PHIL VICKERY says he has no plans to leave the Forest after announcing his retirement from rugby.

"This is my home," he told The Forester.

"I love the area, which is why I've been commuting to Wasps (in London) for the past three-and-a-half years."

Vickery, 34 (pictured), has retired from rugby on medical advice because of a serious neck injury.

He admitted the condition got so bad that when he sneezed it felt like he had been stabbed in the back of the head.

The farmer's boy from Bude in Cornwall lives in Taynton, near Newent, with wife Kate and children Megan and Harrison.

His Raging Bull clothing business is based in Churcham.

Vickery's rugby career has been plagued with injuries, but he has successfully fought back from four operations on his back as well as various operations on bulging discs in his neck.

He admitted giving up the game he has played professionally for the past 15 years left him 'emotional'.

He said: "Everything has happened so quickly, I've not had too much time to think about the future.

"My business, Raging Bull, will be my focus, but quite a lot is happening.

"In the short term, my autobiography is coming out and I'm also doing bits and pieces for the autumn internationals.

"I want to stay in rugby. Looking ahead I'm very positive and excited about the future."

Vickery won 73 caps for England, captained his country, toured Australia and South Africa with the British Lions and played in three World Cups – including that famous World Cup final win over Australia in 2003.

The 6ft 3inch prop said: "Through the sad times, the injuries and the setbacks, my desire and passion for the game has never wavered.

"As well as Wasps, I will miss playing for England dearly. To be able to stand on a rugby field and sing our national anthem was truly brilliant, an amazing experience, and one which I have never taken for granted.

"It's been a wonderful ride, but I'm looking forward to the next part of the journey."