'Extremely talented and an incredible leader': Tunisia terror victim Joel Richards given football honour

Tunisia terror attack victim Joel Richards has been given a prestigious honour by the football community where he was an aspiring referee.

The 19-year-old, who lived in Wednesbury, has been named Referee of the Year by Birmingham County FA.

Joel was killed alongside his uncle and Sandwell Council worker Adrian Evans, 49, of Bilston, and grandfather Patrick Evans, 78, also of Wednesbury, at the beach resort of Sousse.

Patrick Evans, Joel Richards, and Adrian Evans - all from the Black Country - were killed in the terror attack

Birmingham County FA celebrated Joel's achievements in the game by giving him the accolade at an award evening on Monday.

It was voted for by County FA staff, referees, coaches and mentors and fellow members of the referee development group.

Joel Richards was tragically killed by a gunman in the Tunisia terror attack

Officials said the accolade does not only reflect his natural aptitude for refereeing but also the respect, professionalism, and admiration that his fellow colleagues had for him.

His younger brother Owen was on hand to receive the award on his behalf of his brother during the ceremony held at the Birmingham County FA headquarters, in Great Barr.

Owen collected the award from Birmingham FA chairman Mike Penn.

Mr Penn described Joel as an 'outstanding young man with the world at his feet'.

Birmingham County FA Chief Executive Chad Ehlertsen said Joel remained in the thoughts of everyone at the organisation.

"No job was too small for Joel and he was always looking to support the development of others and create opportunities for other to get involved in the game," he said.

"Everyone who knew Joel knew his infectious smile; if he smiled, you smiled.

"He was an extremely talented referee and incredible young leader.

"There is no doubting that Joel would have reached the top of the refereeing ladder, thus was his drive and determination to succeed.

"He is missed by everyone at Birmingham County FA."

Joel first qualified as a referee in September 2011 at just 16 years old after which officials from the Birmingham FA said he went from strength to strength.

He was promoted to level six in March 2013 before completing a double promotion to become a level four referee in June 2014.

Joel was one of only a handful of referees in the country to be fast tracked to level four which official said highlighted his ability and commitment to refereeing.