A trench scene, 1915 (c)

Photograph by Captain A J Bowles, 2nd Battalion, The Royal Berkshire Regiment, World War One, Western Front (1914-1918), 1915 (c).

Trenches were not dug randomly, but were part of a complex design. Each of the front line trenches was backed-up by second and third lines: 'support' and 'reserve' trenches. Communication trenches linked them all together. The support and reserve trenches were lined with underground shelters or dug-outs which were used as protection from enemy fire and the weather.

Bowles was killed in action at La Boisselle, near Albert, on 10 April 1916, while serving with the 1st Battalion.

From a group of 114 photographs collected by Captain A J Bowles, 2nd Battalion Royal Berkshire Regiment.