Tom May won both of his international caps for England against Argentina in 2009

London Welsh captain Tom May is to retire at the end of the season.

Centre May, 35, who won two caps for England, joined Welsh in 2013 and led them to promotion via the Championship play-offs last season.

He began his professional career at Newcastle Falcons, making his debut in March 1999, and went on to play for Toulon before joining Northampton.

"It's a tough decision to make because I've been playing for a while and it's what I've grown up knowing," said May.

"So there's a certain amount of fear that goes with making that decision but also a huge amount of excitement.

"I've been lucky to play for some really great clubs which have given me a huge amount of opportunities - Newcastle, where it all started, Toulon, Northampton and then having the opportunity to try and create something with London Welsh in terms of getting out of the Championship and then playing this season in the Premiership."

May, who reportedly turned down a move to Leicester Tigers in favour of London Welsh in 2013, external-link also represented England Saxons and England Sevens.

London Welsh are yet to win a match this season, but May says he has enjoyed the challenge.

"This season hasn't gone as we would have hoped but I've really enjoyed working with the guys at London Welsh. I've enjoyed been part of a group led by [director of rugby] Justin Burnell but I know for a fact that I can't keep on going for another year."