As Caithness Livestock Centre celebrated its 15th anniversary on Monday (September 10th), Aberdeen & Northern Marts reiterated its commitment to the future of livestock auctions in the north of Scotland.
Following the closure of Thurso mart, last year’s anniversary show and sale saw the launch of the company’s consultation with farmers in the north to ensure best possible provision of livestock sales in Caithness.
Responses were then used when devising the 2007 sales calendar, which has been well received by buyers and sellers and has attracted increased numbers.
“When we embarked on this exercise we never expected our plans to be halted by Foot and Mouth Disease in Surrey,” said ANM Group chief executive Brian Pack during Monday’s show and sale. “However, by listening to the needs of those in the area we were able to deliver amended dates to best suit the needs of producers in the county, without disadvantaging buyers. We from head office greatly appreciate and value the close affinity John Bremner and his team has with the county.”
Mr Pack continued: “In line with our promise to do all we can to grow livestock auctions in Caithness, earlier this year the board approved an extension and enhancement of facilities for livestock handling at Quoybrae.
"An investment of more than £150,000 has been completed to ensure we can deliver an efficient, modern service. Assistance was provided by HIE Caithness & Sutherland, whose original support was vital to the initial establishment of this centre 15 years ago."
“Our general manager John Gregor masterminded the improvements with much help from John Bremner and his team who managed the day-to-day activity. Once again, we greatly appreciate the craftsmanship and organisation of John Gunn & Sons Ltd the contractor.”
Mr Pack concluded: “With producers in the north, we look forward to a positive future for livestock production in Caithness.”
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