Rio Olympian Olver announces badminton retirement

The 30-year-old took up the sport aged six and has gone on to win team and mixed doubles silver at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, team bronze at Delhi 2010 as well as representing Team GB at this summer's Olympic Games in Rio in the women's doubles.

However she will call time on her full-time career after next week's Bitburger Open in Germany as she looks to the next step in her life.

"It is now time for me to end this chapter of my life with very fond memories," said Olver, who will continue to play in the AJ Bell National Badminton League for Birmingham Lions this season as well as compete in the Spanish League.

"Although I may not be the most decorative or most successful player around, I feel very fortunate to have had the long career I have had and I'm proud of what I have achieved along the way. With many highs and lows along the journey it is still one I wouldn't change for the world.

"They say as one door closes a new one opens which I am excited and looking forward to exploring whatever it may be.

"Of course I will miss a lot of good friends and colleagues I have made along the way but I feel it is time and I am ready to close this door and move onto the next one in my life."

Performance Director Jon Austin said: "I have known Heather for many years since she was first identified as a junior to be part of what was then called the World Class Start Programme.

"Over the years I have witnessed Heather develop a successful career culminating in qualification to compete at the Rio Games.

"To draw a line under her international career at the conclusion of the Olympic Games is an understandable and natural decision. Heather has been an invaluable asset to the Programme and we will now support her to make the transition to the next stage of her life.

"I am delighted that Heather will continue to compete domestically and trust that she will maintain her connection for many years with the sport that has been such a significant part of her life."

Sportsbeat 2016