Jockey Franny Norton has tested positive for a metabolite of cocaine.

Norton blames the positive test on exotic tea

He tested positive before Christmas but red tape meant that the result could not be revealed until now.

A metabolite is a substance produced after the body has processed a chemical.

Norton will not face a disciplinary hearing until March because further tests are being carried out.

Jockey Club spokesman John Maxse confirmed that Norton's sample "contained a prohibited substance, a metabolite of cocaine".

He added that it was likely to be some time before Norton would have to face a hearing over the test.

"At this stage it seems unlikely that the matter will come before the disciplinary hearing before March," said Maxse.

It is understood that Norton has denied taking an illegal drug and is claiming that an exotic tea he drinks to help control his weight is responsible for the sample.