RESPECT for match officials by both players, management and spectators was one of the main issues on the latest South Devon Football League management committee.

Adam Hopkins, the Devon County Football Association referees' queries and appointments secretary, highlighted the varying roles and requirements of all those involved in matches from the leagues to spectators, through the officials and players.

RESPECT guidance packs would be available to all clubs within a league that signs up to the campaign, with support offered by the county and national associations.

Mr Hopkins fielded a number of questions, including the control of spectators on public playing fields, the registration of players that play in different leagues and the possibility of FA sanctions among them.

It was agreed that the implementation of the RESPECT campaign could be a difficult process at 'grassroots' level and would need to be discussed among all the member clubs.

'A number of individual club and player issues were discussed and resolved, with the agreement that such parties be notified officially before any decisions are made public. However, clubs are reminded that the league is still awaiting responses from a number of clubs regarding the letter sent to all about pitch dimensions and goal safety.

'Registrations secretary and webmaster, Antony Roach, reported 2,527 players were currently registered with the league and over 100 transfers authorised.

Mr Roach also told the meeting the SDFL website (http://www.sdfl.org.uk">www.sdfl.org.uk) was fully operational and well received by the public.

Referees representative, Peter Alsop, was pleased to state the number of referees available had increased recently and others are expressing an interest in officiating at SDFL matches.

With the appointment of John Pearce of Chagford FC as press officer the league hopes to impart more news to the clubs and to also raise the profile of what is recognised to be a League of good standards.'