July 1916

1-3

–

4

Senlis. Headquarters arrived from England.

5

Headquarters and 3 troops B Squadron N.I.H. marched to Toutencourt, where 'C' Squadron N.I.H. were encamped.
The concentration of the Regiment was carried out by 12 noon.
1 troop N.I.H. at Acheux. 'A' Sqdn Innis. Drag. - 2 troops attached to 49 Div. at Forceville, 2 troops with 25th Div. at Senlis. One troop came under Art fire at Aveluy Wood. Horses stampeded 5 wounded. 'A' Sqdn concentrated at Senlis. See Appendix 'A'.
[Appendix 'A'] Senlis. Orders were received from A.P.M. 36th Division at 9 am for the two troops dismounted to report to Capt O'Neill at Lancashire Dump for salvage duty. They carried out this duty bringing in equipment, rifles etc till 1 pm. The men had dinner and were just turning out again when Lieut Seymour received orders from 36th Division to return to Regtl Head Quarters. The men had just started to saddle up when a heavy bombardment of both high explosive, shrapnel & machine guns was concentrated on the Wood. The intensity of the fire necessitated Lt Seymour giving orders for the men to take shelter in some old dugouts & trenches close by. The bombardment lasted for 3/4 of an hour & then slackened but did not entirely stop. Up to now one horse was killed & four wounded. The men were then ordered to saddle up & lead their horses thro' Wood out on to the road and were waiting for the others to join up when the bombardment opened much heavier than previously especially on that part of the road where the men were waiting. Lt Seymour moved off up the road leaving 2/Lt Matthews & Sergt McIlvoy to round up the stragglers in the wood, as by this time horses were very restive and almost unmanagable. Lt Seymour with his party had reached about 1 mile along the road & turned down a lane leaving the horses in charge of Sergt Quinn. Almost immediately a heavy fire was brought to bear on the horses and Sergt Quinn was wounded. The horses stampeded in every direction, some back to Aveluy Wood. Eventually Lt Seymour was able to round up most of this party & got to Senlis. Lieut Matthews & Sergt McIlroy remained behind. Our losses numbered 16 horses killed or wounded and 2 missing. 2/Lt Matthews was wounded severely in the knee from high explosive and Pte Downes, Nicholl, Gourley wounded (hosp) and Ptes Buchanan, 195 Campbell, Totton, 105 Craig, Cpl Dickson, 209 Robinson slightly wounded (duty).

6

The Regiment remained at Toutencourt.
[Appendix 'A'] To day was spent in cleaning up & collecting horses, only one horse now being unaccounted for. The Squadron is at Senlis, Nos 1 & 4 troops being attached to the 25th Division, Nos 2 & 3 Troops to the 49th Division. HeadQuarters of the Regt has been formed, all staff etc coming from home, the command being under Colonel Goring.
7 pm The following orders have been received:- 1 NCO & 4 men to act as escort to the 25th Divisional Commander - 2 NCOs & 10 men for Road Control in Area held by 25th Division.

7

The Regiment concentrated at Senlis at 8.30 am.
1 off & 10 men went on patrol duty to watch the crossings of the River Ancre between cemetery S of Authuille & Albert. This patrol was recalled at 8 p.m.
The XIIth Motor Machine Gun Battery & Corps Company Cyclists also concentrated.
The whole of the Regt was now concentrated less 'A.'
                  1 off & 3 men on X Corps Observation Post
                  5 men with G.O.C 25th Div.
                  3 men with G.O.C 36th Div.
                  12 men on Road Control
                  3 Signallers with 36th Div.
                  1 man with Interpreter 36th Div.

8

Routine work. The weather has been very wet but shows signs of improving.

9

A.M. Routine work.
6 p.m The services of the Regt having been given to the 32nd Division the Regt was ordered to stand to for the purpose of burying the dead.
7.40 Orders were issued by 32nd for the Regt to turn out as strong as possible & proceed to Crucifix Corner East of Aveluy. Considerable delay occurred owing to traffic on road. Horses were left some distance behind (Dogs legs) picketted and off saddled.
A Squadron (Innis) were detailed to the 97th Inf Brig. owing to the guide failing to turn up & the difficulty of obtaining tools it was only with great difficulty the Squadron reached its destination where a telephone message was received ordering them back to Camp which was reached at 3.A.M. The party came under shell fire during march up to trenches.
B & C Squadrons (N.I.H) proceeded to 14th Headquarters and commenced work at 11.15 p.m. This party came under shell fire during their work 'whiz-bangs' being particularly active. there were no casualties however. Work being finished at 4 AM. the Squadrons returned to Camp which was reached at 6.30 AM.

10

Two officers' patrols were sent out in the afternoon to report on camping grounds for 2 Cavalry Regts which were coming in.
The services of the Regt were detailed to 25th Inf Bde.
7.0 pm The regt under Major Waring strength 80 per Squadron proceeded to clear up the battlefield in La-Boisselle. Horses were left W of Albert. The Squadrons were attached to 7th & 75th Inf. Brigades. during work they came under continual heavy shell fire. Work was discontinued just before dawn. The Regt arrived back in Camp at 5.A.M.
Casualties. Wounded. 790 Pte Ramsay J           'B' Squadron)    N.I.H.
                                991 Pte Williamson T.J.  'C' Squadron)

11

6.0 pm A party of 35 men proceeded to Achieux to bring in Remounts for X Corps.
7.15 pm A party of 3 troops one from each Squadron proceeded mounted to Albert where horses were left and working party of 75 proceeded on foot. Bodies of 41 British & 55 Germans were collected & buried. There was intermittent shelling by the enemy of the area but no casualties occurred. Work finished at 1.30 & Camp was reached by 3.45 A.M.

12

Two parties proceeded to clear up battlefield 75 working men to East of Albert & 60 to Crucifix Corner. after the parties had started a party of 50 Cyclists arrived under orders to help the Xth Corps Cav clear up. This party was sent to join up at Crucifix Corner but returned stating that the Cavalry had already gone up & that guides could not be found to take them up to 96th Inf Brigade. A British attack was made at 11.30 and the men came under heavy fire from German artillery 11.30 pm – 1.30.am. Shelter was taken wherever it could be found. The party then continued work which was finished at 2.30. No casualties occurred. Camp was reached at 3 AM.

13

7.30 Parties of same strength were sent to the points as per yesterday's events. 25 Cyclists accompanied the Crucifix Corner party but were recalled by order of G.O.C. On arrival at points w[h]ere guides were met they were told owing to an attack to be made by the Corps that they would only be blocking up the available passages for troops moving up. A return was made to Camp which was reached at 11.30 pm.
Senlis. Major Chamberlayne Inn[iskillings] received orders to proceed as Second-in-Command to the 11th Batt. Border Regt. He handed over duties of Squadron Leader to Capt A. Hulse. 1 NCO & 6 men were sent to A.P.M as escort to German Prisoners, returning to Camp on handing over at Achieux.

14

Senlis. 7.0 pm Parties same strength & same destination. 50 Cyclists accompanied the party which proceeded to Albert-Pozieres Road. The Cyclists worked at Salvage operations the Xth Corps Cav forming burial party. 34 British were buried, very few affects found. Only 14 shovels were available for this work, a very creditable performance. 1600 sand bags were taken up to first line. The Crucifix Corner party buried 62 bodies and collected one waggon load of salvage which was dumped at Ovilliers Post. Returned to Camp 4.30. No shelling.

15

Senlis. 2.0 pm Two parties left for same areas, 30 & 60 strong.
The Albert-Pozieres Road party buried 28 British and 1 German and collected 25 rifles & some equipment which was taken to Salvage Dump.
The Crucifix Corner party buried 83 bodies all British.
5.30 pm Orders came from DAA & QMG relieving Xth Corps Cav from clearing up battlefield & issuing instructions for 200 men to go on unloading stone daily for Xth Corps.
8.45 pm 20 Cyclists reported at point 75 but were ordered back their services not being required.

16

Senlis. 10.0 AM Church Parade.
2 pm A working party of 1 officer & 50 men total strength 1 officer & 61 men proceeded to Contay for unloading stone daily at Contay Station. Billeting there. Instructions issued:- The officer to get into touch with R.T.O. & find out what time trucks will arrive daily. This party was found from 'C' Sqdn.
6 pm Orders received to collect all Cyclists who with remaining party of the Regt will continue the work of clearing the battlefield.

17

Senlis. 7.0 AM. Rain. 100 men under an officer went to Acheux to unload stone this party made up from all Squadrons returned to Camp at 6 pm.
8.0 AM. A party of 36 from all Squadrons and Headquarters left camp returning at 5 p.m. 24 British and 20 German bodies were buried only effects of three being recovered.
A large amount of salvage including forty rifles were collected at the 48th Div Salvage Dump. All quiet.
40 of Cyclists Battalion gave assistance and collected a large quantity of salvage in the Mash Valley.

