Hay, a former world champion, has worked with the Scot's rink, which most recently featured Anna Sloan, Vicki Adams and Sarah Reid, for four years.

During that time they won seven medals at World and European Championships as well as the bronze at the Sochi 2014 Olympics.

The departure of Hay is part of an overhaul which will also see Reid, who came in for Claire Hamilton following the Sochi success, replaced in the line-up.

“It has been an enjoyable and, most of the time, a successful journey for both the girls and myself over the past four years,” said Hay.

“Eve, Anna, Vicki, Sarah and Claire, not forgetting our outstanding fifths Lauren Gray and Rachel Hannan, are totally professional, very committed and talented athletes who have been a pleasure to work with both on and off the ice.

“I wish all the girls the very best for the future and hope they have continued success and go onto obtain the ultimate goal of gold at the 2018 Olympics.”

Hay also worked with the British men's team skipped by Dave Murdoch, the silver medal winners in Sochi.

"We must say a heartfelt thank you to both Sarah and Dave who have given so much of themselves to the team and we take that contribution with us,” said Muirhead, the 2013 world champion.

“It’s been a total pleasure working with Sarah for the last two seasons and she has brought a lot to the team.

"We consider her a great friend and a great curler and wish her the very best for whatever she decides to do next.

“No longer working with Dave is going to be a real shake-up for us as a team as he has been our coach for the last four years.

"He is a fantastic coach and has been an inspiring and committed member of our team.

“We have made no decisions about replacements as yet and will consider our options over the next month.

"We are excited about the challenge and moving forward as a team to the Pyeongchang Olympics and beyond.”