Central Park are wasting no time in seeking to replace Jean Liles who will be joining Romford at the end of the year.

Track spokesman Barry Stanton said: “It is a shame to lose Jean who I have known for many years. We have a good relationship going back to our time at Crayford together.

“Jean is geographically considerably closer to Romford which is always a consideration, particularly at this time of the year. Nevertheless, we wish her the best; she will always be welcome at Central Park.

“We have agreed that Jean will continue to supply runners to us until the end of December and she will be able to grade dogs in at Romford and still earn a living during that period.

“So we are now looking for a trainer who can supply 30-40 greyhounds per week and, as it states in the advertisement, we will offer support in building and maintaining a racing strength.

“We are very happy with developments here with the racing circuit proving particularly popular with our own and visiting trainers.”