The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 31st May 1916

31^st May 1916 –

1st Battalion – In morning, battalion practised artillery formations in the Bois des Dames. A draft of 154 other ranks joined the battalion; first batch of Derby recruits were amongst them; rather a poor lot physically.

The battalion was mentioned in General Haig’s despatch for period Dec 19^th 1915 to May 19^th 1916 as follows :-

“while many other units have done excellent work during the period under review, the following have been specially brought to my notice for good work in carrying out or repelling local attacks or raids :-

1^st Battalion The Queen’s Regiment.

The following message was sent to H.M.S. Excellent for the Glorious First of June :-

All ranks 1^st Queens hope the luck of this day may soon be repeated”.

Battalion now at 2 hour’s notice, as the German attack seems not so imminent.

L.M. Crofts  Lt Colonel

Cmdg 1^st Bn The Queens.

2nd Battalion – Clearing up preparatory to taking over the trenches in B.2. Sub-sector from 1^st Bn. S.Staffs Regt.

Officers 36.    Other Ranks 955.

F.C. Longbourne.

Lieut-Colonel.

Comdg, 2^nd Bn The Queen’s Regt.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – Orders received that machine guns of each brigade to be formed into a machine gun company of 3 sections,

No 1 section British 4 Vickers guns.

No 2 Indian 4 Lee Enfield guns.

No 3 Indian 2 Vickers 2 Lee Enfield.

In order to effect this we were ordered to exchange guns with 90^th Punjabis.

W.P. Spens, Lt & Adjt.

31/5/16.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets, orders to move during the afternoon notice to move was altered to 4 hours notice from 8 am to 5 pm and 2 hours notice from 5 pm to 8 am.

H.F. Warden Lieut Colonel.

Commdg 6^th The Queens Regt.

7^th Battalion – 2^nd Lieuts: E.F. Bennett 2/Lt G.S. Dandridge 1816 Cpl Tyrrell A & 1441 L/Sgt Price F proceeded to Divisional School for course of instruction –

W. Kemp Welsh

Capt Comdg 7^th Queens.

8^th Battalion – Between 1.30 pm & 2.45 pm – the enemy shelled D 1 & D 4 & C 3 with heavy Trench Mortar bombs & 4.2’s. Most of these fell behind our front line. A good deal of damage was done to NORTHUMBERLAND AVENUE, and one trench mortar bomb fell into D 1 & one heavy shell into C 3, causing 6 casualties. Otherwise the day has been very quiet.

W.R.G. Bye

10^th Battalion – PLOEGSTREET.

7am In billets – marched from STEENWERCK (Div Reserve)

R. Oakley. Lieut Colonel,

Commdg, 10^th Queen’s.

11^th Battalion – Left for LE BIZET, rest billets of 2 battalions in the left sub-sector of the brigade sector of the front line trenches.

Arrived in LE BIZET at 8pm without opposition which was feared, owing to Germans having exposed placards in the vicinity to the effect that they were aware of the coming relief. The transport was billeted near PLOEGSTEERT.

R.C. Smith Capt for Lt Col

Cmdg 11^th Bn. The Queen’s Rgt.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 30th May 1916

30^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Ordinary training all day – Major Parnell & 2 coy commanders inspected Village Line behind 16^th & 1^st Divisions. In the evening Col Crofts returned from the Brigade & resumed command of the Battalion. Complementary memo received from Division regarding Guard of Honour on 26^th inst.

General de WIGNACOURT

Commanding the Sub-Division of ARRAS BETHUNE.

To General LANDON.

Commanding 33^rd Division.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

I beg to thank you for the honour you have done to our gallant wounded and mutilated soldiers in sending a detachment of your troops to the ceremony of presentation of “Medailles Militaires” and “Croix de Guerre”.

Seeing your brave soldiers marching past, looking so high-spirited and stalwart, your old English motto “Je Raintiendrai” was brought back to my memory and I could not help saying to myself that in these days of heroic feats, there was not a man amongst them who was not ready to put this proud “devise” into practice to the very utmost of his power.

Will you please tell them that when one sees such soldiers, one has the impression that no adversary, however “Boche” he may be, can overcome them.

The above is a copy of a letter received by the G.O.C. in connection with Fridays (May 26^th) presentation of French and British Decorations.

The G.O.C. has great pleasure in publishing the above letter to all ranks who took part in the ceremony, his approval of their turn-out, smart soldierly appearance, and the highly satisfactory manner in which they handled their arms.

P. Commings

Lieut Colonel,

A.A. & Q.M.G.

33^rd Division.

2nd Battalion – Finer day. Nothing to report.

Officers 36.    Other Ranks 955.

1 Wounded.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion -

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets, orders to move at one hours notice.

7^th Battalion – Lt W.A.L. Marriott R.A.M.C. took over duty of M.O. temporarily attached vice Capt G.D. Yates who returned to his unit.

8^th Battalion – The Bn relieved the 8^th R.W. Kent Regt in the right trenches.

Relief complete at 1am. The Bn was distributed as follows :-

C3 – D Coy; D2 & Part D1 – C Coy.

C4 & Pt D1 – B Coy.

Coy in Reserve – A coy.

Total Trench Strength 435.

10^th Battalion – STEENWERCK.

8pm In billets - marched from OTTERSTEEN.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 29th May 1916

29^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – FOUQUEREVIL.

Major Parnell & 2 coy commanders reconnoitred Village Line behind 15^th Division. Ordinary routine for the troops.

The battalion was ready to move at short notice.

2nd Battalion – Usual fatigues. Very wet & cold.

Officers 36.    Other Ranks 956.

1 Att.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – Numbers of working parties reduced to one company & half with the result that machine gunners signallers & 2 companies can train daily.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets, orders to move at one hours notice.

