1. The three divisions holding the line round St Quentin were the 36th, 30th and the 61st.

1. Lieutenant-Colonel Elstob’s body was never recovered, and he is commemorated on the memorial to the missing of 1918 at Pozières on the Somme. He was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross. The citation read: ‘For most conspicuous bravery, devotion to duty and self-sacrifice during operations at Manchester Redoubt, near St. Quentin, on the 21st March 1918.

‘During the preliminary bombardment he encouraged his men in the posts in the redoubt by frequent visits, and when repeated attacks developed controlled the defence at the points threatened, giving personal support with revolver, rifle and bombs. Single-handed he repulsed one bombing assault, driving back the enemy and inflicting severe casualties. Later, when ammunition was required, he made several journeys under severe fire in order to replenish the supply. Throughout the day Lieutenant-Colonel Elstob, although twice wounded, showed the most fearless disregard of his own safety, and by his encouragement and noble example inspired his command to the fullest degree.

‘The Manchester Redoubt was surrounded in the first wave of the enemy attack, but by means of the buried cable Lieutenant-Colonel Elstob was able to assure his Brigade Commander that “The Manchester Regiment will defend Manchester Hill to the last.” Sometime after this post was overcome by vastly superior forces, and this very gallant officer was killed in the final assault, having maintained to the end the duty which he had impressed on his men – namely, “Here we fight and here we die.” He set throughout the highest example of valour, determination, endurance and fine soldierly bearing.’

1. The Official History of the War states that none of the Ox & Bucks managed to escape. The few survivors were captured.