Derek Wyatt MP said, "The short-listed clubs have all created and delivered policies that have further embedded them into their communities. I am sure the judging will be as interesting, but as difficult as last year".

Wayne Morris, Community Manager at Premier Rugby added, "It was extremely hard to select the Rugby Citizenship Award nominees. We were all impressed by the breadth of programmes offered by all twelve Guinness Premiership clubs and the positive impact they have had in tacking local issues."

Four players were short listed to receive the EDF Energy Community Player of the Season award. Again, Bath Rugby and Saracens were represented, with Matt Perry and Richard Haughton nominated. They are joined by Dave Walder of London Wasps and Dale Rasmussen of Worcester Warriors.

Wayne Morris 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."

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