18

Senlis. 7.0 AM. Rain. Same party left to do unloading stone fatigue Acheux. The party (30) told to hold itself in readiness to go in p.m to Martinsart for the same work. This work should have been carried out by this party y'day as well but owing to the Huns have broken the line with their shells the trucks containing the stone could not be brought up.
Reported that squares X13d and X14c up to a line north and south through La Boisselle Church was now clear of bodies and salvage.
8 AM. Orders received that the party at Contay would be relieved, the party at Acheux would be reduced to 50, & probably only 30 men would be required at Martinsart. The 100 men saved by this arrangement to be used in the cleaning up operations.
10.AM. Orders issued to O.C Contay party to return to Senlis this afternoon. From tomorrow the following arrangements have been made
     1 Sqdn to unload stones )  This arrangement to hold good for three days Squadron then
     1 Sqdn to clear by day    )   changing their duties. This arrangement should work out
     1 Sqdn to clear by night  )   satisfactorily. The Squadron on night duty only to work the first two
nights resting the 3rd so as to be able to go on the unloading fatigue work the 4th morning, i.e. the 1st morning of the new rounds.
A Sqdn men from 25 Bde returned to Hd Quarters.
7.0 AM [sic]. A party of 36, Hd qts, 'A' & 'C' Sqdns cleared up battlefield.
Burial work was carried out between the Albert-Pozieres and the Albert-Contalmaison road and S.W of these roads. 33 British (including 1 officer) & 7 German bodies were buried.
A large quantity of British equipment, steel helmets etc etc were salved besides 88 British & 17 German rifles, and 95 Mills hand grenades.
The Cyclists buried 6 British bodies W of la-Boiselle.
Owing to a misunderstanding the party detailed for Martinsart failed to go.

19

Senlis. Fine. 50 men on unloading stone at Acheux (‘B’).
Two troops of Cavalry having been placed at the disposal of each division of 48th & 49th, this rather upset the arrangements made to ensure the Squadrons having a rest from clearing operations. It having been decided in order to carry out the programme as far as possible the night party was struck out and told to hold itself in readiness forthwith. ‘A’
Cyclists continued to clear up rifles & equipment.
An issue (special) of rum for the Squadrons was asked for.
"C" Squadron cleared up Battlefield.
63 British & 36 German bodies were buried. More than 300 rifles and various equipment were collected. Communication trench from X14c28 to X9a25 is now clear of dead but a lot of equipment still remains to be salved.
There is a quantity of ammunition still lying about, this seems to have been freely scattered about, also numerous bombs and it appears almost as if bombs intended for front line never got there.
The party got back about 5 p.m.
The Cyclists also cleared up a lot of salvage.
The party for Martinsart unloaded stone from 7.30 pm to 3 pm [sic].
The Huns indulging in shell fire most of the time but all shells going just over.

20

Senlis. Fine. Sanction for a special issue of rum received.
Another alteration of orders (a daily occurrence) the fifty men working at Acheux to be withdrawn. This party will do clearing work tonight.
7.30 AM. 'C' Squadron found the day fatigue on battleground, there was some shelling Captain F.G. Uprichard being slightly wounded very early in the proceedings. 17 British & 3 Germans were buried. 197 rifles & a quantity of equipment were salved.
The following areas were reported to be now clear – X14d, X15c & X8d.
8 pm. 'B' Sqdn buried 76 British in X7B & X8c.
The remainder of this Sqdn unloaded stone at Martinsart all quiet.
The Cyclists also did night work.
12.30 night. Orders were received for 2 troops to proceed to 49th under arrangements between O.C Xth Corps & 49th. ‘A’ Squadron on seeing this order immediately indulged in a little practice of turning out by night.

21

Senlis. 'C' Squadron cleared up battlefield burying 1 British and salving 160 rifles & a considerable number of bombs, S.A.A & equipment.
6 pm. The change of rounds took place at 6 pm.
Two troops 'C' proceeded to Hedauville for duty with 49th Division.
7.30. 'A' Squadron were proceeding for night salvage operations (65) when more orders were received detailing a party of 36 men to proceed to Brickworks just N of Albert to unload stone, same work to be finished before dawn.
Thirty men proceeded to battle field burying 3 officers, 48 O.Ranks & 2 Germans. The stone fatigue party reported at Martinsart at 10.30 pm and at 12.45 were informed that an accident had happened to the train load of stones which in consequence would not arrive so the party returned to Camp.

22

Senlis. Fine. The remaining two troops of 'C' reported at Bouzincourt for duty with 48th Div.
'B' Squadron cleared up battlefield. The German artillery was pretty active No 1582 Pte T. Wright getting wounded very early in the proceedings. A quantity of ammunition, rifles & other equipment was salved. The officer commanding this party reported that there were two dug outs were full of ammunition etc etc. & had apparently been forgotten since the 1st July.
'A' Squadron sent a stone fatigue party to Martinsart.

23

Senlis. 10.0. Cloudy but fine. Church Parade.
During night 22/23rd orders were received ordering all Corps Cavalry available to hold themselves in readiness to proceed at an hours notice. Information was sent to the Squadrons. 'A' Squadron sent a fatigue party to clear 9 trucks stone at Brickfields between Aveluy and Albert where railway crosses the road.

24

Senlis. Fine. Orders given for the Corps to go into Reserve Area. The Regiment was informed that the Cavalry of the incoming Corps would relieve the Regiment about 12. noon and that all 2nd line transport might be sent on in advance at 10.30 am. The transport was all packed and just as it was about to move off 'news' came down that the Cavalry were remaining behind & would follow the next day.
11 p.m. A party of 50 were sent to Brickfields North of Albert to unload stone.
During the day a quantity of clothing etc was sent to the Regt for issue. It was pointed out to ordnance that there was no transport available to take the issues on to the next Camp & a request was made that these issues might be made on reaching new area. This was promptly refused & the Regt was told that all stores were being left behind and handed over to new Corps. (It is more than likely that same articles might have been issued three weeks ago). A hurried visit to Headquarters procured the loan of a motor lorry which left Senlis at 3 pm under charge of 11 men.

25

Senlis. 12 noon. Fine. Hot day. The Cavalry of the 2nd Corps duly arrived & took over the camp. 'A' & 'B' Squadrons marched to Domart at 12.30 pm, 2nd line transport having left at 8.30 AM. Domart was reached at 6.30 pm where it was found that the Squadrons billets or camps had been scattered to the corners of the town. Headquarters & 'A' Squadron were quartered near the watering place the other two Squadrons being 3/4 miles distant. 'C' Squadron remained with 48th & 49th Div. under orders to join the Regiment with the least possible delay.

26

Domart. Fine. Rest.
Arms inspection ordered & a report as to state of Arms to be sent in to Orderly Room. Arrangements made for a parade ground at Chateau de la Haye.

27

Domart. Fine. 'A' & 'B' Squadrons paraded on their own grounds at 8.30 A.M. & marched independently to Parade ground. Troop drill. It was found that 'A' Squadron drill according to drill book. 'B' Squadron did troop drill under some different arrangement. The Adjutant & the R.S.M. took two troops each shewed them how to form troop etc in accordance with principles laid down in drill book. The troop Commanders then took their own troops. The Squadrons were then worked for half an hour as Squadrons returning to Camp at 12.0 noon.
Following instructions were issued: ‘To Squadron leaders – The drill of the Regiment will be carried on according to Cavalry Training 1914. Squadron Leaders will please ensure that Troop & Section leaders are acquainted with the principles there laid down. This preliminary instruction should be given by lecture & foot drill, usually in the afternoon. The Adjutant and R.S.M. will visit the Squadrons during foot drill & give assistance.’

28

Domart. Fine. 'A' & 'B' Routine work morning & afternoon Parades.
12 noon. The G.O.C. Xth Corps came round the lines and inspected the Camp.
5 pm. 'C' Squadron marched in on relief from 48th & 49th Divisions.

29

Domart. Fine. 'A' & 'B' Routine work.
'C' V.O inspected horses at 11.0. - Arms inspection.

30

Domart. Fine. Church Parade at 10.0 AM. A.D.V.S inspected Regimental horses at 12 noon.

31

Domart. Fine. Routine work.

August 1916

1

Domart. Fine. Routine work. 25 men arrived for 'A' Sqdn Sunday.

2

Flesselles. Fine. 8.30. 'A' Squadron left Domart for Flesselles. This Squadron has been given orders to hold 100 dismounted men as a daily Fatigue. It is understood that these men will be required for guard duties and unloading & reloading ammunition. O.C. Squadron to report to O.C. Ammunition Details.
'B' Squadron proceeded for work under P.M Fourth Army.
One troop to be attached to P.M 4th Army
One troop to be attached to A.P.M 3rd Corps.
One troop to be attached to A.P.M 13th Corps.
One troop to be attached to A.P.M 15th Corps.
One troop 'C' Squadron proceed to Villers Bocage for traffic control duty on Amiens–Doullens Road to report to A.P.M. 10th Corps.
9.0.AM. Headquarters & 'C' Squadron less one troop marched to Flesselles a distance of about 10 miles. This place was reached at 11.15 AM & the troops went into billets.
4.30 pm. The Adjutant Cyclists Batt. arrived from Albert & stated that 12 off[icers] & 63 men were coming in. Whilst he was in the Office O.C. Ammunition Details called in and asked that the 100 men detailed for fatigue duties might be placed permanently in his Camp as had been done previously by all fatigues. It was pointed out to him that this was impossible as the horses had to be looked after. It was then arranged that 50 men of 'A' Squadron & 50 Cyclists would proceed to his Camp tomorrow where they might be billeted.
5.0 pm. Reported to 'Q' arrival at Flesselles. The camping grounds taken over by me here were left in a very dirty condition, manure etc being left behind; this entails extra fatigues on the troops marching in. There is sufficient water here for horses, but it is of bad quality from stagnant ponds.
7.30 pm. O.C 'C' Squadron reported that the A.P.M. 10th Corps had returned most of the troop keeping 2 N.C.O's & 8 men at Poulainville, 1 NCO & 4 men at Talmas and 1 NCO & 4 men at Vert Galand.

