Outstanding Contribution For Two Uttoxeter League Officials 

Two stalwarts from the Uttoxeter & District Sunday League have been recognised for over 90 years combined service to grassroots football in the local area. 

Staffordshire FA President, David Ramsbottom, was on hand to surprise the long-serving league officials with their respective awards at the August meeting of the Uttoxeter & District Sunday League. 

Referee and league committee member, Howard Bird, is approaching 50 years as a match official. Howard began his refereeing journey in the Staffordshire County Senior League, and later joined the Uttoxeter & District Sunday League, officiating on a Saturday & Sunday for many years. Howard now focuses his refereeing efforts on a Sunday, whilst also taking on an active role on the Uttoxeter & District Sunday Football League Committee.

Respected by players, team officials, and fellow match officials across both leagues he has represented, Staffordshire FA were delighted to recognise Howard for his incredible service to the game in Staffordshire. 

Uttoxeter & District Sunday League Chairman, Bill Bratt, is also the driving force behind Stone Town Football Club, the league’s longest-serving club having been formed 42 years ago. During that time Bill has represented Stone Town FC as a player, manager, secretary, groundsman, and many other roles. Bill also served as Chairman of Port Vale Football Club for nearly a decade, whilst continuing his grassroots football commitments at Stone Town FC during that time.

In his role as league chairman, Bill supports his fellow league committee members, sharing his vast knowledge, experience, and dedication for local Sunday football. 

Many congratulations to Howard and Bill for this well-deserved recognition, and sincere thanks from Staffordshire FA and the grassroots football community for the many decades of hard work, dedication, and commitment to local grassroots football.