Belle Vue racing manager Dave Brayshaw has confirmed that the track will not be seeking a replacement for trainer Andy Heyes who is due to leave the industry.

Brayshaw said: “As has already been pointed out, Andy has concentrated on quality compared to quantity and that has been reflected in his finishing with the highest strike rate of winners over the last three or four years.

“He actually has one of the smaller strengths of our 15 attached kennels and his departure will not have a major effect on the number of runners available which is currently over 300.

“But I would like it to go on record that Andy leaves on very good terms and with our best wishes for the future.”