3

Flesselles. Sanction having been obtained 'C' Squadron left at 3 pm for Havernas.
O.C. 'B' Squadron reports that his Squadron is split up into small parties.

4

Flesselles. Routine.
A draft of 6 Signallers for N.I.H. arrived from Rouen.
Major Holt Waring transferred to 13 Batt Royal Irish Rifles.

5

Flesselles. Fine. Routine.
Orders received from General Staff 10th Corps that the C.O will take charge of the advanced training of all the Corp Mounted Troops, and will arrange to carry out with such officers & N.C.Os as are available schemes & exercises which combine the tactical use of cavalry, cyclists and machine guns.
A scheme was sent out to all units with general and special Ideas requiring all of the rank of Capt & above to appreciate the situation & write orders.

6

Flesselles. Fine. Routine.

7

Flesselles. Fine. Routine.
Orders received from DAQMG that in order to curtail work done by IXth Corps all available troops were to be used in filling in trenches in area 'Z'. i.e. S of Flesselles & N & E of Vignacourt–Amiens Railway. A report of work done to be sent in every Saturday.
2.15 pm. All officers met & discussed the appreciations & orders sent in.
It was arranged that 'C' Squadron should remain at Havernas sending in working parties each day to fill in the trenches.

8

Flesselles. Fine. A party of 'A' [Squadron] from those not on ammunition fatigue & 'C' Squadron commenced filling in trenches.

9

Flesselles. Fine. Routine work.
8.45. Staff ride for officers of Mounted Troops. One Squadron's work on scheme was taken, various situations created & discussed. Patrols sent out. Officers concerned sending in statement of operations with O.C. units criticisms.

10

Flesselles. Some rain. Owing to slight rain in morning filling in of trenches was postponed until afternoon.
A draft of 55 N.C.Os & men arrived 10 for "A" [Squadron] 24 for "B" [Squadron], 21 for "C" [Squadron].

11

Flesselles. Staff ride continued.
Routine work.
The following officers reported their arrival & were posted to Squadrons – 2 Lt Hesketh "A" [Squadron], 2 Lt Auber "A" [Squadron], 2 Lt Whalen "C" [Squadron], 2 Lt Hutchinson "C" [Squadron].

12

Flesselles. Routine work.

13

Flesselles. Routine. 2nd Lts Dean, Hancock & Kirkbride joined from 10th Reserve Cav[alr]y, Curragh, & were posted as follows 2nd Lts Dean & Hancock to "B" Sqn & 2nd Lt Kirkbride to "A" [Squadron].

14

Flesselles. Routine work. A scheme was sent to all units. All off[icer]s of rank of Capt & upwards to write "Appreciations of the situation"

15

Flesselles. Routine work. 5 Ptes (signallers) joined from 2nd Reserve Cav[alr]y & were posted to "A" Sqn. "Appreciations of the situation" in scheme referred to yesterday rendered by the Off[ice]rs & checked by C.O.

16

Flesselles. 9 a.m. Staff ride for all Off[ice]rs & N.C.Os not otherwise employed. The scheme referred to on 15th inst. was worked out on the ground. Routine work, filling in trenches etc.

17

9 a.m. Light rain. Staff ride for all Off[ice]rs & N.C.Os not otherwise employed. The scheme referred to on 15th inst. was worked out on the ground from another point of view. Routine work. Capt Foster, Ptes Corbett & Greer (N.I.H.) proceeded to 95th Inf[antr]y Bde for duty.

18

Light rain, heavy rain at night. Routine work. F.G.C.M. held on Sergt Ashcroft N.I.H. Accused was acquitted.

19

Heavy rain in forenoon interfered with all work. Trench filling & routine work in afternoon.

20-26
21
23
26

Routine.
24 riding horses arrived.
12 officers attached for instruction to 2nd Indian Cav. Divn for instruction [sic]. Capt Foster rejoined.
The C.O. visited 'B' Squadron posts.

27

Flesselles. Routine work.

28

Flesselles. Routine work. Capt Foster joined 91st Brigade Lt Seymour taking up Actg Ajdt.

29

Routine work. 5 Horses X C.C. Regt and 3 Artillery Horses Evacuated, 1 man from C. Squad taking them to Abbeville by train.

30

Routine work.

31

Wet. Showery. 5 Officers and 108 O.R. Cyclists sent to relieve B Squadn at Pont Nivelles. Instructions rec[eive]d from H.Q X Corp. that B Squadn remain until 3rd (September?) to instruct Cyclists in Road duties.
Corpl Reaghs horse exchanged from P.M 4th Army. One man C Squadn returned from Abbeville. Filling in of trenches completed and Ref. sent to H.Q.

September 1916

1

Flesselles. 9 am. Wet. Routine work, Brushwood all cleared from Ground work all completed.

2

Flesselles. 9 am. Fine. A & C Squadrons had squadron parades. They drill under C.O. Revolver course for N.C.Os and further training for H[otch]k[is]s Gun sections. Arrangement made with 71st Brigade for baths for men of A & B [Squadrons] and H.Q. staff.

3

9 am. Fine. Church parade "A" Squadron & H.Q Staff at 10.30 am Band of Norfolk Regiment played during service. B. Squadron marched in at 12.40 p.m. and settled into quarters. They came from Pont Noyelles.

4

Very wet. Regimental parade ordered for 9 a.m. cancelled on acc[ount] of Rain, which commenced about 7.30 am. An order cancelling move to training ground arrived 1-o’c.

5

Fine. The Regiment had a field scheme with 71st Brigade acting as left flank protection to a force of Infantry attacking Bois de Croquet, getting back to lines at 1 o’c.

6

Fine. Reg[imenta]l drill under C/O. back in lines at 12.30. 71st Brigade marched out. Major Whitla took over duties of Town Major from 5th inst.

7

Flesselles. 9 a.m. Weather fine. Horse inspection 10.30 a.m of whole regiment. Lecture by C/O 2 p.m. on Regimental Drill. Capt Uprichard rejoined C Squadron on being relieved at Contay by Mr Vesey, 9 officers who were attached to 2nd Indian Cavalry rejoined their Squadrons in the course of the day 2nd Lieuts Dean & Hancock have yet to rejoin from Le Mazis where they are attached to 18th Lancers. Every available man in Regt had a hot shower bath.

8

Fine. Regimental drill under C.O. and had a small scheme manoeuvre on way back to lines but found crops to be too thick yet. The R.S.M. gave a lecture with Blackboard diagrams on drill to the N.C.Os of Regiment.

9

Fine. Routine work. There was a regimental race meeting at Contay and Capt Henry of B Squadron had a horse entered in "The New Derby" so a good many of the Regiment rode over to the meeting. Unfortunately Mr Smart who rode the Horse made a mistake and rode the wrong course after he practically had won.

10

Fine. In the morning Col. Goring, Major Whitla and the Actg Adjutant rode over the ground of a proposed scheme for Monday. Orders came from HQ Corps. at 12.30 pm for B Squadron to move to Querrieu to perform Road control under PM 4th Army. Church parade 10.30 a.m. Inspection of (cast?) horses by Vet. Off in Charge at 11.30 am.

11

Fine. B. Squadron moved off at 9.15 for Querrieu and C Squadron marched in from Havernas at 12'oc noon. On account of B Squadron move the proposed scheme had to be postponed. Inspection of Remount cases by DDR 4th Army 5.45 pm.

12

Flesselles. Damp. The scheme as explained to Squadron leaders having been postponed from previous day the two squadrons A and C paraded as strong as possible and had two hours skeleton drill under Second in Command (Major Whitla) and on completion of drill the C.O. drilled the squadrons in forming on markers. Second Lieut Hancock and two servants are attached temp[oraril]y to C. Squadron.

13

Damp. The scheme as explained to Squadron Leaders on the 10th inst was carried out. The Corps Commander and Brigadier were present. At 3 pm all Squadron Leaders, troop leaders and patrol leaders were present at a lecture in Orderly Room by the C.O. on the days work. 10 horses were evacuated as vet. cases.

