LAST weekend Crickhowell RFC held their annual Dinner and Awards evening in the Clarence Hall. Thank you bouquets were given to the ladies from the Tea Shack - Brenda James, Sue Vaughan and Anthea Birch, the chairman’s long -suffering wife, Lesley and club physio Julie Cashell, who was also given a standing ovation having been awarded a British Empire Medal for services to older people in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list.

A commemorative tankard was presented to outgoing coach Gareth Bowen in recognition of his service to the club both on and off the field and the Chairman welcomed the new coaching team of stalwart Jim Aylett, backs coach Mark Withey and new head-coach, John Nash.

The Chairman’s award went to Owen Miles for his efforts in regenerating the mini section. Clubman of the year was shared by Bleddyn Carrington and Kevin Smythe. Most Improved Player was Simon Windebank, who also scooped the Touchliners Award. Forward of the Year was Aaron Horne, Back of the Year - Richard Rhydderch-Roberts, the Coaches Award went to Matt Botting and the Players Player was Harry Summers. Thanks were given to all players for their efforts and commitment this season.

Last week Owen Miles organised and ran a tag tournament in conjunction with Crickhowell High School. The event was a great success, with 250 children from five local primary schools taking part. Twenty-six teams played a total of 42 games on four pitches at the High School, with Crickhowell Primary winning the finals in both age groups. The High School staff worked very well alongside on this, and over the summer the club will be running pre-season training for those joining the High School in September. The club’s intention is to continue creating bonds with the primary and high schools in order to have a strong Mini/Junior section in Crickhowell, encouraging mixed rugby participation for all ages.

Pre-season training will commence in July with a date yet to be confirmed. Rugby returns to Parc Broyd on July 6 when a game is scheduled against the Royal Tank Regiment as part of the summer fete being held on the ground. The event will also feature a host of activities, stalls and events for all the family. Full details can be found on the club’s new Crickhowell RFC page on Facebook.