SCARLETS and Wales winger Harry Robinson has spoken of his devastation at having to call time on his rugby career aged just 23.

Robinson never fully recovered from a serious neck injury he sustained towards the end of last season.

He underwent surgery and did appear for the Scarlets this term, his final appearance coming against Glasgow in December, but has now decided to retire.

Robinson joined the Scarlets from Cardiff Blues in the summer of 2014, scoring nine tries in his debut campaign.

A Wales Under-20s international and former member of the Wales Sevens squad, Robinson won three caps for the senior team, crossing for a try on his debut against the Barbarians in 2012.

“I never thought I would be in this position at the age of 23 – having to call an end on my professional rugby career at such an early age,” he said.

“I am utterly devastated and it is a very, very bitter pill to have to swallow.

“During a game at the end of last season I suffered a significant neck injury that subsequently needed serious neck surgery.

“It came as a huge shock to hear the surgeon explain that it was unlikely I would ever return to play professional rugby. This was not a prognosis that I wanted to believe or accept.

“Following successful surgery to ensure that I was at no greater risk of making my injury and condition worse I was determined to come back to play again for the Scarlets.

“It is difficult to accept that I will never do this again.

“I have worked so hard over the last 10 months to return to full fitness and regain the functionality I had before the injury. It is with great regret that I have been unable to do this.

“Whilst I am devastated, I count myself very lucky and enormously privileged.

“I have had a fantastic six years as a professional rugby player with both Cardiff Blues and Scarlets.

“I have travelled all over the world at every age grade, Wales Sevens and the Welsh squad.

“I have made many friends who I know will be friends for the rest of my life.”