The Toolstation NCEL presented an award of appreciation this week to Ted Ring for his many years of helping to develop match officials within the league.

His tireless work has helped so many referees begin their career with the NCEL and go on to national and international success.

However, due to personal circumstances, Ted has had to step back from his role so the league arranged to present him with a small token of appreciation for all his hard work and efforts.

After the presentation made by ground grading secretary Ian Cox, Ted said: "I am proud, and always, will be, to be associated with what is surely the best competition in England at this level.

"It has been a great pleasure to have worked alongside so many fine people over the last third of a century.

"I could never have wished for such footballing happiness."

All at the NCEL thank Ted for his input over such a long period and are very grateful for his massive part in helping the competition and its match officials.