Grade One-winning handler Colm Murphy has made the shock announcement he's retiring from the training ranks.

Murphy, based in County Wexford, Ireland, has enjoyed a stellar career since taking out his licence in 2000, with the hugely popular Brave Inca winning 10 Grade One prizes, including the 2004 Supreme Novices' Hurdle and the 2006 Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

Big Zeb claimed victory in the Queen Mother Champion Chase in 2010, while unbeaten mare Feathard Lady and high-class chaser Quito De La Roque are among the other big names to pass through his hands.

Murphy told Press Association Sport: "It's something I've been thinking about for the last while and after a few difficult years, my accountancy background told me we just can't make it pay any more.

"It's been a very difficult decision and not one we've made lightly, but in the end, it was a financial decision that was made for us."