New Milton Rugby Club’s star fly-half Joe Eldridge took the players’ player award at the end-of-season awards ceremony.

New Milton Rugby Club’s star fly-half Joe Eldridge took the players’ player award at the end-of-season awards ceremony.

In a difficult season, the heartthrob outside-half showed his class and was responsible for some of the best moments in the campaign.

Club president Phil Hoyle presented him with the trophy and shield and said: “Winning the players’ player award is a great achievement.

“Joe has really grown into the role of player-maker and leader in the team, and everyone is very excited about next season.”

He added: “We have acquired the services of Gavin Evans as coach, and he has a superb rugby CV.

“There is a real buzz at the club from the minis to the first team – and we are looking for players of all standards and ages to join us for next season.

“The senior awards evening, which included our Colts, celebrated those whose efforts and achievements really impressed us.”

Other winners – Senior players’ clubman: Matt Wale. Most improved senior player: Lewis Thompson. First team coach’s player: Jack Corbett. Golden boot: Dalton Thomas. Second team clubman: Rory Thomas. Second team coach’s player: Matt Wale. Second team players’ player: Danny Oliver. Power, passion, pride award: Luke Elrick. Top try-scorer: Dalton Thomas. Young player of the year: Harry Duell-Merritt. Outstanding service to senior rugby: Ed Baker. Colts – Coach’s player and player of the year: Toby Hawkins. Players’ player: Matthew Hall. Spirit of rugby (team commitment): Max Russell. Spirit of rugby (versatility): Tom O’Callaghan. Spirit of rugby (most improved): Jacob Stratford.