1916 War Diary appendices

NOTES: All remarks in squared brackets are my own additions, amendments or comments and are not part of the original document

I have adjusted all names to show in bold and capital letters, to make them easier to pick out. This is not how they appear in the original document.

July 1916

OPERATION ORDER NO.6 1/BEDFORDSHIRE Rgt. REF. Sheet LONGUEVAL 27th July. 1916

1. The 15th Infantry Bde. will attack the village of LONGUEVAL on 27th inst.

2. The attack will be preceded by a bombardment of 2 hours commencing at 2 hours before zero, i.e. at 5.10 A.M.

3. (a) At ZERO i.e. 7.10 A.M. 2 Coys 1/NORFOLK RGT. will advance from their line of assembly to the first objective. (b) The Guns will then lift onto the 2nd line of barrage. (c) A & B Coys will occupy the trenches vacated by two coys 1/NORFOLKS at this time.

4. (a) At 8.10 a.m. 2 coys 1/NORFOLKS will advance to 2nd objective (b) remaining 2 coys 1/NORFOLKS will move up into trenches vacated by 2 assaulting coys of 1/NORFOLKS (c) A.& B. Coys will move into the Trenches vacated by last 2 coys 1/NORFOLKS (d) C. & D. Coys will occupt original line of assembly. (e) At 8.40 A.M. Guns will lift onto final objective.

5. (a) At 8.40 A.M. A. & B. Coys. will attack the final objective. (b) The Guns will lift onto a line [blank] to [blank] & will stay on this line

6. A.Coy. will be responsible for that part of the objective lying to the right of the road running N.-S. through LONGUEVAL.. B.Coy. to the left of this road. (b) A.Coy. is responsible for the ORCHARD & for the strong post at [blank]. Special attention should also be paid to the right flank. (c) B.Coy. is responsible for the strong point at [blank]

7. When the final objective is captured, it will be consolidated AT ONCE & held at all costs.

8. Green flares will be lit at 9 a.m. & 2 p.m. & on reaching the final objective.

9. Bn. H.Q. is in old German 2nd line at S.17.d.5/9.

10. Aid Post is in dug out in old German 2nd Line. formerly occupied by H.Q. 1/NORFOLK Rgt.

11. All other instructions have been issued verbally.

REPORT ON OPERATIONS 26/28 JULY 1/BEDFORDSHIRE Rgt 26.7.'16 11.15.P.M.

The Battalion left its Bivouac POMMIERS REDOUBT and marched to Brigade Advanced H.Q. Here owing to very heavy Barrage & poison Gas shells in the Valley the Battalion halted for two hours. The Barrage was still intense but a fresh wind made advance possible & only two cases of gas poisoning have been reported. Shell fire was moderately severe in the valley and increased as the old German Second line Trenches were approached. 27.7.'16 [Capt. PARKER wounded] 3.50 A.M. Battn arrived in position of assembly in German 2nd Line Trenches and improved cover 5.30 A.M. Operation Orders received & communicated to Company Commanders. 7.0 A.M. A & B Coys in accordance with orders, left to take up their position in Reserve trenches at LONGUEVAL. 7.40 A.M. Report received from O.C. 1/NORFOLKS that owing to heavy shell fire, he required assistance 8.20 A.M. OC 1/BEDFORDSHIRE Rgt arrived at H.Q. 1/NORFOLK Rgt in LONGUEVAL having arranged for A & B Coys to assault the second line in conjunction with NORFOLKS & for C & D Coys to pass through & take third line. O.C. 16/ROYAL WARWICKSHIRE Rgt was requested to occupy front line trenches when these were vacated by C & D Coys. A & B Coys had at 7.30 A.M. occupied first line at 'E' & reserve trenches at 'B'. 9.00 A.M. C Coy arrived at E D Coy arrived at B and A Coy pushed across towards German Redoubt at F where the two leading NORFOLK Coys were being held up [100 prisoners surrendered here] Lt. FYSON with his platoon attacked house at G and took 32 prisoners. 9.5 A.M. C Coy advanced across PRINCES Street but were held up by Machine Gun fire from House at Cross Roads (I). This house was taken by a party of NORFOLK bombers. At the same time, two platoons of A Coy reached position marked H & K near FLERS Road where they were in touch in [sic] the ROYAL FUSILIERS on their right. A German counterattack was met with LEWIS Gun & Rifle fire, the estimated Enemy Casualties being 50. Several small posts were observed on the Ridge, apparently protected by wire. 9.30 A.M. C Coy crossed PRINCES STREET and took up a position parallel with NORTH Street joining up the two leading NORFOLK coys. They were unable to progress further owing to heavy Machine Gun fire from DUKE Street. They consolidated their position. 1 Officer & 30 men went forward from B Coy at C to reinforce a Coy of NORFOLKS at A. This coy was held up by Machine Gun fire from direction of DUKE Street & was unable to advance. STOKES Mortar Battery was asked to cooperate, but did not come into action. Later, heavy Artillery was asked to bombard this post. While awaiting this & the opportunity to advance, B & D Coys endeavoured to improve their cover under a hurricane bombardment.

Casualties in these two

B Coy 2 Officers 54 O.R. out of 5 Officers & 166 O.R.

D Coy 2 Officers 106 O.R. out of 5 Officers & 176 O.R.

6.30 P.M. ROYAL FUSILIERS on right, owing to heavy shell fire, retired and out line at K & H was slightly withdrawn to cover exposed flank. 7.0 P.M. B Coy received orders to retire to German Second Line trenches, leaving one platoon to hold line at A. A similar order was sent to D Coy but did not reach there and a second order was sent at 8.0 P.M. 9.0 P.M. C Coy tried to establish itself on East side of NORTH ST. but had to withdraw. They consolidated in touch with NORFOLKS & the SOUTH STAFFORDS of 2nd Division 28.7.'16 6 A.M. 1/D.C.L.I. & 1/E.SURREYS arrived & took over the line & the Battalion withdrew to POMMIERS Redoubt. The total casualties were 9 Officers 303 O.R. out of 23 Officers 807 O.R.

