Bandsman and IFA referee Richard Scott praised as ‘real character who gave excellent service’

Richard Scott from Castledawson was involved in a fatal accident at the Drumnakelly site in the Mahon Road area on Wednesday, his employer said.

The 33-year-old was due to referee a friendly match between Tobermore United and Ballymoney tomorrow but that game has now been called off as a mark of respect.

A Tobermore United spokesperson said the club “has been plunged into sadness,” and added: “An esteemed referee, assistant referee and friend to the club...Richard will not be forgotten by the players, coaching staff and committee members.”

Head of refereeing at the Irish Football Association Trevor Moutray said Mr Scott was “one of the characters” among local referees.

In a social media post on Wednesday night, Mr Moutray said the tragedy was “difficult to rationalise or explain,”

He added: “I received an email just last night from Richard to say that he was unable to attend fitness tests next week as he was on call in work, and 24 hours later this tragic news emerges.

“Richard will be remembered as one of the characters within our ranks. He gave a number of years of excellent service to the local game as an Assistant Referee , and his experience was rewarded with a number of high profile appointments during this time, including national finals.”

Castledawson-based Moyola Park FC said they had learned with “great sadness” that such a friend of the club, who had helped with so many youth games and tournaments, had died.

Mr Scott, who lived at Shandon Park in Castledawson, had been a member of the Dunamoney Flute Band for more than 15 years.

A band spokesperson described the Dunamoney stalwart as a “professional and disciplined” drummer who will be sorely missed.

“Richard tragically lost his life doing the job he loved working for NI Electricity,” a Facebook message said.

“He was always very proud to take the outside corner of the ranks and was always very professional and disciplined when he put the uniform on. We would ask that you keep Richard’s family in your prayers in the coming days and weeks ahead.”

Announcing Mr Scott’s death, Paul Stapleton of NIE Networks said: “An investigation by both NIE Networks and the Health and Safety Executive is under way”.

IFA referee dies in accident at work with NIE

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