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The ferocity of the fighting in places like France and Flanders meant there was a big demand for army medical officers.

In 1916, to help meet this need, the Royal Army Medical Corps transferred a number of training depots to Blackpool with administrative headquarters also there.

At Blackpool, newly enlisted RAMC officers were taught the medical and non-medical skills they would need to deal with the sorts of injuries which were common at the front. There was also an emphasis on hygiene, with infections often proving fatal. The trainees were taught about the importance of clean water and safe food at the centre.

Location: Weeton Camp (a WW1 medical training camp), Preston, Lancashire PR4 3JQ
Image: Painting of Royal Army Medical Corps training grounds, courtesy of IWM