NOT only was Newton Abbot RFC’s victory over Plymstock Oaks on Saturday, April 18, their final home game of the season, but they also said goodbye to a true stalwart of the team.

Lloyd Radford surpassed 300 appearances in the all-white kit and has been with them “through thick and thin” in the words of Director of Rugby Mike Saxton.

Saxton, who himself played alongside Radford for Newton, added: “He’s played at all different levels for us and we are hugely appreciative of everything that he’s done for the club.”

Despite only picking up rugby in his late teens, Radford went on to represent England schoolboys and Hartpury, in between stints with the All Whites.

Head coach Steve Perry also sang his praises: “Lloyd is brilliant, he’s got a real connection with the club and helps the young lads coming through.

“He’s been brilliant as a player and as a coach and I think he’s going to continue coaching and carry on at the club which is great.”

Radford led out the team on Saturday as they beat Plymstock Oaks by 52 points to 19 in the Saturday sunshine.