NEWCASTLE FALCONS scrum-half Rory Lawson has been forced to retire from professional rugby because of a chronic wrist injury.

The 32-year-old Scotland international only joined Falcons last summer, but after helping the club regain its Aviva Premiership status last season, he will be unable to represent them in the top-flight.

Lawson made 23 appearances last season, scoring four tries, and retires with 31 Scotland caps to his name, five of which saw him captain his national side.

Lawson said: “I'm obviously gutted to have been forced to stop playing the game I love, but I'll always look back on my career with immense pride.

“I've thoroughly enjoyed my time at Newcastle Falcons, and I've loved every minute of my stay in the North-East, a region that is passionate about its rugby.

“I'm not entirely sure what the future holds at this stage, but there are a few opportunities to explore and I will continue to work closely with my RPA (Rugby Players' Association) player development manager, Mandy Thompson, to identify what areas to focus on over the coming months.”

Falcons director of rugby Dean Richards said: “Rory has been a magnificent servant to the game and he will be sorely missed.

“He's a quality player, whose enthusiasm, wealth of knowledge and experience has really rubbed off on our players ever since he arrived at the club.

“I thank him for him commitment to the club last season in helping us achieve our main objective of Premiership rugby, and I think I speak on behalf of everyone at the club in wishing him all the very best for the future.”