Captain E M Watts, Northumberland Fusiliers 1898-1925

Obituary taken from the St Georges Gazette 30th April 1948

The death took place of Captain Ernest Miller Watts of "Granville", Highfield Road, Westerhope, Newcastle upon Tyne, on March 25th, 1948, aged 66 years. He left a widow, two sons and two daughters to whom we extend our deepest sympathy.

He was the son of the late Sgt. (Squash) Watts and was born in The Regiment in 1881.

Joined the Fifth in 1898 and saw Active Service throughout the Boer War, 1899 - 1902.

After a period of home service, proceeded to the West African Field Force for a period of four years.

On completion of his Colonial Service joined 2nd Battalion at Pontefract and proceeded with the battalion to India in September 1913, returning later to the U.K. on the Battalion being ordered home to re-equip prior to moving to France in 1915.

Was wounded and mentioned in despatches in the 1914 - 18 War.

On cessation of hostilities he was attached to Oi/c (R.N.F.) Records, York, and remained attached until his retirement in 1925.

Employed with Newcastle-on-Tyne Town Clerk's department from 1927 until his retirement in 1946.

Served with "A" Coy. (Westerhope) Northumbrian Area Home Guard from its formation until its disbandment.

Ernie as he was known by his most intimate friends was the eldest of three Watts brothers (Tom and Ben) who joined the Fifth from the cradle. A soldier of first class ability, was good company at all times, and a Fusilier to the end