Horses being transferred onto a transport ship, during the simulated landings at Clacton-on-Sea, September 1904

Photograph, 1904.

A British Army and Royal Navy exercise involving a simulated amphibious assault on Clacton-on-Sea in Essex took place in the first half of September 1904. General Sir John French led the 'invasion force' which moved from Aldershot to Southampton before embarking on troopships, escorted by Royal Navy vessels, to transport them around the coast to the Essex seaside town. Following a successful landing, the invasion force moved inland to Colchester. The town was 'captured' before the defending force under Major General Arthur Wynne drove the 'invaders' back to Clacton-on-Sea.

Approximately 3000 horses were involved in the exercise including the mounts of the 8th (King's Royal Irish) Hussars and mounted infantry units.

From an album of photographs and postcards compiled by Private J Finch, 1904.