7^th Battalion – Battalion Training. Lt D.R. Heaton, Lt O.E. Saltmarsh, Lieut V. hook, 2/Lt M. Shuldham-Legh returned from leave – Capt G.D. Yates R.A.M.C. joined the Battalion for temporary attachment – Lt C.A. Haggard took over command of “B” Coy -

8^th Battalion – DRANOUTRE.

11.30 am The G.O.C. 2^nd Army presented ribbons to the recipients of awards in the Bde at 11.30 am at DRANOUTRE.

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion – 5 pm Battalion left STRAZEELE for NOOTEBOOM, where it was billeted for the night and following day.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 28th May 1916

28^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Church parade in morning; the C.O. & 2 coy commanders inspected Village Line behind 15^th Division in morning, owing to expected German attack on Loos Salient. At 4.30 pm received sudden orders to move & proceeded to billets in FOUQUEREVIL. Col Crofts took over command of 100^th Brigade owing to absence on leave of the Brigadier – General.

2nd Battalion – Everything still as usual.

Officers 36.    Other Ranks 956.

1 Att, Draft.

2 to Hos.

2/4^th Battalion – 28^th-31^st May

FERRY POST SUEZ CANAL.

Battalion marched with 160^th Brigade for FERRY POST, relieving 30^th Australian Battalion.

Encamped at Ferry Post. Work consists of providing guards at Bastions forming part of defence of the post & in garrisoning outlying posts at BENCH MARK & RIDGE POST, in working PONTOON Bridge & FERRIES & providing numerous guards & fatigues.

Transport. The Battalion is now complete with horses & vehicles, but is still deficient in saddler.

Strength. During the past month the Battalion has been reinforced by 2 Officers & 74 O.R. It has been diminished by 2 Officers 35 O.R. detached to 160^th Bde, Machine Gun Coy, 1 Officer 28 O.R. to 5^th Coy imperial Camel Corps & 24 O.R. classed by Medical Board as Permanent “B” to Abbassia, Cairo.

Present strength is 34 Off, 843 O.R.

Health. On the whole is good. Inoculation & Vaccination has been interfered with owing to outlying detachments & move, but will now be proceeded with as quickly as possible.

Weather. A heat wave accompanied by gusty squalls of dust occurred from 13/5/16 to 17/5/16. The temperature during this rose to 125˚ in the tents.

A.F. Tredgold

Maj & adj,

For 2/4 Queens.

Ferry Post Camp,

Eygpt.  1/6/1916.

1/5^th Battalion – Church Parade at 8am.

1/6^th Battalion – ALLOUAGNE.

The Battalion remained in billets, under orders to move at short notice.

7^th Battalion – Brigade sports held at PICQUIGNY. Capt I.P.W. Bennett and 2192 a/R.S.M. Greenfield A.F. proceeded to 4^th Army School for course of instruction – 2/Lt F.L. Gammon granted special leave to June 4^th 1916. Lieut C.A. Haggard and Lieut W. Wigham- Richardson returned from leave. Lieut R. Anderson R.A.M.C. proceeded to 4^th Army Mine Rescue School, RIBEMONT.

8^th Battalion –

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 27th May 1916

27^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Working party of 3 officers & 100 men in morning & similar party in afternoon – C.O. & Adjutant attended Bayonet Fighting Demonstration in morning. In afternoon C.O. & company commanders reconnoitred the line in Cuinchy Left. In evening, move for next day suddenly cancelled. Col Crofts returned from leave & resumed command of battalion.

2nd Battalion – The Battn, is still finding the usual fatigues and today, a Cpl was killed and a private wounded whilst on mining fatigue.

Officers 36.    Other Ranks 958.

1 Att, Draft.

1 Killed.

1 Wounded.

1 Hos.

Increase 36 Draft. Dec.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – Work on the circular bund continued uninterruptedly all week except that from the 24^th onwards 100 were detailed for work on the river bund but by the end of the week the bund was completed & the river had dropped 14 inches.

The bridge of boats is to move further up stream just E of our camp. 300 men started the new Bridgehead.

Capt L.M. Yetts was appointed A.P.M. 1^st Div.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets & furnished working party 450 strong to dig trenches on Hill 140 1 mile N of BOMY. At 7 pm Battalion received orders to be ready to move to “B” Area, Reserve Divisional Area. At 8.30 pm received orders to concentrate at 10.46 pm in the square in FLETCHIN. Battalion arrive in ALLOUAGNE at 4.10 am. Four men fell out.

7^th Battalion – Battalion training – 2/Lt F.L. Gammon returned from Bde Bombing School. 2^nd Lt R.C. Herbert, returned from Bde Bombing School.

8^th Battalion –

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 26th May 1916

26^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine, in morning – Regiment found Guard of Honour under Capt Brodhurst Hill to French General & General Monro for presentation of medals in the Grand Place. A very smart turn0out & very steady on parade.

2nd Battalion – GRANTOWN.

The whole of the Battn, are out of the trenches and are doing fatigues. Today there are over 300 on different working parties.

Officers 36.    Other Ranks 925.

1 Att, Draft of 3 O.R.

2/4^th Battalion – 1 Officer & 28 O.R. detached for duty with 5^th Company, Imperial Camel Corps.

MOASCAR ISMAILIA.

Battalion with Transport & Baggage moved to FAYOUM, where detachments from KAFR MAHFOUD, KOM ABU RADI, KOM SHE SHA & FAYOUM rejoined, having been relieved by Montgomery Yeomanry. Battalion thence proceeded by rail to MOASKAR, ISMAILIA & bivouacked for the night.

1/5^th Battalion -

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets & furnished working party 450 strong to dig trenches on Hill 140 1 mile N of BOMY.

