November 2009 Archives

In lamb Texel females reached a high spot of 2400gns at Carlisle on Saturday in the 1st Choice collective female sale.

Heading up the sale was the best of the day from Messrs Scott's Drumpark flock, Banff. Their sale leader was a March 2008-born daughter of Cowal Maverick ouf of a dam by Tamnamoney Gladiator which has Courthill Dombinator and Rascarrel Wade in her back pedigree. Sold in lamb to Kelso Oxygen she was bought by John Howard, Potto, Northallerton.

Then at the next highest price of 1200gns was one from Idris Morris' Fachel flock. This was a Fachell Nutter daughter out of a dam by Haltcliffe Knight and with Turin Fantastic in her back lines. She was sold in lamb to Baltier Prestige and was taken home by S Richardson, Barnsley.

A trio then took the next top call of 1000gns. The first two of these both came from the Nesbitt family's Alwent flock. First up was an Alwent Noble daughter out of a dam by Haddo Kingpin and going back to Arkle Jaguar. This one sold with an index of 231 and in lamb to Drumpark President, a Kelso Oxygen son. She was snapped up by the Drayton Farm Partnership, East Meon.

The other from Alwent was an Alwent Major Force daughter out of a dam by Haltcliffe Jackpot. With female lines back to Grougfoot Coisty and Courthill Valais, she was also in lamb to Drumpark President and sodl with an index of 232 to G and B Hunt, Sowerby, Thirsk.

Making 850gns was one from the Woolney flock of Terry and Jenny Prentice, Suffolk. This Castlecairn Nemesus daughter is out of a Talcoed Insole sired dam and sold in lamb to homebred sire Woolney Nifty, a Cambwell Mountain son. She was taken by G V Hardwick and Son, Llandidrod Wells.

Two also sold at 800gns, the first of which was another from Drumpark, this time an Anglezarke Nickleby daughter out of a Milnbank Hercules Lymo daughter. This one, in lamb to Kelso Oxygen, sold to Brian Joseph, Church Stretton, Shropshire. The other at this money was another from the Prentices. Again by Nemesus, this is from a dam by Stonebridge Kes and sold in lamb to Knock Nitro, a Glenside Loneranger son. She was bought by John Howard, Northallerton. (Harrison and Hetherington).

Top price in the production sale from Tom Bailey's Suffolk flock at the weekend was a E2800 call for a March 2008-born daughter of Rhaeadr Rossi. This one, HJW K96 is out of a Stockton Almighty daughter and goes back to Cairness Court. Sold in lamb to Solwaybank Special One, this one sold to Iain Barbour, Solwaybank.

Next best I know of was a E2600 bid for another Rossi daughter. Out of a Mullanboy Mohammed daughter, HJW K49, goes back to Glenisla Sydney and sold in lamb to Cairness New Approach. She was bought by Myfyr Evans for his Rhaeadr flock, Wales.

And at E1900 was the highest bid from an Eire buyer and the best call of the day from the older ewes on offer. This Glenisla Sydney daughter, DDY C108, is from a dam by Cairness Golddust and goes back to the legendary Pankymoor Prelude. Served to Rhaeadr Rossi, she is full sister to 6500gns sire Glenho Golan and was taken by Jamie Brown, Co Donegal.

Selling at E1800 was another of the Rossi daughters on offer, HJW K33. This is out a Glenisla Sydney sired dam and goes back to the great breeding Stockton Almighty through her granddam which is full sister to E6500 Glenho Jordan. She was sold in-lamb to Cairness New Approach and was bought by Sam Hawkins, Co Wicklow.

Then at E1700 was an ET bred Rossi daughter out of a dam by Almighty, HJW K26. Going back to Cairness Court and in lamb to Solwaybank Special One, she is ET sister to two other lots offered on the day. Buying this one were H H Annett and Son, Widrington, Morpeth.

And a E1600 was one of the earliest lots in the sale, another shearling ewe by Rossi, HJW K10. A full sister to the flock's 8000gns lamb at Edinburgh this year Baileys BMW, this one is out of a dam by Boreland Buddah and was in lamb to Almighty. She sold to Gregor Pendergrast, Co Carlow.

