Dimitri Payet has been named as the Betway 2015/16 Hammer of the Year following an outstanding first season with West Ham United.
 
The 29-year-old Frenchman, who last month became the first West Ham player to be voted into a top flight Team of the Year since 1978, beat off competition from several star performers to land the top prize.
 
He follows in the footsteps of Aaron Cresswell, who also triumphed in his debut campaign as a Hammer.
 
Speaking exclusively to whufc.com, he said: "It is a huge honour and a defining moment for me at the Club.

"It recognises the hard work I've put in and I am very happy about it. This is the best award a player can win because it is voted for by the fans, but I need to thank my teammates and the coaching staff."

Payet was the clear winner in the fan vote, with fellow new signing Michail Antonio coming second and two-time winner Mark Noble third.
 
Payet arrived in east London from Marseille last summer and immediately made an impact with his new Club, scoring three goals in his first six games.
 
That tremendous form continued throughout the year, even after an ankle injury disrupted his winter months.
 
He returned to the team with a bang after Christmas, scoring four stunning free-kicks and continuing to provide countless chances for his teammates.
 
A tally of 12 goals and 13 assists have made him the new darling of the Hammers faithful, with his Hammer of the Year award capping not only a wonderful season, but a successful awards evening too.