Colonel Watson is in charge of the 5th Regiment of Foot of the British Army. He owns several country houses, including Birkenbridge, where he, along with several of his soldiers, temporarily reside. The estate includes a dog and a garden, which the Colonel personally tends. The Colonel grew up not far from Darlington and is acquainted with several of its residents. The Colonel also has a collection of miniature soldiers which he uses for 'strategic purposes'.