Newcastle Falcons back Tom Catterick has announced his retirement from rugby at just 26 years of age.
Catterick represented the club’s senior side on 106 occasions, making his Premiership debut in 2010.
The former Barnard Castle School pupil came through the Falcons’ academy system and represented England through the age-groups, going on to play international sevens for his country.
Catterick was instrumental in the Falcons winning the 2011 Premiership 7s finals, the versatile Co Durham native playing in every backline position for the club in the 15-a-side format.
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Announcing his retirement, Catterick told the club’s official website: “Well, what a journey it has been. The time has come for me to end my professional rugby career.
“I’ve managed to make a living from my hobby, and I’m so proud of that.
“I want to thank everyone I’ve met or played with for the past nine years for making the whole experience so incredible.
“I’m excited for what the future holds for me, and I wish Newcastle Falcons all the best.
“The club and the fans have always been incredible to me – it’s such a great club and they’re heading in a great direction. So that’s it from me. I’m out onto the next chapter.”
Newcastle Falcons director of rugby Dean Richards said: “Tom has been a fantastic servant for this club, and we thank him for all of those efforts down the years.
“We wish him all the best for whatever lies ahead, and I know those sentiments will be echoed by our supporters.”