Andy Turner, who was born on Christmas Day, should feel like all his Christmases and birthdays have come at once with a belated call up to officiate at the Rugby World Cup.
The 39 year old South African has been brought in to replace Italy’s Giulio De Santis who withdrew for personal reasons.
He comes to the RWC with more than 14 years refereeing experience and eight test matches. His provincial career began in 1992 and his international debut came in the July 2000 African Cup match between Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Other career highlights for the Blue Bulls refereeing society member include the 1998 Commonwealth Games Sevens final, the U21 RWC Sevens, the 1996 SANZAR U21 final and 14 Super 12 matches.
During his playing days Turner was a handy centre for the Gordonsbay club first team. Away from rugby he plays golf off an 8 handicap, enjoys wildlife photography and woodwork.
He is married to wife Ria and the couple have recently had their third child, Rianiel, who joins Bianca (9) and Hildegard (7).
Turner works as a National Business Development Manager for a medical emergency response company in Pretoria.