Paula Simmons first started working with greyhounds when she had a part-time job with Phyllis Jay whilst still at school. On leaving school she went to work for Russ Kinsley who was attached to Perry Barr. It was when Kinsley retired that Paula joined Nicky Chambers, an Open race kennel and it was here that she learnt a lot about treating greyhound injuries and nutrition.

Paula took out her own license in 2002 when Nicky Chambers retired and has trained out of Flagstaff Farm since January 2004. She moved to the farm in order to be closer to Hall Green. The establishment originally consisted of just a 200 year-old farm house and the 3 kennel blocks and paddocks were all built after the purchase. A grass and sand gallop has also been installed.

Set in an idyllic location in the heart of the National Forest, with 5 acres of land, Paula's kennel is very much a family affair with her sister Vanessa and close friends all playing their part to ensure smooth operation and make sure the dogs are well cared for. With regular winners at Hall Green, often more than 200 a year, Paula took the opportunity to move to Monmore late in 2006 and is always looking to train more Open classed greyhounds.

Paula has a kennel strength of 40 and the care the and well-being of her dogs comes before anything else. She also rears 3 to 4 litters a year from her own broods and these pups are also schooled at the kennel and go on to supply Paula's racing strength. Any pups or dogs for sale from Flagstaff Farm are priced very reasonably with the understanding that they continue to be trained by Paula. For anyone based in the Leicester area looking for pets, Paula always has retired greyhounds available free to a good home.  

Sunday is "Open" Day and owners are actively encouraged to visit and take their greyhounds for walks in the nearby Forest. After a short while at Flagstaff Farm it soon becomes apparent that the greyhound's welfare always comes top of the list.