7^th Battalion – Battalion training. 2/Lt D. Neilson Terry struck off the strength of the Battalion owing to developing illness while on leave in England. Medical Board by W.O. order.

8^th Battalion –

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 25th May 1916

25^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine. Guard of Honour practised. Finals of Brigade Boxing Tournament in theatre.

2/Lt Hobson joined battalion.

2nd Battalion – A & D Coys were relieved by two Coys of the 6^th Berk’s Regt & so from today, all companies are in Grantown & doing fatigue.

Officers 36.    Other Ranks 922.

1 Att.

2/Lieut Hine to England Sick.

2/4^th Battalion

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion -

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets & furnished working party 450 strong to dig trenches on Hill 140 1 mile N of BOMY.

7^th Battalion – Capt R.S. Le Bas proceeded to Hd Qrs 55 Inf, Bde, for attachment thereto Capt J.M. Du Buisson took over command of “A” Coy.

Capt J.R. Walpole, Capt H.L. Martin and Capt J.M. Du Buisson were accidentally wounded by an explosion of Stokes Gun ammunition at a demonstration – The former officer returned to duty, the latter being evacuated to hospital.

8^th Battalion – Training was continued. 70 men were sent to be trained at the 72 I.B. Grenade School.

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 24th May 1916

24^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine. C.O. Capt Godfrey & Adjutant on Brigade staff Ride all morning.

2nd Battalion – A very quiet day. It rained practically the whole day and in consequence everything is very slippery & muddy.

Officers 37.    Other Ranks 922.

1 Attached.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion -

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets & furnished working party 450 strong to dig trenches on Hill 140 1 mile N of BOMY.

7^th Battalion – Lieut Romney & the transport from VAUX-SUR-SOMME rejoined the Battalion also Lt B.C. Haggard & the sick & lame – Lt F. Travers took over the appointment of acting Adjutant Vice 2 Lieut T.C. Filby.

8^th Battalion – 24^th/25^th May.

The Bn was relieved in the trenches by the 8^th R.W. Kent Regt. Relief complete at 11.30 pm. On relief the Bn moved into Divl Reserve at DRANOUTRE and was disposed as follows :-

A Coy & Snipers – STACK FARM,

C;D, Grenade, M.G. Det, Sigs – Hutment Camp.

B Coy – AIRCRAFT FARM.

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 23rd May 1916

23^rd May 1916 – 

1st Battalion – Brigade route march via Oblingham, Gonnehem, Choques & Vendin; started 6.15 am back at 10.45 am. Lecture to all officers on “Discipline & F.G.C.M.’s –

Battalion boxing contests at Annezin in evening; some very good fighting.

2/Lt Bower joined battalion.

2nd Battalion – One man was wounded by a rifle grenade. Enemy very active with rifle grenades.

Officers 37.    Other Ranks 922.

1 Attached.

1 man wounded

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion -

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets & furnished working party 450 strong to dig trenches on Hill 140 1 mile N of BOMY.

7^th Battalion – BRAY TO PICQUIGNY.

The Battalion moved from billets BRAY parading at 4 am & marched to MERICOURT Station entraining there at 8 am proceeded to PICQUIGNY – going into billets. Lieut Col F.B.B. Pickard joined the Battalion at MERICOURT Station having returned from leave – The Regimental Transport under – Lieut Romney T.O. proceeded to VAUX-SUR-SOMME by road – the sick & lame men proceeded to PICQUIGNY by barge – from BRAY – under the command of Lt B.C. Haggard, Lieut Col F.B.B. Pickard received orders to proceed to England & left by the 6.30 pm train – Lieut A. Anderson rejoined from leave also 2/Lt G. Dandridge.

8^th Battalion –

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 22nd May 1916

22^nd May 1916–

1st Battalion – Battalion parade at Choques in morning. Ordinary routine.

2nd Battalion – A & D Coys relieve B & C in the two trenches. A draft of 2 officers & 57 other ranks have joined.

Officers 37.    Other Ranks 923.

1 Attached

Joined 2/Lts. Secretan & Haig with 57 other ranks.

2/4^th Battalion –detachment for ABU GANDIR rejoined Battalion, being relieved by Yeomanry.

1/5^th Battalion -

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets & continued training.

7^th Battalion – Major H.C. Jeddere Fisher proceeded to the 18^th Div school as instructor – Captain & Adjutant M.Kemp Walsh took over temporary command of the Battalion Captain C.W.M. Price took over temporary appointment of 2^nd in command of the Battalion – Captain H.L. Martin took over the command of “B” Coy Vice Captain C.W.M. Price.

8^th Battalion –

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 21st May 1916

21^st May 1916 –

1st Battalion – Church parade in morning. C.O. & company carried out tactical scheme at Choques.

2nd Battalion – Things are fairly quiet in the trenches.

C.Q.M.S. Gillies promoted to 2/Lieut.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 866.

1 Attached C.Q.M.S. Gillies prom to 2/Lt.

2/Lt Greig struck off strength but attached.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion -

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion attended Brigade Church Parade.

7^th Battalion – 2/Lts R.C. Herbert – F.L. Gammon & four N.C.O’s proceeded to Bdge – Bombing School for a weeks course of instruction – Lt A.J.R. Haggard proceeded to CAMIERE for a course of instruction in Vickers Mx Gun. Lt D.R. Heaton proceeded on leave. Sentence suspended in the case of 1148 Pte G. Coles Authority G.O.C. 4^th Army d/19/5/16.

8^th Battalion –

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 20th May 1916

20^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine. Lecture to battalion signallers by divisional signals officer in morning, cautioning against German listening apparatus.

2nd Battalion – Germans were very active with rifle grenades, killing two men.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 867.

To Hospital 6.

