Walter Swinburn has announced his decision to quit training for “commercial reasons”.

The former top jockey, who won the Derby three times during a glittering career in the saddle, started training in 2004, taking over the licence from his father-in-law, Peter Harris.

Swinburn has sent out over 260 winners, winning four Group 3 races with Stotsfold, a stable stalwart for five seasons.

He also landed the Royal Hunt Cup at Royal Ascot this year with Julienas but has recorded only 25 wins this term, his lowest tally since his first season training.

Swinburn recently contacted his owners to explain his decision, made with “much regret”, to finish training on October 31. It is not known at present who will take over the licence at his Hertfordshire stable.