14

Fine. Two Squadrons & a skeleton Squadn took part in scheme arranged by C.O. over practically same ground as yesterday parade being taken by C.O. on completion of scheme, C.O. saw Squadron, Troop & patrol leaders. Three horses of the Regt and one Artillery horse handed over were evacuated, authority for evacuation of Artillery Horse. Captain T.S Clay, A.V.C. All messages received, and sent and a report by patrol leaders on days work handed in to C.O. Field Cashier came at 3.50 pm. An order came at 8'oc pm over the phone from Q to supply 32 more men for Ammunition dump at Contay. A Squadron found 18 & C Squadn 12 of the 32 men required.

15

Flesselles. Fine. 10.am. A and C. Squardons paraded under the C.O. at 9.am to carry out a Scheme of Convoy protection work. A party of 30 men, 18 from A Squadn and 12 from C Squadron proceeded to Contay at 8-30 am in charge of Sergt Davis A Squadron. 1 horse from C and 4 from A Squadn were evacuated to M[obile?] Vet. station Querrieu Farrier Q.M.S. in charge. Mr C.B. Despard was a member of a F.G.C. martial assembled at HQ. 12th M.M.G. Battery. 2/Lts J. Auber & W.H Hutchinson attended for instruction.

16

Flesselles. Fine. 10.a.m. All S.S. Majors & Sergts of the two Squadrons were practiced in skeleton drill under the R.S.M. from 8-30 am. returning to lines at 11.a.m. During the day the whole Regiment had the use of the town baths. A Scheme to be carried out by the Regiment on one day during the week was received from Corps Commander, X. Corps, in which all available guns of M.M.G. Comp[an]y should attend.
Corpl Wherry takes over charge of the Baths from this date.
A court of enquiry to enquire into damage done to Barns in the village was ordered to assemble at a date to be named later. President Maj Arthur 12 M.M. Gun Batty members 1 officer X Corp Cav and one officer X Corps Cyc Battn.

17

Flesselles. 10.a.m. Fine. A and C Squadrons attended Divine service as strong as possible at at [sic] 10.30.am.  A Squad relieved 13 men of C Squadn at the Ammunition Dump Flesselles Station. Major Scobell from Corps HQ interviewed O/C X C.Cav. re proposed scheme. Captain F Uprichard started for Amiens on 7 day leave to Ireland W.P.A.

18

Flesselles. 10.a.m. Very wet. On account of the continued rain the staff ride under C.O. was put off to 2 p.m. and from same cause finally postponed to Tuesday.
4 men from A Squadn were transferred to Regt HQ and two men from C [Squadron].

19

Flesselles. Morning wet, afternoon fine. Staff ride under C.O. officers and Sergts over the ground of proposed scheme took place at 2-15 p.m. instead of 9.o'c on account of the morning being wet.

20

Wet & cold. Corps HQ telephoned at 8.15 am again putting of[f] the scheme arranged for today as the weather was bad and threatening. Lieut Leader, C Squadn left at 8.3.am to take charge of the working party at Contay.
Thirty two remounts were brought from Hengest and held over for allotment to Squadrons until next morning being late when they arrived.

21

Fine. Two Squadrons under C.O. had 2½ hours advance and flack guard exercise. The C.O. allotted the 32 remounts to the 3 squadrons in the morning. The 90th Brigade of 30th Division marched into Flesselles.

22

Flesselles. 8.30 pm. Very fine. Scheme originally worked out by B.G.G.S H.Q was carried out by Regiment today under O/C and on his appreciation. The M.M.G. Battery co-opperated [sic] with Regt. The G.O.C. attended, and after the operations saw all the officers and remarked on the work done. Major Scobell H.Q also was present.

23

Flesselles. 9.am. Fine. Revolver practise [sic] for officers, Sgts and Hotchkiss gun men at a range between here and Wargnies. Shooting very good on an average. Lt Auber A Squadron returning a card of 98 out of a possible 120.

24

9.am. Football match between the Regt and M.M.G. Battn resulted in 1 goal each (association). Sunday. No Church parade.

25

6.pm. Scheme under C.O. To find and bring in a disabled convoy waggon. Hostile planes flew over Flesselles at 10.40 pm. but did no damage. Lieut Coey C Squadron having been transferred to 10th RIR. left to join that Regiment today.

26

8.45 am. Fine. Revolver practise [sic] for officers & Sgts was carried out during the morning. C.O. visited B Squadron also their several posts of road control and found everything well. This date marks the capture of Theipval and Combles.
Lt Leader rejoined the Squadron with dismounted party of Ammunition Dump fatigue from Contay.

27

Flesselles. 9 am. Fine. Flag scheme for two Squadrons A & C. was carried out under supervision of C.O.

28

Fine. All Sergeants and officers and Hotchkiss gunners fired off mounted course. Revolver shooting in the morning.

29

5 pm. Fine. A reconnaissance scheme by A. & C. Squadrons was carried out under supervision of C.O. The Regiment had use of the Town Baths all day up to 5.p.m.

30

Fine. Routine work.

[Each day's entry initialled "T.D.S" - Lieutenant Thomas Dunbar Seymour]

October 1916

1

Flesselles. Fine. Divine Service was held on usual C of E. parade ground at 9.15 A.M. There was a boxing tournament in the afternoon given by the Manchester Regiment. On this date Winter time came into force clocks were put back 1 hour at 1 AM (summer time).

2

Flesselles. Fine up to 11 am then wet. The scheme arranged by C.O. for today had to be postponed to tomorrow as the Brigade arranged to work over the ground on which the scheme was to have been carried out. The two Squadrons with one skeleton squadn did Regimental drill under C.O. from 8.45.a.m till 11.a.m.

3

Flesselles. Wet in the morning. The scheme postponed yesterday morning had again to be put off owing to rain. A and C Squadrons did Squadron drill for 2 hours as the rain stopped before 2 p.m. Country was very heavy. O.C was present.

4

Flesselles. Morning wet. The scheme arranged for 2nd inst had to be postponed for a 3rd time on account of bad weather, and A & C Squadrons had two hours squadron drill under Squadron Leaders. C O inspected C Squadn drilling. Five horses for the Regiment and one Draught-horse for Cyclist Battn were brought from Hengest.

5

Flesselles. 2.30 p.m. Fine. A Scheme dealing with patrol work, proper wording and transmission of Despatches was carried out under C.O. credit or otherwise being given for condition of despatch riders horse. A meeting of all officers and patrol Leaders and N.C.Os in charge of posts was afterwards held in orderly room and mistakes pointed out by C.O.

6

Flesselles. 10 am. Fine. Squadron drill by A & C Squadrons, was carried out in the morning. The C.O. and Major Whitla supervising. A fatigue party of 12 men and a Sgt started Reed Cutting at Tirancourt. 5 Horses 4 R.1 H.D. having arrived from Remounts are taken on strength this day.

7

10.am. Fine. Routine duty. An F.G.C. Martial assembled at 10.am to try Corpl McIntosh A Squadron on a charge of absent from duty and Drunk. A Board consisting of Capts Dimes, Uprichard & Lieut Despard examined 5 candidates for certificates in cold shoeing. The five passed successfully.

8

5 am. Very wet. There was no Divine Service. The O.C. and a/adjt visited the control Posts of B Squadron.

9

Flesselles. 12.noon. Fine. Scheme Reconnaissance and patrol work by A & C Squadrons commenced 8.30. troops returned to lines 1.o'c pm. Mr Birch Reynaldson had a Regimental Signalling Scheme in conjunction with signallers of Cyclist Battn from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm. Finding of F.G.C.M on Corp McIntosh was promulgated.

10

Flesselles. Noon. Fine. Squadron drill under Squadron Leaders. O/C went into Lóng to Corps H.Q. Regimental Signallers under Lt Birch-Reynaldson did 3 hours telephone work in morning and 2½ night work with lamps from 6 p.m to 8.30.

11

10am. Misty. Scheme for Reconnaisce and patrol & dispatch riding was carried out by A & C Squadrons under O.C. & Major Whitla. A conference was held in O R at 3.30. Major Whitla pointed where mistakes etc had occured [sic]. 7 & 8 Battalions Middlesex Regt both belonging to 167th Brde. were billetted in the town this day. Brigade HQ being at Signal Chatteau [sic].

12

Fine. Regimental drill by C.O. was carried on for 2 hours this morning, a third Squadron being represented by skeleton formation.
Colonel Goring took over the duties of Local Commandant.

13

Fine. A & C Squadrons paraded as strong as possible and took part in a reconnaissance scheme under C.O.

14

Flesselles. 2.30 pm. Fine & cold. The C.O. held an inspection of all horses & transport animals in the regiment. Ten dismounted men from "A" Squadn proceeded to Frechencourt to be attached to "B" Squadron which was short handed.

15

Fine. Church parade was held on usual Church parade ground.

16

Fine. "A" & "C" Squadrons had Regimental drill under C.O. a skeleton Squadn led by Capt Grant was utilised. Reveille was altered from this date to six o'c and usual Bugle Trumpet calls were restarted.

17

Morning fine evening wet. A scheme which arrived from H.Q was carried out today for the purpose of Reconnaissance training, and a full report of all work done in connection with scheme was forwarded to H.Q this day.

