A HEAD GROOM at a Herefordshire stable is in the final round of a national competition.

Eamonn O’Donnabhain, who is based at Tom Lacey's Cottage Fields Stables in Herefordshire, is a finalist in the Leadership category in the 2024 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards.

The awards are taking place on Monday (February 26) at Ascot Racecourse and will be attended by HRH The Princess Royal. 

The 18 award finalists will take part in a final round of judging on February 26, with the winners and the overall Employee of the Year announced at the evening ceremony, to be hosted by ITV Racing’s Ed Chamberlin.

Joining Tom Lacey Racing as a work rider in 2018, it was immediately clear that O’Donnabhain was a natural mentor and destined for a senior role. 

Now Head Groom, he is first in and last out of the yard and his love of horses and passion for the highest welfare standards sets a shining example to the team. 

On the rare occasions O’Donnabhain leaves the yard he still helps others - running marathons to raise vital funds for charities.