Making E1500 was another which headed back to Wales to Myfyr Evans, HJW K48. Also by Rossi, the ram bred by Mr Evans, this one is out of a Sydney sired dam and goes back to Bridgestone Cannon on her dam's side. This one was sold in lamb to Almighty having been AI'd in August.

Averages; 61 shearling ewes E945, 28 older ewes E671 (J P and M Doyle).

I'm concious that many of you will be at home today wanting results from the Royal Welsh Winter Fair. Unfortunately, I have to be in the FW office today, so can't be in Builth to bring you results until tomorrow.

Then, of course we will bring you full championship results and as many of today's class results as we can lay our hands on.

In the meantime you can watch the action from the show on S4C

The National Holstein Show will open up its doors to other breeds for the first time next year as Holstein UK stages the first ever National All Breeds Show at Stoneleigh.

Holstein UK chief Greg Ward says he hopes the show will attract entries from all the major breeds. "If people are going to come to a show they expect to see a whole breadth of what's on offer. There will be a national championship for each breed, an interbreed championship and a strong emphasis on health, welfare and productivity."

The show will also feature Total Performance Awards which will be offered in each off the senior cow classes to recognise production, longevity, calving interval and cell counts," he added.

The National All Breeds Show will take place on 16 and 17 February 2010, more information can be found here

The Black and White annual sale at Borderway Mart, Carlisle next weekend (5^th December) will offer visitors the opportunity to acquire descendants from some of the world's biggest cow families, with more than 100 lots representing some of the finest Holstein and Jersey bloodlines.

The sale comprises descendants from some well known names including Lila Z, Blackrose, Apple, Bonnie, Zandra and Dellia.

One of the headliner entries in the sale is a first choice selection from Dudec Mr Burns pregnancies due in May 2010 from MS Apples Applause. Sired by Comestar Stormatic, Applause is guaranteed to classify Very Good as a two year old, and is daughter of the world famous $1 million dollar cow, KHW Regiment Apple Red EX92. Apple offers tremendous depth and is a seventh consecutive generation Excellent scored dam.

A first ever continent offering is available from Northern Ireland breeder, D Clarke, Co Antrim. The first choice selection is available from two October 2009 Wilcoxview Jasper sired ET sisters, bred from Fraeland Goldwyn Bonnie VG. The second dam is Fairvale Jed Bonnie EX94 and the third dam is Fairvale Lincoln Bonnie EX.

A world first is also being offered in the form of an exclusive vehicle registration plate - 'B19 MLK' (Big Milk), which will also go under the hammer on the Saturday.

This week's prime cattle sale at Newark once again attracted one of the strongest trades seen in the UK and what is possibly the biggest entry too, with 722 cattle offered on Wednesday.

Topping the prime cattle was a Blue cross steer from John and Debbie Madeley from Ross on Wye at 214.5p/kg, wiht the overall offering of 193 steers levelling the day at 161.88p/kg.

In the heifers trade was led by Sam and Jane Pilkington, Buxton with a Blue cross heifer at 213.5p/kg. the 156 offered averaged 161.25p.

And the 242 young bulls on show were led at 199.5p/kg by a Bazadaise cross from John Holmes, Plumtree. Average from this section was 150.1p/kg.

Across in the OTM cattle John Mower led the OTM steers at 161.5p/kg for a Limousin cross, while the OTM heifers peaked at 165.5p/kg for a Blonde heifer from A T Turner, Derby.

Top OTM cow was a Blue cow from John and Debbie Madeley, Ross on Wye. Overall average in the OTM offering was 113.88 for 131 sold.

It's certainly a storming trade in all sections and the numbers forward were clearly rewarded by a strong company of buyers willing to dig deep for the cattle they wanted, long may it continue.

And on the subject of prime cattle, don't forget to have a go at the AgriLIVE Smithfield judging competition...

This weekend is set to be another busy one for pedigree sheep fans with two major sales happening either side of the Irish Sea.

Across the water in Eire Tom Bailey will hold the 12th annual production sale from his Baileys flock of pedigree Suffolks, with 65 shearling ewes and 31 flock age ewes on offer in lamb to some of the breed's noted sires.

