Born in Swindon, 'Big Jim' progressed through the Leicester Academy before making his debut for the Tigers' Premiership team in September 2003, also scoring a try in the 2006 Guinness Premiership Final at Twickenham against Sale Sharks.

Hamilton played for England at U21 level but decided to opt for senior honours with Scotland, qualifying courtesy of his Glasgow-born father, who served for 24 years in the Queen's Own Highlanders.

He was the 1000th man to be capped by Scotland when he made an appearance off the bench against Romania in 11 November 2006, and made his first start against England at Twickenham on the opening day of the 2007 RBS Six Nations Championship.

The 6ft 8in powerhouse, who weighs in at 19st 8lb, has now been capped 31 times and featured for Scotland on their 2010 summer tour of Argentina although injury affected his 2011 Six Nations chances.

Played a massive part in Gloucester's season, particularly the LV= Cup run, and became a huge favourite with the Kingsholm crowd.

Jim won selection for Rugby World Cup 2011 in New Zealand and, shortly before flying out, signed a new contract with Gloucester Rugby. 

He has been a popular choice as club captain for the 2012-13 season and continued to be a key contributor for club and country.

Jim will move to France ahead of the 2013-14 season and his massive contribution, on and off the pitch, will be missed.