Killed 2.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – Hours of work altered so that instead of working by reliefs the whole Battn worked from 6.0 – 9.0 am & 4.0 – 7.0 pm. The Army Commander left.

Altho’ the river has started to fall the C.R.E. required a full working day but hours of work were now finally modified to 6.0 – 9.0 am & 5.0 – 7.0 pm.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets & continued training.

7^th Battalion – Lt Shuldham-Legh, Lt O.E. Saltmarsh, Lt V. hook proceeded on leave – Enemy fired several shells into BRAY – between 8am and 9am causing several casualties to the 1^st Bn South Staffordshire Regt. We sustained no casualties. Very little damage was done to buildings -

8^th Battalion – 20^th – 24th This tour passed quietly on our front. ‘GAS ALERT’ was the order for the greater part of the time. On the afternoon of the 22^nd our ‘Heavies’ burst two gas cylinders in the Enemy trench opposite D 2 & D 3.

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 19th May 1916

19^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine; companies went out to Oblingham for parades. 2/Lt Crichton granted Military Cross; no.8667 Sgt Elderkin; no.981 L.Cpl Harding & no.8814 L.Cpl Wyber granted Military Medal for action on blowing of QUEEN’S crater on 6^th May.

2nd Battalion – During the day the front line was shelled causing four men to be wounded, one of whom returned to duty at once, during the night a man on one of the working parties was also very slightly wounded.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 875.

Wounded of which only 3 were evacuated.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – After very strenuous all day work for the last 10 days the Battn were given a whole holiday which they much appreciated.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion took part in a Divisional Exercise.

7^th Battalion – nothing to record.

8^th Battalion – Training continued.

On the night of the 19^th the Bn relieved the 8^th R.W. Kent Regt in the trenches. Relief complete at 1 am.

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 18th May 1916

18^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Baths all day & ordinary drills. Lt Col Crofts granted 10 days leave to England; Major Parnell in command.

2nd Battalion – Nothing to report from the trenches, and the two companies at GRANTOWN are doing the usual working parties day and night.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 878.

2 from Hospital.

1 from Base.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion - The Army Commander accompanied by Bg Gen Money Chief of Staff arrived at NASARIYEH & received Brigadiers & C.O’s at 12 noon. At 5.30 pm he rode thro’ city & camp & inspected huts & lines at about 6.45 pm. The Battn was working on the Bund at the time.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion took part in a Brigade Exercise.

7^th Battalion – nothing to record.

8^th Battalion – Training continued.

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 17th May 1916

17^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Cleaning up all day. Company commanders conference in evening.

2nd Battalion – GRANTOWN & TRENCHES.

The two Companies at GRANTOWN (B & C) relieved A & D in the trenches this afternoon. To add to one’s work during a relief, we got orders this morning to clear out of BRAY by the evening. Hd Qrs here come up to GRANTOWN & we have got 3 dug-outs. As the weather is glorious, it is very nice to be away from the continual noise of Motor Lorries & Transport in Bray.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 875.

1 O.R. to England for munition work.

1 O.R. to England for discharge.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – 3 cases of cholera having occurred the city was put out of bounds.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets & continued training.

7^th Battalion – Lts C.A. Haggard & W. Wigham- Richardson went on leave.

All companies on fatigue at night. Lt F. Travers rejoined the Battn from England.

8^th Battalion – The following awards were made by the Commander-in-chief, British Forces in FRANCE –

MILITARY CROSS – Capt W.R.G. Bye (Adjutant).

D.C.M – 3088 Sgt Trott A.L. “B” Coy.

MILITARY MEDAL – 9939 Sgt Bryant A. A Coy.

984 C.S.M. West A. D Coy.

5907 L/C Hartnup J. A Coy.

3035 Pte Gill F.G. C Coy.

1757 Pte O’Mara S.J. A Coy.

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 16th May 1916

16^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – BETHUNE.

Very quiet day; 1 wounded. Relieved by 20^th R.F’s after dark & proceeded to billets at MONTMORENCY BARRACKS, BETHUNE.

2nd Battalion – Quite a nice day to-day, & it looks as though we are in for another spell of heat. Nothing of interest to record, in the trenches.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 877.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion –

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets & continued training.

Lieut D. Mann appointed Adjutant vice Major R.A.M. Basset 4.4.16.

7^th Battalion – Lt Col F.B.B. Pickard proceeded on leave, command of the Battalion devolved on Major H.C. Jeddere-Fisher.

Capt & Adjt M. Kemp-Welch rejoined Battn. All Companies engaged on fatigue at night.

8^th Battalion –

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion – A party of 7 officers, including C.O. and Adjutant, and 20 N.C.O’s proceeded to trenches for a course of 2 days.

To each of these parties, 2 or 3 specialist N.C.O’s were added. As each party proceeded to the identical trenches that the company is to take over on relief, much useful and practical knowledge was thereby obtained.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 15th May 1916

15^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Very quiet day; 1 wounded. At 10 pm we blew mine near “Midnight” crater, & party of 16^th K.R.R. attempted raid, but lost their way, & got into our own trenches, bombing one of our dug-outs, & wounding stretcher bearer (afterwards died of wounds). Heavy artillery & T.M barrage from 10 to 10.30 pm on both sides.

2nd Battalion – We are expecting every minute to be turned out of our Head-Quarters, as the Division is handing Bray over to the 18^th Division.

One man was wounded last night by a rifle grenade. Except for an occasional rifle grenade & salvo of Whizz-bangs, we have been left alone in the trenches. Weather still very bad.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 876.

Draft 11.

Wounded 1

2/4^th Battalion – 3 Platoons marched to KAFR MAHFOUD where they relieved detachment of 2/10^th Middlesex Regt.

