Personal notes: Good luck to Russ Parkin as he leaves for Germany

Russ Parkin enjoying a night
off with Julie Baker

Earlier this week, I heard Russ Parkin, groom for Robert Whitaker, was leaving England to go an work for Ireland's Dennis Lynch in Germany.

It'll be sad to see him go, and strange not to see him out and about at British shows, but what a wonderful opportunity for him. He'll be working with Lantinus and be reunited with Robert's former ride Lacroix, for whom he has more than a bit of a soft spot.

Meanwhile, former head groom Tezz Harrison has returned to the Whitaker yard as a home groom and Paul Kent, former groom for Tim Gredley, has also joined the team.

Russ left today, driven to his new base near Munster by fellow groom and friend Cynthia Gurrie.

He told me: "It was very hard to make the decision to go, but it's too good an opportunity to miss."

Russ will be flying out to the Alltech WEG in Kentucky on 26 September for the horses' quarantine period, so will miss HOYS for the first time in years. However, he'll be back in Britain for Olympia, when he'll be able to catch up with friends.

Have a wonderful time in Germany Russ, see you at Olympia!