Battle of the Boars Head - “The Day that Sussex Died”
THEME: - First World War
Battle of the Boars Head - “The Day that Sussex Died”
An examination of the events of 30 June 1916 and the devastating effect it had on Sussex.
TALK SYNOPSIS:
On 30 June 1916, the day before the Battle of the Somme began, the Southdowns battalions of the Royal Sussex Regiment attacked a heavily defended German position known as the Boar’s Head, near Richebourg in northern France.
Intended as a diversion to prevent German troops being moved south to the Somme, the attack became a devastating tragedy. In less than five hours, hundreds of men were killed and many more wounded or taken prisoner. Because the battalions had been recruited locally, the losses were felt in towns, villages and families across Sussex.
This talk explores why the attack was ordered, what happened on the battlefield and how courage, confusion and flawed planning combined with terrible consequences. Through the experiences of the men who fought and the communities they left behind, it reveals why 30 June 1916 became remembered as “The Day Sussex Died”.
WHAT THE AUDIENCE WILL DISCOVER
In this talk, the audience will discover:
How “Lowther’s Lambs” and the Southdowns battalions were recruited from communities across Sussex.
Why the attack on the Boar’s Head was launched immediately before the Battle of the Somme.
What happened during the assault and why the casualties were so severe.
The individual experiences of some of the officers and soldiers who took part.
How concentrated losses affected families, workplaces and communities throughout Sussex.
How the battle has been remembered—and why its story was long overshadowed by the Somme.
How this event is remembered today
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Typical duration: 45–60 minutes
Questions: I normally allow 10–15 minutes for questions
Format: In person presentation
Suitable for: History societies, Adult Groups, Clubs
Speaker Fee: £100.00
Geographic availability: West Sussex and surrounding area. An additional charge will be applied at 55p per mile for journeys over 20 miles (each way)
Equipment Required: Projector, screen
Adaptability: The presentation can be can be adjusted to suit programme timings and if required contain a short interval if you prefer - just let us know what works for you.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER:
Graeme MacPherson is an accredited Member of the Institute of Battlefield Guides, a Commonwealth War Graves Commission volunteer speaker and an Army officer with more than 40 years’ military experience. He combines careful research with accessible, engaging stories about the people and places behind historical events.
INTERESTED IN BOOKING THIS TALK?
Tell me about your organisation, audience and preferred dates, and I will respond with availability and practical details.
