PUDDLETOWN Football Club held their end of season presentation evening at the Colliton Club, Dorchester, to bring to a close an exceptional first season back in the Dorset League.

The evening was attended to by all the players and management team, who were celebrating the success of a season which included finishing a very creditable fifth in Division Four and progressing to the Minor Cup final in front of more than 400 spectators, narrowly losing to 3-2 to Shillingstone.

The top goalscorer’s award was won by Chris Read with 14 goals. The Jon Palmer award, for captains, went to Connor Critchell. The Chairman’s award was snapped up by Josh Claridge for his improving displays at centre-back, while Kieran Knight won the manager’s player of the year for his all-round performances, before the players’ player went to Mike Phillips.

Manager Steve Brown congratulated the whole squad for their improvements and attitude through the season.

He said: “With the ability this squad of players has we must be looking at getting promotion next season. Although it looks like it is going to be tough with four new teams in the division, we must really push on to get up the leagues.”

Pre-season training started last night at Puddletown Recreational Ground.

The club would like to say a special thanks to Tony Johns, Bodycraft and The Blue Vinney Public House for their continued sponsorship.