Wayne Morris, Community Manager at Premier Rugby, said: “We are fortunate as a sport to have a huge number of players who willingly throw themselves into community work. Choosing just four players for the shortlist was very hard and any of these four would be worthy winners.”

Louise Poole, Head of Brand at EDF Energy, Premier Rugby’s new Community Partner, said: “All the clubs have really thrown themselves into the new national schools programme, which is introducing rugby to tens of thousands of children. The response from schools has been great and shows the strong community links that the clubs have. The four short-listed players represent the very best of that community commitment.”

Matt Sherratt, Warriors Community Rugby Development Officer, said: “Dale has been and continues to be a fantastic ambassador for Worcester Warriors in our community programme. He is always willing to give his free time to not only promote the game of rugby but also help children within an educational environment.”

Premier Rugby has also today also announced the nominees for the All Party Parliamentary Rugby Group (APPRG) Citizenship Award. Bath Rugby, Newcastle Falcons and Saracens have been nominated.

Both award winners will be formally announced at the Guinness Premiership Awards on Wednesday 9th May at the Nursery Pavilion, Lord’s Cricket Ground.

Premier Rugby clubs invest approximately 7% of their turnover into community programmes. Across the country, Premier Rugby has over 25 private and public sector community partners and is running (with its clubs and partners) programmes in the fitness, sports, health, education and social inclusion areas. The schemes are delivered by the full time equivalent of 50 Community Development officers, 100 volunteers and the players. In total, Premier Rugby clubs contribute 100,000 man hours per year to community work.