It is with genuine regret that the Cornish Pirates have decided to release Joe Beardshaw from his contract with the club.

Having suffered a serious knee injury at home against the Cornish All Blacks just before Christmas last year.

32 years old Joe has been unable to resume playing since, despite having undergone knee surgery. It has been a frustrating period of time for him, but he has kept as active as possible, and has always been to the forefront in helping to support community events.

The former London Wasps and Glasgow Warriors player made his debut for the Pirates and was a try-scorer in a 50-33 points pre-season 'friendly' win against Launceston in August, 2005.

Tall and angular, he settled in well, and in matches played he proved himself to be solidly reliable throughout.

His partnership with Heino Senekal saw the engine room work especially smoothly in 2006-07, a season that ended with him an important member of the Pirates team that beat Exeter Chiefs in the EDF Energy National Trophy Final played at Twickenham.

Joe always appreciated the support of our crowd, and they in turn, though sorry to hear the news, will wholeheartedly wish him all the very best for the future.

Rod Coward, Cornish Pirates CEO, commented:
"We would like to go on record in thanking Joe for his service to the club, both on and off the field, throughout his time with us, where his conduct and effort have been exemplary.

It is very much regretted that Joe has not recovered from the injury, which he sustained almost 12 months ago and we wish him and his wife every success for the future.