During the Second Boer War he took part in the relief of Ladysmith, later being given command of the 4th Infantry Brigade of the Natal Field Force.

[1] Charles Norcott purchased his commission as an Ensign to the Rifle Brigade on 14 August 1867[2] and was promoted to lieutenant on 1 November 1871,[3] acting as an Adjutant between 14 June 1873[4] to 11 September 1875.

[7] From 29 November 1884 he served as an Aide-de-camp to Major General Dillon, a divisional commander of the Bengal Army.

Charles' father William Norcott was also a general in the Rifles who served during the Crimean War.

[17] He also had an uncle named Charles Rossmore Robert Norcott who gained renown for his service as a superintendent of the Western Australia Police.