Changes in the 2nd Battalion

Captain Beal [X550/1/81]

Tuesday 3rd July 1917

2nd Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment is currently behind the lines at rest. There have been a number of changes today. Lieutenant-Colonel E S M Poyntz has gone on leave and Major B P Newbolt has gone to the army’s base at Rouen to join 48th Prisoner-of-War Company.

Meanwhile Captain L F Beal has rejoined the Battalion from the School of Instruction at Aldershot. Major C H de St.P Bunbury has joined the Battalion from the 2nd Battalion, Yorkshire Regiment as  temporary commanding officer in Lieutenant-Colonel Poyntz’s absence.

Source: X550/3/WD

Bathing in the Med

Monday 18th June 1917

In Palestine 1st/5th Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment, has constructed a latrine on the beach and allotted an area for use by the troops for bathing - nowhere near one another, I was assured. The bathing area is in view of an enemy strong-point called Sea Post, about a mile away and so only twelve bathers are allowed at any one time. A bathing picquet has been formed in case of accidents, drownings etc.

The ground on which the battalion now resides comprises a series of sand dunes and the adjutant mentioned with some pleasure that there is nearly always a cool breeze from the sea. In consequence the health of the troops has greatly improved since arrival.

Second Lieutenant Lydle [X550/1/81]

The adjutant of 2nd Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment, has commented on comings and goings this week. On 12th Second Lieutenant Lydle was admitted to hospital. On 13th Lieutenant Hart rejoined from hospital. On 14th Major Newbolt was appointed Area Commandant of 30th Division. On 15th the padre, Rev Turnbull was sent to hospital sick. On 16th he was followed by Second Lieutenant Cline and yesterday a new Medical Officer, Lieutenant A Newton-Brady joined the Battalion, replacing Lieutenant Cogan who left today.

Sources: X550/3/WD; X550/6/8