On 4 February, the order was given to begin the (Alberich Manoeuvre), with 9 February to be the first day and 16 March the first marching day. The 1st Army from Arras to Péronne brought reserve divisions forward to the and outpost villages close to the (Hindenburg Line). The front-holding divisions, which had been worn down by British attacks, were withdrawn behind the (Hindenburg Line). On 17 March, the German troops at the north end of the Bapaume Salient withdrew swiftly, as there were no intermediate lines corresponding to the north of Achiet le Grand. was abandoned by 18 March and next day Boyelles and Boiry Becquerelle were evacuated. The withdrawal went straight back to the (Hindenburg Line) except for outposts at Hénin sur Cojeul, St Martin sur Cojeul and the west end of Neuville Vitasse. Numerous raids were mounted on British outposts during 20 and 21 March.