A former High Wycombe referee has been awarded an MBE for his services to the community in Buckinghamshire.

William ‘Bill’ Cleere, who was also once part of the Wycombe Wanderers committee, began his refereeing career at the age of 14 where he eventually worked his way up the officiating ladder.

He was the first fourth official to appear in an FA Cup Final when Ipswich Town defeated Arsenal 1-0 in 1978, whilst also being an assistant referee in several European matches.

High Wycombe & District Referees Society took to social media following the announcement and said: “Bill has been involved in the Referees Association for over 60 years where he has held a wide variety of roles in the society and county.

“He became Chairman of HWDRS after retiring and held the post for 28 years, he is now our president of the society.

“We would like to congratulate him for his achievement and thank him for all of his ongoing work and support.”