Everyone at Brechin City FC are saddened to learn of the passing of SFA Head of Referee Operations, John Fleming, following a long illness.

John, who was 62, was a member of the Scottish Football Association for almost a decade and was widely respected across the game at European and world level.

During his time at the Scottish FA, John was a member of the Referee Committee, and oversaw the training and development of match officials at all levels and implemented a new structure to enhance referee recruitment and retention.

He was appointed as a Referee Observer for UEFA and joined illustrious names such as Pierluigi Collina and Massimo Busacca on the Technical Advisory Panel of the International Football Association Board – world football’s lawmakers.

His role in Scotland’s hosting of IFAB’s 133rd AGM, held in Aberdeen, characterised his determination. In spite of his struggle with ill health, he dedicated himself to ensuring the Scottish FA and the country were exemplary hosts to the lawmakers of world football.

John joined the Scottish FA’s referee development department in 2010 having enjoyed a successful career as a match official: appointed to Category One status in 1994 and performing as a FIFA Assistant Referee from 1994 to 1997, culminating in him being part of Scotland’s officiating team at UEFA EURO96.

Everyone connected to Brechin City FC would like to offer their condolences to John's family and friends at this sad time.