With the retention of match officials an on-going challenge, two of their Level 4 referees have been answering questions from potential recruits at The Lanes Shopping Centre.

At the time of the road show there was a potential shortage of around 80 referees for the new season, and Cumberland FA officials have warned that it could result in local league fixtures being disrupted by matches having to be switched to midweek when the remaining referees would again be available to take charge of more games.

CFA referee instructor Scott Taylor is in little doubt of the reason for the shortfall in people wanting to be officials: “Foul and abusive language is a national problem and is putting people off,” he says.

“We are not getting enough people through to have three officials in a match. Club officials are having to step in and help out, but we really need neutral officials.

“It is a big issue for the Cumberland FA. We are a big county and we need to get extra officials to cover all the games. We are not yet in the position of having to call off games, but we may have to play more matches in midweek.”

Two leagues in the county have already come out in firm favour of The FA’s campaign to curb foul language and abuse of referees.

The Carlisle City Sunday League adopted a tougher stance last season and at the same time introduced incentives to reward good behaviour. Geoff Turrell, Cumberland FA’s secretary, says that the scheme is working well. “It is an initiative I heard about at one of The FA’s referee seminars when they told us about the ‘P’ scheme, and suggested to our referees’ committee that it could be adopted in our own county.

“Basically it is a scheme which rewards clubs with good disciplinary records by ensuring that they are given priority in the appointment of match officials to their games. Feedback indicates that the Carlisle City Sunday League’s trial has been worthwhile, and is beginning to bear fruit.”

Carlisle Glass Youth League is adopting a similar stance in an attempt to eradicate bad language and behaviour – but a spokesman is adamant where the bad influence comes from. “The problem is that these kids see players behaving badly on television and feel it is alright for them to do the same,” he says.

“Our league’s role is to provide the opportunities for players, club officials, spectators and referees to enjoy a game of football.”

Ian Blanchard, Head of National Referees’ Development, says that Cumberland FA is to be applauded in following the initiative of the ‘P’ scheme. “In simplistic terms, the ‘Priority’ scheme ensures teams with a positive approach towards the game, with a record of good conduct, are at the top of the list when it comes to allocating referees.

“In this day and age, leagues, clubs and all those connected with the game need to ensure that players respond positively towards our referees.”