the events which had passed- considering the long journey back through the rush hour.

So, I hear you ask, why are you telling us? Well obviously, you can firstly find humour at my great misfortune, but also there are certain lessons which can be learnt from these events, which are equally important to every referee, whether you be a "seasoned 'pro'" or a newly qualified official. Firstly, if there is any doubt in your mind as to whether the fixture will be on, get in contact with the home club BEFORE travelling. Secondly, always have a first contact number, preferably that of the home club secretary, on you in case you run into any difficulties. Thirdly, if you do get problems, know your "line of attack"- who should you contact if you experience problems like mine? My suggestion is the person responsible for your appointment, but remember, THEY ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR MISFORTUNES, so don't "fly off the handle" at the first opportunity. They can only offer help and advice to you which, if you follow, will often lead to a satisfactory outcome. That is what I did, and so far I have received my expenses from Croydon FC and am waiting for a similar result from West Ham United.

Anthony Moore.

about the stupidity of the member of Croydon FC whom I had spoken to.

The second case is 14th December 1999, the West Ham United verses Wimbledon reserves match at Leyton Orient, at which I was to be fourth official. Obviously, public transport was the only real option for this fixture, and so I duly got permission to leave school early in preparation for the 2 hour journey. Although it was cold, I felt there no real risk that this fixture would be in doubt, a fact confirmed by the lack of any message from the home club either at home or on my mobile. Therefore, I set out at just before 3.15 in the afternoon. Following a bus ride, 3 trains journeys (on various lines) and a cab ride, I arrived at Leyton Orient. As I made my way to the main entrance, imagine my amazement to find it locked, with no signs of  inhabitance. Thankfully, one final member of the ground staff was just about to leave, and looked at me in absolute astonishment when I informed him of why I was there. "Don't you know? It's off. It was called off this morning".   I was livid. OF COURSE I DIDN'T KNOW YOU FOOL, OTHERWISE I WOULDN'T HAVE BEEN THERE WOULD I? Still, as he was not at fault, I thanked him for his 'assistance' and concentrated on containing my anger at