Shropshire referee Jack Taylor dies at 82

Shropshire referee Jack Taylor OBE has died at his home at the age of 82.

Taylor officiated in more than 1,000 matches during a career than lasted more than 30 years and was described by the Football League as "perhaps the finest English referee of all time."

He also took charge of more than 100 international fixtures, including the 1974 World Cup final between West Germany and Holland in Munich, where he made history by awarding the first-ever penalty in a World Cup final.

Premier League Chief Executive, Richard Scudamore, added: "I am extremely sad to hear of Jack Taylor's passing and send my sympathies to his wife, other family members and friends.

"Jack was one of English football's finest ambassadors who reached the pinnacle of refereeing and, until his very last days, continued to help the development of young referees.

"From our first meeting he remained a constant source of encouragement and I will miss him. The game has lost a great servant and a true friend."

Read more in Saturday's Shropshire Star