18

Wet. Parade for Regimental drill had to be cancelled this morning on account of Rain.

19

Wet. Parade again had to be cancelled on a/c of heavy Rain. 167th Brigade marched out at 5.a.m this morning. Instruction for Corps Mounted Troops to move north were rec[eive]d this morning 12 midnight. 60th Brigade marched into Flesselles.

20

Flesselles. 8.30 pm. Fine. "A" & "C" Squads 2½ hours tactical exercise under C.O. Head quarters & Transport had use of Baths for 2 hours in the morning. Definite orders came in last evening Regt to move to unknown area on 27th inst.

21

Flesselles. 5 pm. Fine & Frosty. Routine work. Under orders from HQ 10th Corps, a party of 50 men and one officer Mr Hesketh proceeded to Abeele to take over road control from Canadians. Captain C.S. Foster rejoined H.Q this day.

22

5 pm. Fine & Frosty. Routine work.

23

8.30 AM. Fine. Routine work. After all packing had been finished for our move tomorrow and our Billeting party had gone on they found out that there were no billets available and move was eventually cancelled or postponed by 4th Army. A small party of 15th Corps Cav. marched in and are to relieve [a] like no of our men on Road Control in immediate neighbourhood.

24

Wet. Routine work.

25

Wet. Routine work. Report sent in that all work as far as cutting & binding rushes at La Chaussè has been completed. Party returned to Flesselles.

26

Flesselles. 8.pm. Fine. Secret operation order relative to our move to new area were published.

27

Flesselles. 8.pm. Fine but cold & Threatening. The Regiment marched from Flesselles at 8.30 am arriving at Outredois at 12.45. The Cyclist Battn moved off from starting point 8.20 a.m and proceeded to Occohes where they billeted for the night. Both Cavalry & Cyclists appeared to have good Billets.

28

2 30. Wet & Cold. Cavalry marched at 9.15, transport & sick Horses having preceded them by half an hour, and reached Conchy sur Canches at 1.20 pm. Cyclist Battn going to Boubers sur Canche. No mishaps occured [sic].

29

8.pm. Wet & Cold. Moved off at at [sic] 9.15 and marched to Monchy-Cayeux eleven miles arriving at 12.20. Cyclists going to Anyin. Billets in this halt were very bad both for men and horses.

30

Wet. Cavalry marched to Therouanne starting at 8.50 and arriving at about 12.30. billets were excellent. Previous to starting the VO who was i/c [of] sick horses had to shoot a horse of B Squad, ulcerated co(?)t. B Squadron also lost 1 horse that night.

31

Showery. Cavalry marched to Wallon Cappel 15 miles started 8.35 a.m and arriving at 1 pm. very good billets but Squadrons were scattered among Farms.

[Each day's entry initialled "T.D.S" - Lieutenant Thomas Dunbar Seymour]

November 1916

1

Wallon Cappel. Showers between Sunshine. Marched via Hazebrouck & Abeele to our new area L.7.D starting at 8.35 sick Horses leading of[f], and arriving at our destination about 1.45. The area consists of farms among which Squadrons are billeted in very bad billets. H.Q. consists of two wooden Huts and country in a very soft and muddy state. Capt Foster went on 10 days leave to U.K.

2

Thorè Farm. Wet. Routine. Squadrons handed to Sq Leaders in order to improve Billets etc. and Horse standings.

3

Thorè Farm. Wet. Routine work.

4

Thorè Farm. Showery morning. Horse inspection by D.D.R. 2nd Army at 2.30.

5

Thorè Farm. dry but cold. 20 dismounted men went by buss to 23rd Division 20 to 41st Division and 20 to 47th all for road control work.

6

Very wet. Routine work. Bathing parade had to be abandoned on ac[coun]t of rain and also Digging party.

7

Very wet. Routine work.

8

Thore Farm. 6.pm. Wet cold. Routine work. 228 men had baths at Poperinghe and at 3.30 pm 120 men 3 Sgts & 3 officers went up to a certain point in Busses to do night digging of trenches. C.O. (c.d. ?) toothache.

9

Wet. Routine work. Usual digging party under Capt Grant was working to 11 pm.

10

Fine. Routine work. Digging [party] of 120 men 3 N.C.O under Capt Henry as usual.

11

Very fine. Routine work. Usual Digging party under Capt Uprichard. The C.O. departed on short leave to U.K. and Capt Foster rejoined from short leave.

12

Fine. Routine.

13

Routine. Working party started work during day instead of at night. This is to continue to further notice.

14-17

Routine.

18

Wet & Cold. Marched to Boeshepe & went into Quarters.

19

Routine.

20

Boeschepe. 9.am. Fine. Routine work.

21

Boeschepe. 9.am. Fine. Routine work.

22

Boeschepe. 9.am. Fine. Routine work.

23

Boeschepe. 9.am. Fine & Frosty. Routine work. Captain V.S. Foster was promoted temp Major and took over Command of 10th Corps Cav. School.

24

Boeschepe. 9.am. Fine. Routine work.

25

9.am. Wet. Routine work.

26

9.am. Fine. Routine work. Regiment had use of town baths all day.
The M/O held an inspection of whole Regiment.

27

9.am. Fine. Routine work.

28

9.am. Fine & Frosty. Routine work. Corps Cav. School was started today under Major Foster and a class of 8 officers and 8 N.C.Os. Lectured on …..
Col Goring resumed Command on return from leave.

29

Fine Frosty. Routine work.

30

Fine & Frosty. Routine work.

31

Fine & Frosty & very foggy. Routine work.

[Most daily entries for November initialled "T.D.S" - Lieutenant Thomas Dunbar Seymour]

December 1916

1

Boescheepe. 9.am. Fine. Routine work. Digging party went up as usual under Capt Henry.

2

9.am. Fine. Routine work. Digging party went up as usual under Lieut Leader.

3

9.am. Fine & Frosty. Divine Service was celebrated at 11.30 am. The Regimental Recreation room and canteen was opened on 2nd inst. The Divisional Baths were at the disposal of Squadrons today.

4

9.am. Fine. Routine work. Lieut Vesey was in charge of Digging party.

5

10.am. Wet. Regimental Signalers paraded for practise under Lt Birch-Reynaldson. Lieut Despard went up in command of Digging party.

6

10.am. Wet. Routine work. Lieut Smart was in command of Digging party.

7

Showery. Routine work. 2Lieut Kirkbride was in Command of Digging party.

8

Wet. Routine work. All Signallers paraded for signalling practise. 2 Lieut Hancock was in charge of Digging party.

9

Routine work. Signallers paraded mounted. The usual trench digging party was in charge of Capt. Hulse

10

Fine. Divine Service (opt) followed by Holy Communion was celebrated in Girls School on Poperinghe road.

11

Boescheepe. 9.am. Fine. Routine work. Digging party under Capt Henry.

12

Boescheepe. 9.am. Heavy Snow. Routine work. Signallers paraded for practise. Usual party for trench digging under Capt Uprichard.

13

Boescheepe. 9.am. Misty. Routine work. Signallers paraded for work with flags. Usual digging party under Lieut Despard.

14

Boescheepe. 9.30 am. Fine. Routine work. Signalers paraded for flag practise. Brigadier Genl Cameron from 10th Corps H.Q inspected the Corps School of Instruction. Usual working party under Lt Smart.

15

10.a.m. Wet. Routine work. Lieut T Leader was in charge of usual Trench digging party.

16

10 am. Fine. Routine work. Usual working party under Lieut Kirkbride.

17

10 am. very foggy. Routine work. Divine Service at 9.30 a.m. The Squadrons had the use of Divisional baths from 8 a.m until 4.p.m.

18

12 noon. Fine. Routine work. The Trench digging party under Major Newman was shelled and had to stop work.

19

Boescheepe. 2.30 pm. Snowing. Routine work. Usual working party under Lieut Despard.

20

Boescheepe. 2.30pm. Frosty. Routine work. Usual Trench digging party under Capt Grant.

21

Boescheepe. 10.am. Very wet. Routine work. The C in C made a tour of inspection of this front. Usual working party under Lieut Despard was heavilly shelled.

22

10.am. Cold & damp. Routine work. Regimental signalers paraded for flag work. Usual working party went to the trenches under Lt Smart.

23

9.a.m. Fine. Routine work. Usual trench digging party under Lt Vesey.

24

Fine. Routine work. The Squadrons had use of Divisional Baths all day. Squad S.M. Waldron promoted acting R.S. Major dated 13/10/16.

25

Fine. Routine work. Draft of 20 men and Lt Pallant & Lt Day joined the Regt from Base. Squadrons had a very enjoyable Xmas.

26

Fine. Routine work. Usual digging party under Major B Newman. Trench party of 6 off[icers] and 6 NCO went up to the trenches for 1 week.

27

Frosty. Routine work. Usual digging party under Capt Hulse. Reg Signallers paraded for signalling exercise.

28

Fine. Routine work. Usual working party under Capt Grant.

29

Boescheepe. 9-15 am. Wet. Routine work. Usual working party under Lt Despard. Col Goring & Major Newman went Questrecques to Cavalry Divisional School (1st) for one week. Working party were shelled again today.

