The FA's Respect programme aimed at stopping bad behaviour on the touchlines of Nottingham football pitches, has proved so successful that more people are opting to become referees.
The 'Respect line' - a tape barrier keeping spectators away from the pitch - aims to cut the abuse suffered by amateur referees and young players.
The scheme applies to clubs using council land. Those who do not comply will be stopped from using pitches.
Councillor Mick Newton said some spectators need reminding to keep cool. “It can become very heated, even at this level, we need to remind people, these are young players and there are other people using the parks."
Referee Martyn Fryer agreed the bad behaviour on touchlines which spilled onto pitches was difficult to deal with.
He said: "I think it will help stop referees feeling pressured when parents come onto the pitch and surround you."
In Nottingham the number of referees running local matches has increased since the scheme was introduced.
For more about The FA’s Respect programme locally please contact Trevor Powell: Telephone 0115 983 7400 or email trevor.powell@nottinghamshirefa.com
To find out more about opportunities to take up refereeing, please contact David Coote: Telephone 0115 983 7400 or email david.coote@nottinghamshirefa.com