1/7th and 16th West Yorkshires

[sammyb]

Hello,

Can anyone tell me what the 1/7th West Yorkshires were doing and where in February 1917.

Also the 16th West Yorkshires in March and April 1917?

Thanks,

Sam

[Nigel Marshall]

Sam,

PM your email address. I have the War Diary for 1/7 West Yorkshires.

I also have David Raw's book on the Bradford Pals.

Cheers,

Nigel

[Nigel Marshall]

Sam,

As I suspected, David Raw's book does not offer anything between the Rossignol Wood action in February and the actions of Gavrelle and Oppy Wood in May 1917.

Cheers,

Nigel

[Chris Noble]

Hi Sam.

As regards the 1/7th Battalion, West Yorkshire Regiment.

In January, the 146th Infantry Brigade, 49th (West Riding) Division relieved the 21st Brigade of the 30th Division in the Ransart Sector (To the south-west of Arras roughly).

February 19th, the Brigade was relieved, and at the end of the month they were located in the Neuve-Chapelle/Laventie Sector where they relieved units of the 56th (London) Division.

Nigel will be able to expand on the locations.

As regards the 16th West Yorkshire's, nothing really to add other than the 'disastrous' attempt to advance on Rossignol Wood on the 27th February. The casualties of this action being buried in Owl Trench Cemetery.

Early March, the 16th were in Camp (Magnolia Camp) near Coigneux?

Then May, the attack at Gavrelle.

Hope that helps.

Chris.

[Chris Noble]

Just to add Sam.

I have just had a look at the 15th West Yorks (Leeds City) Battalion movements for April.

I would presume that the 'Bradfords' are in the environs as listed prior to a move to Roclincourt at the end of the month.

Caucourt, Bethonsart, west of Arras.

Chris.