Most of the shearlings are by 70,000gns sire Rhaeadr Rossie, with others by 20,000gns Cairness Charles and 7000gns Langside Lightening. Service sires, meanwhile, include 32,000gns Solwaybank Special One, Cairness New Approach, Cairness Kanine, Baileys Bacchus and Rossi. Additionally, several lots have been AI'd to Stockton Almighty, 1998 Edinburgh sale champion and 75,000gns purchase.

Among the sires of the ewes are Birness the Body, Glenisla Sydney, Solwaybank Ranger and 45,000gns Boreland Buddah. It promises to offer something for everyone.

Back this side of the water at Carlisle is the first of this season's in-lamb Texel sales, the 1st Choice sale of females from the Far Hey, Fimber, Stainton, Callerton, Woolney, Drinkstone, Peacehay, Gyrhos, Drumpark, Alwent, Fachell, Grey Peel and Greenwood flocks.

Details of sires and service sires are too long to list here, but they include Cowal Maverick, Knock Oyster, Hexus Lexus, Lumbylaw Kenya, Lyonshall King of Clubs and Kelso Oxygen. So once again there's plenty for everryone in this line up

As Rab has rightly pointed out I've omitted to bring you up to speed with the results from the Aberdeen-Angus calf show held at the RHWF yesterday, so here are the headlines.

Overall champion and male champion went to Alistair Clark with Duncanziemere Jaguar J306. This one is by Aln Governor and out of Duncanziemere Jody.

Reserve overall was Ewan Brewis with Eastfield Fourr Stroke, an April born son of Halbeath King Kong out of Eastfield Fawn.

Taking the female championship was John Lascelles with Balmachie Ellen Erica, a March born daughter of The Moss Florian out of Balmachie Ellen Erica.

Reserve female champion were the McLaren family with Netherton Red Essence, a daughter of Red Dmm Traction out of Red Sten Essence.

Apologies for not getting the top prices from the sale to you yesterday, unfortunately I had to dash back to the airport to get the flight home again - as it was I needn't heva rushed with the plane delayed!

However, back to the reason for the post - the auction results. The champion made £3100, leaving the show organisers with a £100 bill as they guarantee the champion to make £3200.

And the reserve went unsold at £2400, which bearing in mind she cost £4100 is no great surprise.

Butchers champion Oor Rob from Gavin Scott made £2900 and the reserve butchers champion, Lady Ga Ga from Neil Slack made £3000, having cost £5000 in the spring.

Overall it looks like a fairrly unexciting sale.

Champion in the Baby Beef championship here at the RHWF was Monzie Spinner, a Limousin cross steer from the Paton family, Spott. This one was born in August last year and weighed in at 525kg.

Top honours in the sheep lines went to John Hall and his brother Peter with a pair of Beltex cross lambs from their 2000-ewe flock based at Carlisle. This was the Halls third championship at the event.

Their leading lambs are by a tup bred by Glen Forsyth and out of homebred Beltex cross ewes. They tipped the scales at 50.5kg apiece and were praised by the judge, Joe Greenhill, for their eveness of fleshing and excellent gigots.

Taking the reserve was another perennial primestock show prizewinner, Brian MacTaggart, Douganhill Farms, Dumfriesshire. This pair were by a homebred Texel tup out of 7/8 Texel ewes from the farm's 100 ewe crossbred flock which runs alongside 600 North Country Cheviots and 150 pedigree Texels. This pair weighed in at 43.5kg each.

Champion hill lambs were a brace of South Country Cheviots from Andrew Reid which went across the scales at 42.75kg each.

Husband and wife team Hugh and Lynn Dunlop, Ochiltree, Ayrshire, have just taken the overall cattle championship here at the Royal Highland Winter Fair.

Their winner was homebred steer Soutar Johnny from their 150-cow suckler herd. This one, which notched up the couple's third championship win at the event is by Limousin sire Silex and out of a Limousin cross cow. He tipped the scales at 675kg.

Standing reserve overall was the overall heifer champion Just Dance from Michael and Melanie Alford, Cullompton, Devon. This one was bought from Ruthin in the spring and stood heavyweight heifer champion before going on the take the overall heifer award.

Standing reserve overall steer champion was another from the Alfords and another bought from Ruthin, Paparatzi. This British Blue cross was born last May and tipped the scales at 610kg.

Reserve heifer champion was Mama Mia from Jennifer Hyslop and Andrew Richardson. She was bred by John Smith Jackson and was bought in the spring having been calf champion at Countryside Live last year.

