SOUTHEND-based Team Viper celebrated a very successful 2008 season when athletes and families gathered at the Wick Community Centre, Wickford, for their annual presentations.

Not only were athletes able to herald successes, the team were able to raise money, thanks to Vocational Training Services, a Southend-based training provider.

They sponsored the event which enabled all ticket sales to go towards kit and benefits for all Viper members.

After a meal, team coach Ian Gummery and chairman Steve Henigan reflected on last year and the campaign to come.

First up was the most improved swimmer award, which went to Lara Nyman, then most improved cyclist, Dean Johnson, and the similar award for running went to Sarah Jeffery.

Athletes were awarded with trophies and gifts donated by sponsor Browning Cycles.

The next award was for the winners of the Viper team championships which took place in the summer. The female winner was Lara Nyman and the top male was Howard Clarke.

The main award was for triathlete of the year. This is for the athlete who not only competed well but has contributed to the team.

Presenting these were Gail Cooksey, who is the managing director of Vocational Training Services.

The Hawkings family did very well with third place going to Bethany Hawkings.

Steve Henigan was second and victory went to Peter Hawkings. He could not be present but his dad collected the trophy on his behalf.