Newton took points race gold at the 2009 World Cup event in Manchester

Former world champion Chris Newton has announced he will retire at the end of the season, to join Great Britain's coaching staff.

The 36-year-old has won medals at three Olympics, two Commonwealth Games and world team pursuit and points titles.

Newton will mentor the next generation of riders as British Cycling's Olympic academy men's endurance coach.

"I'm ready to step back from full-time racing and focus my attention on coaching," said Newton.

"I've achieved a lot during my cycling career and I'm very grateful for the support I've received from so many people in helping me reach my goals."

Newton has enjoyed plenty of success on the track, winning gold at the World Championships in 2002 and '05, as well as Olympic silver and bronze medals.

606: DEBATE Your thoughts on Newton's appointment

He has also established a solid domestic road racing career riding for Rapha Condor Sharp over the past three years and will continue to ride for the team until the end of the season.

British Cycling's performance director Dave Brailsford believes Newton's experience will prove invaluable as he makes the transition into coaching.

"Chris has come to the end of a fantastic racing career and I think he has all the key ingredients that will make him a successful coach," he said.

"We are in a really good position at the moment that when our established world class athletes approach the end of their racing careers they want to stay with us, and help pass on their knowledge to the younger guys.

"The likes of Chris and Paul Manning are role models to the new generation of GB cyclists so to be able keep them in our system is fantastic. We're looking forward to welcoming Chris on to the coaching team."

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