Kemmel 7.4.15: The Battalion took over G & H trenches from the 8th Battalion. The two battalions working in paris and remained in trenches four days.

War Diary [WO/95/2694]

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On APRIL 7th we went in the trenches for our first real experience, and very quiet it was compared with other parts of the line.

[1415 Cpl. Alfred Afford]

7th April 1915. We were having one or two inspections and preparing for the trenches all day for at night we are to relieve the 8th out of the trenches. Stretcher bearers had their rifles and ammunition taken off them. At 7-45 we fell in to go to the trenches at Kemmel. We marched to Kemmel which is about four miles from Locre. From Kemmel we marched to the trenches by platoon. Here there is about 2,000 yards of open country which is swept by fire all night long. As you march along you come to Jack Johnson holes in the road which would easily bury two or three horses, first one then another tumbling in them with it being so dark. When the star shells go up, which are very bright, everybody has to lie down wherever they are. We took H2, 3 and 4 trench. We were very lucky to get up without casualties. On our left are the Royal Scots. On the right were C Company of our Battalion, A Company being in reserve. All the men were put to their posts and then they began to find their dugouts which were not very good.

[2381 Pte. George Potter Bagshaw]

Apr 7th. Bayonet practice in morning. Set off to trenches at 7-30 p.m. to Kemmel. Very risky had to cross open country for about ¾ mile. (1st time).

[3289 Pte George William Beardsley]