TONY TRUMAN, from Ampney Crucis, has received a Life Membership Award from the Referees Association.

Tony is branch president of the Cirencester Referees Association and well known in local football circles.

This award is given to very few members of the RA. They must first have completed 20 years service of a branch or county association to earn a Long and Meritorious Service award.

Tony joined the branch in May, 1967 and he has undertaken a qualifying role in the RA for all but four years since 1969, giving a total of 41 years to the sport.

Tony was one of just eight recipients across the country in 2014 and received his award from former Premier League referee David Elleray.

Gloucestershire had a second recipient, Mike Todd of the Stroud RA, but he was not well enough to travel to receive his award in person.