Harlequins prop Ceri Jones says he feels awful for ‘Bloodgate’ physio Steph Brennan after he was struck-off by the Health Professions Council on Tuesday.

Brennan, already serving a two-year ban from rugby, was involved in staging Tom Williams' blood injury during Harlequins' 6-5 Heineken Cup defeat to Leinster in April 2009.

He is the final victim of the saga that saw director of rugby Dean Richards banned for three years, winger Williams issued with a four-month suspension and matchday doctor Wendy Chapman handed a warning by the General Medical Council.

Brennan confessed using fake blood capsules a further four times in three years at a two-day hearing earlier this week, but denied his misconduct impaired his fitness to practise.

And Jones fears the ruling may have left his friend’s life in ruins.

“I’m absolutely gutted for him. He is a good friend and I can’t feel bad enough for him and his wife,” he said.

“I don’t know the ins and outs of the case, but a situation conspired on that day and he was caught up in the middle of it.

“As far as I’m aware he has done nothing illegal, yet has had his chosen profession completely taken away from him.

“He has spent his life training for the job and will no doubt have to start all over again. It is awful.”