The referee at the centre of the Brian Gavin suspension issue has reportedly resigned.

The Daily Star reports that referee Pauric Pierce, who had reported fellow match official Gavin for making comments towards during a club game in Offaly between Clare and Kilclonfert, has decided to step down.

Gavin had initially been handed a one-month ban, but that decision was overturned by the Central Competitions Control Committee (CCCC) on appeal, allowing Gavin to referee the All-Ireland hurling semi-final between Waterford and Kilkenny.

The Star also state that Pierce has also left his position as chairman of the Offaly County Board's Coiste na nÓg.