August Bank Holiday Pilgrimage,
THE YPRES TIMES
119
THIS can perhaps claim to be the most popular trip to Ypres during the year.
A large gathering, of which 23 members of the Atherstone Branch of the
British Legion formed part, left Victoria Station by the early service on
August 2nd, conducted by the Secretary.
This fixture invariably rejoices in real summer weather, but this year a broken
period set in and continued throughout the week-end, so the Ypres Salient lived
well up to its famous war reputation. The torrential storm which accompanied
our train journey from Ostend to Ypres compelled those of the party who were
fortunate enough to possess umbrellas to open them in the compartments, as the
rain poured through the roofs of the third-class carriagesHowever, we arrived at
Ypres in good spirits, and divided ourselves between the Hotels de la Gare,
Skindies, and Splendid and Britannique.
Sunday morning was
spent visiting graves, and
attending the services at
the Ypres British Church.
In the afternoon half-day
trips to the Salient were
conducted by Messrs. W.
and C. J. Parminter, and
very much enjoyed.
On Sunday night our
party joined in the cere
mony of the Last Post
at the Menin Gate, at
which 200 Legionaires
from the Home Counties
Area were present.
A whole-day tour of
the battle-front between
Ypres and Arras was
arranged for Monday.
The places en route were
Messines, Neuve Eglise, Armentières, Fleurbaix, Neuve Chapelle, La Bassée, Lens,
Vimy, visiting the Canadian dug-outs. The return journey was made via Souchez,
Estaires, Bethune, and Kemmel. On the same day some of our pilgrims made a
special visit to Loos, for the purpose of attending the unveiling of the memorial to
the missing at Dud Corner.
The main party returned to London on Tuesday, August 5th, while several
remained at Ostend for a few days.
A general expression of thanks is due to our representatives, Messrs. W. and
C. J. Parminter, for the help they gave us during the week-end, and to the hotel
proprietors, who, considering the heavy call on their accommodation, left nothing
undone for our comfort.
We herewith reproduce a photograph of the Atherstone party, who accom
panied the pilgrimage for the first time. The Hon. Secretary of the Branch has
kindly written to say how much they enjoyed themselves, and conveying best thanks
for the arrangements made, and that the members are all looking forward to another
visit next year.
Needless to say, we shall be exceedingly glad to see them, and also their friends.
[PhotoL. Duhameeuw, Ypres.
THE ATHERSTONE BRANCH BRITISH LEGION PARTY.
