This will be Tom May's last season in professional rugby © Getty Images

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London Welsh veteran Tom May will retire from professional rugby at the end of the season.

May, who won two England caps, will pursue his business interests after a career comes to an end that saw him play for Newcastle, Toulon, Northampton and now London Welsh.

May, 35, said: "It's a tough decision to make because I've been playing for quite a while and it's what I've grown up knowing, 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.

"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 Justin [Burnell] but I know for a fact that I can't keep on going for another year.

It's that time. I've had an incredible journey over the last 17 years but I have decided to move on. Rugby has given me so much & I thank..

— Tom May (@TomMay1) January 9, 2015

..everyone for their support. Close friends & family have been amazing throughout. I can't thank you enough. I would also like to thank..

— Tom May (@TomMay1) January 9, 2015

.. four unreal clubs, @FalconsRugby @RCTofficiel @SaintsRugby & @LondonWelshRFC I'm excited about the future & what lies ahead but looking..

— Tom May (@TomMay1) January 9, 2015

..forward to the rest of this season. I will enjoy every minute. I will look back on my career with a huge amount of pride. Lots of love x

— Tom May (@TomMay1) January 9, 2015