A SWANLEY judo stalwart has been chosen to referee at the 2012 London Paralympic Games.

Dave Stanley, who was the head referee for last year’s visually impaired European championships in Crawley, took charge at the 2004 Paralympics in Athens and was a reserve four years later in Beijing.

Mr Stanley is a sixth Dan and has been an international judo federation referee for 23 years.

He will be one of 12 judo referees to officiate at this summer’s Paralympic Games and one of six selected from Europe.

Mr Stanley said: “I found out on Christmas day in an email from the international blind sports federation (IBSA), which was a very special surprise.

“I’m delighted to be selected, it was a total relief to receive the news.

“It’s a four-year cycle for referees and works similarly to how the players vie for selection.

“I’ve had a lot of support from my colleagues.

“Without them this wouldn’t have been possible.”

National refereeing commission chairman Reuben Davison said: “We’re absolutely delighted Dave has been selected.

“It’s great news for British judo and we know he’ll do an excellent job in London.”

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