Pembrokeshire Referees’ Society L-R back row Dave Badger (Acting Secretary) Jonathan Twigg (Vice Chairman) L-R front row Chris Stapleton (Acting Chairman) Dave Brandon Local cricket umpire Dave Brandon, who has had first class experience on the cricket field, entertained Pembrokeshire referees at their recent March meeting and captivated his audience with an inspiring, informed and enjoyable presentation which evoked many intriguing points.

With a brief for the night of passing on his experience of man management to the local whistlers Brandon emphasised the requirements of being seen to do something, which in some cases may be taking no action at all.  He emphasised the key points of consistency, reflection and honesty, which alongside a thorough knowledge of the laws of the game would establish respect from the players and officials of clubs.  He follows his beliefs with the adage, ‘to consider what you have left behind for the next official’ as his start and end point for every game.  Through his personal organisation in preparation for matches Brandon has respect from players and other umpires on the cricketing front, which has seen him become instrumental in the recruitment and training of budding umpires.

The evening progressed through a jovial discussion on the difference in the speeds of the two games officials are involved in, technology and how it helps and hinders umpires, and where the future is for both sports at a local and international level. Chairman Chris Stapleton on behalf of the twenty five-plus members present presented Brandon with a bottle of Irish water for his troubles.  Vice-Chairman Jonathan Twigg praised the proactive work of the society officers in welcoming the cricket umpire to the training night as he said,
“Dave’s presence follows the attendance at a meeting last year of local rugby referee, Ben Cole, where both speakers left a number of useful ideas for members to chew the fat over in forthcoming weeks.”

The members are switching their next meeting (Friday 9th April) from the regular HQ of Neyland Athletic Club to Heatherton Sports and Country Park near Tenby, where they will be welcomed by proprietor Charles Davies for a 6.30 p.m. kick off.  The whistlers have also arranged their Senior Cup Final breakfast for Saturday 17th April at the Friar Vaults Haverfordwest in what has now become an established ritual for honouring the Cup final referee and his fellow officials.  Further details on either event can be obtained from Jonathan Twigg by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .