Len Smelt first played for Burnley on 8th March 1919. He played on numerous occasions and was a member of the championship side which established the League record run of thirty matches without defeat in 1920-21. On 17th November 1923 he recorded his century including 81 League games, three English Cup-ties, three Lancashire Cup-ties, seven East Lancashire Charity Cup-ties and six 'friendlies'. At the end of the 1925-26 season he was given a free transfer and went to Barrow.
He resumed his connection with Burnley in August 1932 when he was appointed assistant trainer. Sadly, he died aged 49 after being taken ill with influenza in February 1933.