30

10 a.m. Wet. Routine work. Working party under Lt Leader were again shelled.

31

10 a.m. Fine. Routine work. Usual working party under Divine Service at 9.30 am in Girls school. The Squadrons had use of Divisional baths all day. 2/Lt Birch-Reynardson left to rejoin 6th Inniskilling Dragoons vice 2/Lt Day, who joined this Regt on 25th inst.

[Each day's entry initialled "T.D.S" - Thomas Dunbar Seymour]
[Diary for the month signed] C V Foster Major
O C. Corps Cav Regiment

January 1917

1

Boescheepe. 11 am. Fine. Routine work. Usual digging party under Lt Smart.

2

11 am. Fine. Routine work. Lieut Vesey was in charge of working party. The party was shelled heavily for ½ an hour. X Corps Cav School reopened today.

3

11 am. Wet. Routine work. Usual working [party] under Lt Pallant. The party was again shelled today but no one hit.

4

11 am. Fine. Routine work. Capt Hulse was in charge of working party which was shelled but no casualties occured.

5

9.am. Fine. Routine work. Lt Col. Hobday gave a lecture in Poperinghe on Horse Management which was attended by a large number of our officers. The working party of which Lt Leader was in charge was again shelled.

6

9.am. Wet. Routine. Trench digging party under Lt Vesey was again shelled.

7

9.am. Fine. Routine work. Vet inspection of 'B' Squad Horses at 11.am.

8

9.30 am. Fine. Routine work. Lieut Hutchinson reports that Trench party were heavily shelled when returning to their Busses.

9

12 noon. Wet. Routine work. Col Goring rejoined the Regiment from the 1st Cav Division at Questrecques. The working party under Lt Jack had a quiet day free from shelling.

10

Boescheepe. 9 a.m. Wet. Routine work. Usual working party under Lieut Pallant. The night party for brick fetching from Ypres discontinued from this date.

11

9.a.m. Fine. Routine work. Usual working party under Capt Henry.

12

9 am. Wet. Routine work. Usual trench party under Lt Leader.

13

2.30 pm. Wet. Routine work. Usual trench party under Lieut Vesey.

14

2.30 pm. Fine. Divine Service was held at 9.30 am. Regiment had use of Divisional Baths for whole of the day.

15

Snowy. Routine work. A Musketry class of instruction for N.C.O was started by Assistant Adjt.

16

Snowy. Routine work. Usual working party under Lt Hutchinson.

17

Fine. Routine work. The working party under 2/Lt Auber was slightly shelled.

18

Frosty, snowy. Routine work. The working party under Lt Whalen was not interfered with.

19

Frosty, snowy. Routine work. 2/Lt Dean brought up the working party to the trenches.

20

Frosty. Routine work. 2/Lt Jack brought the working party up to the Trenches.

21

Frosty. Routine work. Divine Service was held at 9.30 a.m.

22

Frosty. Routine work. Usual working party was cut down by 45 men from B Squadron who were put to build their Stables.

23

Boescheepe. 9.am. Frosty. Routine work. Usual working party went up to the Trenches under 2/Lt Dean.

24

9.am. Frosty. Routine work. Usual working party under Lieut Leader. They were shelled but no casualties.

25

11.30 am. Frosty. Routine work. Trench party under 2Lt Matthews were shelled but had no casualties.

26

11.30 am. Routine work. Over 30(%?) of frost last night. The Trench party went up under 2Lt Auber.

27

2.45 pm. Frosty. Routine work. Usual working party under 2Lt Dean Whalan no shelling reported.

28

2.45 pm. Frosty. Routine work. Church parade at 9.30. All Box Respirators were tested by Gas officer of 41st Division.

29

Frosty. Routine work. Trench party under Capt Henry.

30

9.30am. Snowing. Routine work. Trench Party under 2Lt Jack.

31

9.30. Snowing. Routine work. Trench party under 2Lt Pallant. Major Foster proceeded on leave. Lt Seymour doing A/Adjt in his absence.

[Each day's entry initialled "T.D.S" - Thomas Dunbar Seymour]
[Diary for the month signed] W. Goring Colonel
Commdg 10th Corps Cav Regt

February 1917

1

Boeschepe. Clear & Frosty. Routine work. Usual Trench digging party under Major Newman.

2

Clear & Frosty. Routine work. Capt Hulse was in command of trench digging party and reports all quiet.

3

2.pm. Routine work. Capt Grant reported no shelling of the working party.

4

2 p.m. Clear & Frosty. Routine work. Divine Service C.E. 9.30 am and Non-Conformists in the Canteen at 9.30 am. Medical inspection of Regt took place today.

5

Clear and frosty. Routine work. Capt Henry was in charge of Trench digging party.

6

2.10 pm. Frosty. Routine work.

7

Frosty. Routine work. Capt Uprichard was in charge of Working Party.

8

Frosty. Routine work. 2Lt Matthews reports a quiet day with the working party.

9

11.am. Frosty. Routine work. 2Lt Hesketh reported heavy shelling in vicinity of working party.

10

11 a.m. Frosty. Routine work. 2Lt Auber was in charge of working party.

11

Fine. Routine work. No church parade. General inspection of Kits & Saddlery.

12

10.45 am. Fine. Routine work. 2Lt Whalen was in charge of Trench party.

13

Frosty. Routine work. Capt Hulse was in command of usual Trench party.

14

6.pm. Fine. Routine work. Major B. Newman took over command of Regiment during Col Goring's absence on leave in U.K.

15

Boeschepe. 9.45 am. Fine. Routine work. Capt Grant Uprichard who was in charge of Trench party reported all quiet. Actg RSM. Crouch was taken on Strength.

16

Boeschepe. Fine. Routine work. 2Lt Hesketh was in charge of Trench working Party.

17

Fine. Routine work. Owing to Thaw setting there were no Busses for Trench party.

18

Fine. Routine work. C.E. Service 9.30 am. Non.C.F. 9.30 am.

19

Fine. Routine work. The Thaw has evidently come permanently.

20-28

Fine, rain 23rd. Routine. Owing to thaw restrictions no working parties sent up to trenches. A party of 4 N.C.Os & 15 men proceeded to Abeele daily to take charge of prisoners captured in raids of 20th & 24th.

[Each day's entry initialled "T.D.S" - Thomas Dunbar Seymour]
[Diary for the month signed] W. Goring Colonel
Commdg Xth Corps Cav Regt.

March 1917

1

Boeschepe. Carting Bricks for completion of Stables.

2

Routine work - no Trench Party Found.

3

Carting Bricks for completion of Stables.

4

Divine Service.

5-6

Routine work - no Trench Party Found.

7

Routine work - usual Trench Digging Party under Lieut Whalen.

8

Routine work - usual Trench Digging Party under Lt Dean.

9

Routine work - usual Trench Digging Party under Capt Uprichard. 2 Lt H.V. Day took over duties as Acting Adjutant vice Major Foster appointed Staff Captain 70th Infantry Bde. One man of Trench Digging Party injured accidentally by a Lorry.

10

Routine work. Trench Digging Party under Capt Despard.

11

Routine. Baths & Divine Service.

12

Routine - usual Trench Digging Party under Lieut Leader.

13

Routine - usual Trench Digging Party under Lieut Vesey. Board of officers convened to test men under Para 1218 K.R.

14

Routine - usual Trench Digging Party under Lt Hill-Lowe.
8 Signallers left for Instruction with 41st Division Signal Company.

15

Boeschepe. 10.am. Fine weather. Routine work. Usual digging party under Lt Whelan.

16

Boeschepe. 10 am. Routine work. Usual Trench Digging party.

17

Boeschepe. 10.am. Routine work. Usual Trench Digging party under 2Lt Hesketh.

18

Boeschepe. 10.am. Fine. Routine work. Divine Service was held at 9.30 am usual place. Baths going all day.

19

Boeschepe. 10.am. Fine. Routine work. Usual digging party under Lt Hutchinson.

20

Boeschepe. 10 am. Snowing. Routine work. Trench digging party under 2Lt Jack. Col Goring went to Central School of Inspection – duty. Major V.G. Whitla assumes command. A Fire broke out in "B" Lines.

21

Boeschepe. 10.am. Snowing. Routine work. Trench Digging party under 2Lt Pallant.

22

Boeschepe. 10.am. Snowing. Routine work. Trench Digging party under Capt Hulse all quiet.

23

Boeschepe. 10.am. Court of Enquiry was held at B Squadron Officers mess as to cause of fire in that Squadns lines on 20th inst. Court postponed to 10 am 24th for pertinent witness. Usual digging party went up to the GHQ 2nd line trenches under Capt Uprichard who reported all quiet.

24

Boeschepe. Fine. Routine. Trench party under Capt Despard who reported quiet day.

25

Fine. Divine Service. Summer Time was brought into force from midnight.

26

Wet. No Trench party today as no Lorries were available.

27

Boescheepe. Snowing. Routine. There was no working party today, no Lorries being available.

28

Boescheepe. Fine. Routine. Working Party under Lt Vesey. There was no shelling.

