RICH Hayes has been crowned the Evening Press/Guildford Construction Player of the Year for a remarkable fifth time.

He received the trophy and £350 first prize, provided by sponsors Guildford Construction, following Friday night's final match.

Afterwards he praised the small band of loyal supporters, saying

"All credit to them. It's great that they turned out in all weathers to watch us. You can't ask for more than that and all I can say is I'm disappointed for them."

Front row partner Steve Hill scooped the £150 runner-up prize, just ahead of Andy Hill.

In the supporters' awards, Steve Hill was voted Player of the Year, Chris Judge was Most Improved Player and Andy Lambert took the top try-scorer trophy.

Hayes also took the Coaches' Player of the Year while Andy Hill was the Players' Player.