WEYMOUTH and Portland Rugby Club held their senior players’ presentation evening at Monmouth Avenue to celebrate a solid 2016/17 season.

The newly-promoted side consolidated their standing in the Dorset and Wiltshire One South division by claiming fifth place, having taken 13 wins from 22 games, and finishing as runners-up in the Dorset and Wiltshire plate.

Dan Bowditch won first team player of the year, while Ryan Lewendon clinched the top point scorer award with Joel Wilson claiming the top try scorer trophy.

Elsewhere, the freshly-promoted men’s second team maintained their place in Dorset and Wiltshire Three South with seventh place, just one point away from a top-half placing.

Ben Billington won second team player of the year, while Kevin Leatham won the Fair Play trophy. Dave Stone was named third team player of the year.

Other awards went to Tom Drummond as the most improved player, Khylo Farley as Clubman of the year, Tom Wildman as emerging player of the year and Christian Llewendon as tackler of the year.

Along with the men’s presentations, the evening was combined with awards for the Dorchester, Weymouth and Portland Ladies team, with several members achieving county status last season.

Corrin Parker and Sara Morgan won the respective back and forward players of the year, with Fern Read clinching try scorer of the year.

Candy Easter picked up the most improved player of the year, Carol Ann Biggs won the Jim Wilson award and Claire Joiner was awarded with ‘oopsie’ of the year.

Club president Des Quick congratulated the players and their support teams on a competitive season, while thanking the second team players that stepped up to the first team when required.

Coach Paul Harding has left the club and Quick thanked the departing boss for the effort and success he had helped bring to both teams.

•Weymouth and Portland RFC are looking to welcome new players next season. Those interested should call 01305 778889, with training for 2017/18 beginning on July 11.