Referee Chris Foy to show ASB The Red Card!

Chris, a top class ref since 2001, is taking time out from his big match preparations to throw his weight behind the St.Helens Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership  - and its recently launched Anti-Social Behaviour Pledge.

The serving policeman is also an active figure in the Don't X the Line campaign - which aims to eradicate abusive or aggressive behaviour among players and spectators at junior and youth matches.

"Whether it's a sporting event or just everyday life, people have the right to enjoy themselves and go about their business without the fear of abuse, threats or violence," said Chris.

"I thoroughly endorse the efforts of the Partnership team to rid the streets of those people who only seem capable of negative behaviour - and making life miserable for the rest of us."

The Safer St Helens campaign, run by the St Helens Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, helped cut the number of anti-social behaviour incidents in the Borough by 14.5%, seeing 1362 fewer incidents in 2009/10 when compared to 2008/09.

Chief Superintendent Chris Armitt, Area Commander for St. Helens said about the reductions, ""Merseyside Police and St Helens Council are delighted with the reduction in Anti-Social Behaviour in recent years. We also remain absolutely committed to make further reductions in the years ahead and improve the quality of life for our community locally."

The partnership brings together some of the key agencies that help to keep the borough safe for residents and visitors alike - including St Helens Council, Merseyside Police, Helena Partnerships and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.

Chris Foy will be giving anti-social behaviour its marching orders at a special photocall on Thursday 6 May at 9.30am on the Town Hall steps. He'll be joined by Chief Executive of St. Helens Council Carole Hudson, District Manager for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service John McCormack, Anti-Social Behaviour Manager for Helena Partnerships Joy Wilson, and Chief Superintendent Chris Armitt, Police Area Commander for St. Helens.

Looking ahead to the cup final Chris said: "To get any appointment from the FA is always a great honour, but this surpasses anything that has happened to me in the past.

"I'm happy, not just for my family and friends, but also for the wider referee family. I think the foundation stones for times like this are set over a number of years and I've worked very hard during my career to better myself and to reach this stage. It's a great honour."

Chris also refereed the 2007 FA Trophy Final between Stevenage Borough and Kidderminster Harriers at Wembley. He was appointed fourth official for the 2008 FA Cup Final took charge of the 2009-10 FA Community Shield between Chelsea and Manchester United and refereed last year's Carling Cup Final between United and Tottenham.