Don't forget to enter the AgriLIVE Smithfield judging competition which includes the Dunlops' last Smithfield winner

Here are the sheep class results from this morning's judging.

In the lightweight Blackface class the red ticket went to Messrs Dickie, while second were J and T MacPherson. Medium weight Blackie honours were taken by Finlay Smith and second were the MacPhersons again. Heavyweight first prize were the MacPhersons with Finlay Smith second.

In the Swaledales the lightweight ticket was taken by T W Copperthwaite and second were W Mason and Son. In the heavyweights the first place went to C Nelson and Sons and second were the same exhibitors.

Taking the lightweight Dalesbred class was J K Wilson and second were J M Wilson and Sons. Heavyweight honours here went to J H and J Ryder and second was J K Wilson.

Butchers cattle champion here at Ingliston has gone to Gavin Scott with his 560kg steer.

Here are the class results from this morning's judging at the Royal Highland Winter Fair.

Taking the Aberdeen Angus cross steer class were the McFadzean's with their 565kg steer Dangerous Drummond. Second went to the same home with Guidgear at 535kg.

In the heavier Angus cross steers the first prize went to Ray Grieve with Carhurlie Trump at 690kg and second was also to the same home with Carhurlie Gurka at 700kg.

In the Galloway steers the red ticket went to Michael and Melanie Alford with Supermand at 725kg, second were D and M Gall with Mum's Boy at 710kg.

The Highland steer prize went to Messrs Bowser and Paterson with 455kg Rhiabhan of Benmore, second went to the same stable with Dochart of Benmore at 470kg.

The lightweight Charolais steer class was won by Harvey Cattle with Harveybros 1 Elvis, while second was Adam Lawson with Boris at 435kg.

Red ticket in the heavy Charolais steers was R Ferguson with Big Jock at 610kg and second was Hugh Dunlop with Tam O'Shanter at 560kg.

The suckled calf championship here at the Royal Highland Winter Fair has gone to a Charolais cross from RSPB Scotland. This heifer calf Eorna is by Allanfauld Amazon and out of a Limousin x Angus cow. She weighed in at 350kg and was born in April.

Taking the reserve spot were Michael and Melanie Alford, Devon, with their heifer Poker Face. Bred by Christopher Dick, Falkirk, this one is by Attila and was calf champion at last weekend's English Winter Fair. She was bought from Caledonian Marts in September.

These two were first and second in the heavy heifer class. Taking the lightweight heifer class were Ewan MacPherson and Sons with Miss Saucypants, a Limousin cross, while second here was Hugh Dunlop with Tinkler Maidgie, another Limousin cross.

Taking the heavy steer was J H Craggs with Otis, a Limousin cross and second was Bob Cunninhame with Wee Mac, a Limousin cross. And the heavy steers were led by Donald Morrison with a Limousin cross, while second were Alistair and Liz Vance with Bees Knees, a Limousin cross.

Taking the championship in the Royal Smithfield Club's Beef Ribs competition here at the Royal Highland Winter Fair was David Brown with a set of ribs from a Limousin x Simmental heifer which weighed 376.1kg deadweight.

Reserve was A Purdon with ribs from a 305kg Limousin heifer.

The weather may be miserable outside, but that isn't deterring the exhibitors here at the Royal Highland Winter Fair, judging is soon to be underway here at Ingliston.

So, check back here later to day for all the results and in the meantime, don't forget to have a go at the AgriLIVE Smithfield judging competition

A top call of 1500gns marked the highspot at the last Welsh Black sale of the autumn at Abergavenny. This was given for 17 month ols heifer Meadowsweet Lassie 3. This daughter of Iwrch Blackjack 3 and out of Meadowsweet Lassie. Bed by Peter and Tanya Bowen, she was bought by Philips and Andrew Danson.

Next best at 1450gns was maiden heifer Catherine Melody from Messrs D M Davies and Son, Brecon. She is by Morlais Merlin and sold to J T Bowen, Princetown, Tredegar.

Then at 1350gns was Ty-Talgarth Nia, a Fedw Bill daughter, from Jonathan Pugh. She sold to Tony Hood, Wooton Under Edge. Two more similarly bred heifers from the same home made 1300gns when selling to Trevor Davies, Trevehtin, Pontypool.

