William Cotesworth of Gateshead (1668 – 1726) was an English merchant and government official who served as sheriff of Northumberland.
He imported dyes from Southeast Asia, as well as flax, wine, and grain from other regions .
Cotesworth sold tea, sugar, chocolate, and tobacco, operated the largest coal mines in the area, and was a leading salt producer.
Over time, Cotesworth became the English government's principal agent in Northern England, being in contact with leading royal ministers.
[2] [1] He became an esquire, having served as mayor, justice of the peace and sheriff of Northumberland.