Dursley celebrate and look ahead (From Gazette Series)

Dursley celebrate and look ahead

DURSLEY Rugby Club held the annual award evening on Saturday, with some new and deserving names appearing on the roll of honour.

Club president and chairman of the Gloucestershire RFU John Darlaston kicked off proceedings with a special presentation from the RFU as part of the national valuing the volunteer programme to Simon Bilous for his efforts over the years in various capacities including membership secretary; club secretary; mini/junior rugby chairman and latterly as senior rugby manager.

The regular awards then proceeded as follows: First team player of the season: Greg Allen; Mark Ackerman cup for United player of the season: Rich Oldham; Stan Baldwin cup for Nomad player of the season: Neil Parry; Emlyn Morgan cup for most improved player: Kevin Rhys Davies.

Keith Harding player's player of the season: Rich Oldham; J Minchin trophy for Clubman of the year: Steve McDonald; Jack Heaven cup for services to Junior Rugby: Dave Dungworth; Jack Heaven cup for services to Senior Rugby: Alan Smith.

A specially engraved tankard was presented to Paul Hollingworth for his efforts over the last 20 years in organising the successful senior rugby annual tours to various exotic locations including Dublin, Prague and Rovigo.

Senior Rugby training also started this week with last season's coach Stu Chant being joined by former Coventry, Gloucester and Worcester prop James Brody.

Training will continue throughout the summer on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, starting at 7pm prompt.

A players meeting for all senior players will take place on Tuesday, July 12 at 9pm following training, to discuss the plans for the summer and for next season.