Britain’s oldest ref will keep dishing out red cards – even if he needs a moped

On Feb 7, 2023

Britain’s oldest referee Frank Foster will still brandish a red card when necessary – even if it’s for his great-grandson, seven-year-old Joshua.

Frank, 89, started refereeing in 1980 and still officiates men’s, women’s and children’s games three times a week for the Sheffield and Hallamshire FA, South Yorks.

The Sheffield United fan – who had to stop playing in the 1950s, left, due to injury – said: “I love it. Whether it’s girls’, women’s, boys’ or men’s football, I’m the same.

“I don’t even think about my age and I’ll be a referee until I can’t keep up with them. I might eventually need a moped at half time, but I’ll always keep doing it.”

Foster still officiates three times a week having passed his refereeing exam with an impressive score of 98% at the start of his career.

Having been forced to quit playing after a knee injury in the 1950s, Foster kept his love for the game going by picking up a whistle.

What do you want to be doing at 89? Tell us in the comments section below.

Frank Foster called time on his playing days back in the 1950s
(Image: Courtesy Frank Foster / SWNS)

Frank Foster, 89, here with his great grandson Joshua
(Image: SWNS)

The veteran has joked that he recently confirmed to a player that he was 67 when asked abut his age – and stands firm on diving and dissent during fixtures.

Foster works for the Sheffield and Hallamshire FA, having earned a living in garage and car sales in his younger days.

Frank is cheered on by sons Neil and Keith as well as daughters Gillian and Julie and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, having continued referring following the passing of wife Margaret.

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