A POLICEMAN who hit the headlines when he ran the line at a Premiership clash while on the sick is to round off the season by officiating in the FA Cup Final.

Sergeant Nigel Miller has been chosen as one of the two linesmen in the showpiece occasion next month at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium when Arsenal will take on Southampton.

The 43-year-old, who works at Bishop Auckland police station, caused controversy when it was revealed that he had turned out for Leeds United's match with Manchester United during a spell on sick leave for stress.

Police chiefs gave him their blessing and doctors said the exercise would be therapeutic and help him recover.

Sgt Miller has since returned to work and has also been promoted from panel league referee, officiating at Nationwide Conference and FA Premier League reserve games, to a Nationwide League referee.

Premier League referees spokesman Philip Don said: "Nigel has officiated this season to a continually high standard."

Sgt Miller, who lives on the outskirts of Durham City, was last night gearing up to run the line at another crunch match - tonight's potential championship decider between Arsenal and Manchester United.

A spokesman for County Durham Police said: "Nigel's appointment for the FA Cup Final is obviously a reflection of the very high regard in which he is held in football circles. We are sure he will acquit himself very well."

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