It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Willie Watson at 1.30am on April 24, 2025 at his home in South Africa.

He was born March 7, 2025 and first played for the County in 1939, his career lasting until 1957. He then moved as Assistant Secretary and Player to Leicestershire where he finished his career. He also represented England and perhaps his most famous knock was when he and Trevor Bailey held the great Australian side at bay in excess of 5 hours to draw the Lord’s Test Match in 1953. He was a multi-talented sportsman and one of the last dual internationals representing England at football. At club level, he played with Huddersfield Town and Sunderland before going on to manage Bradford City and Halifax Town.

Willie suffered circulation problems last year and postrate cancer, which having spread to the rest of his body, resulted in his death.

He was acknowledged as a very talented sportsman but as a person he demanded and received the utmost respect. Our sympathy goes to his wife and family.