Leading homefinder Pat Philpot, who runs the Greyhoundhomer kennel formerly at Ockendon, now at Lower Dunton Road, has issued a strong statement in defence of, and in praise of Crayford handler Mark Fenwick writes Floyd Amphlett.
Fenwick is at the centre of a GBGB inquiry into the deaths of several greyhounds at Crayford Stadium in July. The inquiry came following two freak trial sessions when at least four greyhounds were put to sleep for a mixture of bizarre and apparently unrelated injuries.
The Star understands that all trainers, and the stadium management and employees, will be exonerated in relation to all breaches of rules relating to welfare. However, we also understand that there are possible rule breaches in relation to delays in the transfers of greyhound ownership.
Mrs Philpott, whose kennel have already homed 130 greyhounds this year said: “I have had probably seven or eight dogs in from Mark since he took over from Patsy. They have all been in neutered, with clean teeth, and in excellent condition. Every one came with a £100 donation and has been re-homed.
“We have a very strict policy for not taking in dogs in poor condition and I wish they were all the same standard as Mark’s.”
Mrs Philpott was also happy to rectify a rumour that had long been in circulation concerning Mark’s former boss Patsy Cusack who recently retired. Internet forums have speculated that many of Cusack’s ex-racers were returned to Ireland where they were put to sleep.
Mrs Philpott responded: “Sure I have heard the rumours. In fact, one of the dogs who was supposedly sent to Ireland was actually on the first page of our website.
“I cannot speak highly enough of Patsy. In the 16 years that I have been here, we have homed around 150 of Patsy’s former runners. Everyone came here in impeccable condition and with a donation.
“In fact, the Cusack kennel, Patsy and his owners, was our biggest supporter. Whenever we had a fund raiser, Patsy or wife Rose, would always help. In fact, their typical response was ‘how much do you want?’.
