A big recruitment drive has been launched in Bradford to bolster the ranks of the much-maligned refereeing frater-nity.

Urgent action is needed because of the large drop-out rate experienced in the area.

The Bradford & District FA has organised free sessions at Bradford University to address the situation. The first is at the Richmond Building, starting at 6.30pm. Those aged 14 and over are invited to attend.

Officials hope that people will at least take the first of the two-part course - four Monday evenings - which will give would-be refs basic knowledge of the soccer laws.

"This course is aimed not only at future referees but at people who are connected to junior teams and who might stand in at matches when referees are not available," said Bradford & District FA secretary, Albert Dent.

"Nationally, 33,000 more referees are needed - and that figure is reflected locally. Home team managers often have to referee games.

"There is a very large drop-out rate. Some people can't take the abuse from the touchline or from some of the players who don't respect them," said Mr Dent. "But if they can survive the first year, then they can handle. it. Refereeing is character-building."