Mike Watts died on 17 August 2007 at his home in Sedgeford, North Norfolk. Educated at Colfe's Grammar School, Lewisham, he entered Guy's Hospital Dental School in 1954. Qualifying in 1960, he became a house surgeon at St Thomas Hospital. While a student he played rugby for Sidcup.

Mike then married Crystal and moved to Bury St Edmunds, joining a large old established practice. They adopted two children, Joanna and Tim.

He became very involved in sport, playing golf, squash and particularly cricket, where he became very involved in the local club and also played for the Gents of Suffolk.

He was also very keen on motor sport, and at one time jointly held the record for 24 hours in a standard production car, which took place at Snetterton. This was eventually beaten by the great Roy Salvadori.

After his first marriage ended, Mike married Jill and worked in Saudi Arabia for three years.

On his return he eventually settled in Hunstanton and became a very enthusiastic and active member of the famous local golf club.

Sadly Jill died young, and Mike returned to work part-time in Bury St Edmunds for Suffolk PCT. This maintained his devotion to the principles of the NHS, where the patient always came first. He continued to work for Suffolk PCT until a month before he died, almost literally dying in harness.

Meeting Mike was always an unforgettable and often an exciting experience. This was testified to by the large congregation at his funeral. He leaves a son and daughter and two grandchildren.