Peter Snowden is stepping down from his post as the head trainer for Darley Australia and will set up a base in Sydney with his son Paul. Snowden will remain in his current position until the end of the Sydney autumn carnival, reports Racing Network.

"Sheikh Mohammed expresses gratitude to Peter Snowden, who will set up a stable with son Paul at conclusion of the Sydney Autumn Carnival," Darley said in a statement.

"Sheikh Mohammed thanked Peter Snowden for his efforts over the past six years as Darley’s Head Trainer in Australia after Peter Snowden announced this morning he will move on from the role at the conclusion of the Sydney Autumn Carnival."

Snowden took the reins of Woodlands from John Hawkes and was at the helm when Darley took over the Ingham's family racing stable.

“It has been a rewarding six years and I am proud of all that we have achieved. It is the right time to move on with my son Paul and take on a new challenge. It is something we have always wanted to do," Snowden said.

“With an operation like this it is only fair that there is plenty of time for a transition. Sheikh Mohammed has provided me with an amazing opportunity and I will be forever grateful. When the time comes we will deal with the farewells but for now my focus is on producing results for Darley.”

Darley’s Managing Director Henry Plumptre said, “Sheikh Mohammed is very grateful to Peter for his efforts since joining Darley. Peter’s record speaks for itself and we have been very fortunate to have him as our Head Trainer. His legacy will continue as we benefit from the offspring of champion colts Sepoy, Helmet and Denman.”

A major highlight of Peter Snowden’s tenure was a record clean sweep of the two-year-old G1 features in 2010/11 including Golden Slipper winner Sepoy.

“Peter has already amassed a formidable record for Sheikh Mohammed and Darley. He plans to add to that record between now and the end of the Sydney Autumn Carnival,” said Plumptre.

Plumptre indicated that transition plans were in place and Darley would take its time in appointing a replacement.