On receiving the award, Jackson said, “I was very shocked when I heard the news and couldn’t quite believe it to be honest. It is a real honour to be voted by your peers. My thanks have to go to my team mates at Saracens for the support I have received this season. It is the greatest achievement of my rugby career to win this award and a very proud moment.”

The accolade of PRA Mercedes-Benz Young Player of the Year – The Nick Duncombe Memorial Award was awarded to the Harlequins winger David Strettle after bursting onto the domestic and international scene with several scintillating performances throughout the season.

Strettle headed a group of exciting English nominees including Anthony Allen, Toby Flood, Shane Geraghty and Tom Rees.

David commented, “Initially, I was just really pleased to be nominated alongside some great young players. Then to have won the award was a bit of a shock and just a brilliant feeling. I am looking forward to trying to retain my place in the Quins side next year and hopefully be involved on the International stage again.”

Damian Hopley, CEO of the PRA said, “This year’s Awards have been another resounding success. As well as honouring the outstanding individual and collective playing achievements of the past year, tonight is also very much about raising much needed proceeds for the PRA Benevolent Fund, and enable us to continue improving the services for all our members. My congratulations go to all the nominees and winners tonight.”

Other players recognised on the night included Will Greenwood who picked up the PRA Kingston Smith Special Merit Award for his outstanding contribution to rugby and Robert Todd who was awarded the Towergate Tlc Blyth Spirit Award for the remarkable courage he has shown in the face of his recent illness.

World Cup winning captain, Martin Johnson was inducted into the Barclay’s Hall of Fame, recognising the prolific impact Johnson has had on the game through his playing career.

PRA Computacenter Rugby Players’ Awards 2007

PRA Computacenter Players’ Player of the Year

1)Glen Jackson, Saracens
2)Dan Ward-Smith, Bristol Rugby
3)Alesana Tuigali, Leicester Tigers

PRA Mercedes-Benz Young Player of the Year – Nick Duncombe Memorial Award

1)David Strettle, NEC Harlequins
2)Tom Rees, London Wasps
3)Shane Geraghty, London Irish

PRA Kingston Smith Special Merit Award

Will Greenwood, NEC Harlequins

The Blyth Spirit Award Sponsored by Towergate Tlc

Robert Todd

PRA Premier Rugby Highlight of the Season

Leicester Tigers’ win against an unbeaten Munster at Thomond Park in the Heineken Cup

PRA Sunday Times Try of the Year

Tom Varndell – Leicester Tigers v London Irish (18/11/06)

PRA Barclays Hall of Fame Induction

Martin Johnson