I WRITE regarding the article about Jessica Renwick and the other girl referees (May 27).

I have witnessed at first-hand the abuse these girls, particularly Jessica, have had to endure.

My daughter plays for Radcliffe Girls and has been refereed by Jessica on a number of occasions this season. At the end of one particular game, I saw Jessica having a discussion with the manager of the opposing team.

He was not happy with one of her decisions - his team, incidentally, had won 7-0. This man was being quite aggressive and abusive.

I led Jessica away from him, telling her that she did not need to endure such abuse and should report him to the Lancashire League and the FA.

My daughter (aged nine) said what a bully he was and he should not be doing that in front of his team and young children. He was setting a bad example.

I was so incensed at what I had witnessed I wanted to write to the FA myself. Now, after reading Jessicas story, I wish I had done.

I find it incredible that these young girls, and other referees, should be treated so badly. They are doing something they enjoy and are not being supported. We have all disagreed with refereeing decisions but these are children who are playing for enjoyment.

I hope Jessica is able to continue refereeing. Managers and parents should remember that it is only a game.

SOCCER MUM