Chelmsford Rugby Club hosted their annual dinner and dance and presentation evening at Furze Hill on Friday, attended by 185 players, former players and friends of the club.

Club president, Mr Peter Jordan, highlighted the many successes of the club during the 1998/99 season including the first team's promotion and the successful mini's tour to South Africa.

The awards were made by Mr Rick Griffiths, chairman of the club.

Tim Hughes, club coach, was presented with a tankard in recognition of his hard work in getting the first team to league winning standard.

The player of the year, voted by the players, was named as Lawrence Crispin as a tribute to his dedication to the first team over the year.

The Ladies' player of the year went to Michelle Barber, a relative newcomer to the game but who has played every game with enthusiasm and determinism.

A new award was presented to the Ladies team for the most improved player.

This was an award set up in memory of Bob Foster who did so much to encourage Ladies rugby in the club and who supported the Ladies team wholeheartedly.

Roz Foster who presented the award to Sally Rockenbach, a talented young player.

Two club awards were presented - the prize for Endeavour went to Graham Venn for his efforts with the minis and particularly for his help with fundraising for the South Africa tour and The Club Person of the year award went to Clare St John-Coleman for the many jobs she does for the club.

This was a fitting end to a most enjoyable season and members look forward to the new season in September.

Men's training restarts on Tuesday's and Thursday's in June, and potential new members are invited to telephone the club on 01245 261159 for details.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.