Andy Pond collects the coaches’ player of the year award from Mike Lewis at Devonport Services end of season presentation night

DEVONPORT Services will celebrate their promotion to South West One this weekend with a four-day tour to Gibraltar.

A party of 40 will fly out to the British overseas territory on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula in the early hours of Thursday morning.

They will play a Gibraltar Select XV on Friday night before enjoying the weather and exploring what the ‘Rock’ has to offer.

“After a long year of people putting a lot of effort in something like this is great,” said Services head coach Mike Lewis.

“It also shows people that we are still a proper rugby club and not just a team looking to win games and get promoted.

“We have got all sorts of people going on the tour. We have some of the committee going, some ex-players and some colts who have turned 18. It is a good mix and should be a cracking weekend away.”

Meanwhile, Services recently held their end of season awards night.

Andy Pond dominated the evening, picking up three of the first team prizes. He claimed the coaches’ player of the year, the players’ player of the year and the club captain’s award.

“He got three awards and he has been fantastic this year,” said Lewis.

“He has grown up a lot and has contributed so much to the team this year. Without him this season we would not be where we are.

“He has really shown commitment. He has been there every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. He isn’t complacent and is always trying to get better and work at his game. He’s a great role model for the young lads.”

Liam Jarvis also had a good night. He picked up the prize for most improved player and also won the colts coaches’ player of the year.

Mike Rickard claimed the colts’ players’ player of the year, while Kyle Drummon was Services’ second team player of the year.

Liam Jarvis receives the most improved player award from Services chairman Nigel Fergusson