Already we are on day sixty of the Battle of the Somme and it seems the end is nowhere in sight. Trenches are still very much flooded and heavy rain is continuing to fall - so much for summer. Since the battle began on the 1st July, the British have managed to capture 266 German Officers and15,203 other ranks as well as 86 guns and 160 machine guns.
In other news, we have just received reports that Von Hindenburg has been appointed Chief of General Staff in place of Von Falkenhayn and Von Ludendorff as Chief Quarter Master General.
Day sixty-one has seen yet more rain falling. The trenches at Guillemont are still very wet and muddy.
Day sixty-two has seen the first official sighting of the German aircraft Albatros, whilst in other aviation news, flying ace Albert Ball has managed to shoot down two enemy aircraft today. On the ground, fierce German attacks between Ginchy and High Wood have thankfully been repulsed.
German attacks at High Wood have failed today on day sixty-three but we have just received news that they are back again in the eastern side of Delville Wood.
Day sixty-four of the Battle of the Somme has seen another inspection of the tanks led by Henry Rawlinson. He has voiced his opinion that he is not pleased with their training and handling, having seen no great improvement from his last visit.
Raining again on a busy day sixty-five. I am pleased to announce that the battle for Delville Wood and Pozieres Ridge has come to an end. The battle for Guillemont was won by the British but hours later was lost. Continuous fighting towards Falfemont Farm and High Wood can currently be heard.
Day sixty-six and the end of week nine of the Battle of the Somme has seen showers on and off all day, making conditions even more dangerous. Another attack on Falfemont Farm has failed whilst at the same time Douglas Haig has been having tea with Henry Rawlinson were he has urged him of the necessity of pressing on. Douglas Haig has also announced how pleased he is at the taking of Guillemont.
Whilst at the time, the British were unaware of it, the sight of the Albatros plane in the sky was to be the start of a turn in the air war and one that was now in Germany's favour. This aircraft had twice the fire power of a British fighter and fired synchronised machine guns between its propeller blades.
Don't forget to check back here on the 18th September for the latest news.
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