A FOOTBALL league has averted a crisis over a shortage of referees thanks to Kent Online's sister newspaper the Gravesend Messenger.

In June, the Gravesend Saturday League had just 13 registered referees to officiate in three divisions of 15 teams. League referees’ secretary Barry Fissenden cited constant abuse from clubs and players as the reason why so many had turned their backs on the game.

Now, after issuing an SOS through the Messenger, the number has jumped to 34 -- a month ahead of the new season.

“We are extremely grateful to the Gravesend Messenger for giving us publicity and highlighting the problem,” said Mr Fissenden.

“We’ve been delighted with the response from local referees who have come to our aid. I said at the time there was no point in mincing words about the problem and made an honest appeal.

“Among those who came forward were two referees from the now defunct Dartford League. They are both young lads who will be given every encouragement to develop in the Gravesend League.”

But Mr Fissenden cautioned against over optimism as numbers increased.

He explained: “I have done the fixtures for September and as it stands we will still be 10 referees short every week, though it could have been a lot worse.

“There is still time left for referees to register with the Gravesend League and it goes without saying that we shall welcome them with open arms.”

Kent County FA Referees’ Officer John Newson added: “I’m pleased the Gravesend League have had such a positive response to the appeal.

“I know for a fact that a good deal of those referees who have come back were driven away in the first place because of abuse.

“Now, the onus falls on the clubs and the players to behave themselves. Make no mistake, those clubs and players in the Gravesend League have been given a second chance -- there will not be a third one.”

Any qualified referee who can help the Gravesend League should contact Mr Fissenden on 01474 746082 or 07876 535392.