15th Infy. Bde. 1st Bedfords

The Brigadier-General Commanding wishes to express to all ranks of the Brigade his great admiration at the magnificent manner in which they captured the Village of LONGUEVAL yesterday. To the 1st NORFOLK Regiment and the 1st BEDFORDSHIRE Regiment and some of the 16th ROYAL WARWICKSHIRE Regiment, who were able to get into the enemy with the bayonet, he offers his heartiest congratulations. He knows it is what they have been waiting and wishing for many months. The 1st CHESHIRE Regiment made a most gallant and determined effort to reach their objective and failed through no fault of their own. The way in which the Troops behaved under the subsequent heavy bombardment was worthy of the best traditions of the British Army The Brigade captured 4 Officers and 159 other ranks 28/7/1916

OPERATION ORDERS NO.7 1/BEDFORDSHIRE RGT. Ref. Sheet LONGUEVAL 31st July 1916

1. The Battn. will be relieved at dark by 1/NORFOLK Rgt.

2. On Relief Battn. will withdraw to area East of Church, where they will get into SLIT Trenches they dug on arrival in LONGUEVAL last night.

3. O.C. Coys. will report their arrival in this area to Battn. H.Q.

4. O.C. Coys. will send one guide each to Bn.H.Q. at once to guide NORFOLK coys up.

5. Later (about 11 p.m.) the 1/CHESHIRE RGT. will arrive in the area.

6. On arrival of 1/CHESHIRE Rgt, coys will withdraw independently to POMMIERS Redoubt, without being relieved.

7. O.C. Coys. will report the final departure of their coys to Bn.H.Q.

Report on Operations 30 July - 1st August 1916. REF. Sheet LONGUEVAL 1/BEDFORDSHIRE RGT 30.7.'16 6.45 P.M.

Orders received to reinforce in LONGUEVAL 2/K.O.S.B. holding Line. 1/R.W.Kents in support. Leading platoon moved off at 6.53 p.m. and reached LONGUEVAL at 7.45 p.m. relieving 1/R.W.KENTS 10.12 p.m. O.C. 2/K.O.S.B. reported that his men were retiring from Line S.11.d.9/5 to S.11.c.5/8. A & C Coys were directed to proceed with guides of K.O.S.B. to hold & consolidate this line. B & D Coys were directed to hold line S.11.d.9/5 to S.17.b.0/9. It was proposed to withdraw K.O.S.B. into reserve at dawn. 11.45 p.m. Message received by O.C. K.O.S.B. that GORDONS 51st DIVISION were in Sunken Road & that K.O.S.B. were to bomb towards them. 31.7.'16 12.10 A.M. Enemy started intense bombardment 12.45 A.M. Orderly returned from A & C Coys & reported K.O.S.B. Guides could not show them the way up to front line. O.C. A & C Coys were instructed to establish themselves on the Line B.C.D.E. (S.11.d.4/8 to S.11.c.5.5) & to send out patrols to ascertain if any K.O.S.B. were holding forward line. 2.30 A.M. All Coys reported heavy casualties [2 officers Killed & several wounded]. B & D Coys reported themselves to be in position as ordered from S.11.d.5/5 to S.11.b.0/9. Two wounded prisoners were taken by 'A' Coy. Reinforcements had been asked for at 10.54 A.M. O.C. D Coy reported that he had been able to get in touch with Division on right. O.C. C Coy reported that owing to mist darkness & shell fire it was impossible to recognise the line B.C.D.E, that he was in touch with K.O.S.B. & would establish himself in the forward position at dawn. Telephone communication established between Bn. H.Q. & front line 6.25 A.M. Order received from Bde to relieve K.O.S.B. who were to move into reserve. O.C. C.Coy. reported by Telephone that his patrols were unable to get forward. Two Machine Guns enfilading NORTH STREET & heavy sniping from his front. Companies were now as follows: - D.Coy from PICCADILLY to NORTH ST. on DUKE ST. B.Coy. continuing this line into DELVILLE WOOD. A.Coy. crossroads NORTH ST./FLERS RD. to ORCHARD. C.Coy. in support of A.Coy. with refused flank about S.11.d.8/3 & two platoons North of FLERS Rd. about S.11.d.4/4. C.Coy. were still endeavouring to gain touch with 2nd Divn. The position taken up could be seen from the opposite ridge & any movement attracted heavy shell fire. There was also considerable sniping from the direction of FLERS Rd. 6.0. P.M. 1/NORFOLK RGT. arrived and relieved 2/K.O.S.B. and the forward BEDF. coys, who were moved back to reserve position E. of Church. 10.30 P.M. 1/CHESHIRE RGT. arrived & relief of 1/BEDF. R. was completed by Midnight. 1/BEDF. R. returned to POMMIERS REDOUBT. 11 P.M. A patrol from C.Coy. trying to get into touch with 2nd Division approached the German line in NORTH of DELVILLE WOOD & attracted a big burst of fire.

Casualties 10 Officers 188 O.R. NOTE: a sketch map was created for the operations around Longueval and a copy is attached [comment; not attached. Lt AN Marshall KIA]

August 1916

OPERATION ORDER NO.8 1/BEDFORDSHIRE RGT 2nd August 1916 Ref Sheet MONTAUBAN ALBERT &c

1. The Battalion will move to Bivouacs in D.18. E.B today via MEAULTE

2. Battn will march by the equivalent of platoons at 50 yds interval leading platoon to pass junction of Road & railway in F.4.c.5/8 at 2.15 pm. Order of Coys D.C.B.A. H.Q. leading platoon to march off at 1.30 p.m.

3. Lieut. TOPLEY, one O.R. per coy & one O.R. for H.Q. will meet the Staff Captain at the Church in DERNANCOURT at 2.30 p.m.

4. O.C. Coys will take steps to ensure the Camp being left clean & free of Rubbish before leaving

OPERATION ORDER NO.9 1/BEDFORDSHIRE RGT. 4th AUGUST REF SHEET ALBERT 1/40,000

I. The Battalion will entrain at MERICOURT today.

II. Order of March H.Q. B. C. D. Head of Column to leave Camp at 5.50 A.M.

III. O.C. A.Coy. will detail an Officer to meet Capt. RUTHERFORD at MERICOURT Station at 6.30 a.m. to assist entraining.

IV. Officers Kits will be ready by 5 A.M. & handcarts will be ready loaded for marching off by 5.30 A.M.

V. O.C. Coys will ensure the Camp being left in a tidy condition, free of rubbish.

VI. The Battalion will detrain at HANGEST & bivouac at LE QUESNOY

OPERATION ORDER NO.10 1/BEDFORDSHIRE Rgt 6th August

I. The Battalion will move to TAILLY this afternoon (4 miles)

2. The Battalion will march in order HQ.C.D.A.B. Transport in rear. Head of leading Coy. to leave Camping Ground at 2.30 p.m.

