Tough season - but Bognor RFC have plenty to be proud about

Some players have moved to Worthing RFC while others have gone to Chichester and Littlehampton.

However, when the going gets tough, the tough get going and Lee Balchin has developed into an outstanding leader and club captain.

His motivation and example manifested itself at the club presentation supper when more than 100 club members celebrated many achievements.

The awards recognised achievement on the field plus many of the hard-working volunteers off the pitch who ensure the club can function properly.

Although the first team are relegated to London three south west, a young team full of talent and enthusiasm are already looking forward to the new challenge.

The club have had to reduce the number of league sides to three but work is in hand to continue to run a fourth team, initially playing friendlies.

When the squad is up to full strength, they will apply to be reinstated back into the league system.

Roger Hammond has stepped down as first-team manager after 21 years and was presented with a framed first-team shirt.

Award winners: Player of the year - Jack Tomkins; Clubman of the year - Lee Balchin; Most improved player - Adam Knight; Most consistent player - Ben Archer; Highest try scorer - Rob Parry; Best colt - Ashley Butt; Winner of the goal-kicking competition - Shane Stevens; Outstanding team - fourth team; Best second-team player - Chris Barlow; Best third-team player - Lee Russell; Best fourth-team player - Tim Dowle; Richard Award - Ashley Butt.