A minutes’ applause will be held at all Northern lreland Football League matches this weekend following the death of a popular referee.
Peter McGrath, who officiated in the Irish League for more than 20 years, died on Sunday following a battle with cancer.
Tributes have described him as an “absolute gentleman” and a “well-known and popular character”.
Irish FA president Conrad Kirkwood led the tributes to Mr McGrath, who was from Belfast and owned McGrath’s Bar on the Cliftonville Road.
“I am so sorry to learn of the passing of Peter McGrath,” he said.
“He very kindly took time out with me at my first game back after my own cancer treatment, to share his experiences.
“It was something I appreciated and that I will not forget.
“I last spoke with him at the Irish Cup final in May day where he had selflessly arranged tickets and hospitality for colleagues. That was the measure of him.”
In a post on social media, the IFA Referees group said Mr McGrath had fought a “long and brave battle with illness”.
“Peter was a well-known and popular character amongst the refereeing and local football community, who will be sadly missed by all,” the post said.
“Peter was always the life and soul of any room, and his quick wit and humour will be sorely missed by all.
“Peter refereed at every level in Northern Ireland, and in the past few years had gone on to be become an observer.
“He was always there to help colleagues at any level and provide some advice to help their refereeing career.”
We are saddened to learn that our esteemed colleague, Peter McGrath, today lost his long and brave battle with...
Posted by Irish Football Association - Referees on Monday 5 August 2024
The NI Football League said it was “saddened to learn of the passing of referee Peter McGrath, after a lengthy battle with illness.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this very sad time.
“As a mark of respect, a minutes’ applause will be held at all NIFL matches this weekend.”