3. Billeting Party has already proceeded under separate orders.

4. O.C. Coys will ensure that the Camping Ground is left tidy & free of soil & rubbish.

5. Kits etc. will be ready for loading by 1.30 p.m.

OPERATION ORDER NO 11 1/BEDFORDSHIRE Rgt. 22nd August 1916

1. The Brigade Transport will move into the XV Corps Reserve Area as follows: - (a) Transport & Animals (less Cookers, Water Carts & Mess Cart). To be east of a North & South Line through le QUESNOY Church at 9.15 a.m. under Transport Officer. (b) Cookers, Watercarts, Mess Cart & Bicycles under Quartermaster to be East of Le QUESNOY by 6 p.m. The destination of both (a) & (b) will be area AILLY St.SAVEUR [sic] - ARGOUEVES.

2. Billeting Representatives will meet D.A.Q.M.G. 5th Division at Church, AILLY at 11 a.m. 23rd inst.

3. The march of all Transport &c. will be resumed on 24th inst. Destination DERNANCOURT.

4. Officers' Kits will be stacked ready for loading by 7.0 a.m. tomorrow 23rd inst. at Q.M. Stores

5. Battalion will move by train on 24th under separate orders.

6. All Kit, stores, animals & vehicles are to go with Transport except (1) 6 Lewis Gun handcarts. (2) 1 Wheeled Stretcher Lewis Gun handcarts are to carry nothing extra except packs of L.G. Team

OPERATION ORDER NO.12 1/BEDFORDSHIRE RGT. 24th August 1916

1. Battalion will move to the Camping ground N.W. of DERNANCOURT by train today.

2. Battalion will parade in order H.Q. D.C.B.A. Head of column to pass cross roads 1/2 mile N. of Chateau gates at 1.40 p.m.

3. Entraining station LONGPRE, approximate distance 7 1/2 miles. Detraining station MERICOURT. Train from LONGPRE 5 p.m.

4. Lt.TOPLEY will meet the Staff Captain on LONGPR station at 4 p.m. to arrange accommodation.

5. Sergt. Atkinson & C.Q.M.S. Halsey will proceed by a train leaving LONGPRE at 3 p.m. & will act as billeting representatives. They will arrange guides from the Transport to meet the train the Battalion travels by. Ref. ALBERT combined sheet

OPERATION ORDER NO.13 1/BEDFORDSHIRE RGT 25th August 1916

1. Battalion will march to SANDPIT S.E. of MEAULTE today.

2. Battalion will parade in order H.Q.C.D.A.B. Head of column to leave Camp at 2.55 p.m.

3. "B" Echelon first Line Transport will accompany the Battalion "A" Echelon will march under O.C. no.4.Coy Divisional to MEAULTE

4. Billeting party consisting of Lt.HOWARD & Sergt.ATKINSON will report to Staff Captain at SANDPIT E.18.d. at 3.30 p.m. Bicycles will be available. T.O. will also send one representative independently to same place at same time.

5. O.C. Coys before marching off will ensure that the Camp is clean & free of rubbish

OPERATION ORDER NO.14 1/BEDFORDSHIRE RGT Ref. ALBERT Combined Sheet 26th August 1916

1. Battalion will relieve 16th Bn. Cheshire Rgt today near BILLON FARM

2. Bttn. will parade in order H.Q. B.A.D.C. Head of Column to leave Sandpit at 9 a.m.

3. B Echelon Transport will follow the Bttn. A Echelon will be brigaded & march under orders of Senior T.O. to a destination that will be notified later.

September 1916

1st Bedfordshire Regt Operation Order No 19 2nd Sept 16 Reference Trench Map 1/10000

(1) (a) The attack will be carried out on Sept 3rd 1916 (b) Zero hour will be notified later. It will probably be at or about 12.55 pm (c) The 13th Infantry Brigade Operation against FALFEMONT FARM and trenches to SOUTH will take place, as already arranged, about 9.0 pm on Sept 3rd. In connection with this attack Heavy Artillery will not fire SOUTH of a point 60 yards N.W. of Point 48 (B2d4/8)

(2) The following change will be made in the action of the Artillery: - the bombardment, which will commence at 8.0 AM, on 2nd Sept will be deliberate. At intervals throughout the bombardment the ground will be searched by bursts of 18 pounder fire. There will be no increase in the intensity of this bombardment either by Heavy of Field Artillery up to Zero

(3) (a) In order to obtain a good jumping off place for future operations, the final objectives of the XIV Corps on sept 3rd have been extended to the Line: - SOUTH WESTERN edge of LEUZE Wood - NORTH WESTWARDS through T.20 central. (b) GINCHY TELEGRAPH (T.14 central) will be taken by the XV Corps

(4) The 5th Division will capture the SOUTH WESTERN edge of LEUZE WOOD and will gain touch on the right with the French about SAVERNAKE WOOD

(5) (a) The dividing line between the 5th and 20th Divisions will be: - T26a1/8 - S.W.Corner of LEUZE WOOD (T.26.b.80/85) inclusive to 5th Division (b) The dividing line between the 5th Div. and the 1st French Div will be the Light Railway running through B3a and b.

(6) (a) The Operations referred to in para 4 will be carried out by the 13th Infy Bde. The advance on the wood will be made up the spur from the neighbourhood of FALFEMONT FARM - The valley on the left being avoided as far as possible. The right Flank of this advance will be covered by patrols, who will push forward at the same time as the assaulting troops and establish posts across the SOUTHERN slopes of the spur (approx. through T27C and b3a) so as to connect with the French. These posts must be joined up as soon as possible. 13th Infy Bde Boundaries On the Right Light Railway running along NORTHERN edge of SAVERNAKE wood On the Left NORTHERN Corner of WEDGE WOOD - Corner of LEUZE WOOD (T26b80/85) (b) To enable this attack to be made the Artillery barrage will again become intense at ZERO plus 165 minutes. The creeping barrage will lift gradually at this hour at the rate of 50 yards per minute until it has passed 200 yds beyond the edge of LEUZE WOOD (c) The assaulting Infantry will advance at ZERO plus 165 minutes keeping as close under the barrage as possible

(7) The 95th Infy. Bde is allotted the following additional tasks (a) Clearing up the situation in the valley N.E. of WEDGE WOOD with a view to covering the left flank of the 13th Infy Bde during their advance on LEUZE WOOD (b) Assisting the 20th Division (should their advance to the WEDGE WOOD - GINCHY road be checked) by movement NORTHWARD towards Cross Roads T 20 c 2/4 (c) Forming a defensive flank from corner of LEUZE WOOD (T 26 b 80/85) at quarry (T 20 d 3/1) thence westwards in the event of the 20th Divisional attack on GUILLEMONT or the WEDGE WOOD - GINCHY Road be held up

(8) It is possible in the event of the Reserve Battalions of the 13th Infy Bde having been previously engaged that the task of carrying out the operations referred to in para 4 and 6 will be allotted to the 15th Infy Bde. This Brigade will, therefore, be prepared to move forward, if required to the FALFEMONT FARM Line and will consider plans beforehand for carrying out the attack

(9) The CRE will consider plans with B.G.C13th Infy Bde for opening up communication with the FALFEMONT FARM Line and LEUZE WOOD

(10) Watches will be synchronized at hours to be stated later

(11) 16th Division will be in Corps reserve. One Infy Brigade Group of this decision will be in a position S.W. of BILLON FARM ready to move at one hours notice

(12) In other respects the orders as laid down in 15th Infy Bde Operations orders No55 and 55 (A) will hold good

NOTES ON RECENT OPERATIONS Reference your No.G.1463

The following points were noted during the operations of 3rd to 6th September.

