Just like those he will be overseeing, the 2012 Olympic Games will be the pinnacle of many years' hard work for Messingham umpire John Mackey.

The North Lincolnshire official is one of only four Brits selected to take charge of table tennis matches in next year's showpiece.

Having fallen into umpiring by 'pure chance', Mackey quickly progressed through the ranks.

He has already represented England at two world championships as well as last month's International Table Tennis Federation's Pro Tour Grand Finals at London's ExCel Centre.

The Olympics however, will be that little bit extra special.

"It's quite an honour," said Mackey.

"In terms of standard of play, the Pro Tour Finals are probably higher than the Olympics, so it ranks alongside other things I've done in terms of quality.

"But in terms of status and prestige and so forth, you can't beat the Olympics."

Mackey started officiating at county level in 1996, moving up to international standard in 2002.

Three years later, after a rigorous qualification process, he was awarded the elite Blue Badge status – the requirement needed to umpire at the Olympics.

Less than 250 referees in the world can claim that honour.

"The evaluations are quite intense," said Mackey.

"The hard part really is getting to the level where you qualify for the Olympics.

"It's almost like the culmination of many years' hard work.

"When I first qualified in 1996, at that time I would look at international umpires with awe and think, how will I ever get to your level of competency and knowledge and umpire as well as you do."

Now, it just comes naturally.

"For me, it just seems so easy," said the 57-year-old when asked what qualities are needed.

"You need to have a quick mind to make decisions instantaneously and be confident in those decisions.

"You also have to be open and be prepared to accept when you've made a mistake and correct the error.

"You need to have good concentration and focus and be good at handling people.

"You have to have a certain presence on court so players and coaches recognise you are the person in charge."

Mackey, who still plays in the Scunthorpe Table Tennis League, says there will be no nerves when it comes to taking his place on the big stage.

"You quickly forget the TV cameras are there, and forget there are spectators watching," he explained.

"Before the match there's a little bit of adrenaline.

"But that's a good thing. If there wasn't, it would be dangerous. You would be approaching it a bit blase.

"I don't think there will be more nerves (at the Olympics), but I'll feel extra pride in representing the country."