1 Platoon relieved detachment of 2/10^th Middlesex Regt at KOM ABU RADI.

1 Platoon relieved detachment of 2/10^th Middlesex Regt at KOM SHE SHA.

1 Platoon relieved detachment of 2/10^th Middlesex Regt at FAYOUM.

1/5^th Battalion – The first death by drowning occurred. No 4776 Pte W Philpott A Coy who could not swim stepped off the ledge of shallow & sank at once. The body was not recovered.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets & continued training.

7^th Battalion – Nothing to report -

8^th Battalion – 15^th – 16^th May.

Training was carried on, and a Regimental Technical Class was commenced under Capt R.H. Rowland.

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 14th May 1916

14^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – AUCHY LEFT.

Church parade in morning. All officers attended mess meeting. Working parties of 90 men. After dark relieved 16^th K.R.R. in AUCHY LEFT. Germans blew mine near Midnight crater just after our advanced party took over; eleven of the enemy accounted for by rifle & M.G. fire.

2nd Battalion –

2/4^th Battalion – A very wet day & the trenches are getting bad again. Machine Guns still worry our front line during the greater part of the night. Otherwise all is quiet on our front.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 866.

17 to Hospital.

1/5^th Battalion – Water almost up to Bund. Work to continue daily in two hour relief's 6 – 12.0 noon & 3.0 – 7.30 pm.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets, voluntary church parade.

7^th Battalion – All companies on fatigue. 2/Lts T.C. Filby and M. Penrose Fitz Gerald returned from leave.

8^th Battalion – On the evening of the 14^th the 8^th Queen’s Regt was relieved in the trenches by the 8^th R.W. Kent Regt. Relief complete at 1 am.

On relief the 8^th Queen’s moved into Bde Reserve, & was disposed as follows –

A Coy & Snipers section – at KANDAHAR FARM.

B Coy – billet at N 33 central.

C.D & Sections – AIRCRAFT FARM.

H.Q. - AIRCRAFT FARM.

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion – A party of 5 officers and 20 N.C.O’s of C Coy proceeded to trenches for a course of 2 days.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 13th May 1916

13^th May 1916 –

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine. Working parties of 180 men.

Detachment at 1^st Army Hd Qrs (Aire) was changed today.

2nd Battalion – Last night there was a heavy bombardment by the enemy, on the sector on our right. An attempt was made to enter our trenches but up to now no reliable news is to hand. Our trenches which “A” Coy are holding were shelled earlier in the evening causing 7 casualties. Shortly after 2.30am this morning rain came down in torrents & it has been raining intermittently all day, so that once again everywhere is mud.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 883.

1 From Hospital.

6 Wounded.

1 Killed.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – The 42^nd Bde Camp was all but flooded & the Bde moved over to right bank. The remainder of the garrison were all turned out to work in reliefs on construction of new circular bund just round the camp from river to river. The battalion worked in two hour reliefs from 11.30 – 7.30pm.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets & continued training.

7^th Battalion – All companies on fatigue, digging trench for waterpipe in MARICOURT VALLEY. 1 man wounded by M.G. bullet (No.1198 Pte Hampton E)

8^th Battalion

10^th Battalion – Billets – Outterstien.

11^th Battalion –

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 12th May 1916

12^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine. Working parties of 215 men.

2nd Battalion – A & D Coys in the trenches this afternoon. Last night the enemy was active, traversing our front line parapet with Machine Guns.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 899.

1 from 3^rd Army Survey Co.

Pte Peek to 22^nd Bde as Groom to Capt Fuze.

1 Transferred to 10^th Hussars.

2/4^th Battalion – A party of 11 natives crossed the Canal W of Camp & before help could be summoned had knocked down policeman & decamped with his clasp knife. Later on in the day a native stole up behind a sergeant who was walking along the Canal bank & snatched his clasp knife & decamped.

It has been noticed that during the last few weeks the natives have been decidedly more insolent in demeanour. In consequence of these occurrences an armed patrol was posted on Canal Bank with instructions to prevent any natives crossing & if necessary to fire.

1/5^th Battalion – The Bund at RUTHERS TOWER broke & the floods began to come in towards the camp.

(Brig Gen Ercoking having been appointed G.O.C. 15^th Division newly formed here Lt Col Malcolm 31^st Punjabis assumed command of the 12^th).

1/6^th Battalion – FLECHIN & CUHEM.

The Battalion remained in billets & continued training.

7^th Battalion – All companies on fatigue. Lt W. Wigham-Richardson & 2/Lt Whittet returned from Hospital. Lt R. Anderson M.O. and 2/Lt Dandridge departed on leave. Capt K. Biggs takes duty for Lt Anderson during his absence.

8^th Battalion –

10^th Battalion – Billets. Coys went for a route march – 13 miles.

11^th Battalion – A party of 5 officers and 20 N.C.O’s of B Coy proceeded to trenches for a course of

2 days.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 11th May 1916

11^th May 1916 –

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine. Working parties of 150 men. Concert in evening in Cinema Hall.

2nd Battalion – Hot day. Nothing to report from the trenches. The two companies at GRANTOWN are finding working parties all day & night.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 890.

7 to Hospital.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – Ordered to draw 2 new machine guns. Guns Vickers light pattern.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets & continued training.

7^th Battalion – BRAY.

All companies on fatigue. 2/Lts Shuldham-legh and F.L. Gammon returned from hospital.

8^th Battalion

10^th Battalion – Billets. Practice with Gas helmets in Gas attack.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 10th May 1916

10^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine. Working parties of 180 men again.

