How prevalent was this calibre of artillery in support of the 1st July offensive?
I do believe that there were some examples of this calibre of shell uncovered during the construction of the visitor centre at Thiepval.
I presume that this artillery piece would have been manned by men of the Royal Marine Artillery?
Kindest regards.
Chris.

There were eight:
No 10 Howitzer RMA III Corps
Nos 1, 3 & 5 Howitzer, RMA VIII Corps
Nos 2 and 8 Howitzer RMA X Corps
Nos 4 & 6 Howitzer RMA, VII Corps

In all, I think 12 guns were built, but they may not all have been deployed.

Many thanks to you both for the information.
To be honest, i didn't quite realise that this calibre was available in the amount quoted.
Just one question, how was this fire-power distributed on the 18 mile front, if possible, any locations?
Kindest regards.
Chris.

I probably have map references for some/most of them. Give me a moment (or 20) and I'll look them up.

Nos 1, 2 & 8 - Mailly Maillet - but No. 8 out of action
No 3 - Sailly au Bois
Nos 4 & 6 - Souastre
No 5 - Engelbelmer
No 10 - Albert

There you go. You didn't see my lips move now did you!

Anyway for further information:

No 1 P.17.c.9.7.

No 8 was out of action from the 28th but fired a (very) few rounds on the preceding days. The gun was damaged by two pieces of shell from a premature from No 2 (40 yards away).

In general they were not greatly loved and were ditched ASAP.

Laughs!
Many thanks indeed to all.
The wealth of knowledge on the Forum is outstanding.
Kindest regards.
Chris.