The Suffolk branch of the WFA hold monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of the month
at The Royal British Legion, 8 Tavern Street, Stowmarket, IP14 1PH.
They are open to members and non-members of the association.
Wednesday 13th May 2026
The Devons on 1st July 1916
Ross Beadle
The man who predicted where he would be killed, gilded youth and all that. This is the dramatic story of the Devonshires attack on Mansel copse on 1st July 1916, it exemplifies the tragedy and failure of that day. It also include the curios tale of Capt. Duncan Martin of 9th Devons, who before the battle made a 3D model highlighting German strong points. Martin Middlebrook in the First Day Of the Somme called him 'the man who predicted where he would be killed' The truth has been lost in myth and embellishment. The Devons reached their objectives that day, albeit later than hoped. And spoiler alert Duncan Martin did not predict where he would die.
The meetings usually last an hour followed by an interval of half an hour and then a Q&A session.
We suggest a minimum donation of £5.00 per person towards the Branch’s expenses. An individual buffet box is provided during the interval and drinks can be purchased at the club’s bar. We also hold a raffle ticket where the prizes vary from books to something to eat or drink.