1. Orders were not always issued in sufficient time; thus the Order to attack FALFEMONT FARM at 6.30 p.m. on 3rd, was only received at 6 p.m.

2. Communication between Brigade Headquarters and Battalion was bad. An Operation Order to make an immediate attack on FALFEMONT FARM, issued at 12.30 a.m. on the 5th only reached Battalion at 8.0 a.m., though the distance was under a mile. It was taken by a relay runner who lost his way. Where relay runners are used they should be stationed at telephone test stations, so that the line can be followed. This is especially the case by night. If the shelling is very severe these test stations should be closer together and cover provided. An advanced "exchange" should be made where reports as to progress made, etc., can be duplicated and sent out to neighbouring units. Patrols can very rarely obtain this information.

3. When an important success has been gained, fresh troops should be available to take advantage of it before the enemy has time to re-organise, but where this is not so even tired troops can push on provided their flanks remain secure. Some sort of signal, such as rockets or flares, visible from an O.P. should be pre-arranged. Both field and heavy guns should lift 800 yards or more according to the nature of the signal, and thus enable the advance of our Infantry to continue.

4. One or two Field Guns pushed well forward may be of great assistance in dealing with a counter attack.

5. The "P" Bomb for dug-outs and the arrangement of carrying 2 grenades per man proved invaluable.

6. A machine gun pushed into the front line safeguarded the left flank Lewis guns were pushed up close behind the line of bombers (the ground was convex) and did excellent work at close range.

7. Military police stationed on main avenues of approach and close to the front line could send back into action cases of pseudo "shell shock" and also men not carrying back their full load. A report to Brigade being rendered later.

REPORT ON OPERATIONS ON 3rd - 6th SEPTEMBER BY 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT

(Appendix I).

Orders were received to move to SLIT TRENCHES from SILESIAN TRENCH at 1-55 p.m. on 3rd September. The leading platoon marched off within 10 minutes and reached MALTZ HORN TRENCHES 2-25 p.m. At 3 p.m. the Battalion was ordered to move to NEW TRENCHES South of ANGLE WOOD.

(Appendix II).

The 16th Bn.Royal Warwickshire Regiment had been ordered to move by communication trenches. We started after then and going across the open got in the East End as they got in at the West The two Battalions had to pass one another in a narrow trench during a heavy shelling. Since there was not room for two Battalions in the trench a second line had to be dug behind the first. By food fortune there only [sic] ten casualties.

(Appendix III).

6 p.m. orders came from Brigade that Artillery would bombard FALFEMONT FARM. That Bedfords would assault from FALFEMONT FARM exclusive to WEDGE WOOD inclusive at this hour in conjunction with the Cheshires on our right passing through the troops holding the first line. Orders were issued to Companies by 6-10 p.m. and the leading platoon of "D" Company moved off by 6-15 p.m. As they had 1000 yards of open ground to their objective the BARRAGE had lifted long before they could get anywhere near. Moving steadily forward under Artillery and Machine Gun Fire they bore a little too much to the left and passing through the leading companies of the Warwicks and the 95th Brigade they occupied the line from WEDGE WOOD to sunken road at T.26.C.1/9 thus obtaining a portion of the third objective of the 95th Bde.

(Appendix IV). Some 30 Warwicks were found in WEDGE WOOD. They had orders to retire at dusk. They were relieved and the line was extended to join the 1st Cheshires due West of FALFEMONT FARM about B.2.A.0/5. We now held a front of 12 hundred yards with the Battalion Headquarters in a trench just South of WEDGE WOOD. To enable the Battalion to continue its attack on trenches East of WEDGE WOOD and to get my Companies out of the 95th Brigade area I requested O.C. "A" Company to move South of WEDGE WOOD, but so as to avoid any accident I instructed him to report this intention first to the nearest Battalion Commander. He was informed that the D.C.L.I. and Gloucesters were unable to take over our front and that the D.C.L.I. were expecting a counter attack on the left.

(Appendix V-VI). In consequence the 2 1/2 companies were allowed to remain in the 95th Brigade area holding the first line. A company of the West Kents was called for to hold a portion of our line while a bombing attack was made, but this was cancelled on receipt of 15th Brigade Operation Order No.58 of 4th September directing a general attack on the 4th. Strong patrols were pushed forward from Captain Barnett's Company. They entrenched that night within about 30 yards of the German first line in a very creditable manner. The other Companies also pushed out patrols. Captain Norrish's Company capturing 3 and Lieut.Howard's Company 1 prisoner without any loss - due to good patrol leading. In accordance with 15th Brigade Operation Order of 4th September orders were issued for an attack on Northern portion of CIRCULAR TRENCH East of WEDGE WOOD.

