Not a Very Good Send Off for John Hopkins

I don't know all that went on about John Hopkins quitting Midsomer Murders, but I think there could have been a better explanation of his character no longer being on the show rather than someone saying he called in sick, especially if he did not plan to return to the series. Update: I just read that he told the producers into the start of season 9 filming, but still there should have been a better explanation. Fans care about all the characters and so they should get a good exit story after leaving the show.