THE ALLIED OFFENSIVE IN THE SOUTH 1918 Originally destined to take part in a projected attack for the recapture of Kemmel Hill and Village, the Division suddenly received orders at the end of August, to the delight of all, to move southwards at very short notice.

During the 1st, 2nd and 3rd September the move southwards was carried out by rail, the Division, less artillery, detraining at Corbie, Heilly and Mericourt.

On the 4th the Divisional Artillery followed, and the whole Division was concentrated in the area Heilly-Ribemont-Franvillers on the River Ancre, in G.H.Q.
Reserve.

The next few days were devoted to a continuation of the training in open warfare commenced in the Wizernes area.
The Germans, forced back in July and August from the high-water mark of their advance in March and April, had stood on the line of the Somme and the Peronne--Arras road.

In the southern sector of the British front the Somme defences had been turned by the brilliant capture of Mont St.Quentin (to the north of and guarding Peronne) by the Australian Corps.