THE player of the year award at Malvern RFC annual dinner was a foregone conclusion, awarded to Shaun Lancett, the highest scoring front row forward in England, who responded with a hilarious acceptance speech.

The all-conquering Malvern Angels Ladies team voted Mel Dawson player of the year, whilst the Chairman's Cup went to prolific try scorer Louise Sahm.

Director of rugby David Robins then moved on to the men's awards, the first being the yellow jersey, given for an unusual number of similar coloured cards collected in the season. This, surprisingly went to the gentle giant' of the team, Chris Smith, who had perhaps been more sinned against than sinning. Third XV player of the year went to veteran stalwart Adrian Sunter, whilst the second XV award was collected by Stewart Smith.

One of the most highly contested prizes at Malvern is the President's Cup, which goes to the outstanding young player in senior teams, and this was closely contested, finally being presented to Nick Clarke. The Bowman and Acock Cup for the most improved player was awarded to Richard Fleming, who has won more man of the match awards than any other this year.

Off the field, the Chairman's Cup, for the person who has done most for the club in the season was presented to Tony Brook, the driving force behind the sponsorship effort. Dick Cooper, retiring at 72 years old as wielder of the magic sponge', was given a surprise award of a personalised bucket.