IN THE next couple of weeks referees throughout the country will hang up their boots having reached the mandatory retirement age. As the circle is continually squared they will be replaced next term by the next batch of newly promoted officials.

There are of course arguments as to whether compulsory retirement is legally binding or practically sensible. What is certain is that the new intake has hard acts to follow.

I personally know several guys finishing this time whose enthusiasm, commitment, professionalism and ability is exemplary.

Their replacements will need to be readily available even at short notice. They will have to be impeccable in their administration.

They must have the drive and grit to don the running shoes on cold dark nights after long hard days at work. And of course their standards both on and off the field must be ever improving.

In the vast majority of cases, these guys will take to the new challenge like ducks to water. There will be pitfalls en route and some will adapt better than others.

What is crucial however, is that we have another, equally talented band of referees waiting in the wings in another 10 or 15 years.

This is why we need you now. Refereeing need no longer be viewed as a hobby -- it is a career in its own right. If you're young enough, resilient enough, and above all committed enough, the Premier League is a realistic target.

More importantly you'll join a select body where you'll encounter unparalleled camaraderie and where you'll be an integral part of God's greatest game.

Interested even slightly? Ring Lancashire FA on 01772 624000 for details of your local referees society.

Do it today -- if you leave it until tomorrow you won't do it.

And remember -- today an under nines five-a-side, tomorrow Old Trafford!