Clifford Bertie Watts holds a special place in the history of the Stewartby Water Sports Club as a founding member and a true pioneer of our Powerboat section. A quiet, unassuming man who achieved a great deal without making a fuss, Cliff was instrumental in negotiating with the local council to take over a huge, redundant clay pit and transform it into the amazing lake our community enjoys today. When the club was first formed at a meeting at the Bunyan School on September 16, 1971, he was one of just seven enthusiasts who stepped forward to establish a committee dedicated to powerboat racing. Helping to get the club off the ground he was proudly appointed as the section's very first Vice Commodore.
For his incredible achievements in establishing the watersports club, Cliff was honoured with the main Royal Yachting Association award by the Princess Royal.
Living to the remarkable age of 102, Cliff’s legacy is defined by his decades of unwavering commitment and his strong work ethic. He dedicated his free time to serving the interests of our members and supporting the club in any way he could, volunteering well into his 90s. His modesty was such that when he was given the honorary title of Club President succeeding a line of Lords and Admirals he kept it so quiet that his own family only discovered it on a clubhouse plaque during his 100th birthday celebrations.
Serving as the club president from 2017, his broad impact on the club is further commemorated by a cup named in his honour within the sailing section. Cliff is remembered as an incredible supporter whose lifelong dedication built the foundation of our club. His contributions can never be repaid, and he will be forever remembered in the hearts of our members, his devoted daughter Josie, and all his family and friends
Clifford Bertie Watts 1923 - 2026
