Alex Codling was rewarded for a fantastic campaign in charge of Ebbw Vale by being named coach of the season at last night's Principality Premiership awards.

It was a double for the Steelmen after the Premiership's match officials gave the club the fair play award, keeping it in Gwent after Pontypool's success last season.

Codling, now forwards coach at London Welsh, said: "It's great to win the awards and it is down to the hard work of the players, coaches Pat Horgan and Gareth Walton, and everyone behind the scenes.

"It was a great achievement to come second and this is a great way to end my time at the club."

Vale back rower John Bowd was pipped for player of the season by Llanelli's Morgan Stoddard, as was Newport's Jason Tovey for best newcomer, Blues winger Tom James taking the honour, while Neath's Roy Evans was given an award for services to rugby.