The KT Stadium, home of Croydon Athletic (Photo: The Ball Is Square)
When one of the linesman pulled up injured during the recent Southern Counties East League match between Croydon Athletic and Sevenoaks FC, it looked as though the entire game would have to be postponed.
Thankfully, there was a hero in the midst on that fateful afternoon at the Keith Tuckey Stadium. Step forward 83-year-old Alan Halfacre.
As the rain teemed down and the injured assistant limped off the pitch, Mr Halfacre – a Sunday League referee with several decades of experience – volunteered to step into the breach.
As such, the full compliment of qualified officials was restored and the match was allowed to play on until its natural conclusion: a 1-0 win for Sevenoaks.
Visiting manager Micky Collins was quick to thank Mr Halfacre for filling in at such short notice.
I have to say on behalf of both sides from Saturday a big thank you to the 83 yr old volunteer qualified official who run the line 2nd Half
— Micky Collins (@mickycollins10) January 10, 2016
Not all heroes wear capes. Some of them wear dentures.