Watkins had an international reputation as one of the world's best all-round trumpet players, working with the likes of Johnny Dankworth, Maynard Ferguson, Benny Goodman, Frank Sinatra and the James Last Orchestra during his lengthy career.
He also played with The Beatles, Elton John and Eric Clapton, and recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
Born into a brass band family in Reading, Berkshire on 2 March 1945, Watkins was also known for his mastery of the flugelhorn. He was taught to play the cornet by his father when he was aged four and turned professional at 17.
The musician died on Friday at his home in Claygate, Surrey, following a lengthy illness and is survived by his wife Wendy and their three children.
