The Derek Bell Hall of Fame

"Who should the Players Hall Of Fame on the Supporters Club Website be named after?" This question put to the Gateshead Supporters and saw several options, but one name was raised more than anyone else. That person was Derek Bell.

Derek Bell made 321 appearances for Gateshead in three spells for the Tynesiders. His number appearances put him third in the Gateshead appearance table after Simon Smith and Paul Proudlock. Derek Bell also recorded 46 goals for the club.

Derek Bell was born in Newcastle on December 19th 1963 and after four years as a pro with Newcastle United between 1980-84 playing alongside players like Kevin Keegan and Chris Waddle an injury ended his professional career and he joined Gateshead in 1985. Derek made his debut for The Tynesiders on February 9th 1985 in an away tie at Enfield. In his first full season (85/86) Derek picked up the "Gateshead Player of the Year" award and then again in the 1989/90 and 90/91 season.

With Gateshead Derek was a Northern Premier League Winner in the 1985/86 season, NPL Runners-Up in 1989/90 along with NPL League Cup Finalists the same season. Derek also represented the F.A. XI and the N.P.L XI.

Derek Bell returned to Gateshead as manager in October 2002 and then pushed the club forward becoming Director of Football and then Chairman when Mike Coulson stepped down. In the summer of 2004 Derek Bell held several meetings and made many pleas to keep Gateshead Football Club alive. With thanks from all the supporters Derek succeeded and has fully deserved this dedication.

Click Here to enter the Derek Bell Hall Of Fame.