29

Wet. Routine work. Working Party under 2Lt Auber. Party was shelled leaving Trenches.

30

Fine. Routine work. No Lorries available for working party. The Corps Commandant accompanied by Col. Goring inspected the horses and stables.

31

Wet. Routine work. Working party under 2Lt Whalen went up to trenches 6.30 p.m. for night work. This is the last working party to be found as the Regiment is going for a course of training.

During this month a scheme was carried out by C.O. comprising a Staff ride by Squadrons in turn all officers & available N.C.Os attending.

[Each day's entry initialled "T.D.S" - Thomas Dunbar Seymour]
[Diary for the month signed] W. Goring Colonel
Commdg 10 Corps Cav Regt.

April 1917

1

Boescheepe. Wet. Divine Service & Baths.

2

Boescheepe. Wet & Cold. Squadrons working as per Training Programme handed in by Squadron Leaders.

3

Boescheepe. Heavy Snow. Training under Squadron & Troop Leaders.

4

Boescheepe. Wet. Training under Squadron Leaders as per programme laid down.

5

Boescheepe. Fine. Training as per programme laid down.

6

Boescheepe. Showery. Training under S Leaders as per programme. 2Lt Baillie (P.) to "A" Squadron. 2 Lieuts Eighteen W.T. & Stephens F.W. to "B" Squadron. Lt T.P.D Sherston to "C" Squadn. These four Officers are taken on strength from this date.

7

Wet, Snow. Routine Training. Major Newman Capt Henry Lt Vesey & 2Lt Dean having been appointed to road control Squadrons in 1st & 3rd Armies proceeded to take up their new duties and are struck off strength.

8

Fine. Routine work. Divine Service and Bathing. The M.O. had an inspection of the Regiment.

9

Snow. Training as per Programme.

10

Cold & heavy Snow. Training as per Programme.

11

Boescheepe. Noon. Fine & Cold. Training as per Programme. The D.D.V.S. inspected 100 horses of the regiment with a view to recommendations for extra Forage.

12

Boescheepe. Noon. Snowing afternoon. No morning Training a visit expected from D.D.R. Afternoon parade as usual.

13

Noon. Fine. Training as per programme. Owing to Artillery Horse Troughs N. of Poperinghe having had Poison placed in them, a Permanent Corp[ora]ls Guard was put on our troughs.

14

Noon. Wet. Training as per programme. A Board of officers Capt Despard presiding sat to examine cold shoers for promotion to rank of Shoeing Smith.

15

Noon. Wet. Divine Service and Bathing.

16

Noon. Wet. Training as per programme. Three officers and 23 O.R.s joined the Regiment today from the Base. 2Lts Adam & Larter were posted to B Squadn and 2Lt Poole was posted to C. Squadron.

17

Noon. Wet. The D.D.R. 2nd Army inspected the horse of the Regiment today his opinion of them was not 1st Class.

18

8.40 am. Fine. Training as per programme. Information from H.Q Xth Corps that move to Training area was postponed for the present.

19

Wet. Training continued as per usual.

20

Boescheepe. 9.a.m. Misty. Training as per sylabus laid down. Major G.V. Whitla went to Hospital yesterday suffering from German Measles.
C.O. held an inspection of certain horses with the object of bringing them to the notice of D.D.R. 2nd Army.

21

2.30pm. Fine. The Squadrons carried on training under Squadron programme. The C.O. visited them while out. 2Lt Henry joined & was taken on strength of C Squad.

22

Fine. Divine Service as usual. Regt had the use of Divl Baths from 7.am to noon. 2 Lieut Forsyth Forest joined and was taken on the strength of the Regiment.

23

Fine. Training carried on by Squadrons.

24

Fine. Training by Squadrons in morning & lecture by S.Ls afternoon.

25

Training as per programme in morning & afternoon.

26

Fine. Training as per programme.

27

Fine. Training as per programme.

28

Fine. Training as per programme.

29

Boescheepe. Fine. Divine Service in the morning. The Squadrons had the use of the Divisional baths until noon. 2Lts Oecken, Perkins & Lane-Bayliff arrived to day and are taken on strength of the Regiment. The D.D.R. 2nd Army had an inspection of the horses this day at 3.p.m.

30

Fine. Training carried on as per programme.

[Each day's entry initialled "T.D.S" - Thomas Dunbar Seymour]
[Diary for the month signed] W. Goring Colonel
Commdg 10th Corps Cavalry Regt.

May 1917

1

Boeschepe. 5.30 pm. Fine. Routine. Training as per weekly programme. Divine Service in Schools.

2

Boeschepe. Fine. Training as per weekly programme. Corps Commander inspected the Horses.

3

Fine. Training as per programme. The Squadrons had use of Divisional Baths.

4

Fine. Training as per weekly Programme.

5

Fine. Training as per weekly programme.

6

Fine. Divine Service in Girls school for C.E. There was no service for Non-Conformists.

7

Fine. Training as per weekly programme.

8

Fine. Training as per laid down programme. in the morning. The Squadrons had the use of Divisional Baths up to 1 pm.

9

Fine. Training in accordance with weekly programme. Major Whitla returned from Hospital & sick leave to U.K.

10

Fine. Training under Squadron leaders as per weekly programme.
2Lt Garnham G & 2Lt Bray H.E. arrived today from U.K. and are taken on strength of the Regiment.

11

Fine. Squadron Leaders have been given the next 3 days in order to get everything ready for march to training area on 15th inst.

12

Boesheepe. Fine. Squadrons preparing for march to Samer.

13

Fine. Divine Service usual hour. Squadrons had the use of Divisional Baths.

14

Routine work.

15

Fine. Regiment marched out of Boescheepe at 9.30 am. en route to Wallon Cappel. The Corps Commandr saw the Regiment marching at Godeswaerstelde. Arrived Wallon Cappel at 12.30 pm (15 miles).

16

Wet. Left Wallon Cappel for Hallines via Ebblingham & Arques at 9.30 am arriving at Hallines at 12 noon (12 miles). No casualties on the route horses standing it well.

17

Cold dry. Left Hallines 9.30 en route for Lottinghem via Bayenghem & Coulomby arriving at 12 noon. No casualties (14 miles).

18

Fine. Left Lottinghem at 9.30 and marched via Destres to Samer (9 miles) arriving at latter place at 11 am. Squadrons and HQ are comfortably billeted but are rather far apart.

19

Squadrons at disposal of Squadron Leaders.

20

Fine. Squadrons at Disposal of Squadron Leaders. Major Gurney D.S.O reported for duty today also a Corporal of Horse from 2nd L.G. [Major (later Lieutenant-Colonel) Thomas Claud Gurney, 2nd Life Guards.]

21

Fine. C Squadron out with Mjr Gurney D.S.O doing tactical scheme remaining 2 Squadrons under S.Ls.

22

Samer. Fine. Training (tactical) taking & holding positions was practised by Squadrons under C.O. assisted by Major Gurney.

23

Fine. Three squadrons carried out a tactical scheme on the high ground near Brucquedal in conjunction with Signallers. Captain Sir E. De. La Rue reported for regimental duty this day from 39th Division he is posted to "C" Squadron. Usual lecture was given by Major Gurney to officers at 5 p.m.

24

Fine. Regiment again were in the neighbourhood of Bruquedal training. Major Gurney gave a lecture to officers & Corp of Horse Taylor to N.C.Os C Squadn. [Probably Corporal of Horse Frederick Taylor, 2nd Life Guards (No.2764). See 20 May above.]

25

Fine. C.O. assisted by Major Gurney had whole Regiment working on scheme.

26

C.O. assisted by Major Gurney carried out a tactical scheme.

27

Fine. Regt under C.O. marched to the sea doing Flack and advance guard patrols etc on the march down Horses and men had a dip in the sea and returned to camp about 5.30 pm.

28

Fine. Tactical scheme on high ground N of Samer.

29

Regiment took part in scheme. B Squadn Major B Newman took up a position, A & C Squadrons under Major Whitla had to Locate and move them. C.O. & Major Gurney acted as umpires.

30

Fine. Prizes were allotted for best turned out Transport Sections & Gun teams.

31

Samer. Fine. Regiment marched out of Samer to Alquines on its return to Boeschepe reaching Alquines 12.30 pm. Dusty.

[Each day's entry initialled "T.D.S" - Thomas Dunbar Seymour]
[Diary for the month signed] W. Goring Colonel
Commanding Xth Corps Cavalry Regt

June 1917

1

To Boeschepe. Very hot. Regiment continued its march to Boeschepe leaving Alquines at 9.30 and billeted in Broxeele on night 1st–2nd June.

2

To Boeschepe. Very Hot. Left Broxeele 9.15 marched via Cassel & Steenvoorde reaching Boescheepe at 2 p.m.

3

at Boeschepe. Hot. C of E. Parade 9.30.

4

at Boeschepe. Very Hot. Three troops of A Squad reported to 23rd, 41st & 47th Divisions for duty.

5

at Boeschepe. Fine. One Troop under 2Lt Oecken reported APM Xth Corps for conducting of Prisoner work.

