NATHAN Herbert received the Player of the Year award as Bridport Rugby club celebrated their 50th anniversary with a black tie ball held at Freshwater Beach Holiday Park as more than 250 guests attended.

President Peter Brook gave a welcome address and asked for a minutes silence to remember those associated with club who were no longer with us. David Williams presented the Player of the Year Award to Herbert and Clubman of the Year to team manager Guy Livingston.

He then received a special engraved wine glass from Peter Brook in recognition of his services to the club.

Past and present members and players, as well as those associated with the club and accompanied by wives and girlfriends enjoyed a memorable evening with an excellent three-course meal followed by dancing to the band Scoot.

The occasion gave many old acquaintances the chance to catch up and reminisce, Tim Robbins who played in the early 70’s came from Preston and remarkably Don Aplin who played in the first season and went on to become club captain flew in for the occasion from Turkey and was hosted by founder member David Williams.

A raffle with prizes donated by members and local business raised an impressive £1381 which will be donated to the Dorset Air Ambulance and Joseph Weld Hospice.