FORMER Newcastle United star and racehorse trainer Mick Quinn has announced he will appeal against a two-and-a-half year ban by the Jockey Club.

The ex-Magpies striker had his training licence withdrawn on Thursday after being found guilty of neglecting three of his horses during the winter.

Yesterday, he put a brave face on things as he saddled runners at Newmarket and announced that he would be appealing against his punishment, which is set to come in effect from next Friday.

The Oxfordshire-based trainer scored 71 goals for United in 132 appearances between 1989 and 1992.

He said he had been advised to remain tightlipped over the decision of the Jockey Club's disciplinary committee to withdraw his licence.

Speaking as he saddled Foley Millennium, one of his four runners, he said: ''My ban is pending an appeal and I've been told to keep it zipped for the time being, but there's no point in hiding and that's why I am here.''

Mr Quinn fell foul of the Jockey Club when the horses Winsome George, Arab Gold and Zola were found to be in a poor condition after the RSPCA had received a tip-off from a member of the public.

Asked if there had been any developments since the announcement of the ban was made yesterday, Mr Quinn said: ''I really haven't had time to think but I am trying to carry on as normally as possible.''

If Mr Quinn's appeal fails, his horses will be moved to new stables.