From the Whitehaven News’ November 1941

ST. BEES PADRE

Death while serving with Border Regiment

Capt. The Rev. Harold Watson, second son of Mr. and Mrs. Dacre Watson of Rosebank, St. Bees, died on Wednesday while serving with a battalion of the Border Regiment in the south of England. Aged 33, he was a gifted preacher and was extremely popular with all ranks.An old scholar of the Whitehaven County Secondary School, Captain Watson for some time assisted his father at Cleator Forge before taking holy orders. On entering the ministry he was appointed a curate at Clayton-le Moors, Lancashire. At one time he held a commission in the Territorial Army, and on the outbreak of war he rejoined his regiment as padre and was very popular with all ranks. He leaves a widow and one child.

A short while ago Captain Watson’s younger brother, Second Officer N. Watson, was awarded the George Medal for gallantry at sea.

THE FUNERAL

The funeral took place at St. Bees Priory Church on Saturday before a very large congregation of mourners and friends. The service was conducted by the vicar, the Rev. E. A. Sampson.

Covered with the Union Jack, the coffin lay in the Priory Church overnight, and was borne to the graveside by members of St. Bees Home Guard. A number of brother officers were present. Among the many beautiful wreaths were tributes from the Signal Platoon, Batt. H.Q and the Intelligence Section, Brother Officers, Brig-Gen. Evanson and all ranks at H.Q., Border Regt. Sergeants, Officers, W.Os., N.C.O.s and Men of another Border Batt., Nursing Staff, Officers’ Ward, “In Memory of a Real Pal” from Officers, N.C.O.s and Men of “A” Company, Commanding Officer and All Ranks, Borders, all Members of Sandwith Church, Lt. Col. T.W. MacDonald, late of the Borders and Captain T. Germaine.