Christopher Silcock Watson joined the 4th Hussars from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1951 on the regiment’s return from Malaya.
As a troop leader based in Bhurtpore Barracks, Tidworth, he was involved in converting the Regiment from armoured car operations in the Far East to soldiering in Europe with Centurion tanks.
Proximity to London contributed to a busy social life, with occasional overnight accommodation provided by the Jermyn Street baths.
In 1954 he married Valerie (Val) Pratt. However marrying at that young age was not then popular with the Army, and he was posted to the 68th Training Regiment at Catterick, where their hospitality to 4th Hussar potential officers training in the 68th and in the “Skins” next door was greatly appreciated, encouraging at least one previously uncommitted P.O to join the Regiment.
On leaving the Army in 1957 Christopher worked in insurance and commerce before chairing the Hampshire District Council.
He played golf regularly at Swinley Forest and was a talented artist whose Christmas cards provided an annual example of his work. His marriage to Val ended, and he remarried Anne (nee Shuttleworth). He is survived by a daughter, son and three grandchildren.
