In the West

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXVIV, Issue 68, 25 February 1916, Page 5

In the West

BATTLE AT VERDUN. BIG GERMAN OFFENSIVE. United Press Association. London, February 23. A German communique states; We attacked north of Verdun on a front of six miles, penetrated one and threequarter miles, and captured three thousand prisoners and considerable war material.

ATTEMPT ON THE FORTRESS. FRONT OF 25 MILES. Paris, February 23. Le Temps says that German attacks on the advanced linos at Verdun are being carried out on a five kilometres front, in order to test the defences; but the fortress is a big mouthful, as it is now reinforced by field forces under General Humbert, and other most energetic leaders. A communique says that seven German army corps are engaged in the Verdun battle, which is increasing ih intensity on a twenty-five miles front. There have been extremely heavy German losses. CEASELESS BOMBARDMENT. INCREASING IN INTENSITY. Paris, February 24. A communique states that the German attack north of Verdun developed as was foreseen into a most important action, for which powerful preparation was made. The battle continues growing in intensity, and is vigorously maintained by our troops, who have inflicted extremely high losses. A ceaseless bombardment ended at Malancourt. Our artillery replied with equal violence. Successive German in ft n try attach took place all day long between Bni-bant-sur-Meuse and Ornes, employing verv large number comprising the Lops of sovon army .orp.. Wo repulsed all attacks at Ho meant village and crushed the enemy’s offensive m Games wood. B\ counter attacks the enemy penetrated Wavrille wood, east of Caures. after a senes of sanguinary attacks. Our counter attacks stopped the enemy’s assaults north of Caures. BIGGEST BATTLE SINCE LOOS. London. February 21. A French communique shows that the Verdun buttle is the most important fighting in the West since the battle at Loos and in the Champagne, a t. the battle is likely to equal the German offensive at Ypres hist April.