(Appendix VII). "D" Company was due to advance from the points they had dug on the night 3/4th instant. "A", "C" and "B" Companies from in front of the 95th Brigade were to "sideslip" and in succession to occupy the pushing off place of "D" Company, to reinforce rapidly. During the morning our guns persistently shelled the line we were holding, and in spite of several reports, matters remained the same. Finally two of the forward trenches had to be evacuated as the men were all being buried. In doing so the enemy opened with machine guns on them and there were several casualties. Quite apart from its moral effect some 30 men were killed or wounded by our own guns. A bombing party, consisting of the Battalion and "D" Company's Bombers, and provided with both "P" and the "Mills" Bombs followed the first platoon; in addition every man in the ranks carried two bombs. As the whole ground was a series of craters these bombs proved invaluable. The rifle men shot down the enemy as he ran back. Lewis guns also did great execution. Reinforcements came up on both sides and matters began to look serious. All the Battalion reserves were used up, Headquarters were asked for reinforcements from another Battalion, but the last push just succeeded, and our supply of bombs outlasted their's The "P" bomb proved the greatest value in bringing them out of dug-outs. In one instance a bomb set fire to a German bomb store. A whole Company was sheltering in a dug-out with 3 entrances, according to the statements of two survivors: not many escaped. The position was held by a German Battalion with M.G. detachment. Three officers (1 wounded) 128 other ranks and 4 machine guns in good condition were captured and sent back by the Bedfords; others were taken back without passing through Battalion Headquarters. In all I estimate the number of prisoners taken by the Battalion during the three days as 160. Some were also taken by a party of about 30 Cheshires who came up on our right. Another party of about 50 who came later on out left also relieved the situation. Apart from this nothing could be seen of any progress on our right; on the left the 95th Bde was not to advance till 6.30 p.m. We consolidated on a line from the Northern corner of FALFEMONT FARM for 300 yards in a N.W. direction across the Plateau. All opposition had ceased by 5.50 p.m., two Companies of West Kents had joined, in response to my request for reinforcements at 4 p.m. and were pushed forward towards LEUZE WOOD, but were recalled to comply with 15th Brigade wire not to draw on them unless absolutely necessary. A strong patrol was sent out on the right through the Farm to try and gain touch with the Norfolks. (They gained touch with the 16th Warwicks East of FALFEMONT FARM). The Cheshires dug in about 300 yards S.W. of the W. corner of LEUZE WOOD where they gained touch later on with the 95th Brigade. Eight other German stragglers were taken by the Bedfords on the 5th, and seven wounded Germans were left in a dug-out.

(Appendix X). Throughout the 5th things remained quiet except for some shelling by our guns and a very heavy bombardment by German heavy guns. We buried all our dead and were relieved on the morning of the 6th September The Battalion went into action with 20 Officers and 610 other ranks, and came out having lost 17 Officers and 289 other ranks. They fully succeeded in gaining their objective and facilitated the advance on either flank. The Battalion started with full water bottles on the afternoon of the 3rd and were only able to obtain water again on the morning of the 5th, during this time they made an attack across the open and the following afternoon made another successful attack. This lack of water was to a certain extent eked out by soda water, of which the German dug-outs were found to be well supplied when captured. Sgt.Bush, the Battalion Signalling Sergeant, kept up communication between Brigade and Battalion Headquarters by telephone throughout the operations, except for short intervals. There were two intermediate stations for repair of line. Orderlies were able to follow the line to carry important messages. This was not done by a Brigade Orderly carrying 15th Brigade O.O. No.59 of 5th September, ordering an attack at once by night on FALFEMONT FARM. It was sent out at 12.30 a.m., and only received at 8.0 a.m, too late to be acted upon

(Appendix VIII). By night a telephone line or even string will enable orderlies to find their way however intricate the country may be I would also like to draw attention to the necessity of giving Battalion Commanders more time to communicate their orders to subordinates. Not many Battalions could have moved off from a long line of trenches to assault a strong position 1000 yards distant within a quarter of an hour of receipt. Temp.Captain Barnett led the leading Company and directed those following in a masterly manner, after passing through the trenches of our front line, some 500 yards from where we started, they finished up, each Company, a formed unit on their objective. A previous attack that morning had failed and the temptation must have been great for men to drop into the front line trench and start firing. Temp.Captain Barnett's Company also led the attack on the 4th against German position N.W. of FALFEMONT FARM, under peculiarly difficult circumstances. His Company had been under our own barrage fire from daylight till 3.10 p.m., the last portion of which was intense. Many men had been killed and many buried. It was only by constant digging in that any survived, yet the assault was carried out with the utmost vigour. The capture gained the whole ridge and by drawing off German troops from the quarry near T.26 a 6/2 enabled the 95th Brigade to reach LEUZE WOOD practically unopposed that evening. It also indirectly facilitated the advance of the French troops. Under the circumstances I should like to recommend Temp.Capt.Barnett for immediate reward, and also Temp.Capt.West, who did equally good work. All Appendices are with the original War Diary 15th Infy Bde. G 1451 The Brigadier General Commanding feels he cannot too warmly express his admiration of the fine soldierly qualities again displayed by all ranks during the recent operations. The taking of FALFEMONT FARM, a most important and strongly defended post, was a magnificent performance and is one of the greatest successes accomplished during the war. This was made possible entirely by the good handling of their Battalions by Commanding Officers and the devoted conduct of all ranks. Heavy working parties were required when the Brigade was not in the Line and these did excellent work. The Brigadier-General thanks all ranks for their support and co- operation and trusts the Brigade will shortly enjoy a well earned rest 8th September 1916

Undated

[Comment: Appears to be the Colonels speech to the Battalion, but unconfirned] I have come here this morning to read to you a message that we have received from the Commander-in-Chief. he says, with reference to the late operations, "The rapid advance on LEUZE WOOD, following on the capturing of FALFEMONT FARM, showed great judgement and determination, and has been of considerable assistance to the French Army on our right. I very warmly congratulate you and the Commanders and Staffs and the Troops under you on the results you have already achieved and on the energy and determination with which they were followed up. Well, now, your'e the people who took FALFEMONT FARM, and I am very glad to be able to tell you that not only the Commander-in-Chief, but the Army Commander and the Corps Commander all realise what a great and glorious fight it was. It makes it all the better that you did it after there had been a failure; that always makes it more difficult. Nothing in the world could have been finer than the show you fellows put up by that Farm and the line up to WEDGE WOOD on the left of it. It was magnificent. I want to thank you all for what you have done and tell you that everybody thoroughly understands what a good show it was.

1st Bedforshire Regt Operation Order No20 9th September 1916 Reference Map ALBERT combined sheet 1/40,000

I The 15th Infantry Brigade will move to MORLANCOURT to-day. II The Battalion will parade ready to move off at 1.30 pm. Order of march Hdqrs. A, B. C. D. II [sic] Company commanders are held responsible that their lines are left clean Issued at 12.45 pm

SECRET 1st Bn. Bedfordshire Regt. Operation Order No.21 15th Sept. 1916 Map reference ALBERT (combined Sheet) 1/100,000

1. the Battalion will move to CITADEL today. 2. Order of march: - "A" Company 'B' Company 'C' Company D Company Lewis Guns and Lewis Guns teams with the exception of 1 reserve team per company will march rear of the Battalion. 3. Head of Column will pass the church (opposite H.Q. Norfolk Regt) at 4.20 a.m. 4. Coy. Commanders will report to the Adjt that their billets and huts are left clean and free from Bombs and S.A.A. 5. Officers kits will be put on baggage wagon at once. 6. All regimental marks on doors and buildings will be obliterated. 7. The following will be carried on the man: - Packs and greats Unexpended portion of current days rations Following day's ration 120 rounds of S.A.A. 8. No bombs will be carried on the man 9. Bn. will pass Brigade Starting point K.3.d.4/9 at 4-35 a.m. Secret 1/Bedfordshire Regt 16.9.16

Operation Order No.22 Ref.ALBERT Combined Sheet 1/100000

1. the Bde will move to WATERLOT Farm at once. 2. The Battalion will relieve a Bn of Rifles 60th Bde. in WATERLOT Farm 3. Parade ready to move off 6.40 pm Order of march. H.Q. A, B, C, D. Coys, Lewis Gun teams & Handcarts 4. The following transport will accompany the Battalion marching in rear of Battalion: Cookers, watercarts, mess cart & Tool limber issued at 6.20 p.m.

