Last updated on .From the section Scottish

John Fleming was appointed Scotland's head of referees in 2011

John Fleming, the Scottish FA's head of referee operations, has died at age 62 after a long illness.

Fleming spent eight years in the role, having joined the governing body's referee development department in 2009.

Before that, he had a long career as a referee and linesman, and was part of a team of Scottish officials at Euro 96.

"John was a private man and many people will be shocked to learn of his passing after an illness borne with fortitude," said Scottish FA president Rod Petrie.

"His commitment was unstinting to the game, his colleagues and the association."

Fleming rose to Category One status as a referee in 1994 and was involved at Euro 96 during a three-year stint as a Fifa assistant referee.

During his time at the Scottish FA, he oversaw the training and development of officials at all levels and implemented a new structure to enhance referee recruitment and retention.

He was also a referee observer for Uefa and on the technical advisory panel of the International Football Association Board.

"He worked tirelessly in support of his match officials, whom he considered an extended family," Petrie added.

"John was a dedicated family man and suffered the loss of his wife Ann with the love of his children Dawn and Graham, and his grandchildren Anna, Charlie and Rose, on whom he doted. Our thoughts are with his family.

"I know I speak on behalf of the board, John's friends and colleagues within the Scottish FA, the referee community and clubs across the country in saying that we will miss a trusted colleague, a man of honour and principle, and a dear friend."

'A dedicated servant to Scottish football' - tributes

Celtic manager Neil Lennon: "I'm devastated. I got on great with John. He had great leadership qualities and set a really good standard.

"I'm sure he got a lot of nagging calls on a Monday but he always handled that brilliantly and he will be a huge loss to the game. He's going to take some replacing.

"My condolences go to the family, I knew he was ill but it's a shock."

Motherwell chief executive Alan Burrows, writing on Twitter: "I am so sorry to hear this news. John was always open, direct & would take your calls, normally when you were feeling sore about something.

"He battled admirably against illness & it's tragic he is now gone at 62. My condolences are with John's family & friends at this sad time."

Hibernian added: "The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Hibernian Football Club are with the family, friends and colleagues of John Fleming - who was a dedicated servant to Scottish football."