Former England and British Lions hooker Mark Regan has announced he will retire from playing at the end of the season.
Colourful hooker to hang up his boots at the end of the season
Former England and British Lions hooker Mark Regan has confirmed he will hang up his boots at the end of the season.
Regan, who has been the heartbeat of the Bristol side, plans to spend his retirement concentrating on coaching and business interests.
The 37-year-old, who won 46 caps for England and was part of the 2003 and 2007 World Cup squads, said: "I can truly say that I have loved every single minute of my rugby career.
"Any other sports professional will understand how difficult it is to make the decision to retire, and this announcement has not been an easy thought process.
"I realise I have lived the dream of any kid who has picked up a rugby ball and wanted to wear the red rose of England."
Regan, who also played for Bath and Leeds, has combined playing with his role as scrum and lineout coach at Bristol, as well as forwards coach for Clifton RFC.
And colourful hooker is currently discussing a number of offers to take up coaching roles.
He added: "I have enjoyed 20 years at the top of the game and have been in regular dialogue with Bristol Rugby since the turn of the year.
"I may be retiring from playing, but I'm not retiring from being involved in rugby, the world of business and the community in general."
