NOW in its 40th year, the South & West Dorset Netball League members celebrated their Ruby Anniversary in style and leading proceedings was compere Alison Holmes, one of the longest serving members of the league.

Things kicked off with champions Belle Construction scooping the coveted Premier title for the sixth successive season.

The ballers are now home to one of the Team Bath Futures - Jessamy Baker. As a versatile circle defence and attack, she has helped the team finish in pole position for both Winter and Summer seasons.

Hot on their heels were sister team New Body Fitness, part of the Arethusans NC, who took the runner-up spot, with sponsor Julien Lawes present to deliver the trophies.

It was a big year for the tenacious George Bar & Grill, who after a determined display of class and consistency, saw them earn Winter Season Premier Division runner-up spot.

Captain Nikki Marsh, said: “We have waited a long time to get here, the team are delighted to see their efforts recognised.”

It was O’Jos who boosted their trophy cabinet, winning Winter Season Division One.

The team who fell shy of the Division One title were GW Electrical, however there was still plenty to celebrate with defender Laura Osbourne sweeping up on the individual awards, being recognised in every category.

Summer Division One action saw young guns Gungho Marketing steal the show, gaining promotion into the Premier.

The squad now boasts five Team Bath and Severn Stars Futures, along with four county athletes.

Team GH were pushed to the end by rivals OTC, who can hold their heads high, narrowly missing out on the final game of the season. However, local PE teacher and OTC captain Bryony White was “delighted” with her team’s efforts and “proud to have gained a place in the top flight for next season.”

Division Two podium titles were shared between two new teams, Coastal Cheese (Winter) and Beaminster Braves (Summer).

Both teams have worked tirelessly to develop their sides in terms of performance and recruitment of players, with each team now part of a club setting.

Allways (Winter) and Basepoint (Summer) were the two sides having to run in second place this year but still gained automatic promotion.

With the individual awards creating the most tension of the night, players and umpires also received nominations throughout the year.

Recognised amongst the best were local teachers Laura Osborne and Jayne Guppy, who continue to inspire those around them. Team Waikiki representative Lauren Dabbs was again thrust into the limelight for her defensive prowess and young England Netball Satellite Pathway starlet Olivia Conning, who is following in the footsteps of mum and sister who also play in the league, cleaned up in terms of achievements on the night.

The ladies were joined by England Netball Officiating Tutor Kelly Browne who was on hand to present the officiating awards, with record numbers of umpires attending courses and undergoing formal training in a bid to qualify and facilitate future competition.

Many of our league umpires compete as players, as well as assume their officiating duties. Those earning recognition for their balanced approach towards the netballers, enthusiasm for the game and ability to work alongside the teams this year were seasoned umpires Louise Bugler and Mel Dive, as well as up and coming whistleblower Holly Fowler.

Historical figures from the league were on hand to present the final awards of the night, dedicated to those teams and individuals who are given special consideration in terms of their league contributions.

The late Denise Camp Award for fair play and good conduct went to a side who support the league in terms of umpiring, administration and netball spirit, donning their red dresses in support of the Ruby celebrations were Belle Construction.

The highest climbers in terms of positions moved through the divisions, as a direct result of their commitment, talent and competitiveness went to experienced side O’Jos.

The most prestigious award of the evening - Louise Beals Services to Netball got the biggest roar of the night; it went to someone who works tirelessly behind the scenes, assuming role of Publicity Officer, linking up with the Dorset Echo to write weekly match reports for all of the league members, all whilst studying for her A Levels - Becky Barton.

On behalf of the SWDN League, Bugler would like to “thank all of the committee for their continued support, Kevin Frampton for the photography and all of our members for making local netball a special place for over 200 women in West Dorset.”