Six-time Olympic gold medallist Chris Hoy has revealed he has been diagnosed with cancer.

Scottish track cyclist Hoy, 47, won gold at Athens, Beijing and London before retiring in 2013.

He posted on social media: "I have a bit of news. Last year, I was diagnosed with cancer, which came as a huge shock, having had no symptoms up to that point.

"I'm currently receiving treatment including chemotherapy, which thankfully is going really well.

"I'd like to extend my sincere gratitude to all the medical professionals for their amazing help and care.

"For the sake of my young family, I had hoped to keep this information private but regrettably our hand has been forced."

Hoy continued: "While I'm thankful for any support, I'd like to deal with this privately.

"My heart goes out to the many others who are also going through similar challenges right now.

"I'm optimistic, positive and surrounded by love for which I'm truly grateful. As you might imagine, the last few months have been incredibly difficult.

"However, I currently feel fine. I am continuing to work, ride my bike and live my life as normal."

Hoy picked up a team sprint silver medal in Sydney in 2000 before being crowned Olympic champion in the 1km time trial in 2004.

He won sprint, team sprint and keirin gold medals in Beijing, defending the latter two in London.

In 2008, he was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year and was knighted the following year.

Fellow cyclist Jason Kenny with seven gold medals is the only Brit to become Olympic champion more times than the Edinburgh man.