PLYMOUTH Argaum’s Nick Hancock was crowned men’s amateur player of the year at the National Rugby Awards on Thursday night.

England stars Jeremy Guscott, Jeff Probyn and Catherine Spencer helped select the award, along with journalist Nick Cain.

The judges were really impressed by 49-year-old Hancock, who only took up rugby five years ago.

Since then he has helped Argaum claim two promotions and last season made 21 appearances in the Cornwall/Devon League.

The awards ceremony was held at Twickenham.

Plymstock Albion Oaks’ Nigel Higginson was also a finalist in the volunteer of the year category.