Oxfordshire clubs must produce more referees if the junior game is not to stagnate locally.

That is the view of Keith Latham, president of the county referees’ society, who fears youngsters will suffer if no new officials come forward.

Latham said: “There are some referees doing four games a week just to support local rugby.

“Unfortunately, if we don’t have enough referees, we won’t be able to support all the junior matches.

“This weekend, I was 12 referees down.

“The game can’t survive without referees.

“I feel so sorry for the youngsters because that is their day.”

Any prospective referees can contact Latham on 01993 881985 or 07967 206098 or email keith.latham@tinyworld.co.uk