A new football season is upon us again and by the beginning of September local football will be back in full swing.

Each year, during the close season, FIFA undertake a review of the Laws of the Game and this year they have announced a small number of amendments.

FIFA once again remind all players not to wear anything that is dangerous to themselves or opponents, namely, jewellery. They also remind players, managers, coaches, referees and administrators that they have a responsibility to ensure that the image of the game is not tarnished, that racist remarks constitute a sending off offence and the use of offensive, insulting or abusive language must be punished accordingly by referees.

Four minor amendments were also made to the Laws of the Game. The first, which should not affect local football too much, is that players must not reveal advertising when taking off their football shirts and all shirts must have sleeves, and not be cut away at the shoulder.

The second Law to be altered affects the Fourth Official.

The laws now state that he assists the referee at all times. This means he shall inform the referee if the wrong player is cautioned because of mistaken identity and also advise him of any misconduct out of the view of the referee or his assistants.

The next Law to be amended is in the procedures for the taking of penalty kicks in a cup tie at the end of extra time.

Previously when the referee tossed a coin to decide who would take the first penalty kick, the team that won the toss had to take the first kick.

Now the law has been changed and the winning captain can now choose to either take the first kick or ask the opposing team to do so.

The final amendment also involves the taking of penalty kicks during games and reminds referees of their responsibility to deal with encroachment by players. Referees must ensure they take the appropriate action where players enter the penalty area or where the goalkeeper moves from his goal line before the kick is taken. The appropriate action is to retake the penalty.

* Referee's Notebook will appear in Local Heroes every Friday during the coming season and I am still interested in hearing about amusing incidents that you have come across at games in which you have played or attended. Please log on to the Darlington Referees' Society website to contact me, www.darlingtonreferees.freeserve.co.uk.