Woodman suffered a back injury while training with Sale last year

The Sale loose-head, who won 22 England caps, sustained the injury training with the Sharks in September 2004.

"I've done everything I can to come back from this injury," said Woodman.

"It's been an incredibly frustrating time for me but I have some great memories from rugby and hope that I will remain involved with the sport."

Damn shame, top bloke! Shame to see any player retire early due to injury From ST Have your say on Scrum V

England boss Andy Robinson paid tribute to the hard-scrummaging Cornishman.

"On behalf of the England squad I was very sorry to hear that Trevor was retiring from rugby," said Robinson.

"He has been an outstanding player for club and country and he made an important contribution to the success of the RWC 2003 campaign.

"I'd like to wish him every success in whatever he chooses to do in the future."

Woodman's immediate future will see him continue with his rehabilitation programme in order to reduce the pain he continues to experience.

He will then look at his future career options.