JOHN Brain and Andy Keast have paid tribute to Neil Lyman after the prop announced his retirement.

The Sixways coaches, who handed the tighthead a new contract last year after Worcester won promotion to the Premiership, believe that the bubbly forward will be missed.

"He's been a very important figure for Worcester for more than 10 years, your archetypal club man" said Brain.

"In a professional era and at a club like Worcester -- where they have had a big turnover of players -- his is a real success story.

"He played a big part in us winning promotion to the Premiership and, although this season has been frustrating for him because of the injury, he played in vital victories against Harlequins, Newcastle and Northampton. He has been the backbone of the club.

"I'm pleased for him that he was able to play a big part in the first season in the Premiership because he has spent so long at the club and it meant a lot to him.

"He thoroughly deserved his testimonial and despite playing with knee and sternum injuries, he made an extremely valuable contribution this season. His performance against Northampton in the final game was outstanding.

"He'll be missed on and off the field because he was a good man to have in the camp. He's a straightforward guy and easy to deal with."

"It was real Roy of the Rovers stuff at the end for Neil," added Keast.

"He played against Newcastle despite being out for four months and despite playing through the pain.

"His contribution, in the final three games of the season, was absolutely vital and he can feel proud that he played a big part in keeping Worcester in the Premiership.

"You have to take your hat off to him because he's put his body on the line for the club and given his all for Worcester."