The deal will see Michael ‘Titch’ McHardy and his growing band of referees line up in new bright shirts kindly sponsored by Specsavers in Burton on Trent. The club currently has and 20 volunteer referees and coaches who also referee - which is part of the beating heart of the club.

Titch says; ‘It's brilliant that Linda Joyce and Catherine Robinson, the store directors at Burton Specsavers, have been able to support our referees at Burton RFC which is one of the largest amateur sports clubs in the region.

‘We regularly referee around 20 games per week both at Burton Rugby Club with many referees supporting other games across the County. We have also supported 15 schools festivals this season, so it is great that the club has been able to work with Specsavers to provide such bright and stand out shirts. I am sure this small token to our referees will help make them feel valued at this great club and I am always open to supporting more referees to gain qualifications and experience.’

The deal which was agreed between Specsavers at 176 High Street, Burton and Burton Rugby Club will see the referees wear bright yellow shirts with a white slash in a design very similar to the clubs normal white shirts, but obviously with the yellow twist.

Steve Smith, the clubs Director of Rugby, continues: ‘It's great to have Specsavers on board and I am sure we'll be sending some of our referees along for a visit throughout the season!’

Linda Joyce adds; ‘We’ve always been committed to supporting the local community – and sports sponsorship forms part of this. It’s great to be working with the club and I’m sure we can help ensure that there’s no ‘Should have gone to Specsavers’ moments for the referees, by making sure their eyecare is up scratch!

‘Many sports people benefit from using contact lenses and so we’d encourage anyone who wants to try lenses – to pop into store to benefit from the free contact lens trial we offer.’

For more information, or to book a eye examination or free contact lens trial, please visit Specsavers at 176 High Street, Burton on Trent, DE14 1JF, call 01283 500117 or visit http://www.specsavers.co.uk/burtonontrent