Last updated on .From the section Football

Michael Oliver is engaged to female referee Lucy May, to whom John Cummings addressed his sexist comments

Premier League referee Michael Oliver has quit as head of Northumberland Football Association's referee academy over their decision not to punish their vice president for discriminating against a female referee.

The Football Association already banned John Cummings for four months for telling Lucy May - who is Oliver's fiancee - "a woman's place is in the kitchen and not on a football field".

The NFA board decided the FA's ruling, including a £250 fine, was sufficient and decided against further punishment.

Four other NFA members also stood down in protest at the decision, which the BBC understands was made by secret ballot.

The NFA's president turned down a request by the BBC for comment.

Northumberland FA's equality policy "The Northumberland FA, in all its activities, will not discriminate, nor treat anyone less favourably, on grounds of gender, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, ability or disability. The Northumberland FA will ensure that it treats people fairly and with respect and will provide access and opportunities for all members of the community to take part in, and enjoy, its activities."

The decision not to take action has angered many people connected to North East football, who have accused the board of "sweeping the issue under the carpet" and called for change.

One source, who wished to remain anonymous, told the BBC "the NFA board is like a body of dinosaurs. Many of them hold views that are not those of the people they represent."

Cummings, 77, made the comments to referee development officer May at a referee workshop event in March.

May, 24, asked Cummings about the possibility of officiating in the North East Sunday League.

Cummings told her she "wouldn't be able to handle it".

He added: "It's nothing against you personally but all the time I'm alive, a woman will never referee in my league."

Cummings, who had his appeal against the FA's four-month ban dismissed, has been told he must attend an education programme before he returns to his position.

As well as Oliver, it is understood NFA finance director Steve Drew, youth representative Ian Coates, referee coordinator Dave Martin and referee coach Scott Duncan have stepped down.