A Welwyn Garden City man who umpired a hockey game at the Paris 2024 Olympics admitted he was "honoured" to be given the opportunity.

Neil and Deborah Kirby have been volunteering at the games this summer, having also given up their time to help out in Rio back in 2016.

Based at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium, where the events depicted in Chariots of Fire took place 100 years ago, the pair have helping to run hockey matches, which gave Neil the opportunity of a lifetime.

Neil took charge of a friendly between South Africa and Ireland.Neil took charge of a friendly between South Africa and Ireland. (Image: Neil and Deborah Kirby)

As a player and umpire with Welwyn Garden City Hockey Club, Neil was invited to take charge of his first ever international game, as Ireland took on South Africa in a pre-tournament friendly.

"It was a real treat to be able to help teams prepare for the Olympics and an honour to be able to umpire my first international game," he said. 

"I'm looking forward to getting back on the pitch with Welwyn Garden City Hockey Club.

"I'd encourage anyone to volunteer for a local community group or project. It's amazing what it might lead to or where it might take you."