On 25 June 1900 a large convoy left Kroonstad for Lindley where Major-General Padget was garrisoned. Of the escort of 800 mounted men, was a wing of the Yorkshire Light Infantry, under the command of Colonel Brookfield.
On the outskirts of Lindley the column was heavily attacked by Boers under the command of Commandants P. de Wet and Prinsloo.
During the attack, Private Ward of the Yorkshire Light Infantry, volunteered to carry a message to a signalling station under heavy fire, to seek re-enforcements. The Boers were eventually driven off.
Ward was awarded the Victoria Cross for his gallantry.
