FORMER Wales and British Lions skipper Phil Bennett OBE was the guest of honour at Minety Rugby Club's annual dinner on Friday night.

Speaking after the meal, Bennett entertained members with anecdotes from his time as a player.

He also spoke passionately of the value of the Six Nations Championship and stressed the importance of promoting rugby among young people. Following his speech, Bennett assisted with a special presentation to long-serving Minety club member and former president, John Butler.

Known affectionately to all at the club as 'JB', Butler not only enjoyed a long playing career with the club but also exercised an equally significant role behind the scenes.

He helped build the clubhouse, personally constructed all of Minety's goal posts and crossbars, and has spent many long hours maintaining the club's pitches, facilities and equipment. Butler was presented with two engraved tankards and a presentation spade engraved with the words, 'The Butler did it'.

Club coach Andy Ward also presented Butler with a Barbour jacket emblazoned with the Minety crest.

First team wing-forward Dave Miller was awarded the player of the year cup, while the prize for young player of the year went to Oliver Bowne. Winger Matt Burgess was nominated as the most improved player over the course of the season.

Club captain Charlie Gawthropp awarded his vice-captain Luke Huckin the captain's cup for his help.