Lives of the First World War

known 30th November 1917

The Battle of Cambrai had commenced on the 20th November 1917. On 30th November 1917 William Ridehalgh's Battalion was manning the front in the Epehy area and at 07:00 a tremendous German barrage destroyed all wire and visual communications with Z and Y Company. An hour later the German 79th Reserve Division was seen advancing into their trenches and it became apparent to all that Z and Y Company were not only greatly reduced in fighting strength but totally surrounded on all sides including the rear. Those few able to withdraw did so and consolidated resistance until relieved at 16:00. This aggressive and successful German attack cost the Battalion 101 killed, 68 wounded and 354 missing. Many of the missing, 358708 Pte Herbert Greenoff of Whitwell Bottom, 358771 Pte Joseph Waller of Rawtenstall, 358710 Pte Percy Clegg of Rawtenstall and 358789 Pte Fred Nuttall of Cloughfold were later found to be prisoners in Germany. 358266 Pte William Robert Ridehalgh, of the same Battalion and from Newchurch, was killed in this engagement.

Created by: , Ian105013