THE Altrincham and District FA have 27 newly qualified football referees following completion of a course at Sale United FC.

After attending the three-day course in November and passing an exam on the Laws of the Game, the trainee referees have been refereeing in the Timperley & District Junior Football League under the watchful eye of mentors.

Having successfully completed a number of matches, they have now been signed off as FA Qualified Referees who can referee matches across the district.

Stuart Kay, lead tutor, said: “We have an established successful programme for tutoring new referees in the Altrincham District and for supporting their continued development in the years following qualification.

"It’s great for local football, and for the individuals themselves who get a lot of enjoyment and personal development from refereeing”.

Stephen Brown, who is responsible for mentor appointments, added:“The candidates learn a lot on the course, but we’re fortunate in this area to have so many experienced referees willing to give their time to help mentor the new ones.

"The coaching we can offer in real-life situations is invaluable to the development of referees”.

Referees Development Officer, Anthony Taylor, who himself completed the course here 20 years ago, is now a Premier League and FIFA referee.

Anyone interested in attending a future course can find more information at www.altyreferees.co.uk or contact Stuart Kay at s.b.kay7777@btopenworld.com