6

at Boeschepe. Fine. Routine. 2Lt Bray reported to X Corps H.Q as observation Officer. 2 Lt Henry reported to C[ompan]y FE with party of 16 OR for purpose of Clearing Cavalry Track on Zero day.

7

Fine. Heavy thunderstorm in the Evening. Big Push on Ypres salient commenced today. Regiment except 2 troops taking part. B. Squad waiting to get through if opportunity occurs. A & C Squadrons at various jobs under different Divisions scattered over Corps front. Got through the day without any Casualties. Capt F Uprichard rejoined from Road Control yesterday.

8

Boeschepe. Fine. Routine. "B" Squadron returned to its Billets 5 p.m. from being attached to 24th Divn.

9

Fine. Routine. SQMS Moore A Squadn promoted R.Q.M.S. vice R.Q.M.S. Tucker to U.K.

10

Fine. Routine. Divine Service as usual. Divisional baths at Disposal of Rgt.

11

Routine. Horse inspection by C.O. 9.30 to noon. Very heavy rain 5.p.m.

12

–

13

Fine. Regiment vacated its billets in Boeschepe having been there 7 months, and marched Kenora Camp (Sheet 28 M3. C 6.5.) partly in huts & partly tents.

14

Fine. Routine. parties to Central School Wisques & Musk[etr]y School Tilques.

15

Fine. Routine. Conducting party 108 O.R. & 1 officer to Calais.

16

Fine. Scheme for all officers by C.O. except Squadron Leaders.

17

Fine. Divine Service for Non conformists. No C.E. Service.

18

Heavy Rain. Two 8 inch shells dropped in Horse lines but no damage done. moved horses to M.2.b.5/7.

19

Wet. The whole regiment moved into M2 b 5/7 on a/c of being shelled in Kenora.

20

Wet. Routine work. Col[onel] had all officers out on Staff Ride but had to postpone it.

21

Wet. Routine. Postponed staff ride took place.

22

Wet. Staff ride over same country took place today. Regt had use of Div Baths in Westoutre.

23

M2 b 5/7. Routine.

24

M2 b 5/7. Fine. Routine. A.D.V.S X Corps held an inspection of horses of the Regiment.
Divine Service 9.30 am.

25

M2 b 5/7. Fine. Routine.

26

Fine. Routine. Court of Enquiry into loss of Gov Bicycle & Saddlery. Major G.V. Whitla presided.

27

Wet. Routine. Privates Johnson & Todd A Squadn wounded in trenches.

28

Wet. Routine. Court of Enquiry dated 26 inst finished today.

29

Wet. Routine. Conducting party of 128 OR under 2Lts Pallant & Eighteen to Calais for Horses.

30

Very Wet. Routine.

[Most daily entries for June initialled "T.D.S" - Thomas Dunbar Seymour]
[Diary for the month signed] W. Goring
Colonel
Commdg 10th Corps Cavalry Regt

July 1917

1

M2b 5.7. 6.pm. Fine. Divine Service for Non-Conformists.

2

M2b 5.7. 6.pm. Fine. Routine.

3

M2b 5.7. 6.pm. Wet. Routine.

4

M2b 5.7. 6.pm. Fine. Routine. 2/Lt Baillie & his party returned from attachment to 47th Div in the trenches reports having had a very rough time. H.M. King George Passed through today.

5

M2b 5.7. 6.pm. Fine. Routine. 2/Lt Forsyth-Forest and Lt Oeken with 16 OR & 1 Hotchkiss Gun went up to the line for trench work attached 124 Brgde.

6

M2b 5.7. 6.pm. Fine. Routine.

7

M2b 5.7. 6.pm. Fine. Routine. Capt Hulse rejoined the Regiment today.

8

M2b 5.7. 6.pm. Wet. Divine Service for Non-Conformists.

9

M2b 5.7. 6.pm. Fine. Routine. Squadrons did preliminary musketry practise from 2 pm to 4 p.m.

10

M2b 5.7. Fine. Routine. All Signallers doing contact practise with Aeroplane.

11

M2b 5.7. Fine. Routine. Musketry drill in afternoon.

12

M2b 5.7. Fine. Routine. Musketry drill in afternoon.

13

M2b 5/7. Fine. Routine. The Regiment put in the afternoon range firing at IX Corps range near Berthen.

14

M2b 5/7. Fine. Routine.

15

M2b 5/7. Fine. Divine Service for Non Confts. ADVS inspected the Horses.

16

M2b 5/7. Fine. Routine.

17

M2b 5/7. Fine. Routine. Squadrons had the use of Divisional Baths in Westoutre from 2 pm to 4 pm. Sword exercise 1 hour in the evening.

18

M2b 5/7. Wet. Routine.

19

M2b 5/7. Fine. Routine. Orders recd today to proceed to Morbecque.

20

M2b 5/7. The Regt marched to Morbecque via Godewaersvelde, Caestre & Hazebroucke. The party at Wisques School under Lt Stephens rejoined Regiment this evening 9.p.m Lieut Leader took dismounted party by train to HQ. G.H.Q troops Hesden.

21

Regt marched to Coyecque via Aire & Therouannie.

22

Coyecque. Fine. Marched to GHQ troops area via Dennebroeucq, Bellevue St Michel, Humbert & Sempy. arriving at 2 p.m. HQ at Aix-en-Issart A Squdn at Marles B Squadn at Marenla C Squadn at Marant.

23

Aix-en-Issart. Fine. All Horses in Regiment were Malleined today by a VO. from GHQ troops.

24

Aix-en-Issart. Fine. 67 Horses were sent away today from Regiment to M.V. Section as not suitable for overseas work.

25

Aix-en-Issart. Wet morning, fine afternoon. Routine. Leave allotment increased to 25 men per day.

26

Aix-en-Issart. Fine. Routine.

27

Aix-en-Issart. Wet. Routine. Major Whitla presided over Court of Enqy held at C Squad.

28

Aix-en-Issart. Fine. Routine. Saddler Corpl Russell was acquitted by F.G.C.M. of a charge of Drunk.

29

Aix-en-Issart. Wet. Routine. Exceptionally heavy Rain Thunderstorm and Lightening [sic].

30

Aix-en-Issart. Fine. Routine. 25 men proceeding on leave to UK

31

Wet. Routine.

[Most daily entries for July initialled "T.D.S" - Thomas Dunbar Seymour]
[Diary for the month signed] W. Goring
Colonel Commdg
late 10th Corps Cavalry Regt.

August 1917

1

Aix-en-Issart. Very wet. Routine. Owing to heavy rain a Rifle range which was being got ready by A Squad had to be abandoned for the time being.

2

Aix-en-Issart. Very wet. Routine.

3

Aix-en-Issart. Very wet. Routine. B Squadn Horses camped on the River bank Marenla were flooded out, and had to be put in a new field. A & C Squadrons have their horse under cover.

4

Very wet. Routine. Captain Filgate member of F.G.C.M. at Maresques. D.D.R. inspected all Horses.

5

Routine. Vol[untar]y Services in YMCA Hut at Marant.

6

Wet. Routine. Range at Marrant completed ready for use.

7

Very wet. Routine.

8

Fine. 131 Horses R.1. taken away to Boulogne and replaced by 131 R.2.

9

Wet. Routine.

10

Wet. Routine.

11

Showery. Routine.

12

Wet. Routine.

13

Routine.

14

Fine. Routine. 265 Horses Classes R.II were despatched today by Rail from Beaurainville to Marseilles Lieut Leader being in charge.

15

Wet. Regiment commenced a Range shooting competition. All saddlery was handed in to stores today. All officers medically exam[ine]d with (?) (?) to fitness for Infantry.

16

Aix-en-Issart. Fine. Routine. The whole of the 1st & 2nd line Regimental transport went away to GHQ Troop leaving the Regiment without a horse or waggon of any kind.

17

Fine. Routine. The second stage of the Rifle Competition was brought off today.

18

Fine. Routine. A Parade of Squadrons under S[quadron] L[eader]s took place Dismounted marching order.

19

Fine. Routine.

20

Fine. Orders from GHQ Troops proceed to 36th Infantry Base Depot Havre, probably on 23rd.

21

Routine. Recd orders from GHQ that the Regt entrains for Havre.

22

Routine. Packing up preparatory to move.

23

Entrained at Beaurainville for Havre 2.30 pm.

24

Arrived Harfleur and marched to 36th.

25

Wet. Camp Routine.

26

Wet. All Cavalry equipment handed into Store & replaced by Infantry Equipt.

27

Wet. Still engaged in changing Equipment.

28

Wet. All OR.s of 3 Squadrons were transferred to Infantry today.

29

Men of late X Corps Cav. undergoing training in Infantry work.

30

Camp Routine.

31

Fine. All officers with exception of C.O. Adjt & Qmaster come under orders of C.O. 36 I.B.D.

[Most daily entries for August initialled "T.D.S" - Lieutenant Thomas Dunbar Seymour]
[Diary for the month signed] W. Goring
Colonel
Commdg late 10 Corps Cav. Regt.

Abbreviations