Civic honour for ‘Monopoly man’

A YORKSHIRE businessman, who played a major role in developing the famous board game Monopoly, has received a top civic honour.

Victor Watson, who has served the city of Leeds for more than half a century, was presented with a ‘Leeds Award’ by the Lord Mayor Coun Thomas Murray at a special ceremony held in the civic hall.

A former 2nd Lieutenant in the Royal Engineers after World War II, Mr Watson joined Leeds-based company John Waddington in 1951, and was made chairman in 1977 until his retirement in 1993.

During his time at John Waddington, he played a major role in helping to develop the Monopoly game that the company made, which has subsequently become a firm favourite right around the world.

He also fought off two hostile takeover bids from disgraced tycoon Robert Maxwell.

Outside of his work at John Waddington, Mr Watson has also held a wide range of other posts in the city, including president and chairman of the Leeds Chamber of Commerce, director of Yorkshire Television and director of Leeds Holbeck Society.

A great supporter of education, charities and voluntary organisations in Leeds over many years, the 85-year-old is still chairman of governors at Gateways School after 25 years of service, a trustee of Martin House Hospice and a former president at the Northern division of Mencap.

The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Coun Thomas Murray, said: “Victor has made an enormous contribution to the city over many, many years, and it is fitting that his work has been recognised with a Leeds award.

“His enthusiasm and dedication is absolutely fantastic, and his efforts will leave a lasting impact not just in business, but a host of education, charity, voluntary and cultural organisations which he has actively supported in Leeds.”

To congratulate Mr Watson on his award, please feel free to use the comment section below.

TheBusinessDesk.com would also be interested to hear which other Yorkshire businessmen you feel deserve civic honours.