DORCHESTER Rugby Club held its annual dinner at the end of a successful season.

The first-team narrowly missed out on promotion in Southern Counties South after losing to Windsor in a play-off, while the second string won the Dorset & Wilts Three South title.

Guests of honour at the dinner were Stewart Kilby from the D&W Referees Society, D&W Rugby’s John Palmer and Andy Deacon, the former Gloucester prop who played 320 games for the Cherry & Whites spanning the amateur and professional game.

He also played for England A and turned out three times for the Barbarians.

Deacon is now director of rugby at Cinderford who play in National League One.

The guests of honour were introduced by club president Harry Dowell, before Deacon spoke about his playing career before taking questions from the floor.

The first-team accolade for player of the year went to John Warren, while the most improved award was collected by Adam Makepeace.

Alex Skidmore won the second team player of the year trophy.

Although the season has now ended, pre-season training will start in early July.

Anyone who is interested in playing or returning to the game in any capacity should contact Andrew Smith on 07812 191136 or email andrew.smith@dorchester-rfc.co.uk