Former Wales captain Ryan Jones has announced his retirement from rugby at the age of 34.
The Bristol Rugby forward had been recovering from shoulder surgery at the end of last season, but he has been told that he risks further damage by continuing to play.
Jones, who won 75 caps for Wales and won three Grand Slam titles, has said that he is proud of what he has achieved in his career.
"This wasn't an easy decision for me to make, but there comes a time when I have to accept that my body is not able to cope with the rigours of professional rugby anymore," he told BBC Sport.
"I'm been incredibly fortunate to play the game I love for so long and have some amazing experiences and meet wonderful people. I'm so proud to be able to say I captained Wales and played for the British Lions - I've accomplished everything I wanted to in rugby.
"There's a tinge of regret that we were unable to achieve promotion last season, but I'm grateful to the players, staff and supporters at Bristol for the way I have been welcomed here."
Jones had one year left on his contract with Bristol.
Steven Toplis
