TAKEN UP BY BRITISH FORCES IN GREECE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 15 April 1941, Page 5

TAKEN UP BY BRITISH FORCES IN GREECE

Severe Casualties Inflicted on Enemy FIGHTING IN INTENSE COLD AND SNOW SITUATION IN ALBANIA OBSCURE Imperial troops have inflicted severe casualties on the enemy in Northern Greece, the 8.8. C. reports. A War Office communique states that on Saturday night the British forces withdrew to new positions. The Germans maintained constant pressure on the eastern sector during’ the withdrawal and heavy casualties were inflicted on the enemy by the covering troops. In the central sector persistent enemy attacks failed, largely owing to British artillery fire. These operations were carried out in intense cold and snow, British troops are reported to have repelled with heavy loss an attack by the Adolf Hitler division, a mechanised unit manned by picked men. The R.A.F. continues to give powerful support to the land forces. Enemy columns were heavily bombed and direct hits were claimed by most of the airmen. A number of enemy bombers escorted by fighters were intercepted by British fighters near Koritza. One German plane was destroyed and a number of others damaged. In all operations in Africa and in the Balkans seven British aircraft were lost. Two of the pilots were saved. There is still no confirmation of a report that Yugoslav forces have occupied the key port of Durazzo, in Albania. The Italians claim to have recaptured Koritza, in Southern Albania, The military situation in Yugoslavia remains obscure, but it is known that the Yugoslav forces are hitting back at the invaders. They are reported to have launched a successful counterattack north of Nish.