The Ashford Referees’ Association recognised the efforts of some senior members at the branch’s annual dinner held at Sandyacres Sports and Social Centre.

Martin Yerby was awarded the Bill Manklow Shield for his outstanding performances over the last 12 months.

John Roffey was the winner of the Tom Wells award for his service as branch chairman for 25 years as well as completing 40 years of refereeing in Kent.

President of the Kent Referees’ Association, John Fenning, presented 15-year service awards to John Newell and Dave McAnnally.

The Ashford branch continues to grow. Ten referees have recently qualified to give Ashford a 100 per cent coverage in both the Saturday and Sunday Ashford leagues and increased cover in the Molten East Kent Youth League.

The 10 new referees are Ben Moyle, Joe Cridland, Gary Kirton, Tom Chambers, Ben Holt, Ray Adams, Darren Whipps, Neil Fisher, Chris Monkhouse and Connor Natelia.