Sutton Benger based Wellesley Arms Rugby Club, known for their bright pink socks, celebrated the end of their first season of league rugby in style with a black tie ball at the Angel Hotel in Chippenham.

The highlight of the evening was the awards ceremony which saw Matt Rea win the players' player trophy, Matt Stacey named most improved Martin Strange receive the clubman of the year honours.

Other awards were picked up by Liam Dunford, who won the golden boot, and Mike Nutland, who took the prestigious honour of gnome of the year.

Looking back on the season, club founder, secretary and outgoing captain Richard Waddington said "We have enjoyed the challenge of stepping up to play league rugby in Dorset and Wilts Two North, and although we were unable to finish in the top half of the table, we managed to fulfil all 22 fixtures, unlike many of our opponents.

"We now have approximately 40 registered players, with new ones are turning up all the time, which is not bad for a young village-based club."

The club is named after the pub where it was formed in 2002 as a nomadic social side playing friendlies, and their trademark bright pink socks quickly became famous on the local rugby circuit.

Now with one of the best pitches in the local area and excellent changing and training facilities, including a newly purchased scrum machine, the club is looking forward positively to the future.

Incoming captain Richard Hurring paid tribute to experienced coach Nick Cavill, who has pledged his commitment to the club next season.

"Nick joined us last summer and has undoubtedly been the main factor in successfully turning us from a pub side into a competitive outfit.

"With his continued support we are looking forward to more player recruitment and further success on the pitch next year," he said.

From next season the club will change its name to Sutton Benger RFC, reflecting the move away from its pub team roots.

It also shows the desire of the committee and players to continue improving performances in what is likely to be a restructured league next season.

Their target next year is to finish in the top half of the league, and if successful, this ambitious outfit really will be 'in the pink.'

After an early summer break training will recommence on Wednesday evenings from mid-July. Call Richard Waddington on (01249) 720081.