THE Devon and Exeter Football League is clamping down on unacceptable behaviour towards referees.

In a nationwide campaign led by the Football Association's Respect initiative, all clubs in the league have received a letter from secretary Neil Anthony saying they are extremely concerned about the obvious increase of abuse and threats being made to our referees.

The statement continued :"This behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

"The league are aware of several serious incidents which have occurred recently and are in talks with Devon County FA about the best ways to deal with the offending teams.

"The league have the power to deduct points from clubs or suspend them from the league, the league management committee are determined to stamp out this abhorrent behaviour. Clubs who continue to act in this way and bring the good name of the league into disrepute can expect to receive the harshest punishment.

"We ask all club chairmen, secretaries and captains to take a long hard look at their clubs and ensure, that our referees are treated with respect and not have to withstand a constant barrage of abuse or receive threats of violence.

"ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. It has to stop NOW!"

Clubs are being asked to display a poster outlining the problem and have suggested to appoint a matchday ambassador to meet and greet referees and make them feel welcome.

Every week in the Devon and Exeter League there are usually ten games without an officially appointed referee. There are fears that this number will increase if player behaviour towards officials does not improve.