Fancy Secret Operation Order No.4 Amendment to No.4 24.9.16 Map Ref 57C., S.W.

1. The attack will be on Sept 25th

2 FALLOW H.Q. will be at T.20.b.2.8. FANCY H.Q. will be at T.9.d.2.2

3. Medical Advanced collecting posts: 9a) E of GUILLEMONT near where Rly. crosses GINCHY-MAUREPAS Rd T.4.a.1.1. (b) MALTZ HORN Fm. A.6.central

5. Advanced Dressing Station Dublin post A.4.d.4.5.

6.Infantry will reach main road running N.N.W. from church in MORVAL at ZERO plus 2 hours 14 minutes (3rd. objective) They will reach Eastern outskirts of village at 2 hours and 16 mins. i.e. 16 minutes after leaving the sunken road.

7. The assaulting troops will leave their trenches at the following hours precisely Norfolks for 1st objective Zero Bedfords for 2nd objective Zero + 1 hour Cheshires for 3rd objective Zero + 2 hrs.

8. Barrage (Cancel Para 17 O.O. No.4 dated 22nd) In all cases the creeping Barrage wil [sic] be at rate of 50 yards per one minute

9 (1) At zero a creeping barrage will open in front of the 1st. objective & about 200 yds in advance of our departure trenches simultaneously with a standing Barrage on the objective itself. At Zero + 3 minutes the creeping Barrage will begin moving forward at rate of 50 yds a minute when it reaches the objective it will move on to a line 200 yds beyond it, the standing Barrage same time lifting on to 2nd objective where it will remain (2) At Zero + 1 hour the creeping Barrage will again become intense, and at zero + 1 hour & 2 minutes will begin moving forward on to 2nd objective. On reaching 2nd objective it together with standing Barrage, will move on to a line 200 yds. beyond (3) At zero + 2 hrs the creeping Barrage will again become intense 200 yds in front of 2nd. objective, and at zero + 2 hrs & 2 minutes will begin moving forward as follows: (a) At zero+ 2 hrs stationary Barrage w[sic] open on new trench running appro [sic] N & S through T.10.d.central (b) As soon as the Creeping Barrage referred to in para 3 reaches the stationary Barrage the latter wil [sic] lift on to the main road running N.N.W. from MORVAL church and to former will continue creeping on (c) As soon as the Creeping Barrage again comes up to the Stationary Barrage on main road the letter will lift to a line 200 yds E. of village where it will remain, until a report [sic] has been received that the village has been taken and that our troops are on the Eastern edge of it. the Barrage will then lift so as to allow patrols to push forward along the spur T.11.a.

10. The general compas [sic] bearing for the advance of the Battalion on to their objective (T.10.c.8/3. to T.10.c.8/9. sunken road) is 105 degrees (magnetic) approx. All ranks must be very careful not to lose direction when passing over the Norfolks objective Further orders will be issued when received the Battalion must be prepared to move at short notice

SECRET FANCY OPERATION ORDER No.4 b. 24th September, 1916 Map reference 57c S.W.

1. The Battalion will move to assembly trenches N. of the Quarry T.9.d.via CHIMPANZEE TRENCH tonight where the men will have tea. Parade 4-30 p.m.

2. Order of march: - H.Q. "C" Coy. "D" Coy. "A" Coy. "B" Coy. The H.Q.bombers will march and be under the orders of O.C."C" Coy. Distance between Companies 200 yards.

3. Two days rations plus the emergency ration will be carried on the man. Great-coats and Haversacks will be dumped here. Men will carry 100 rounds extra S.A.A.and two bombs. Companies and Lewis Gunners will draw tools, Flares, Rockets, V.P.A.and Lewis Gun Magazines etc.which they dumped and handed over to the 14th Warwicks, on their way up to Quarry.

4. Company Commanders will leave one duty sergeant and one duty corporal behind with Transport.

5. BARRAGE Programme for 95th Infantry Brigade. (a). At zero,plus two hours,a stationary Barrage will open intensely on an approximate line T.16.d.68/00 - T.10.d.60/25. (b). As soon as the creeping Barrage reaches this stationary Barrage it will remain there for 30 minutes to allow time for the troops to establish themselves on the line gained. After 30 minutes this Barrage will move on to a line T.17.a.15/00 - T.11.d.0/4,where it will again wait 30 minutes before creeping on to the main road running S.S.E. from the church. It will remain another 30 minutes on this road and will then move on to a line 200 yards EAST of the village. (c). A stationary Barrage will also be maintained on each of the three lines mentioned above which will lift in each case after the creeping barrage reaches it. From the above it will be seen that the 15th Infantry Brigade will reach their final objective (Eastern Edge of Village) in one bound whereas the 95th Infantry Brigade will reach the same line in four bounds.

Secret FANCY O.O. No.5 25.9.16 In continuation of O.O.No.4 Map Ref.57c SW

1. Zero hour 12.35 pm

2. When the Norfolks leave their assembly trenches at Zero C Coy will at once file into the front assembly trench vacated by the Norfolks. D Coy will follow by same route into same trench as C Coy. 'A' Coy will at once file into second assembly trench (vacated by Norfolks) closely followed by B Coy Thus: - The jumping off positions will be: - L D Coy 'C' Coy R L 'B' Coy, 'A' Coy R

3. The attack will be made on a 4 platoon front i.e. 2 platoons from Right Coys & 2 platoons from left coys.

4. The intervals between waves will be 150 yds. Thus there will be 4 waves of 4 platoons in line

5 A & B coys will jump off from Norfolk second line assembly trench. They will not file into the front assembly trench.

6. Reference para 1. A & B Coy will file into their new assembly trenches precisely at Zero before C & D Coy move because These trenches will be vacated by Norfolks when their second line takes place of their first line.

