DRIVE TO TOBRUK

Evening Post, Volume CXXX, Issue 150, 21 December 1940, Page 11

DRIVE TO TOBRUK

BRITISH TANKS

ENEMY PREPARES FOR STAND

LONDON, December 19,

British tanks are sweeping round Bardia and driving towards Tobruk.

The British forces are tightening their grip on Bardia and also, according to an unconfirmed report, have cut the cliff-top road to Tobruk. Lorry loads of soldiers are arriving hourly in the Bardia area for what is expected to be the toughest battle so far. The greater part of two Italian divisions is estimated to have- been contained by the advanced British elements operating beyond Bardia. The Italians are greatly strengthening the defences of Tobruk in preparation for a determined resistance, but the question of British operations further west is dependent on clearing up Bardia and also the extent to which Bardia and Sollum can be used for supplies. Marshal Graziani in the meantime has made no move to succour the besieged divisions at Bardia, and these are now apparently cut off from the possibility of retreat by land or sea. They have plentiful supplies, are righting vigorously, and their capture may be lengthy, but the British have no doubt of success.