IN front of a big crowd at Regentsholme on Saturday afternoon Lydney ran in 11 tries against bottom club Chippenham to claim the Division Three South West title and bounce straight back into National League Division Two.

At half time, club officials were presented with the RFU's accreditation award which recognises the work of developing rugby across the whole club and planning the long-term sustainability of the club.

Saturday's game was the last at home this season for Lydney who have clocked up an amazing 109 points this season and are 18 points clear of second-placed Redingensians.

Club chairman John Nelmes said: "It was a very good weekend and it's been a very good season.

"We've had a group of committed players and (head coach) Duncan Bell has done a fantastic job.

"The RFU accreditation recognises the role of the rugby club in the community and as a community club we are very proud to receive it."

Club accreditation is based on retaining and developing players, recruiting new players, attracting and keeping high quality coaches, volunteers and referees, having effective management and facilities and being well integrated with the local community.

The club's facilities have been given a boost thanks to funding from NatWest Bank.

The club is investing in a biomass boiler to replace its existing 40-year-old system and the bank is also refinancing some existing loans that will save the club money each month.

Mr Nelmes said: "It helps give the club a more secure financial future. It's onwards and upwards for us now."

Staff from the bank helped out at the match on Saturday including on the gate – replacing gate man Ron Bryant and working behind the bar.