Welcome to the Durham County Referees’ Association (DCRA) — the beating heart of grassroots and elite refereeing across County Durham since 1921.
Proudly supporting five local referee societies, DCRA connects, mentors and champions referees of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re taking charge of your first Sunday league match or walking out at a packed Premier League stadium, you’re part of the same proud refereeing family.
A Century of Refereeing Excellence
Founded on 20th October 1921 at the Criterion Hotel in Durham, the Association began with a clear mission: to support referees, raise standards, and strengthen the game for everyone.
Today, that mission is stronger than ever. DCRA works hand-in-hand with the National Referees’ Association and the Durham County FA to ensure that referees at every level have the knowledge, training, welfare support, and community they deserve.
Our members range from new grassroots referees taking their first whistle, to some of England’s top match officials who proudly credit the DCRA with helping them reach the very highest levels.
What We Do
- 🤝 Connect: We bring referees together through local societies, meetings, events, and online groups.
- 📚 Develop: Regular training, workshops, and match analysis to keep your skills sharp and up-to-date.
- 💬 Support: Mentoring and welfare support at every step of your refereeing journey.
- 🏆 Celebrate: We recognise commitment, dedication and excellence.
A Strong Community, Local to You
DCRA is made up of five local societies covering every corner of County Durham. Each society hosts regular meetings, discussions and social events — giving you the chance to share experiences, learn from others, and grow as a referee.
“Without my local RA, I would never have progressed to the professional level. The support is second to none!”
Andrew K.
Meet the Executive Committee
Our dedicated leadership team proudly serve the Association and its members:
- President: Keith Sutherland (Durham City RA)
- Chairman: Ian Cruikshanks (Hartlepool RA)
- Vice Chairman: Ray Vasey (Gateshead RA)
- Treasurer: Mel Hobson (County RA Member)
- Secretary: Kris Middleton (Hartlepool RA)
Supporting them are our experienced County Officers:
Terry Farley MBE, Joe Atkinson, William Carter, and Roly Croysdale.
Join Us
Whether you’re a new or experienced referee — or thinking about picking up the whistle for the first time — you’ll find guidance, friendship, and support at DCRA.
👉 Contact your local society here or get in touch with us to start your refereeing journey today.