WEDGE DRIVEN INTO THIRD LINE

Nelson Evening Mail, 6 July 1916, Page 5

WEDGE DRIVEN INTO THIRD LINE

FRENCH MASTER'S OF, PERONNE PLATEAU(Published in The Times.) LONDON, July 4. The Times Paris correspondent says it is now 'possible to state without exaggeration ill at the French, south of the Somme are well on the way to a- striking success. The wedgfe has now been driven int-o the 'German third- line at Flaucourt. The French are also masters of the plateau of Peronne. and) are within three miles of the township. The 'battlefield south of th.e Somane consists of two zones. The northerly section is a. valley in. which the stream scatters its waters in' large ponds 'and marshes, the country 'being dotted with clumps of trees. The southerly section is a bare, wellknit plateau of defensive positions. ll - '' The capture of Feu'lleres and neighbouring .hills enabled the French artillery to assist in the sterner struggle north of the Somimie. After passing the German second lines the French on Monday found! the way •to Peronne barred by the tremendously fortified little village of Flaucout. They stormed it with great dash. -The loss is exceedingly embarrisiiict to the Germans, 'because it leaves them with only three supply roads, which the French dominate'. Sometimes the roads are borne. for a kilometre across the marshes on slendter bridges, which are easy marks for artillery.. The fortified villages of BeJloyen Santerre and Barjleux bar the way to Peronnne,, but the success on the Assevillers .front will- enable the French to reach the open- country, compelling the i-Gteitaaßs ta evacuate Peronne.' ' 1