The Rochdale Observer reported that around 100 guests attended the event, top of the agenda was the presentation of the Player of the Season award to David Larder. The hard-running second-row forward had his best campaign yet and ran in a staggering 15 tries with consistent performances week in, week out.

Hornets’ coach Martin Hall was stunned to receive a wall clock, a silver tankard and a bottle of champagne from the appreciative fans.

Ena Myers, who helped to organise the dinner, said: “It was a smashing afternoon. The food was excellent and it couldn’t have gone better. It was perfect. Martin Hall was moved when we presented him with his thank-you gifts, but he fully deserves them.”

After the meal Hornets’ chairman Ray Taylor spoke to the fans about the club’s present situation and he too was full of praise for his coach. The master of ceremonies was Stephen Holt.