Cottons resignation, as an International Rugby Board representative and IRB rep on the RFU Council, takes effect from the end of this season.

The announcement comes less than a week after Martyn Thomas election as RFU management board chairman following his victory over Jack Rowell at a special general meeting of the RFU in London.

It has been a privilege to work with the RFU in a variety of capacities over the last nine years, said Cotton.

However, I have found it increasingly difficult to balance my business and RFU-related interests in the last year, and so regrettably I have had to make this decision.

RFU president Malcolm Phillips added: We are sorry to lose one of the icons of the game.

Fran has been a dedicated servant to rugby union through a successful playing career, his management of the 1997 Lions and as an administrator.

Fran has acted as an RFU representative on the Six Nations, IRB and as a member of the RFU Council and management board. His work at all levels has been invaluable.