On Saturday Haywards Heath Rugby Club was presented with two prestigious awards by England veteran and current President of the Rugby Football Union, Jason Leonard. The presentation took place at the annual Sussex RFU gala at the Hilton Metropole in Brighton and Mark Newey, Heath Chairman and others representing Heath Rugby Club were on hand to receive the awards from the former England prop.

Heath was recognised for winning the Sussex Canterbury Jack Intermediate League following their unbeaten league season and also received the important accolade as Sussex Rugby Club of the Year. This was just reward after a year when all associated with the Club have worked tirelessly to reignite its senior rugby performance on the pitch and restore pride to the Heath shirt. The 1st XV is looking to achieve back to back league titles as Heath moves into Sussex 1 next season and, with the loyal support of the non-playing membership at the Club and the positive atmosphere off the pitch, this goal is possible.

Speaking after the presentation, Chairman Mark Newey said “I am delighted that the hard work of the squad and the Club as a whole has been recognised in this way and we are very proud to be Sussex Rugby Club of the Year. We are very excited about the future of Heath in this Rugby World Cup year. I would like to thank the Sussex RFU for their help and assistance over the last season and I am looking forward to another exciting year of rugby at Heath throughout our senior, colts, junior and mini sections”.

Picture shows Nick Main (1st XV captain), Euan Greaves-Smith , Dan Fergusson, Dave Grimley and Mark Newey alongside Jason Leonard with the Sussex Rugby Club of the Year shield.