2nd Battalion – Cold day. Fairly quiet in the line. Enemy’s Machine Guns getting more active every night.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 897.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – Work continued as yesterday, 100 N.C.O’s & men on Bund left bank, reliefs of 200 throughout the day on the right bank. In addition 100 worked on special fatigue work in connection with the arrival of the 42^nd Brigade who marched from BASRA & started to arrive about 8.30am.

A column had left NASARIYEH on the 7^th & marched to KHAMASIYEH to meet the incoming Brigade. 6 signallers were sent under Capt Stoodley from the Battn to keep communication with NASARIYEH. This they succeeded in doing satisfactorily using helio by day lamp (Begbie) by night. Distance 10 miles.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets & continued training.

7^th Battalion – All companies on fatigue.

8^th Battalion –

10^th Battalion – Billets – Bayonet fighting, musketry, Phy, training etc.

11^th Battalion – A party of 5 officers and 20 N.C.O’s of A Coy proceeded to trenches for a course of 2 days.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 9th May 1916

9^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – BEUVRY.

Baths all day. 180 men out on working parties.

2nd Battalion – The Huns are getting rather active with Rifle Grenades & Trench Mortars. The Companies in the line are very busy, wiring & making shell proof emplacements for Lewis Guns.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 897.

4 Wounded.

2/4^th Battalion – One Platoon proceeded to ABU GANDIR as guard to Aeroplanes shed. 2 Officers & 35 O.R. with 2 Maxim Guns detached to newly formed 160^th Brigade Machine Gun Company.

1/5^th Battalion – No route march as Battn warned for fatigues on new camp for 42^nd Brigade. This was cancelled however owing to state of Bunds all troops put at disposal of C.R.E. Work ordered, usual party with 100 mules for strengthening bund on left bank remainder to work in relays all day on the right bank.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battalion remained in billets & continued training.

7^th Battalion – 2/Lieuts E.F. Bennett, F.J. Miller left for course of instruction in Bombing at PICQUIGNY. Lt Hook returned from course of instruction in the STOKES Gun at PICQUIGNY. 2/Lts J.S. Walter and Tortise returned from Div.School Capt J.M. Du Buisson returned on leave. All companies on fatigue.

8^th Battalion – 9^th – 14^th May.

The Bn remained in right trenches. “GAS ALERT” was the order for the greater part of this tour, as the wind was EAST but variable. The Weather was very fine. On the whole, the days passed quietly.

10^th Battalion – OTTERSTEEN.

9am Marched to the area OUKERSTEEN and went into billets. Showery-good roads.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 8th May 1916

8^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Quiet day. An O.P. knocked out by direct hit in morning. 1 killed, 3 wounded. G.O.C. Division (General Landon) complimented B Coy on their quick action in preventing occupation of QUEEN’S crater by the enemy. Relieved by 16^th K.R.R. & returned to billets in BEUVRY. 2 Lt Buist joined the battalion this evening.

2nd Battalion – BRAY & TRENCHES.

The hot weather has come to an end & now it is cold & showery. The 2 Companies at GRANTOWN are on fatigue most of the day. Things fairly quiet in the trenches.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 901.

4 To Hospital.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – The river continued to rise & the state of Bunds was now  causing considerable anxiety.

1 officer & 21 other ranks of the 1/4 Dorsets arrived with baggage etc of their Battn which is marching from BASRA as part of the 42^nd Brigade.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battn moved off at 5am and proceeded to new billets in FLECHIN (H.Q. & A & C Coys) & CUHEM ( B & D Coys) adjoining 1^st Army Special Manoeuvre Area Coys were in their billets by 11am.

7^th Battalion – Lt R. Romney joined and taken on strength of the Battalion No 1511 L/CPL Epps died of wounds in hospital, Vellum certificates signed by Lt Gen Maxse were given to the following N.C.O’s & men 342 Sgt Wilson O.R; 1231 L/Cpl Rowe P.S; 5687 Pte Bedford G; 4785 Pte Bennett E; 1582 Pte Douglas A.W; 625 Sgt Smallbones; 1930 Pte Morgan W; 931 C.S.M. Hart T. All these had been recommended for “mention in despatches” for “conspicuous and gallant conduct in the field”.

8^th Battalion – On the evening of the 8^th May the Bn relieved the 8^th R.W. Kent Regt in the right subsector. The Bn did not pass the road junction N33 d.1.5 before 11pm. Relief complete at 12.45am (9^th).

The trenches were held as follows :-

C3 - D Coy.

C4 & Part D1 – B Coy.

D2 & Part D1 – A Coy.

Coy in Bn Reserve – C Coy.

Total Trench Strength was 410.

10^th Battalion – STEENBECQUE.

4am Disentrained and marched to EBBLINGHEM (less A Coy)

2pm EBBLINGHEM A Coy where the Battn went into billets. Cold showers – good roads.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 7th May 1916

7^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Quieter day; very little shelling or T.M. fire, but bombing round QUEEN’S crater all night.

5 wounded; 1 wounded at duty yesterday admitted to hospital.

2nd Battalion – The Battalion relieved the 21^st Bn. The Manchester Regt in the trenches. Two Companies are in the front line & 2 Companies in dug-out in Grantown. B & C Trenches, A & D Grantown. At the present time the accommodation is bad & the men are rather crowded. Headquarters are in BRAY but will probably move soon to GRANTOWN.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 905.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – Church Parade Service at 7.30am in Fort Ditch as the church was flooded.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battn attended Brigade Devine Service at 11am Capt R.A.M. Bassett 6^th Bn The Queens Regt, appointed Deputy Assistant Quartermaster General 20^th Division.

7^th Battalion – Capt J.R. Walpole, Capt I.P.W. Bennett, and 2/Lt D. Neilson-Terry departed on leave. Lt W. Wigham-Richardson 2/Lts M. Shuldham-Legh, H. Whittet, & F.L. Gammon admitted to hospital. All companies on fatigue.

