A FOOTBALL television documentary has led a York stone worker to discover what he believes may be an authentic medal from the first World Cup ever staged.

When Neil Maddison, 41, watched a documentary about the 1930 Uruguay tournament he recognised a distinctive concrete monument in Montevideo's Centenary Stadium.

After searching through his family memorabilia he found a medal which he now believes was awarded to his grandfather, Richard Maddison, for officiating at the historic contest.

Mr Maddison, of Windsor Drive, Wigginton, said he was unsure what role his grandad played in the event, but thought he might have been a referee or linesman.

He has now written to Sotheby's and sent a picture to a 1930 World Cup museum website as he thinks the medal may be valuable.

Mr Maddison, who works as a sawman at Marble Building Products, Full Sutton, said the origin of the medal was shrouded in mystery.

He said: "My grandad was a very colourful character and refereed football matches all over the world.

"If we can find out about the medal I can learn a little more about my family history.

"I'm very keen to find out more about the medal because personally, I'm 99 per cent sure it is genuine."

The small medal depicts the distinctive South American monument on one side and carries the words "AU de F Campeonato Mundial de Football Montevideo" on the reverse.

Home side Uruguay picked up the winners' trophy, presented by Jules Rimet, by beating arch-rivals Argentina in the final 4-2.

Anyone who might be able to help Mr Maddison should phone Chris Greenwood at the Evening Press on 01904 653051.

chris.greenwood@ycp.co.uk

Updated: 14:43 Friday, June 21, 2002