Carry, who made his international debut at the Commonwealth Games in Manchester in 2002, swam to a new personal best time to qualify for the Olympics where he competed in the final of the men's 400 metres freestyle.

"After 10 years in the sport, I am thrilled with how I performed at the Olympics – it was a fitting end to my career," said Carry.

"To swim so well in my last competition was fantastic but it's now time for a new chapter in my life.

"I'd like to thank everyone at British swimming for their help and support throughout my career.

"I have made so many amazing friends on the team and have shared some big highs and lows with them and I'm proud to have been a part of that."

David Carry made the qualifying time for the London 2012 Olympics during the British Gas ASA National Championships in June 2012

Michael Scott, national performance director for British Swimming said: "I would like to congratulate David on a successful career for Great Britain on the Olympic and world stage and for Scotland at the Commonwealth Games.

"To be a three-time Olympian, double Commonwealth champion and multi-world and Olympic finallist are all outstanding achievements.

"From all at British Swimming I wish David all the best in his new career."

Ally Whike, performance director of Scottish Swimming, also added his praise of Carry.

"David has been a superb role model for youngsters for many years.

"Following his golden achievements in Melbourne in 2006, he has shown real fighting spirit and dogged determination to maintain his place amongst the GB swimming elite culminating in a great individual performance during London 2012.

Gold medallist David Carry celebrated with fellow Scot and silver medallist Euan Dale in the men's 400m individual medley final at the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games

"David is a true professional and will continue to be a fantastic ambassador for the sport of swimming for years to come.

"Everyone at Scottish Swimming wishes him well as he starts a new and exciting chapter in his life."

Carry won't be walking away from swimming altogether as he begins his new role with Red Sky Management in Edinburgh, as part of the Red APL team delivering high performance experiences where athletes and business people learn from one another.

"I will still be working with swimmers and other sports stars so I will still be involved in sport," explained Carry.

"I will be part of the team who deliver high performance experiences where sports and business come together to get the best out of their environments."

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