Today we headed north to Arras where there are old limesone quarries which had been dug out in the 17th century but during WW1 the New Zealanders had excavated contecting tunnels to the existing quarries to use as a surprise exit for the allies to attack the Germans in April 1917. The attack was successful but unfortunately the overall battle was a disaster, with thousands of deaths and wounded. This quarries held over 20,000 allied men who emerged just metres from the German positions.
When we arrived at Wellington Quarry we had to wait 1hour and half for our tour, so a drive around Arras was in order. We came across another War Cemetery, this time the Allied Fuselliers.
On the return trip back to Chavasse Farm we stopped to see the bronze statue of the 'Digger' which is another tribute to the Australians who fought here.
Another Bronze statue at the village of Peronne.
Allied Fusillers cemetery and memorial.
Ready to go underground at the Wellington Quarry, Arras.
A section of the underground caves
'Digger' statue at Bullecourt
Australian soldier statue at Perrone
What a motley crew, looks like Dads Army to me (he he)
ReplyDeleteI don't know if this has published twice, however, the other night Dad's Army was on the only English speaking channel. Brian and Roz watched it and were in fits of laughter.
DeleteYou know Annie, it was re-run other night on the only English speaking channel. Brian and Roz watched it and were in fits of laughter.
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