Watts Stelling has lived his entire life in Leadgate’s Bradley Cottages. From childhood, football was his passion, excelling as a striker at school and scoring 67 goals in 44 games at Leadgate Primary.
A tireless player, he often competed in three matches each weekend. His talent earned him a professional contract with Derby County at 15 under Brian Clough, but a serious thigh injury ended his top-level aspirations. Undeterred, Watts returned to grassroots football, enjoying five standout seasons with Consett AFC and earning Player of the Year in 1980.
After retiring at 41, Watts continued supporting grassroots sport and turned to public service. Elected as an Independent councillor in 1999, he joined Durham County Council in 2001. Following the 2009 reorganisation, he held key committee roles and eventually led the Independent Group. He also served as a school governor at multiple schools, including his own former primary. In 2021, he was elected Chairman of Durham County Council, serving until 2025 before becoming an Alderman.
Alongside public service, Watts built a career as a metallurgist at Consett Iron Company, later becoming a senior analyst, and later worked in academia at Newcastle University. In 2003, his family was named “Family of the Year.” Married to Yvonne since 1975, her battle with breast cancer and death in 2017 deeply affected the family.
Today, Watts cherishes time with his children and grandchildren, embodying a life of dedication to family, football, science, and community.
By George Ledger – Consett in Focus
