Donald Bell’s family hold Victoria Cross at Green Howards museum

The medal belonged to Second Lieutenant Donald Simpson Bell and is on display at The Green Howards Museum in Richmond as part of the exhibition Battle Bowlers & Football Boots.

Born in Harrogate on December 3, 1890, Donald played as an amateur for Crystal Palace and Newcastle United before signing professionally for Bradford Park Avenue.

He was the first professional footballer to enlist in the British Army during the First World War, where he was awarded the Victoria Cross.

Donald Simpson Bell, the only professional footballer to be awarded the VC. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Alison Booth, his great-niece, said: “I often think that Uncle Don would be amazed to think his story and zest for life was still being displayed and documented 110 years later.”

His family were given special permission by the National Football Museum to hold his Victoria Cross during the visit.

He is the only professional footballer to be awarded the Victoria Cross. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Zoe Utley, head of collections at The Green Howards Museum, said: “It is always very special to hear from family members of Green Howards and introduce the next generations to family members they have never met.

“Objects have an incredible power to connect people with their ancestors and it is a pleasure to introduce Donald’s family to his story.”

After enlisting in 1915, Mr Bell served with the 9th Battalion, Green Howards (Alexandra, Princess of Wales’ Own Yorkshire Regiment) and was sent to France in November 1915.

He was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions on July 5, 1916, during the Battle of the Somme, for single-handedly attacking and destroying a German machine gun post under heavy fire, saving many lives.

He died five days later performing a similar act of bravery.

He died running bravely into gunfire. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The Green Howards Museum has loaned the medal from the National Football Museum. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The exhibition explores the close relationship between football and military life within the Green Howards regiment.

It also highlights the contributions of women in football, the role of the sport in prisoner of war camps, and the achievements of Middlesbrough’s Wilf Mannion.

Objects on display have been loaned by the National Football Museum and The Players’ Foundations.