A LEGACY fund aimed to encourage and support people in Barnsley who want to take up refereeing has been launched.

Barnsley Referees Association created the fund - which is only available to Barnsley natives - with grants of up to £60 per person available.

It’s hoped it will help potential officials follow in Barnsley alumni such as Darren England, who is now a Premier League referee and is qualified to officiate at international level.

He said: “I am delighted that my local association (Barnsley RA) has created the legacy fund for aspiring referees who have a connection with the area.

“I still remember doing my referee’s course at Barnsley College many years ago.

“When I first started, I never imagined my refereeing journey would have given me so many memories, experiences and life skills.

“There has never been a better time to get into refereeing.

“If the Legacy Fund helps to start people on that journey, then it has fulfilled our aim.”