News

Life as a Premier League official!

As you would expect, our Sporting Memories Club in Bury hosted at Gigg Lane, home of Bury Football Club, have some members who are interested in the beautiful game. So it was a great treat for them to welcome along Premier League Assistant Referee James Mainwaring to a recent session. 

From local referee to the elite level

James, a Lancashire lad, has been through the many levels of football – officiating at grassroots and non-league level across his home county before eventually progressing up to the professional game system where he has become one of the best assistant officials in the English game.

James has also been part of officiating teams at international level, having been involved in UEFA and FIFA competitions as well. 

It was through Club volunteer Iain Dawson that the Bury Sporting Memories were able to get James to come along during their weekly session to speak with the Club members.

Sharing insights with our Bury members

James joined the Bury Club for the weekly session at Gigg Lane where provided a fascinating insight into life on the Premier League touchline, with a series of stories which kept the members engaged and wanting to learn more.

It was then the turn of the members to ask their questions to James, where they were able to ask James questions on his career and his love of the sport. His honesty, detail, and behind the scenes knowledge made it a session to remember for the members who really enjoyed the time they had with James.

A thank you to James

Stefan Taylor, Public Health Practitioner at Bury Council, who helps to support the running of the Bury Sporting Memories Club, was thrilled with how the session went.

“James delivered a truly engaging and insightful talk, followed by an excellent Q&A that had our regulars both delighted and surprised. His detailed account of life officiating at the highest level of English football gave us a rare glimpse into the challenges, pressures, and rewarding moments that come with being a Premier League Assistant Referee.

“The group thoroughly enjoyed the stories he shared, the knowledge he brought, and the openness with which he answered every question. It was a session that will be remembered for a long time. A huge thank you to Iain for getting James to come along, and also to Mark - another brilliant volunteer at our Club.”

Our Bury Sporting Memories Club runs every Wednesday from 10:30am to 12pm at Gigg Lane Stadium. For more information on how to join, email s.taylor@bury.gov.uk