LONGSTANDING official Stuart Evans has been granted life membership of the York and District Rugby League Referees’ Society as a reward for 36 years’ service.

The 64-year-old, from Acomb, took up the whistle after playing for the old Three Tuns, Tramways and INL teams in the Interworks competition.

He went on to run the line at top-flight rugby league matches, tour games and academy internationals and was the man in the middle for top-ranking ‘A’ team matches, as well as York area games and pre-season York RL friendlies.

Additionally, Evans has served on refereeing society committees and has worked in referee recruitment and development, running regional and national rugby league camps and setting up induction courses.

He remains heavily involved in the referees’ society, saying: “I’m still doing it and still enjoying it.”