FOOTBALL officials in Worcestershire are mourning the loss of one of its finest "ambassadors".

Gerald Ashby, who was a Premiership and FIFA referee and officiated at the 1995 FA Cup Final, died on Saturday.

The 52-year-old retired from whistle-blowing in 1998, but continued to work with referees in his capacity as referees' assessor.

He had carried out this role on Saturday afternoon when he watched Everton's 1-0 win against Derby.

Mr Ashby is believed to have died from a heart attack at his home in Kempsey.

"We're very shell-shocked," said Steve Dorr, chairman of the Worcester Referees' Society.

"It's quite upsetting. Gerald always showed an unequivocal devotion to refereeing and he would have time for a new young class of referees as much as any in the Premiership.

"He was an ambassador for Worcestershire."

Mr Ashby was president of the society and previously chairman for 11 years.

He had refereed at every level of football from Worcester League matches through to the Premiership and was on the FIFA officials list for international ties.

He first started refereeing in the 1971-72 season in the Worcester League and also officiated in the West Midlands League before joining the Football League linesmen's list in 1982.

He was promoted to the referee's list in 1985, but continued to referee at local matches.

"He'll be sadly missed and is quite simply irreplaceable," said Mr Dorr.

"I've lost a very good friend, I've known him all my life. My dad was a referee and we'd go out as a family with Gerald and his family.

"I started refereeing at the age of 15 and Gerald helped me get where I am. Without him I don't think I would have achieved this.

"There'll be a big void but I know he'd want us to follow in his good work."

Mr Ashby was recognised by the Worcestershire Football Association in 1995 after the FA Cup Final for his achievements in football.

"We're deeply shocked by his sudden death," said Ken Clifford, chairman of the Worcestershire FA. "He's been a good, loyal servant to football in Worcestershire. It's a tragic loss to football in the area.

"We're mourning his passing. Our sympathies go to his family."

Mr Ashby leaves a wife, Julia and daughter Lisa.