Whistle blown over council move

25th January 2007

Here's a novel way of getting a roadside penalty! A 22-feet-high statue of a football referee is being considered for a roundabout in Preston, Lancashire.

Based on a figure from the Subbuteo table football game, the imposing ref is one of the first sights visitors would see as they leave the M6 motorway.

However, it's not all for show. The giant ref will also point visitors in the direction of the National Football Museum, which is based in the city. Preston Council is currently deliberating over whether to kick-off with the scheme or show it the red card.