TAVISTOCK Hockey Club Men’s first team have been named as the England Hockey Team of the Year for 2016 at a star-studded event in Reading.

With a squad brimming full of talent, many of whom are based in and around the Launceston area, Tavistock beat off competition from Boots, Wapping and Richmond’s men’s first elevens to secure the trophy which was presented by Great Britain player Sarah Haycroft.

Their statistics make impressive reading, winning all 22 League games, scoring 126 goals and conceding just 21 as they earned promotion to the Conference South.

They also reached the Devon Trophy semi-finals and the last 16 of the HA Vase.

Player Coach Simon Fenwick said: "It’s a great achievement for the club to be recognised on the national stage thanks to the success of the Men’s first team, all the shortlisted teams had a fantastic year so it’s even more special to win the award. It’s great for our lads to have their effort and commitment rewarded and we are all looking forward to maintaining our high standards next season.”

The team are full of appreciation for the Club Directors and Committee who have supported the team this season as they competed in three competitions and they would also like to thank Trewithen Dairy and Limagrain UK Ltd for supporting them and ensuring the squad were able to travel and attend the event.

One player from the team, Andy Berry, thought it would be a good PR idea to showcase milk as an excellent drink to aid in hydration and recovery after sports events. The team with their milk in hand certainly raised the profile amongst many leading GB stars and staff from England Hockey. After converting several of his team mates onto milk before games, Andy wanted to show support for the South West dairy farmer and to increase awareness of how good milk is for the body, compared to many high sugar energy drinks.