Clive Thomas

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Clive Thomas (born June 22, 1936 - ) is a Welsh former professional football referee.

Thomas officiated in both the 1974 and 1978 World Cups. During a long and sometimes controversial career as a referee in the old English First Division he was known as "The Book" for his strict interpretation of the laws of the game.

Thomas drew the ire of Everton fans when, during a 1977 FA Cup semi-final against city rivals Liverpool F.C., Thomas disallowed a goal which seemed legitimate and had gone largely uncontested by even the Liverpool supporters. Bizarrely, one of the linesman later recounted Thomas asking them in the dressing room what he could say he'd disallowed it for - they both confirmed it was neither handball nor offside - he later called it an infringement but was unable to be more specific.

He also blew the final whistle seconds before Zico of Brazil scored what would have been the winning goal in a 1978 World Cup match against Sweden. He was also strongly opposed to extravagant goal celebrations, going so far as to break up celebrations and order players back to their positions for the re-start.

In 2004 he was elected to the largely ceremonial position of "High Sheriff of Mid Glamorgan". He currently lives in Porthcawl, South Wales.