THE DARDANELLES.

Timaru Herald, Volume CIII, Issue 15741, 27 August 1915, Page 8

THE DARDANELLES.

FIGHTING AT GALLIPOLI. LONDON, Aug. 25. The following is a continuation of 3lr Ashmead Bartlctt's report on the late fighting on Gnllipo'f : Owing to the attack from Suvla ' Hay not making the expected progress the troops at Anzac wore unable to maintain their positions on the actual crest line and after repeated counter-attacks were forced to withdraw to positions close below. These positions were effectively consolidated. The attack from Suvla wr.s not developed quickly enough, and was brought to a standstill after an advance of 2'i miles. Tlk> around gained in bnih nttacks was sufficient to enable our lines to bo connected along the front for upwards of twelve miles.

Further reinforcements arriving, we renewed the attack on August 21 on the centre. This was a new and extended line from Anzac. Tho left successfully advanced threequarters of ft mile and secured a system of strong knolls. The advanced Turkish trenches upon tho remainder of the battlefront were stormed. All divisions were engaged and reached points upon the slope of the spurs of the hills which formed the enemy's centre., but after several hours' sharp fighting we were unable to gain the- summits. The intermediate positions here being incapable of permanent defence the troops were withdrawn to the original front. Tho great power of defensive works under modern conditions ' explains tho difficulties of tbe troops, once the advantage of surprise was lost. In the close fighting, during which fortune varied, repeated attacks and counter attacks attended all the phases of these battles. The losses inflicted on the enemy were undoubtedly much heavier even than, our own. The ground gained and held is of great value, but these facts must not lead the public to suppose that the true objective was gained or that further serious and costly efforts will not be required before a decisive victory is gained.