Jackson joined Saracens from Waikato in November 2004

Jackson beat Bristol number eight Dan Ward-Smith and Leicester winger Alesana Tuilagi to top spot in the poll.

The former New Zealand Maori, who is top points scorer in the Premiership this season and said: "I was very shocked when I heard the news."

Harlequins winger David Strettle won the Nick Duncombe Memorial Award after being named young player of the year.

Interview: Saracens fly-half Glen Jackson

He was one of five players who made their England international debuts this season to be nominated for the prize.

Wasps flanker Tom Rees was second with London Irish fly-half Shane Geraghty in third while the other nominees were Newastle fly-half Toby Flood and Gloucester centre Anthony Allen.

Strettle said: "Initially, I was just really pleased to be nominated alongside some great young players. Then to have won the award was a bit of a shock and just a brilliant feeling."

Jackson was quick to praise his Saracens colleagues for his award, adding: "It's a real honour to be voted by your peers. It's the greatest achievement of my rugby career to win this award.

It is the greatest achievement of my rugby career to win this award Glen Jackson

"This is a very proud moment and my thanks have to go to my team-mates at Saracens for the support I have received this season."

Second-placed Ward-Smith's achievement was especially notable considering he has been ruled out since January with badly damaged knee ligaments.

London Irish centre Mike Catt and Bristol lock Roy Winters were also nominated for the award.

England's World Cup-winning captain Martin Johnson was made a member of the PRA Hall of Fame while Will Greenwood was given the special merit award for his outstanding contribution to the game.