The Football Association have promoted a number of referees nationally to Level 3 (Contributory League Referee) and there were 4 Derbyshire officials promoted.

The County would like to pass on congratulations to the following:

Martin Beard

Gareth Davis

James King

Jamie O’Connor

All four officials have been part of the FA CORE Programme for the 2016/17 season.

"Congratulations to all four referees on their promotion, a promotion which is both a wonderful achievement and an important milestone in their respective refereeing careers. It should be noted that all four referees have made lifestyle and personal sacrifices to achieve the success they have today. Additionally, their on-going determination to be the best they can be on each and every game has allowed them all to excel throughout the season and I am delighted that their efforts have been recognised by the National FA." Rob Shoebridge (FA CORE Centre Leader – Midlands)

Dawn Heron, DCFA Chief Executive, commented "This is excellent news not only for Martin, Gareth, James & Jamie but also the excellent work being carried out by the Derbyshire Referee Development Team who has helped in guiding them through and into the Referee’s FA Core Programme to ensure that support and training is provided.  All are a credit to the County FA and I’m sure they will all continue to work hard to ensure that they reach the highest levels they can. Congratulations."