EAMONN Leigh has retired as head man for trainer Jessica Harrington after almost 50 years working for the yard.

Before Mrs Harrington took out a trainer’s licence in 1987, Leigh worked for the late John Harrington at Commonstown Stud.

As the racing operation grew in the 1990s, Leigh became a familiar figure at racecourses in Ireland and Britain. He was closely associated with Champion Chase winner Moscow Flyer.

Describing him as “a true horseman and invaluable part of the team”, Jessica Harrington said: “Eamonn played a vital role in the success of many horses, especially Moscow Flyer, who he did everything with. Thanks very much to Eamonn for all his hard work and dedication over the years. We wish him a very long and happy retirement.”

Father of former jump jockey Andrew Leigh, Eamonn married Tracy Piggott in 2021.