8^th Battalion –

10^th Battalion –5am The Bn (less “A” Coy Capt Bessell) entrained for STEENBECQUE.

5pm “A” Coy entrained for EBBLINGHEM.

11^th Battalion – STRAZEELE.

The training of the battalion was continued without delay – chiefly in various phases of trench

warfare.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 6th May 1916

6^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – At 5.55am enemy mine blown S of BABY crater; 2 men buried in sap-head in EASTERN TWIN crater. Barrage of 77mm & 4.2” shells for half an hour, & again after an hour. Part of B Coy occupied far lip at once & prevented enemy from leaving his trenches by rifle fire & bombs; 2 Lt Crichton, 8867 Sgt Elderkin, 8814 L, cpl Wyber & 891 L, cpl Harding did very well, 2 Lt Crichton being slightly wounded (at duty) by shell fire. 2 Lt Crichton recommended for Military Cross, the other three ranks for Military Medal. Work on saps all day.

Light shelling & heavy minnies about mid-day & in afternoon; heavy bombardment with L.H.V. , 4.2” & minnies for an hour at dusk.

Day’s casualties, 4 killed, 8 wounded, (2 at duty) & 2 Lt Crichton wounded (at duty).

New crater called QUEEN’S crater.

2nd Battalion – Battalion Attack (Trench Warfare). The G.O.C. 7^th Division was present in the afternoon; Bayonet Exercises & Musketry by Companies. Lecture to N.C.O’s & junior officers by the M.O. Regimental football match in the evening against the 9^th Devons. A very good game ending in our favour by 3 goals to 1.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 905.

1 to Base for discharge.

Lieut H.H. Greig & 10 O.R. taken back on the strength.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – A medical Commission comprising Sir William Vincent & Gen Bingley  who had

arrived on the 5^th on the SHUSHAN sat to take evidence – The C.O. Major Smallpiece Capt Bray Capt Jardine Lieut Stoop & Capt Bailey R.A.M.C. gave evidence.

At 5pm Capt Morton Lieut Evetts Lieut Wigan 97 other ranks of A Coy & 6 signallers took over “One Tree Post” from the 114^th Mahrattas for a week. This post was established 2 miles NW of Cantonments to protect the Bund from being attacked.

In addition 30 N.C.O’s & men had to be sent to No 8 Post to find a permanent patrol of 10 N.C.O’s & men to patrol by night from No 8 Post towards the Tree Post & meeting another similar patrol from One Tree Post.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battn continued Training, Physical Training, Saluting & Musketry.

Two Coys fired on the range.

7^th Battalion – Nothing to report. All Coys on fatigue Lt B.C. Haggard rejoined and 2/lt joined Battalion & taken on strength.

8^th Battalion –

10^th Battalion – Le Havre.

6am Disembarked and marched to Dock Rest Camp. 2/Lts, Brown, Bird, Bain & Erackson to Base.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 5th May 1916

5^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – Quiet day. 1 wounded. Our T.M’s did good work on R.W.F. craters.

2nd Battalion – Battalion Attack (Trench Warfare). The B.G.C. was present & watched with interest. Finals of the Boxing Competition.

Officers 34.    Other Ranks 896.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion - The nullah into which all the percolating water had been drained now reached the SHATRA ROAD & the G.O.C. at 11am gave orders it was to be bunded so as not to allow water across the road. C & A companies working in reliefs from 11 – 4 completed the bund.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battn continued Training, Physical Training, Saluting & Musketry.

7^th Battalion – No.1655 Pte Holgate,P accidentally drowned while washing at the river. All Companies on fatigue at night laying water pipe from SUZANNE to MARICOURT.

8^th Battalion –

10^th Battalion – ALDERSHOT.

9am The Battn left Aldershot (3 train loads) for port of Embarkation.

SOUTHAMPTON.

7pm  Embarked and sailed for Le Havre.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 4th May 1916

4^th May 1916–

1st Battalion – AUCHY LEFT.

Working parties of 110 men in afternoon. Relieved 16^th K.R.R. in AUCHY Left, after dark. 2 Lt Slatter relinquished post of Brigade Intelligence Officer, & took over temporary command of A Coy.

2nd Battalion – Battalion attack (Trench Warfare) In the afternoon there were the first rounds of a Boxing Competition. Capt E.K.B. Fuze appointed staff Captain 22^nd Inf, Bde.

Officers 34.    Other Ranks 896.

Captain E.K.B. Fuze & Pte Bull seconded.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion –

1/6^th Battalion – The Battn carried out only the before breakfast parades, then attended Brigade Sports at LOZIMGHEM.

7^th Battalion – BRAY.

Battn went into billets at BRAY less D Company at SUZANNE.

8^th Battalion – 4^th – 8^th May.

The Bn continued its ‘training’ programme especially with respect to the training of new Bombers, Lewis Gunners, & Snipers.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 3rd May 1916

3^rd May 1916 –

1st Battalion – Ordinary routine. Working parties of 325 men.

2nd Battalion – Coy parades. Attack, open warfare. Company Drill.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 897.

3 to Base.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – The Battalion was ordered to improve the trench line inside the barbed wire entanglement with a view to holding it to defend the Bridgehead. A large proportion of the line had fallen in but a start was made by A & C Companies. D Company doing work on the Bund. The river rose 5 inches during the last 24 hours.

