outs on the eastern slopes of LALA BABA.

Cooks, batmen and signallers of the 162nd Brigade, Lala Baba, Suvla Bay, August 1915

7^th Battalion – Orders received that Battalion would relieve 8^th East Surrey in D3 on night 7-8^th.

8^th Battalion – Reorganisation Battalion bombers & other specialists.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 3rd October 1915

3^rd October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – Relieved by the 3^rd Guards Bde, today. The Battn, left VERMELLES at 10am and marched to BETHUNE where we went into billets in the Tobacco Factory.

Draft of 100 joined under 2 Lt S.S.S. Keate and 2 Lt Perfect 3/Kings Own.

2nd Battalion – Officers 19.    Other Ranks 743.

Killed 1.

Wounded 3.

1/6^th Battalion – Battalion moved from billets and occupied old English trench about G.28.c. on arrival at these trenches they were found to be occupied by the 3^rd Cav, Bde, who were clearing the battle field – these moved forward to old German trenches. The Battalion was very crowded in these trenches – and dugouts were few – it rained during the night and was very cold. Found working parties of 225, in two relief's, who worked on same trenches as on 2^nd.

Casualties Killed other ranks one.

2/4^th Battalion – GALLIPOLI

7^th Battalion – In billets, draft of 3 men joined. D Company went to BECOURT to find mining fatigues.

8^th Battalion – HOUTKERCQUE.

Major Fox transferred to temporary command of R.W. Kents. New draft of 60 men.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 2nd October 1915

2^nd October 1915 –
1st Battalion – Remained in reserve all day.

Casualties 4 Wounded.

2nd Battalion – Officers 19.    Other Ranks 744.

Killed 1.

Trenches. Severe fighting throughout afternoon & evening near HOMENZOLLERN REDOUBT.

1/6^th Battalion – Remained in billets. 225 men went out in two reliefs by night to dig trenches in front of our first line just west of LENS – LABASSEE road in square G.25.a (sheet 36.c.) Officers from each Company were sent to reconnoitre ground in front of first line about G.12.b.

2/4^th Battalion – GALLIPOLI

The Battalion moved from "A" Beach to SALT LAKE trenches where it remained until the evening of October 4th in general reserve to the "MOUNTED" Division.

7^th Battalion – Copy of strength return as submitted on this date are attached. Capt Scott took over command of C Company.

8^th Battalion – Left BERGUETTE at 6am detained at GOTWAERSWELDE. Marched to HOUTKERCQUE (about 12 miles). Men billeted in barns, great difficulty in finding billets as people not very friendly.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 1st October 1915

1^st October 1915 – 

1st Battalion – The Battn, paraded at 2pm and marched to VERMELLES stood by at Bde Rendezvous just W of VERMELLES until 8.30pm. Went into billets on Eastern side of town at 10.30pm. 2 Lieut R. Faulkner joined the Battn.

Capt J.R. Walpole joined the Battn, & takes command of D Coy.

2nd Battalion – Officers 19.    Other Ranks 747.

Wounded 1.

To Hospital 2.

Afternoon Battn, marched to CAMBRIN & took over new line of trenches on immediate right of CUINCHY from the 5^th Scottish Rifles.

Perfect maze of communication trenches running up to the front line. Many bodies & derelict arms & equipment lying about.

1/6^th Battalion – CORONS DE RUTOIRE.

Remained in billets. Officers sent out reconnoitring trenches held by 35&30^th Bde. – Wounded other ranks two.

2/4^th Battalion – GALLIPOLI

7^th Battalion – 18^th DIVISION. 7^th QUEENS.   VILLE-SOUS CORBIE.

In billets, nothing to record. Capt J.R. Walpole transferred to 1^st Battalion.

8^th Battalion – At BERGUETTE resting.