Page "Second Boer War" Paragraph 61

However, the nadir of Black Week was the Battle of Colenso on 15 December where 21, 000 British troops commanded by Buller himself, attempted to cross the Tugela River to relieve Ladysmith where 8, 000 Transvaal Boers, under the command of Louis Botha, were awaiting them.

Through a combination of artillery and accurate rifle fire, and a better use of the ground, the Boers repelled all British attempts to cross the river.

After his first attacks failed, Buller broke off the battle and ordered a retreat, abandoning many wounded men, several isolated units and ten field guns to be captured by Botha's men.

Buller's forces lost 145 men killed and 1, 200 missing or wounded.

The Boers suffered 40 casualties, including only 8 killed.