Kent referee John Roffey's outstanding contribution was recognised by a presentation from the FA during an evening organised to mark his four decades as a ‘Man in Black’

The evening was hosted by the Ashford and Weald branch of the Kent Referees’ Association - of which Roffey is chairman - and attended by around 60 guests including representatives from the FA, county FA and a host of leagues.

Roffey, 63, is due to quit refereeing next month after 40 years in the middle. He is re-marrying and plans to move to Dorset having clocked up more than 2,800 games.

Roffey received a certificate from the FA and a wine decanter and glasses from his own branch whose training and retention officer Geoff Stanborough said he had been great ambassador for referees in Kent.

Mr Stanborough added: "John has been our branch chairman for 28 years during which time we have gone from strength to strength. Not many people stay active as a referee for 40 years. He will be sadly missed."