The FA’s drive to get more referees involved in the game continues across the country, with local County FAs striving to oversee the flourishing of the sport.
With plenty of interest in the game, particularly in women’s and children’s football, but a lack of qualified officials in many areas, The FA has set a target of recruiting thousands of referees a year.
With estimates that in certain regions, around 20 per cent of games are played without a qualified match official in charge, more referees are needed.
That's certainly the view of the Wiltshire County Football Association, who are urging those interested in the game to train to become match officials which could lead to refereeing at professional level.
Wiltshire already boasts a trio of referees who have risen rapidly through the ranks and now regularly officiate at the highest levels of the game.
Two of them - Roger East and Brendan Malone - hail from Salisbury and have been involved in Cup Finals at Wembley and the Millennium Stadium.
Wilton-based East was on the line in Cardiff for The FA Cup Final between Manchester United and Millwall in 2004, and The Community Shield in 2006 when Chelsea met Liverpool.
As well as being involved in Premier League matches, he has also seen international duty all over the world whilst Salisbury postman Malone, was in action at Wembley last season in the final of the Johnstone Paints Trophy final between MK Dons and Grimsby Town.
Both officials started their careers in charge of Salisbury and District League matches and it is hoped more will be inspired to follow in their footsteps.
Major steps have been taken to ensure expert training and guidance is available for those wishing to get involved, across the country.
Paul Collyer, a Level Four referee, has recently been appointed by the Wiltshire FA as its referee development officer and is charged with the task of increasing the amount of new officials in the area.
"The numbers of local league referees is critical to the continuing growth of grass roots football," said Collyer.
"The FA has set a target of recruiting an extra 8,000 new referees over the next four years and have funded the development post in each County Association.
"Obviously, only a few can reach the pinnacle of Old Trafford or Wembley, but the referee of a match at any local playing field is every bit as important and will get just as much enjoyment and satisfaction.
"Refereeing is a great way to be involved in the game you love and to help stay fit and active. And don't forget that most matches earn a fee and travelling expenses.
"Women's football is a huge growth sport and so there are great opportunities for female referees to progress and officiate in either code.
"My role within the county FA is to help it meet its target of recruiting and retaining referees."
If you have any questions related to refereeing, please do not hesitate to contact us by emailing famoa@thefa.com or by calling 0207 745 4651.
If you'd like to become a referee register your interest by clicking here and a local County FA Referee Development Officer will contact you.