The referee investigated the claim that he wore a bodycam without permission during a children's football match

A REF is under investigation over claims he wore a bodycam without permission at a children's football match.

The match official told the coaches it was part of an FA-backed VAR-style trial.

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But when they checked again, they were told there was no trial.

An investigation has been launched by Northumberland and Durham County FAs following the U13 match in the Russell Foster Youth League.

Referees wore bodycams in four primary competitions last season to see if respect improved – but only in adult matches and not in that area.

Durham FA chief John Topping said they do not know whether he was actually wearing video equipment.

But he added: “He let the coaches know he was recording everything.

“They couldn't understand it because the FA did a pilot with body cameras a few months ago, but not here.”

Local football chiefs said they are investigating after a referee registered with Northumberland FA allegedly used a body-worn camera during a recent match.

They added: “We must make it clear that referees are not currently permitted to use body-worn cameras at any time.”