The part of the conflict covered in this book is a continuation of the great Somme Battle which began on 1st July 1916. The south of the attack front pushed the opposing German line back far enough to secure Montauban and Mametz, and two days later Fricourt was occupied. A bloody and slogging engagement then pushed the Germans back further gaining Mametz Wood and Contalmaison, and setting up circumstances favourable to pressing on with the planned attack against Bazentin Ridge. The divisions involved had been fighting since the first day, alternating between attack and recuperation, but this would be the first time the New Army Battalions had undertaken a full scale night attack. The German front line here was their second line prior to the British success of the 1st July, and the Switchline was being quickly developed and fortified as the second line of defence.

A daring scheme : planning and preparations -- The forces gather and the final preparations -- The final preparations of the 7th Division -- The preparation of the 3rd Division -- 3rd Division : the attack of the 14 July and the following days -- The attack of 7th Division : 14 July 1916 -- The attack of the 21st Division -- The day's events of 14 July summarised -- The battle continues : 15-17 July 1916 -- The battle continues 21st Division 15-17 July -- The 7th Division 15-17 July 1916 -- A drive and walking tour around the battlefield of Bazentin Ridge -- Walks around the Bazentins and the battlefield area.