Sutherland club’s fond farewell to Highland League referee after final game
King George V Park in Golspie provided the setting for a fond farewell to one of the Highland League’s longest serving football referees.
Match official Billy Baxter blew his whistle for the final time in the league on Saturday, April 27 after taking charge of the end of season meeting between Brora Rangers and Wick Academy.
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The match, which ended 1-0 to Brora, brought an end to 25 years of service for the 55-year-old, who has taken charge of over 400 games in that time.
Golspie was the final leg of what has been a season-long farewell tour for the Inverness-based ref, who has been met with well-wishes at several grounds across the north of Scotland.
Elsewhere, he had a last outing at Harmsworth Park on March 23, officiating a 3-1 win for the Scorries over eventual champions Buckie Thistle.
After the match at Golspie, Cattachs chairman Scott Mackay presented Mr Baxter with a commemorative plaque and a bottle of whisky from Clynelish Distillery.
Mr Mackay said: “Billy will be sorely missed. A well respected and popular referee Billy is known for his passion for both the game and the Highland League which he has served with dedication and commitment for 25 years.
“As players and supporters we often forget about the importance of a referee to our games - if there is no referee there is no game. They are the unsung heroes who make the game possible.
“At the centre of every match the ref weaves the threads of fair play, integrity and sportsmanship and Billy conducted his matches with the utmost skill and composure.
“The field of play can be a crucible of pressure and scrutiny. Passionate players, vocal coaches and spectators can create an atmosphere where decisions are viewed with intense scrutiny.
“It takes a special dedication, commitment and composure to work in this environment. Making fair decisions in the blink of an eye, often in the face of furious protests, is a skill that refs must hone and Billy was a master.
“Referees embody the essence of the beautiful game ensuring its integrity and fair play. It is important that we, players, coaches and supporters, recognise and fully appreciate their contribution, commitment and dedication.”
