David Watts, who died on 16 September 1990, joined the 3rd Hussars at Sarafand in Palestine in 1946, having recovered from being severely wounded while serving with the 1st Royal Tank Regiment in Normandy.
He was one of those men of whom it is true to say that he was devoted to his Regiment.
Although he carried out two appointments on the staff with competence and flair, he was first and foremost a Regimental soldier with the 3rd Hussars, The Queen’s Own Hussars and very happy and successful as Training Major with the Warwickshire and Worcestershire Yeomanry.
He had extensive knowledge of and great affection for all aspects of history and tradition including the silver and pictures.
His leaving present of a painting of the Drum Horse and silver drums typified his generosity and his love of ceremony and panache. He was also a fervent and practised upholder of another long-standing and continuing tradition: the ability to lay on and enjoy a good party.
He rode with spirit and some success in Hunter Trials and Show Jumping and enjoyed his hunting when stationed in England, but his chief love was racing.
He rode some good winners in Germany and when he retired, was a steward at West Country National Hunt meetings.
He edited the Journal with wit and imagination and as Adjutant and Squadron Leader showed enthusiasm, cheerfulness and leadership. He was an excellent PMC.
After retiring, he lived in Rutland and worked in the brewing industry for a short time before going back to Devonshire where his family have lived for many years. Here he took a full part in local affairs and was a County Councillor. His final illness was unexpected but mercifully short.
Those who served with him will remember him as an amusing and light-hearted companion and a true nephew who followed him into The Queen’s Own Hussars supporter of his Regiment. It gave him great pleasure that and to him and David’s family and friends we offer our deepest sympathy.
