Leading jump jockey Norman Williamson has announced his retirement from the saddle at the age of 34.
Winner of a total of 1,268 races, the Cork-born rider made the decision following medical advice after suffering two crashing falls in recent weeks.
"I went for a scan in London last week and the reports back were not very good," he said.
"The discs in my neck were not settling down and I could have been in serious trouble.
"I've spoken to (Turf Club medical officer) Walter Halley in the last few days and I'm taking the sensible route and biting the bullet.
"I've had a good innings and ridden some great horses."
Williamson famously landed the Gold Cup-Champion Hurdle double at Cheltenham in 1995 aboard Kim Bailey's Master Oats and Alderbrook.
"The Cheltenham double was very special, as was Teeton Mill and Nick Dundee, although he didn't get to fulfil his potential," he said.
"The Irish Champion Hurdle on Ned Kelly was also great, as was Back In Front at Cheltenham last March. I have been most closely associated with Edward O'Grady recently and that was my only Cheltenham winner for him.
"Commanche Court for Ted Walsh (1997 Triumph Hurdle) was the first Irish-trained winner I rode at Cheltenham, and that was a special day.
Looking to the future, Williamson added: "We've recently bought a farm in County Meath. We've just moved in and immediately I'd like to continue doing television work.
"We'll be trying to get the farm sorted out and will be having some horses in stores."
Williamson had great success for Venetia Williams, including riding TeetonMill to victory in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup, King George VI Chase andMitsubishi Shogun Ascot Chase in the 1998-99 season.
Williamson also enjoyed a tremendous association with the Howard Johnson-trained chaser Direct Route.