The Battle of the Somme - July 1st, 1916

I've been very impressed by the media coverage of the above event which started 90 years ago today. It's right and proper that we don't allow the football mania, currently gripping the country, to shroud important historical events.

It's difficult to imagine the carnage that took place on that first day. Tens of thousands were slaughtered or injured in the first few hours. In total there were over 120000 casualties.

Apparently, the opening salvos could be heard across the channel at Hastings.