Refs join Prospect

Professionals and specialists union Prospect has organised and negotiated for 18 high-profile new members - top football referees.

The TUC referred the Premiership referees to Prospect when they sought advice after hearing their contracts were to be reviewed. Prospect then won them an improved pay structure, in particular for the lowest paid referees.

Peter Walton, the referees' representative, said: "Once we became professional, it was clear we needed one voice to negotiate our terms and conditions with management ... We recognised Prospect's expertise."