Chairman Neil Golding has spoken passionately about the exciting times ahead for Sheppey Rugby Club.

Speaking at the club’s annual awards night on Saturday, he said the 2010/2011 season will be "a special year for the club."

The club had a poor start to their Kent 1 campaign last season and were rooted in the bottom two until after Christmas when the introduction of some influential new signings dramatically turned their season around.

They produced a string of impressive victories and ended their season in style by lifting the Kent Salver after beating Gillingham Anchorians.

Golding (pictured) said: "We should not lose sight of what we have here at Sheppey – a one-club mentality and a dedicated committee that gets things done. It’s important we have a vision, openness and transparency – which has not always been the case – and speak with a united voice.

"When the going got tough last year the first team continued training in numbers.

"There is a great attitude on an off the field. With the introduction of our star players, the level of the other players went up."

Turning to the club’s thriving junior section, he added: "We don’t just produce players, we produce them in the right way and are successful in those areas."

The prestigious Clubman of the Year award went to stewardess Jacqui Barman. The Young Player of the Year was Tom Varker and the Most Improved Player Dave Marsden.

The third team player of the Year was Jamie Walters and the second team player went to Zac Taylor. Dave Dewis was first team player of the year.

Mr Golding also paid tribute to Head Coach Frank Davis who has left his position after three years.