Harris bids farewell to Falcons

Harris made 42 starts and nine appearances from the bench

Newcastle Falcons flanker Cory Harris will end his playing career after this weekend's home game against Bath.

The Kiwi, who is 32 on 30 April, has spent almost three seasons at Kingston Park after spells with Celtic Warriors, Pontypridd, Bridgend and Canterbury.

Harris, who is returning home to Christchurch, played in nearly 50 games for the Falcons, scoring six tries.

Director of rugby, John Fletcher, said: "I can't speak highly enough of Cory - he has been a top player for us."

Harris has been doing a course organised by the Falcons to gain a qualification to become a gym instructor.

He said: "I made the decision to retire at the end of this season because I wanted to bow out with my body still intact and playing at the highest level.

"I take nothing but fond memories of Newcastle back home with me, and when I come to visit the UK I know where my first stop will be."