HELD AT SOLLUM

Auckland Star, Volume LXXII, Issue 119, 22 May 1941, Page 7

HELD AT SOLLUM

NAZI ATTACKS FAIL Supply Problems Proving Embarrassing Rec. 1.30 p.m. RUGBY, May 21. Details of the repulse of German tank attacks by the British to the south of Solium on Sunday, mentioned by Mr. Churchill in the House of Commons yesterday, show that it was a most successful operation. Two columns advanced across the frontier towards Halfya Pass, each about 100 vehicles strong, and including a large number of tanks. They were engaged by British light mechanised forces, and while the action was in progress Blenheims of the British and South African Air Force squadrons attacked them with bombs, knocking out a number of tanks. The aircraft then descended and sprayed the enemy vehicles with machine-gun fire, damaging several lorries. After enduring this punishment for a short time the enemy columns broke and retreated in disorder towards the frontier. The enemy has accumulated a large quantity of material in the triangle formed by Fort Capuzzo, Bardia and Gambut. but there is evidence that he is experiencing difficulties in supplying the large body of troops in the formed area, particularly now that the weather is placing a great strain on transport. Information has reached London that the British artillery have blown up an enemy ammunition dump to the west of Solium.