On the right, the Germans took Monchel and Ayencourt, but were unable to debouch, which prevented them from reaching the south-western outskirts of Mesnil and the approaches to Royaucourt.
At 7 p.m., a counter-attack by units of the 153rd Regt., a batn. of cavalry on foot, a section of armoured-cars, and a group of artillery took the enemy by surprise. Ayencourt and Monchel were recaptured, and the French line advanced from Monchel to Hill 98.
Exhausted by their efforts and heavy losses, the enemy now consolidated their slight gains.
The French 56th Div. had fought unceasingly for five days and lost the greater part of its effective strength, but had fixed the enemy.
Montdidier. Rue Becquerel in 1919.
Liberating Montdidier.
The front on August 8th. (morning) and 10th (evening).