FRIDAY evening's Gala RFC Awards Night was one of reflection as well as one of optimism.

Despite a disappointing season, which saw the departure of coach George Graham and the Maroons cling onto Premier League status by their fingernails, it was a night of celebration.

George Graham junior and Callum Rowlandson were jointly awarded the Gala Rugby Football Club Player of the Year for 2015/16.

Young Player of the Year was Frankie Robson and the Players' Player trophy was collected by Graham Spiers.

Spiers was also named as the club captain for 2016/17.

Chris Keen was the popular choice for the Most Improved Player accolade.

During the evening, the portraits of recent Scotland caps Rory Sutherland and Lisa Robertson were unveiled on the Wall of Fame.

The YM awards were also presented during Friday's dinner.

Colin Campbell was named both the YM Player of the Year and the Players' Player.

The Young Player award went to Graham Dunn.

It was Scott Chapman who was the Gala A Player of the Year for 2015/16.

And not forgetting the Eddie Scissor Hands and Hammer Award which went to John Watson.