Current Information:

Born-Chelsea

Regina Trench Cemetery, Grandcourt, Somme

During February and March, 1917, the Germans made a strategic withdrawal to a new and very strong line running from Arras to Soissons. By doing this they eliminated two large salients and greatly reduced the number of troops needed to man the new defences. As they pulled back to the Hindenburg Line (Siegfriedstellung) they adopted a ‘scorched earth’ policy, systematically destroying everything in their path so as to leave nothing behind that would assist the enemy. Railways and roads were dug up, wells poisoned and even trees chopped down. Mines and booby traps were set to further hinder the British and French troops who followed up behind them until they reached the new formidable defences where one again trench warfare was established.

On 20th February, 1917, 7th Royal West Kent of 55 Brigade, 18th Division, moved into the front line at St. Pierre Divion on the Somme, a part of the line where the Germans were starting their withdrawal. On 23rd February, in what the Official History called a daring and resourceful reconnaissance, a patrol from 7th Royal West Kent went forward  to discover that the enemy were pulling back from the crest south of Miraumont. The Battalion Diary does not go into much detail nor does it mention casualties but there were a number of them, including Arthur Bareham.