30/09/08
The autumn sheep sales season at Skipton Auction Mart is getting into full swing.
Farmstock sales manager and auctioneer
Ted Ogden
 |
The two big opening ewe lamb shows and sales of Mule gimmers from members of the North of England Mule Sheep Association (NEMSA) in September proved a resounding success in terms of numbers, consistent quality and solid trading levels.
Almost 13,500 lambs passed through the ring at the two fixtures, with consistent averages achieved at both. The overall average selling price at the opening sale was £53.46 per head, £52.48 per head at the second.
The last three fortnightly store lamb sales have attracted entries of 6,000-7,000 head as the peak selling season fast approaches.
Farmstock sales manager and auctioneer Ted Ogden reports: “As well as a strong local and regional following, several new customers are attending the mart from the Midlands and Eastern Counties. Prospects look good, given the strong fat trade.”
The Monday weekly market for prime sheep has also gone from strength to strength, regularly attracting up to 3,500 head and peaking with a turnout of almost 5,000 sheep at the latest sale on Monday, a record high in recent times at the mart.
Ted notes: “A good regular ringside of purchasers has included large abattoir buyers, medium size wholesalers and a good contingent of local butchers.
“Trade has also remained very strong for the time of year, averaging 120p-130p per kilo each week. All breeds of lambs are keenly sought, with premiums paid for well-fleshed lambs of 38-45kg, with Farm Assurance a definite advantage. More quality Texel and Beltex cross lambs are required, along with heavy lambs over 45kg.”
Skipton’s pedigree sheep season has also got off to a flying start, including recent high profile shows and sales on behalf of the Beltex Society, Charollais Sheep Breeders and Northern Area Texel Sheepbreeders.
Ted comments: “The Texel fixture was particularly notable as it fell in the best period of weather we had seen all summer, attracting a good crowd, with keen bidding for quality sorts. This produced a cracking sale, with shearling rams averaging £421, ram lambs £262 and shearling gimmers £227.”
 Moorland Mules Land Spoils at Skipton NEMSA Show
Field Day for Richardsons at Skipton Texel Highlight
Breed Stalwarts Clinch Top Honours at Skipton Charollais Show
|
