A referee from the region is taking charge of a string of international football matches next month.

Jeff Winter, of Stockton, Teesside, will be in charge of the youth championships in Durham next month, as under-16 squads from England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales compete against each other.

Mr Winter started his referring career in local leagues on Teesside more than 20 years ago and has just completed his sixth season in the Premiership.

Other referees taking part in the youth championships, which are being hosted by Durham police, include Alan Wilkie, from Chester-le-Street, and Colin Webster, from Shotley Bridge, both County Durham, and brothers David and Graham Laws, from Tyneside.

Linesmen including Nigel Miller, from Durham, and Gary Wallace, from New Herrington, Wearside, will also take part.

The six games of the championships, which have been organised by the National Association of Clubs for Young People, will be played at New Feren's Park, Durham.

The association's old boys include Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker, Paul Gascoigne and Peter Beardsley.

The first match between England and Wales kicks off at 11am on Sunday, July 8.

Entry is £2 for adults, and children and OAPs £1.