Puddletown has scooped a prestigious end-of-season award, having been voted the best of all the 36 Dorset & Wilts rugby clubs from the referees’ point of view.

The Bob Stock Memorial Trophy is awarded annually by the Twin Counties’ Referees’ Society to the club which, on a number of key factors marked by the match officials on each visit, scores the highest aggregate points over the season.

Not only did the Villagers head the table overall, but they also top-scored in four of the six categories assessed.

Fixtures secretary Geoff Puryer, who received the trophy from chairman of the Referees’ Society Nigel Cowley, said: “Winning this award is a real accolade for the club and is recognition of the hard work that goes into preparing for each and every game.

“It also recognises the hospitality we strive to offer on match days.

“More than that though, we are also judged on how we play, and how we behave on the field.

“The fact that we came top in that category too is testament to the spirit and discipline shown by all of our players, especially during what was a difficult and disappointing season.

“They, and everyone at Puddletown, can be very proud of this achievement.”