REFEREES and officials from local amateur football leagues have teamed up give the red card to violence on the pitch.

While factions in professional football have been squabbling about sharing the booty from television, the people who actually pay to play the game have concerned themselves with driving the thugs out of football.

A series of initiatives spearheaded by Preston's Sunday League have been launched to ensure there is a co-ordinated effort to clamp down on the thugs who are ruining the amateur game.

And the stark message to emerge, following a meeting with Preston Referees Society and representatives of various local leagues, is that, players have a right to play football without fear of violence, and referees have the right to officiate without being subjected to abuse or intimidation.

The mission statement agreed at the meeting has the full backing of the Lancashire County FA and includes the following points:

the county FA will inform leagues of any player banned for 42 days of more.

the player will have to appear in person before a league commission when further sanctions may be imposed.

players found guilty of violence or foul and abusive language to officials, can expect to have their registration temporarily suspended or withdrawn.

similar offences by club officials will result in a financial penalty and could in some instances mean expulsion.

referees have been left in no doubt as to their responsibilities by ensuring that all cases of misconduct are reported, clinically and concisely, to the appropriate bodies.

Preston Referees Society spokesman Jack Richardson said: "With all the local football leagues pulling in the same direction and supported by the referees and the county FA the clean up campaign should succeed.

"These measures mean that a player suspended from a Saturday league he will not now be able to play Sunday football as the sanctions will now apply right across the board. There will be no hiding place for them.

"There simply is no room for louts in football as they spoil the enjoyment of the game for everyone and in particular referees.

"Hopefully now players and referees alike can look forward to playing and officiating football matches in a safe environment."

Preston Referees Society's monthly meeting will be held on Tuesday December 11 at St Gregory's Social Centre, Blackpool Road, Deepdale, starting at 7.30pm.