Shamus Donkin: the popular head lad and 'absolute legend' who was a Malton mainstay for nearly 50 years

Andrew Dietz remembers the lives of long-serving head lad Shamus Donkin and owner-breeder Sir Christopher Wates

Shamus Donkin (right) with Tim Easterby and David Allan after Wells Farhh Go's victory in the 2018 Bahrain TrophyCredit: Edward Whitaker

In many ways, 2024 has been business as usual for Tim Easterby, with another stack of winners sent out from a yard that has become a powerhouse of northern racing. Yet there has been one heartbreaking difference.

Not many staff members have served a stable for as long as Shamus Donkin did at Easterby's family yard in Malton before his death at the age of 63 in June.

The Classic-winning trainer posted a heartfelt tribute on social media to the employee of nearly 50 years and, a few months on, Donkin is still much missed by all the team at Habton Grange, where he started aged just 15.

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Published on 9 November 2024inRacing Lives

Last updated 18:00, 9 November 2024

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