The FA estimates that in some areas of the country, 20 per cent of games are played without a qualified match official.
The FA's goal is to recruit 10,000 referees a year to ensure that, in future, every game has a qualified official who is receiving regular training and support from an FA mentor programme and helpline.
The first stage involved in becoming a referee is to attend a Basic Referees Training Course, and the second stage is to register with your local County FA.
Please contact Jennifer Milburn on 01900 872310 ext. 20, or e-mail Jennifer.Milburn@CumberlandFA.com for further details on Basic Referee Training Courses.