The Football Association estimates that in some areas of the country, 20 per cent of games are played without a qualified match official. Their goal is to recruit 10,000 referees a year to ensure that, in future, every game has a qualified official who is receiving regular training and support from an FA mentor programme and helpline.
The first stage involved in becoming a referee is to register with your local County Football Association and the second stage is to attend a basic Referees Course.
For further information contact:
Chris Checketts, Referee Development Officer
Tel: 01582 567724
E-mail: chris.checketts@bedfordshirefa.com