Also at this money were a brace from Messrs D M Davies and Son. Similarly bred to their 1450gns heifer one of these sold to J T Bowen.

Average; 41 females £913.5 (J Straker Chadwick).

John and Peter Hall, Inglewood Edge, Carlisle, reigned supreme in the lamb carcass competition at the Scottish Premier Meat Exhibition, taking the title with a Beltex sired lamb which graded E3L and weighed 19.6kg.

Reserve spot was a Beltex cross from Jock McMillan, Carse of Clary, Newton Stewart, this one graded E2 and weighed in at £22.5kg deadweight.

Live champion was andrew Baillie, Callacrag with a Beltex cross lambs.

An Aberdeen Angus cross steer from Sandy Fordyce and father, also Sandy, of Kemnay, took the championship award at Saturday's Scottish Premier Meat Exhbition at Scotbeef, Bridge of Allan.

This one was by Eastfield Just Eric and weighed 670kg live. It graded O+4H and weighed 390.2kg on the hook. Judge for the day Katrina Farquhar said the champion was exactly what she'd want for the shop she works in which supplies notably customers in the form of Balmoral Estate, The Queen and the Prince of Wales.

Reserve overall was QMS chairman Donald Biggar with a Shorthorn steer which graded O+4L and weighed 302.1kg deadweight.

Taking the live championship was a Limousin cross by Goldies United from Bob Templeton, Newton Stewart.

Last week's sale of Holsteins at Bristol saw trade hit a high spot of 2250gns when G J and F L Robertson, sold Dayhopuse Shaker dot to G H and H C Morgan, Fishguard. This is a Picston Shaker daughter out of a Roylane Jordan dam.

Next best was a 2150gns bid from the same buyers for the cop priced cow Dayhouse Igniter Dinki, again from the Roberstons. This one is out of a Comestar Lee daughter.

And at 2100gns was Goldenball Specialist Betty from Stowell Farms, Malborough. This calved heifer is by Joylan Specialist out of a Duncan Progress daughter.

Average; 126 head £1059.75 (Gwilym Richards).

Saturday's production sale of Sufffolk females ar Carlisle from the Cairness, Perrinpit and Hazelwood flocks saw Jimmt Douglas' Cairness flock dominate proceedings, taking the top nine prices.

Top call on the day was an 8000gns bid for Cairness Renovator daughter 33H K28. This is out of a Crosemanor bred dam by Stockton Gold Nugget. Sold in lamb to 20,000gns lamb from Shrewsbury this year Cairness Achievement, she was bought by D R Fotheringham, Strichen, Aberdeen.

Then at 7000gns was 33H H21, a 2006-born daughter of Stockton Stardust. Out of  a dam by Fordafourie Lochnagar, this one is dam of 21,000gns Cairness Coldplay and sold to the buyer of that ram, Claude Vanwijnsberghe, Belgium.

Next best was a 4500gns bid for 33H K23, a 2007-born daughter of Whitestone Warrior. This one is out of a dam by Cairness Creation II and was sold in lamb to Cairness Just the Best. She went home with Ronnie Black, Cupar, Fife.

At 2500gns was 33H J29, a Meikleson Mighty daughter out of a Stockton Savannah daughter. Again in lamb to Achievement, she also sold to Ronnie Black.

At the same money was a 2008-born Baileys Golden Star daughter, 33H K31. This is out of a Cragroe Craftsman daughter and sold in lamb to Cairness Sea the Stars to Nan Moir, Fraserburgh. This one's grand dam was bought as a lamb from the Glenisla flock of the late Gordon Wilson.

A brace also made the next best call of 2000gns, the first to reach this money was 33H K82, a Cairness Star Flyer, daughter. She's out of a dam by Cairness Creation II and also sold in lamb to Cairness Sea the Stars to Gerry Killilea, Eire.

The other at this level was 33H K9, a Cairness Just the Best daughter. Out of a Crosemanor Commandeur daughter she is in lamb to Cairness Sea the Stars and sold to D R Fotheringham.

Best of the day from the Weavers' Perrinpit flock was a 1000gns bid from Merfyr Evans, Denbigh for P50 K110, a Plasllewelyn Punch daughter. She's out of a dam by Cairness enchantment and sold in lamb to Baileys Lughnasadh.

