WING Ashton Hewitt is your Argus Dragon of the Year after a stunning breakthrough campaign at Rodney Parade.

The 21-year-old speedster from Caerleon scored seven tries in 23 appearances until a shoulder injury brought a premature end to his season.

Hewitt started 2015/16 as a fringe player but became one of the first names on the teamsheet with his elusive running, rapid feet and spirited defence.

He went over for a wonder try in the famous win against Pau at the Stade du Hameau in the European Challenge Cup and it was his mazy run from inside his 22, beating a handful of Ulster defenders in Belfast, that sparked Adam Hughes’ try of the season contender.

Hewitt’s form was catching the eye of the Wales management and he was tipped as a potential tourist to New Zealand before injury dashed those hopes. The winger is targeting a pre-season return to build on a memorable season.

Hewitt was presented with his trophy at the Dragons’ end of season awards last night when it was confirmed that 25-year-old wing Nick Scott, who failed to score a try in 14 appearances following his arrival from London Welsh, has left the club along with 21-year-old tighthead prop Alex Jeffries, who is expected to join the Ospreys.

The former Wales Under-20s international did not play a senior regional game and is behind the hugely promising prop Leon Brown, 19, in the pecking order. The Dragons also have Brok Harris, Shaun Knight and Lloyd Fairbrother on their books as options at 3 along with new signing Craig Mitchell.

Number eight Taulupe Faletau (Bath), hooker Hugh Gustafson (Ospreys) and loosehead Boris Stankovich also head out of the door.

“On behalf of everyone at the Dragons, I would like to thank everyone listed for their services and hard work whilst they were with the region,” said head coach Kingsley Jones.

“I would like to recognise each and every one of these individuals and wish them the very best of luck in the future, both on and off the pitch.

“All of these players have contributed to the squad in their own way and I would like to thank them all of their time, and let them know that there will always be a welcome at Rodney Parade for them.”