LUDLOW Rugby Club’s Tom Rawlings has been forced to quit the sport through injury.

The 25-year-old club captain says he has not been able to overcome a niggling back problem.

“I have had to give up the game because of my back,” conceded Tom, a plumber by trade.

He added: “I have tried to make a return but I keep tweaking my back and I don’t know when it will get better.

"I am going to seek further treatment for my back and we will see what happens - but I am not going to get my hopes up.”

Tom, a forward, was called up to represent the county last season and picked up the man-of-thematch award.

“I probably had my best-ever season last year,” said Tom.

“I have been playing at Ludlow Rugby Club since I was 15 so I’ve had 10 very good years.”