The financial climate had had a "profound" effect on the funding the charity relied on to operate, said chairman Phil Wilkinson.

BBC: Signposts closes amid financial difficulties

Lewsey is the ninth member of England's 2003 World Cup-winning team to retire from national duty, although only Phil Vickery remains actively involved with Jonny Wilkinson injured and Mike Tindall, Ben Cohen, Steve Thompson and Ben Kay out of favour.

BBC: Lewsey retires from England duty

Andrew admitted England were in an awkward situation after losing their fly-halves Jonny Wilkinson and Barkley to injury and skipper Phil Vickery to suspension.

BBC: Andrew backing Farrell to shine