UK rugby union star Ben Cohen is retiring from the sport to become a gay rights activist.

The player has set up a foundation to tackle homophobia and bullying, reports Pink News.

Cohen, who many right recognise as bit of a gay pin-up, will run the Ben Cohen Stand Up Foundation.

“I would never have imagined my career was going to move in this direction after my rugby career, but here we are – it’s happening,” he reflects.

“I have reached the top in my sport. It has been an incredible journey and has put me in the privileged position I am in today to be able to work on these exciting new projects through the Stand Up Brand.

“As athletes, it is not enough just to have strong bodies, we must have strong characters and use our voices to support those who need and deserve it.”

The sports star is set to launch the Ben Cohen Acceptance Tour in the USA, in which he will visit gay and gay-friendly rugby clubs in Atlanta, Washington DC, Seattle and New York. He will also be holding numerous training sessions at schools and colleges and while talking on the need for equality.

“Attitudes need to change,” he adds. “Young people should not be bullied into taking their own lives. That is what is happening and it needs to stop.”

Back in August 2010, Cohen gave his support to Gay Sports Day, an event organised by GMFA, the gay mens’ health charity, and the Royal Vauxhall Tavern.

It is great to see yet another high profile sports star, using their status to help in the ongoing quest of equality and bringing awareness to matters such as bullying in high schools. Needless to say a big thank you needs to be given to Ben Cohen!