Rugby Union
Departing Garvey wins top prize

Buy photos » Marcel Garvey will join French side Castres this summer. Picture by Ian Smith

FRANCE-bound wing Marcel Garvey has been handed the perfect parting gift as he was voted the Worcester Warriors Player of the Year at the end of season awards ceremony at Sixways.

The 29-year-old, who has scored 46 tries in 125 appearances for Warriors and will join Top 14 club Castres this summer, edged out fellow nominees Sam Betty and Jake Abbott to claim the top prize on Friday.

Head coach Richard Hill said: "I have been delighted with Marcel during my time at the club and he fully deserves this award for a fantastic final season at the club.

"He has been one of the standout performers in the squad who is consistently impressive week in and week out for us. He has given his all every time he has pulled on the jersey. He remains one of the best wingers in the country in my eyes and leaves some big shoes to fill."

It was also a night to remember for Betty who collected the Players' Player of the Year Award after an impressive debut season at Worcester.

For a second successive season England u20 back row Matt Kvesic took home the Young Player of the Year award as he was selected ahead of prop James Currie.

Meanwhile, the Warrior of the Year Award went to James Percival and the Community Award was won by scrum half Shaun Perry, with Andy Goode and Errie Claassens also nominated.

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