Pirates prop Walker to retire at end of season

Marlen Walker is one of Cornish Pirates' longest-serving players

Long-serving Cornish Pirates prop Marlen Walker is to retire at the end of the season.

The 35-year-old has made 184 appearances for the Championship club.

He first moved to the Mennaye on a short-term deal in January 2015 from Weston-super-Mare as injury cover but has become a stalwart of the side since.

The former New Zealand secondary schools player is expected to take up a coaching role elsewhere in the game and will have a testimonial match at the Mennaye in August.

"Marlen is a great man who has been amazing for us both on and off the field," said Cornish Pirates joint-head coach Alan Paver.

"During his time here, he has developed into a fantastic leader and role model for young members of our squad, and he has mentored many fine budding front-rowers.

"Throughout, his commitment has been exceptional, and the way he conducts himself so admirable. Fantastically talented, he has been a top- level prop in the Championship who would have been worthy to play in the Premiership.

"We will sorely miss Marlen, whose heart is now partly set in Cornwall, and whatever the future holds we wish him and his family all the very best."