7. No documents are to be taken off prisoners. Unwounded prisoners are to be sent to QUARRY to carry stretchers.

8. C & D Coys are the assaulting Coys. the first wave need not take tools.

1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT REPORT ON OPERATIONS FROM THE 24th to 25th SEPTEMBER 1916

The Battalion moved to Quarry in T.9.d.2/2 and were in assembly trenches by 9.30 p.m. The back trench required deepening. A communication trench from this to the forward trench and thence to the back Norfolk trench was dug during the night. This enabled the men to file under cover into the Norfolk trenches at zero hour. This was done. 1.35 p.m. the Battalion advanced in four waves at 150 yards distance one from another, passing over the trench taken by the 1st Norfolks. The first line reached their objective, the sunken road, by 1.40 p.m. Lewis guns were immediately placed in position on the top of the bank and several drums fired at the retiring enemy. A trench opposite the 95th Bde.was enfiladed. The Battalion dug in along the line of the road and also on the top of the bank. Touch was gained with the 16th Bde. at 1.50 p.m. and with the 95th Bde. about 2.0 p.m. Battalion Headquarters were established in the sunken road at 1.45 p.m. Considerable casualties were sustained from our own field guns, both during the advance and while holding the sunken road. It is suggested that a simple system of signals either by smoke or coloured Very lights direct from the Battalion to the Field Batteries forming the Barrage immediately in front should be instituted and that the heavy artillery barrage should lift a considerable distance back at zero. The artillery liaison officer reported his wire cut very early in the operations and there appears to be no other means of getting direct touch with the guns. It would also be better if the creeping barrage were to advance 100 yards a minute instead of 50, that pace can be easily maintained by the Infantry and less time is given for hostile Machine Guns to be placed in position and also the troops are exposed for a shorter time to hostile artillery.

Secret FANCY O O No 6 26.9.16 Map Ref 57c SW

1. At 7 pm.A & B Coys & HQ Lewis Guns will move to OXFORD Copse 2. C & D Coys & HQs will wait until relieved by the Sherwood Foresters when they will proceed to OXFORD Copse independently. 3. C & D Coys will each keep two Lewis Guns & teams with them Secret 1/Bedfordshire Regt. O.O. N.7 27.9.16 1. The Bde will move to the CITADEL this evening as follows 1/Norfolk.R. will leave bivouacs 5.30 pm 1/Bedf.R. will leave bivouacs 5.35 pm 1/Cheshire R will leave bivouacs 5.40 pm 16th R.Warw R. will leave bivouacs 5.45 pm 2. Bn will parade at 5.30 pm. Order of march Drummers H.Qs A.B.C.D. Lewis Guns & Transport in rear of Bn. 3. Head of Column will cross MARICOURT - CARNOY road at 5.35 pm 4. Coy Commanders will report to Adjutant that Bivouacs are left clean & free of S.A.A. & Bombs

October 1916

OPERATION ORDER No.25 1st Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment 9th October, 1916

1. The Battalion will relieve the Ist R.W.Kents in FESTUBERT left sector tomorrow. 2. "A" Coy. will relieve the right firing line Coy. and will march off from their present billets at I p.m. "B" Coy. will relieve the left firing line Coy. and will march off from their billets at 1-30 p.m. "C" Coy. will relieve Support Coy. in RICHMOND TRENCH, and will march off from their present billets at 2 p.m. "D" Coy. will relieve the Reserve Coy. in the O.B.L. (Old British Line) and will march off from their present billets 2-30 p.m. Platoons will march at 200 yards interval. This interval will be rigidly adhered to. 3 (A). Signallers will parade under the signalling officer and will march off from their present billets 9 a.m. They will take over all stations immediately on arrival in the trenches. (b) Lewis Guns will be allotted as follows "A" Coy. 3, "B" Coy. 2, "C" Coy. 3. L.G.O. will arrange to allot these guns to these companies tomorrow morning. Guns and Teams will march off to the Coys. to which they are attached (c) The remainder of H.Q. will march off under the R.S.M. leaving their present billets at 3 p.m. 4. Guides 4 Guides per Coy., 2 Guides per H.Q. will be at the corner of the Rue d' BOIS and the Rue L,EPPINETTE in S.13.d.1/5 at 2 p.m. These guides will take Coys. in by the following routes, "A" Coy. PIONEER St. "B" Coy. ROPE St., "C" Coy. SHETLAND St., "D" Coy.& H.Q., O.B.L. 5. The following advance party will leave their present billets 12 noon, and proceed and take over all trench stores etc. 1 Officer & 2 O.R. per Coy. Intelligence Officer & 2 O.R., H.Q. (to be detailed by the R.S.M.) 6. Posts. The posts at present garrisoned by "D" Coy. will be handed over as follows, S.VAAST, LORETTO & CROIX BARBEE to a Battalion of the 183rd Brigade, the remainder to a Coy. of the 16th R.W.R. O.C. "D" Coy. will arrange to leave 2 caretakers in each post and to withdraw the remainder of the company tomorrow morning. The caretakers left should be responsible men who can hand over the ammunition and stores in the posts. An N.C.O. will be left to bring this party on after the post has been handed over. In the case of posts such as GROTTO & ANGLE which are very close together only one post will be handed over, i.e. the post which is the better condition of the two. 7. O.C. "D" Coy. will forward to H.Q. at 12 noon tomorrow a list of his stores to be handed over. O.C.Coys will forward a list of stores they have taken over as soon as possible after arrival in the trenches. 8. (a) Handcarts are allotted as follows, 1 per Coy. 1 to H.Q. & 1 to Orderly Room. These can proceed in daylight as far as KING'S CROSS at X.18.o.5/2 (R.E.Dump), whence the contents can be conveyed by light railway after dark, the handcarts can be left at KING'S CROSS. (b) Transport Officer will get into communication with his opposite number and will make arrangements about sending up rations. Limbers to carry cook utensils and Orderly Room boxes, and the Officer's Mess cart will be at H.Q. 12 noon, these vehicles will leave H.Q. at 2 p.m. for KING'S CROSS where they will be unloaded. Coy. Cooks & Officers Mess Employ will march with these wagons and remain at KING'S CROSS till dark. 9. Officer's valises will be packed ready for loading by 12 noon, Officer's Trench Kits will be ready for loading at I p.m. 10. Completion of the relief will be reported to Battalion H.Q. by Orderly SECRET 1. It will not be possible to re-organise the Line in accordance with the new Defence Scheme to-day therefore "C" Coy. will relieve "A" Coy. in the firing line; "D" Coy. will relieve "B" Coy. 2. "A" Coy. will withdraw to Richmond Terrace, "B" Coy. will withdraw to O.B.L. 3. These reliefs will commence at once and will be completed in daylight, with the exception of the few men in the Posts, who will be relieved as soon as it is dark. 4. Companies will hand over exact list of Stores to each other. 5. The completion of relief will be reported by Orderly. 13-10-16

