We have had a weekend of cold weather, we just want to send a gentle reminder to all Clubs / referees to ensure a pre-match pitch inspection is carried out below is some guidance for you. Please note that if the Referee has travelled then he is entitled to his full match fee, so please bare that in mind.

Also it is pointless phoing the League Secretary for a decision. I am not at the ground so the decision rests with the HOME Club and the GROUNDSMEN, if you cannot get a Referee to inspect the playing surface.

· An early inspection avoids unnecessary travel, get a local Referee to inspect the pitch

· Player safety is our number one priority i.e. is the playing surface safe to play on

· Liaise with the grounds person (if available) to understand their knowledge of the pitch

· Thoroughly inspect the pitch and not take a cursory look at the pitch

· Remember, that the highest temperature of the day is usually midday

Once you have made your decision as whether the match is to be played, please ensure you:

· Communicate with both clubs/teams

· Communicate with the competition that the match was postponed