On Wednesday 17 August 2022, Staffordshire FA were delighted to attend a Uttoxeter & District Sunday League meeting to surprise their long-serving Fixtures & Referees Secretary Alan Parker with an Outstanding Contribution to Grassroots Football Award. 

Alan has been an active referee in the Uttoxeter area since the mid 1970s, and got involved with the Uttoxeter & District Sunday League in 1979 as Fixtures & Referees Secretary – a role that he has carried out diligently ever since, spanning over 40 years’ dedication to grassroots football in the Uttoxeter area. 

Amongst Alan’s many achievements during that time, he has ensured that no game has ever taken place without a qualified referee, and no games have ever been postponed due to a lack of referee, thanks to Alan’s commitment to recruiting and looking after local match officials. 

In addition to his significant league committee roles behind the scenes, Alan has remained an active referee in the league during that time and cycles to most of the games he officiates, covering a considerable number of miles in the process! 

Well-respected by club officials and players alike, Alan has been the backbone of the Uttoxeter & District Sunday League for over four decades now, carrying out his many roles diligently for the benefit of so many players and referees in the Uttoxeter area. Always happy to remain behind the scenes and avoid the limelight, Alan thoroughly deserves this recognition for all that he has done for grassroots football in and around Uttoxeter for over 40 years. Thank you Alan! 

Photo: Pictured above is the Staffordshire FA President David Ramsbottom, presenting Alan with his award.