Old Chateau used as the 4th Division HQ near Cambrai, France In 1914, the German army occupied Cambrai. This occupation, which lasted for four years, was marked by scenes of looting, requisitions and arrests of hostages. From 20 November to 17 December 1917, the vicinity of Cambrai was the theatre which saw the massive use of tanks for the first time. In 1918, the Germans burned the city centre before leaving, destroying the city hall and the municipal archives. In total, more than 1,500 buildings were totally destroyed, of the 3,500 which consisted of Cambrai. The centre was rebuilt,after the war. Photo from album which possibly belonged to Lt Reginald Vigars Prenter (RVP), 72nd Bn.