Jamie Osborne one of the leading jump jockeys of the past decade, is looking ahead to a new career as a Flat race trainer after making the shock announcement that he is to quit riding.

Osborne (31) revealed his decision to hang up his riding boots with immediate effect in an emotional speech at "The Lesters", an awards ceremony for jockeys.

"I'm retiring. I feel now is the right time to go and I'd like to thank so many people, especially Oliver Sherwood who's backed me all the way.

"Flat racing has always fascinated me and the intention is now to give it a go as a trainer on the Flat," said Osborne.

As his riding career blossomed, Osborne was associated with numerous top-class horses, though he was never to become champion jockey.

He rode a record-equalling five winners at the Cheltenham Festival in 1992, notably Nomadic Way and Remittance Man.

Osborne was probably at the height of his powers when suffering a badly broken wrist at Cheltenham in November, 1997.

While nursing that injury he was arrested by police involved in the race-fixing investigation.

Osborne lost his licence briefly before it was reinstated but the damaged wrist kept him off the course for almost a year anyway.

He received a tremendous ovation when riding Coome Hill to victory on his return to action at Ascot last October.

Osborne had enjoyed less big race glory this season and is currently sidelined by injury - but it was still a surprise when he decided he wanted to be an ex-jockey.