Referee Martin Yerby is to be honoured with a special award for a unique treble last season at Saturday’s Kent County Football Association annual meeting.

The Ashford official was appointed as assistant referee for the FA Community Shield, Carling Cup and FA Cup finals.

Mr Yerby, who has just turned 46, progressed from the Ashford and District League through the Kent County, Kent and Southern Leagues.

With Steve Bennett, another Kent referee, taking charge of the 2007 FA Cup final, the county’s stock is soaring in terms of prestige appointments.

John Newson, the KCFA’s first full-time Referees’ Development Officer, described Mr Yerby’s accolade as well deserved.

He said: “These are terrific times for all Kent referees. Both Steve Bennett and Martin Yerby have proved what can be achieved through hard work.

“When you remember that Ian Gosling from Sittingbourne ran the line at the 2007 FA Trophy final it shows that Kent referees are scooping a lot of pots.”