Ex-Maids star Evans forced to retire from rugby

Winger Thom Evans has unfortunately been forced to retire from rugby because of a spinal injury.

The 25-year-old former Maidenhead RFC youngster suffered the injury after crashing into full-back Lee Byrne during Scotland's Six Nations clash with Wales last season.

He was stretchered off after emergency care from the doctors on both teams before being taken to hospital and having surgery to stabilise his spine.

Despite some hard work during rehabilitation, the severe damage he suffered to two vertebrae means that he will not be able to return to the field following medical advice.

Glasgow Warriors star Evans, one of a long line of Maids players to graduate to full international honours, was seen as a key player in the future of the Scottish game and an important part of their revival under Andy Robinson.

His brother Max is also a Scotland international.