The break will began with "immediate effect", meaning she is virtually certain not to compete at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.

Reasons include wanting to spend more time with her family.

The 33-year-old has used a wheelchair since the age of 11 due to an arthritic condition and has also lost sight in one eye due to Lyme disease.

After first trying archery as a member of the Girl Guides, she followed compound bronze at Beijing 2008 with silver at London 2012 behind team-mate Danielle Brown.

She also claimed a team gold medal at the 2009 World Championships, and lost in the bronze play-off at last year's World Championships after recovering from wrist surgery earlier in the year.

The news comes as a blow to the British team as they prepare for Rio 2016.

“We very much respect Mel’s decision,” said David Tillotson, performance director at Archery GB.

“Her contribution to the sport cannot be overstated having competed at the highest level of archery for over 14 years.

“She is a fantastic ambassador for the sport and the Paralympic Movement and we acknowledge the example she has set and the inspiration she’s been to all archers.

“We look forward to her return to the sport in the future.”