OPERATION ORDER No. 26 1ST BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 15-10-16

1. - Battalion will be relieved by the 16/Royal Warwickshire Regiment to-morrow

2. - - "C" Coy. will be relieved in the right of the firing line and will have 5 guides at KING'S Cross 10 a.m., who will conduct relieving Coy. via the O.B.L. SHETLAND ROAD and RICHMOND TERRACE. "D" Coy. will be relieved in the left of the firing line and will have 5 guides at KING'S CROSS 10.30 a.m., who will conduct relieving Coy. via ROPE STREET. "A" Coy. will be relieved in RICHMOND TERRACE and will have 5 guides at KING'S CROSS 11 a.m., who will guide relieving Coy. in via O.B.L. and SHETLAND ROAD. "B" Coy. will be relieved in the O.B.L. and will have 5 guides at KING'S CROSS 11.30 a.m. who will conduct relieving Coy. via O.B.L.

3 guides for Headquarters will be at KING'S CROSS at 9.30 a.m. 3. - - O.C. "B" Coy. will detail an Officer to be at KING'S CROSS to supervise all the guides.

4. - - On relief, Coys. will withdraw independently to the same billets as occupied last time, marching by platoons at 200 yds. interval. Those posts which cannot be relieved by daylight will be relieved as soon as it is dark. O.C. "D" Coy. will leave an Officer behind to bring this party on.

5. POSTS. - - "C" Coy. will take over the Posts at present held by the 16/Royal Warwickshire Regt. Each Post will be garrisoned by 2 caretakers only.

6. - - A list of the Stores handed over will be forwarded to Bn. Headquarters by 8 a.m. to-morrow without fail.

7. - - Handcarts are allotted as follows; - - 1 per Coy.; 1 to H.Q.; 1 to Orderly Room. Transport Officer will arrange for limbers to come as far as KING'S CROSS as soon as it is dark. A fatigue party will accompany these limbers and will go up to H.Qrs. and push Office kits, etc., down the railway and load them on to the limbers. Kits, etc., that cannot be carried will be left at H.Qrs. till it is dark enough for trucks to come up the railway. R.S.M. will arrange to leave 1 man with these kits.

8. - - Completion of relief will be reported to Bn.H.Qrs. by Orderly

OPERATION ORDER No.27 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 19-10-16

1. The Battalion will relieve 16/R.Warwickshire Regiment in the trenches to-morrow.

2. Reliefs. "A" Coy. will relieve right firing line Coy. The leading platoon will pass KING'S CROSS at 10.30 a.m. Coys. will march by platoons at 200 yds. interval. "B" Coy. will follow "A" and will relieve left firing line Coy. "C" Coy. will follow "B" and will relieve the Coy. in support at RICHMOND TERRACE. "D" Coy. will follow "C" and will proceed to the OLD BRITISH LINE. H.Qrs. will follow "D" Coy.

3. Posts which cannot be relieved in daylight will be relieved as soon as it is dark.

4. Feet O.C.Coys will see that all the men's feet are rubbed with oil before proceeding to the trenches, and a certificate to this effect will be rendered to the Orderly Room.

5. Stores. A list of Stores that have been taken over will be sent to Bn.H.Qrs. as soon as possible after relief.

6. The men of "C" Coy. will rejoin their Coy. as soon as relieved on detached post.

7. Transport Officer will make arrangements for fetching Officer's mess stores and kit from billets. he will also arrange for Officer's trench Stores to be taken to KING'S CROSS.

OPERATION ORDER No.28 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 21-10-16

1. Reliefs To-morrow, 22nd inst., "D" Coy. will relieve "B" Coy. in the left firing line, and "B" Coy. will withdraw to OLD BRITISH LINE. "C" Coy. will relieve "A" Coy. in the right firing line and "A" Coy. will withdraw to RICHMOND TERRACE. The times of these reliefs will be arranged by the Company Commanders concerned, but it should take place as soon as possible after breakfast, and by small parties of men at a time.

OPERATION ORDER No.29 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 23-10-16

1. The Bn. will be relieved by the 16/R.Warwickshire Rgt. to-morrow, commencing about 11 a.m.

2. Coys. will proceed to their usual billets.

3. Posts which cannot be relieved by daylight will be relieved as soon as it is dark.

4. O.C. "C" Coy. will leave an Officer to conduct these reliefs back.

5. Gum boots will be left at Stores, S.19.b.1/6. All gum boots will be left there and receipts obtained by Coys. for same.

6. ROUTE Coys. will use PIONEER ROAD to RUE L'EPPINETTE. the junction of these two roads is close to gum boot store. Care must be taken that only sections move at a time.

7. Stores. A list of Stores to be handed over will reach Bn.H.Qrs. by 8.0 a.m. at latest.

8. Transport; Transport Officer will make all necessary arrangements

OPERATION ORDER No. 29a 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 27-10-16

1. The Battalion will relieve 16/R.Warwickshire Regiment in the trenches to-morrow.

2. Reliefs "A" Coy. will relieve the right firing line Coy. The leading platoon will pass KING'S CROSS at 10.30 a.m. Coys. will march by sections at 200 yds. interval. "C" Coy. will follow "A" and will relieve Coy. in support at RICHMOND TERRACE. The left of the firing line will be relieved by a composite Coy. under Lt.Beale. This Coy. will consist of those men from "B" and "D" Coy. who are not going to take part in the forthcoming operations. The Coy. in the O.B.L. will be relieved by a composite Coy. under Capt.Morris, consisting of men who are going to take part in the forthcoming operations. Lt.Beale's Coy. will follow "C" Coy Capt.Morris' Coy. will follow Lt.Beale. H.Qrs. will follow Capt.Morris' Coy. All the necessary arrangements with reference to the two composite Coys. will be made by Capt.Morris and Lt.Beale.

3. Posts which cannot be relieved in daylight will be relieved as soon as it is dark.

4. Feet. O.C. Coys. will be see that all the men's feet are rubbed with oil before proceeding to the trenches, and a certificate to this effect will be rendered to the Orderly Room.

5. Stores. A list of Stores that have been taken over will be sent to Bn.Hqrs. as soon as possible after relief.

6. The men of "C" Coy. will rejoin their Coy. as soon as relieved on detached post. [this is all struck through in the original]

7. Transport Officer will make arrangements for fetching Officers' mess stores and kit from billets. He will also arrange for Officer' trench stores to be taken to KING'S CROSS