The girls were put to the test by former Premiership ref and ex-Filey School teacher Matt Messias.

Emile Thompson, Kim Sweetney, Danni Lamb and Lynette Lever, all 17, were among those who qualified.

Ten people from the Scarborough area were put through their paces by ex-international ref Messias and fellow examiner Brian Crawford.

Emile Thompson said: "We are all doing the B-Tech National Diploma in sport and as part of the course curriculum we had to complete our level 10 refereeing exam which allows us to referee junior and Sunday games.

"It was very interesting and it was good that Matt is involved because he was a top referee. Kim plays for Hunmanby United and Danni for Scarborough Ladies so it was good for them to see how things are on the other side of the game."

Crawford, of the North Riding FA, said: "It is great that there is interest in youngsters becoming referees and that it is integrated into the course. We need officials to keep leagues running and these are encouraging signs."

Those who passed the last course were Oliver Jarman, Adam Linley, Steven Spence, Anthony Hunter, Danielle Lamb, Lynette Lever, Luke Purvis, Kim Sweetney, Emile Thompson and Alex May.

A new course takes place at McCain Sports Club from October 1. For further details contact Ross Joyce, 01642-717778.