 The Siege of Ladysmith lasted until 28 February 1900, when the town was relieved by forces under Redvers Buller.During the six weeks previous to the relief, 200 deaths had occurred from disease alone, and altogether as many as 8424 were reported to have passed through the hospitals.The relief of Ladysmith soon led to the evacuation of Natal by the Boer forces, who trekked northwards.