At 6.45pm the Brigade Major issued orders that 2 companies were to fall in at once & move out to RUTHERS TOWER to repair a break in the Bund there. A & B companies were detailed & at 7.10pm Major Hodges & 2 platoons moved out as an advanced guard. The remainder under Capt P.R. Whittington followed immediately each man in addition to his rifle & equipment carrying a gaming bag. On approaching RUTHERS TOWER the party had to halt for some time as CARTERS village & others near had taken the alarm. Eventually work was started & it took some 4 hours to complete the work. The party returned to camp at 3.30am.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battn received orders at 5am to pass the Starting Point (crossroads W. of ALLOUAGNE) at 6.30am on a test of a defence scheme. The Battn marched to LILLERS, where it should, according to the scheme, have entrained. The Brigade continued on a route march getting back to billets about 11am.

7^th Battalion – ETINEHAM.

Battn rested at ETINEHAM CAMP

8^th Battalion – the points of assembly (marked B) at T.15 b 92 (sheet 28SW) and at N33 d 38 were reconnoitred. These points are applicable to the Bn of the 72 I.B. in Divisional Reserve.

10th Battalion – ALDERSHOT.

The battalion, under the command of Lieut Col H.B. Burnaby D.S.O. left Aldershot for Southampton, the port of embarkation. The following officers were present with the battalion :-

Lieut Col H.B. Burnaby D.S.O. (in command)

Major H. Wardell (2^nd in command)

Major R.C. Graham Clark

Captain R.C. Smith (Durham Light Infantry Adjutant)

Captain C.J. Hogan

Captain F.C. Vignoles

Captain A.A. Langley

Captain T. Kelly

Captain Wilbur C. Sharpe

Lieut E.G. Bowden

Lieut W.L.S. Cox

Lieut J.P.H. Cookson

Lieut W.J. Hedley

Lieut W. McDonald (Transport officer)

Lieut A. McKenzie

Lieut R.V. Peddar

Lieut M.C.L. Porter

Lieut G.P. White

Sec Lieut W.H.G. Chapman

Sec Lieut H.N.F. Cook

Sec Lieut J.A. Cowan

Sec Lieut H.A. Head

Sec Lieut G.M. Lewis

Sec Lieut C.A. Lindup

Sec Lieut A.L. Keep

Sec Lieut R. Love

Sec Lieut O.J. Partington

Sec Lieut G.E. Penman

Sec Lieut T.B. Smith

J. Wardroper (Signalling Officer)

C.W. Wiley

D.C.H. O’Byrne

Lieut & Quarter-master B.J. Jordan

Regimental Sergt Major A.C. Middleton

Other Ranks – 924.

After a delay of 24 hours, owing to a fog, the battalion, having embarked on S.S. CAESAREA, arrived at HAVRE in the early hours of 5^th May 1916. Left HARVRE on the evening of 5^th May by train, arriving at GODEVAERSVELDE – afternoon 6^th May – thence by march route to

STRAZEELE, where it was billeted in 5 separate farm – houses.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 2nd May 1916

2^nd May 1916–

1st Battalion – Working parties of 2 officers & 200 men.

Divisional Commander, General Strickland inspected horses of transport in afternoon.

2nd Battalion – Yesterday’s program reversed.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 900.

From Hospital 1.

2/4^th Battalion –

1/5^th Battalion – The Battalion went for a route march starting at 6.30am from No 6 Post & going E to SADANIWIYAH CREEK thence turning N & back near MONSINS village reaching camp at 9.30am.

Strength 24 Officers 611 Other Ranks. Going out there was a fresh breeze but coming home the sun was very hot & many of the draft especially from the Middlesex Regt felt the heat excessively.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battn remained in ALLOUAGNE and continued with Physical Training, Rifle Exercises, & Company Training. Two Companies fired on the range.

7^th Battalion – Considerable annoyance from the enemy 77mm gun fired from directions of MONTAUBAN. One shell unfortunately pierced the roof of a shelter in FARGNY WOOD, killing 1 Sergt and wounding 1 L/CPL and 1 man (1973 Sgt Neville, E.E 1511 L/Cpl Epps, P.E and 1514 Botting W.A.)

2/Lts T.C. Filby & M. Penrose Fitz Gerald went on leave. Capt R.E. Le Bas returned from leave. Battn was relieved by 16^th Manchesters and marched to ETINEHAM CAMP.

8^th Battalion – The day passed quietly. In the evening the Bn was relieved in the right subsector by the 8^th R.W. Kent Regt. Relief complete at 12.45am. The Bn on relief moved into Divl, Reserve at

DRANOUTRE.

The Queen's (Royal West Surrey) Regiment 1st May 1916

1^st May 1916 –

1st Battalion – BEUVRY.

Battalion had baths all day. 4 officers & 180 men on working parties. Conference of officers & platoon sergeants in afternoon.

2nd Battalion – BOIS DES TAILLES.

Coy parades. A&B route march. C&D attack on trenches. Wiring & smoke helmet drill.

Officers 35.    Other Ranks 899.

2/4^th Battalion – EL AZAB FAYOUM EGYPT.

Battalion remains under canvas with 160^th Brigade & is occupied in Company & Battalion training Battalion & Brigade Route Marches; with special classes in Musketry, Bayonet fighting, Bombing, Signalling, Lewis Gun & instruction for junior officers & H.C.O’s. An examination in N.C.O’s has been held & 15 promoted to Sergeant & 18 to Corporal.

1/5^th Battalion – NASRIYEH.

In view of the greater heat of the weather the hours for working on garrison fatigues were altered from 7am – 11am to 6am – 10am, 3pm – 5pm to 4pm – 6pm.

As the latter hours occupied practically all the time when British troops could be comfortably out of doors the G.O.C. decided that for the future afternoon work should only be done every second day.

1/6^th Battalion – The Battn remained in ALLOUAGNE and continued with Physical Training, Rifle Exercises, & Company Training.

7^th Battalion – Y III SUBSECTOR.

Quiet day. Nothing to report. Draft of 37 men arrived.

8^th Battalion – TRENCHES.

The day was quiet on the whole. Aircraft active.