The Western Front Today - Lonsdale Cemetery
Lonsdale cemetery was so-named after the Earl of Lonsdale.
The Earl was responsible for the recruitment of the 11th Pal's battalion, Border Regiment.
The Border Regiment attacked the formidable German Leipzig Redoubt (sited nearby) on the Somme on the opening day of the Somme Offensive, 1 July 1916.
Consequently many members of the regiment were killed in this area and are buried in Lonsdale cemetery.
References:
Before Endeavours Fade, Rose E.B. Coombs, After the Battle 1994
Major & Mrs Holt's Battlefield Guide - Somme, Leo Cooper 2000
A 'Woolly Bear' comprised a German shrapnel shell, which burst with a cloud-like explosion.
- Did you know?
