A Black Country jeweller who galloped to victory at Aintree on Grand National Day has taken up the reins of a new career.

David Griffiths has decided to step down as director of the family shop in Dudley to become a full-time jockey.

Since winning the John Smith’s Peoples Race on April 4, the 25-year-old, from Ombersley, has acquired his amateur licence. He has also taken part in point-to-point competitions across the country finishing in second place twice.

David, who had worked at John Hollins in Wolverhampton Street since 2004, said winning the charity race had inspired him to follow his dream. “My father, John, who came out of retirement to help in the shop while I was training, has been very supportive.

“I have left the shop now to concentrate on riding full-time and I am riding out for trainer Richard Newland.

“It is difficult to get started as a jockey but I just need to get a few more races under my belt and keep working hard,” he added.

The former Royal Grammar School Worcester pupil had previously worked for firms in Worcester and Cheltenham before joining his father in Dudley five years ago.

David, who is also a member of the Pony Club, owns eight horses, including two racehorses.

His win in the charity race at Aintree earned him £25,000 for both the Injured Jockeys’ Fund and the Midlands Air Ambulance. Before taking his place in the starting stalls, he had to complete a series of gruelling assessments including training at the British Racing School in New Market.

He said: “It was an amazing feeling to be crossing the finish line with 70,000 people cheering at you.”

His trainer for the race Ian Williams was full of praise for the winning jockey saying: “He gave the horse a fantastic ride. David rode him absolutely perfectly.”