Bristol's former England international hooker Mark Regan has announced his retirement from professional rugby.

After 18 years of playing at the top level, the 37-year-old is hanging up his boots at the end of the season.

The World Cup winner 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. It has not been an easy thought process."

He added: "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.

"I'm extremely proud of the career I have had and I'd like to thank everyone who I have worked with over the years, from developing through the school and age-group ranks to the international level and my current employers Bristol."

Regan made his international debut against South Africa in November 1995 and went on to make 46 appearances, scoring three tries.

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He was part of the England World Cup winning squad in 2003 and also played in the World Cup final in 2007.

Regan was also a Lion, having been picked to tour South Africa in 1997. He had to sit out the first two Tests when Ireland's Keith Wood got picked ahead of him but played in the final game as the Lions won the series 2-1.

He began his domestic career with Bristol in 1991 before moving to Bath six years later, helping them win the Heineken Cup against French side Brive in 1998.

In 2002 he moved on to Leeds Tykes where he had further success as they lifted the Powergen Cup at Twickenham with victory over Sale in 2005.

That same year he made a welcome return to the Memorial Ground and last season helped Bristol enjoy their best-ever campaign in the Premiership, finishing third.

However the club's fortunes have taken a turn for the worse and they are currently rooted to the bottom of the league.

Regan is not planning to turn his back on the game, but is set to take his coaching qualifications with the Rugby Football Union.

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."

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