“You are leaving home to fight for the safety and honour of My Empire.”
“Belgium, whose country we are pledged to defend, has been attacked, and France is about to be invaded by the same powerful foe.
“I have implicit confidence in you, My soldiers. Duty is your watchword, and I know your duty will be nobly done.” -King George V
The Loyal North Lancashire Regiment was initially formed in 1881 from two battalions: the 1st Battalion from the former 47th (Lancashire) Regiment of Foot and the 2nd Battalion from the former 81st (Loyal Lincoln Volunteers).
By 1914, after recruiting men from the main towns of Central Lancashire, the Regiment consisted of 21 Battalions.
It went on to become a pivotal force during the war effort, defending, attacking and serving honourably and relentlessly during each campaign.
The vast contribution of the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment during the war is judiciously documented by Wylly, as he brings to life the campaigns which saw the Regiment serve on the Western Front, at Gallipoli, and in Macedonia, East Africa, Palestine and Mesopotamia.
Describing the many campaigns, allies and enemies encountered, The Loyal North Lancashire Regiment is an unembellished and treasured account of the highs and lows of the war effort.
From the defence of Ypres and the Battle of the Ancre, the battles of Neuve Chapelle, Aubers Ridge and Loos, the Arras daylight raid, entry into Cambrai and the often frustrating campaigns in East Africa, this is a detailed and proud history.
In total, 7590 casualties were suffered, 80 Battle Honours were awarded and the Victoria Cross was awarded to three members of the Regiment.
Harold Carmichael Wylly (1858-1932) was a British colonel and military historian.
Colonel Wylly published a number of military-based books, including a biography of Sir Joseph Thackwell. His later works specialised in the First World War.
