Aidan Coleman lands role for John Ferguson

Aidan Coleman has been appointed retained rider to Newmarket trainer John Ferguson.

The pair have teamed up to great effect so far this season, with the Cork-born rider having 24 winners for Ferguson's Bloomfields operation.

The new arrangement means Coleman will have first pick of Ferguson's 50-strong string.

He has made a great start to the new jumps season, with 33 winners at start of play on Sunday, and is currently in second place in the title race behind runaway leader Richard Johnson.

Coleman will also continue to ride for Venetia Williams, who has supplied him with 179 winners over the last five years.

"I am delighted to be retained by John, who is enjoying a tremendous start to the season. We've already teamed up with great success and look forward to carrying on in the same vein in the future," Coleman told Racing UK.

"I will still continue my association with Venetia and hopefully there won't be too many clashes between her and John's horses.

"I have been with Venetia for eight years and hopefully will still ride plenty of winners for her this season.

"Obviously with no AP McCoy in the weighing room this year, the Stobart Jockeys' Championship has been opened up and I have made a really good start - but Richard Johnson will be extremely difficult to catch. I'll give it my best shot though."

Ferguson is pleased to have secured Coleman's services on a permanent basis.

He said: "All of Bloomfields have enjoyed the association with Aidan. With the number of quality horses increasing, it was only natural that we would look for a quality rider who would be available on the big days.

"We were delighted when Aidan accepted the position and I'm looking forward to some fun days ahead together."