NORMAN WILLIAMSON, who rode Master Oats and Alderbrook to victory for Kim Bailey at the 1995 Cheltenham Festival, has quit his job as stable jockey to the Lambourn trainer.

Williamson, the first jockey in recent years to capture the Tote Gold Cup and the Smurfit Champion Hurdle in the same season, revealed his decision to a freelance career in the Sporting Life yesterday.

The jockey, who is currently recuperating from a dislocated shoulder in this country, said in a statement. "I have decided to ride as a freelance jockey next season, as I feel I may have more opportunities."

"I had the biggest wins of my career with Mr Bailey, obviously the highlights being the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Champion Hurdle."