William Lakin played half-a-dozen times in Exeter City’s first season in the Football League. He joined the club from Barnsley and later played for Doncaster Rovers.

After playing in Sheffield junior football for Woodhouse, William joined Barnsley in 1919 where he appeared in five league matches. He also played in an FA Cup giant-killing in January 1920 when Barnsley beat West Bromwich Albion 1-0.

Moving to Exeter City later that year, William made half-a-dozen league appearances during the Grecians’ first season in the Football League starting with the game at Newport County on 2 October 1920. Not appearing beyond the end of January 1921, he spent just one season at St James’ Park and moved back to Yorkshire to join Doncaster Rovers later in 1921.

It is believed William was killed in an explosion at Barnsley Main Colliery on 16 February 1942.