GIVEN the finish Dorchester Town enjoyed to last season and the work they have done since the final-day victory over Slough in securing players for next term, the future at the Avenue is looking a lot brighter than it had been.

The 2013/14 campaign, which saw the team suffer relegation from Conference South, was one to forget for Magpies’ fans, and until Mark Jermyn came in as player-manager in January, back-to-back demotions looked a possibility.

But a number of impressive performances took Dorchester clear of the Evo-Stik Southern Premier Division drop zone and helped lift the gloom that had gathered around the club during the first half of the season.

And those that played a part in the turnaround were recognised at the Magpies’ awards presentation.

AWARD WINNERS

Supporters’ Player of the Season – Chris Dillon.

Online Player of the Season – Chris Dillon.

Dorset Echo Player of the Year – Chris Dillon.

First Team Players’ Player of the Season – Jake Smeeton.

Dinky Curtis Memorial Cup – Jake Smeeton.

Jack Lambert Award for Good Sportsmanship – Jason Brookes.

John Rennie Award for Effort – Josh Lucas.

Reserves’ Players’ Player of the Year – Brandon Huckstepp.

Reserves’ Most Promising Player of the Year – David Jerrard.

Fred Bloomfield Trophy (Lions Club Award for Achievement) – Dorchester Town Youth FC Magpies Under-16s Girls.

Clubman of the Year – Mike Hedges.

Supporter of the Year – Sam Bernard.

Looking back over another turbulent season, Matt Lucas commented on the three men – Jermyn, Graham Kemp and Phil Simkin – who managed the team during the campaign.

He also paid tribute to Dave Martin and Keith Kellaway, who decided to step down from their roles as secretary and general manager respectively.

“It was extremely difficult with Phil because he had been such a great servant to the club,” said Lucas.

“Graham is a great guy and a very positive person, and he was good to have around the club before he decided to step down.

“Jem has come home and it was the right appointment to make, as the results showed.”

He added: “I just want to thank Dave Martin for everything he has done over the years as secretary.

“His knowledge and experience will be gratefully received when he takes his place on the board of the CBS.

“I’d also like to thank Keith Kellaway for his work as general manager over a number of years.

“It’s been great for the players and the club to have someone like him at the ground on a daily basis.”