Next best from Perrinpit was a 900gns sale for a Cairnton Champion daughter. This is out of a Perrinpit True Style daughter and sold in lamb to Stockton Lammastide. Buying this one was J M Nisbet, Mauchline.

Averages; Cairness 14 ewes £1470, 35 shearling ewes £1376.40; Perrinpit 21 shearling ewes £401.21 (Harrison and Hetherington with United Auctions).

Andrew and Becky Bishop have continued their remarkable run of form at the primestock shows collecting the championship here at the English Winter Fair with a pair of Beltex crosses. These are by a homebred sire and out of purebred ewes.

Standing reserve was Robin Slade with a pair of purebred Dutch Texels. Judge Stuart Clatworthy said there was little to split the two pairs bar the Beltex being a better matched pair in the backend.

Michael and Melanie Alford, Devon, took the Baby Beef championshipe here at the English Winter Fair this morning with their Limousin cross heifer Poker Face. This one was bred by Christopher Dick and was bought from Caledonian Mart in September.

Reserve here was Keith Harryman with his homebred Limousin cross Ronaldo. This one was champion at last week's East of England Winter Stock Festival.

Phil and Sharon Sellers, Derbyshire, have just taken the overall beef championship here at the English Winter Fair with their Charolais cross heifer Fantasia. This one, which was overall champion at last week's East of England Winter Stock Festival, was bought privately from Jim Mills, Builth Wells, last year.

Standing reserve overall was Berwyn Hughes with his British Blue cross steer, Mr X Factor. This one is by an unregistered British Blue bull and out of a Limousin cross cow.

Taking the pedigree championship were Christine Williams and Paul Tippets with their pure Limousin steer Wilodge Destroyer. Reserve here was Michael Kirby with his Aberdeen Angus heifer Lockerly Black Butterfly.

Reserve in the crossbred heifers were Michael and Melanie Alford with their Blue cross Lady Gaga, while reserve steer went to the Williams and Tippets team again, this time with Limousin cross Buck Off.

Today's sale of Limousin females from the Sarkley sale has certainly seen the sparks fly with a top call of 25,000gns the high spot of what sounds like a resoundingly strong trade throughout.

Hading the sale was Sarkley Dalola, a Fieldson Alfy daughter. And you'd be right for thinking the name is a giveaway to her dam line as she is bred from the same line as Sarkley Bellola, dam of 30,000gns bull Wilodge Dallaglio. She's out of Sarkley Ola, granddam to Dallaglio. This one was bought by Malcolm Reid, Runninburn, Kelso, as foundation stock for a new herd.

Next best at 17,000gns was Sarkley Damarriane, a Salomon daughter out of Sarkley Marianne, a Ronick Gains daughter. She is three quarter sister to 17,000gns heifer Sarkley Crystal sold in 2008 and also headed back to Runningburn with Malcolm Reid.

It look's likely that following the ceasing of the Royal Lancs Show recently, the Shropshire and West Midlands Show is likley to follow it.

The Shropshire and West Midlands Agriculture Society, the organisation behind the show has been placed into voluntarry liquidation following difficulties paying its bills.

The Society has experienced financial problems amid the recession and the economic crisis and demands from suppliers for up-front payments in advance of events being held were impossible to meet, said the Society.

The loss of a show is of course a sad day as it is one less chance the industry has to connect with its end consumers. However, what is clear is that to survive in these increasingly trying times shows need to ensure they offer something to their exhibitors and visitors whihc they can't get elsewhere. That coupled with prudent financial management is key to their survival.

Trade for Holsteins at Lanacaster this week was solid, despite a larger, lower quality offering, report the auctioneers.

Trade was led at 2400gns by Messrs Basdiley and Son with their Regancrest daughter, Kilton Anagalis 12. This one is giving more than 40kg a day and sold to Messrs Lister, Clitheroe.

A brace then sold at 2200gns, the first being the pre-sale show champion from the Burrow family. This was Stardale Stagnite Duchess. She sold to Ian Wright, Rathmell.

And the second at this money was Dunnersale Igniter Dawn from Wilson Boow and Son. This was bought by A and V Wallbank and Son, Longridge.

Averages; 45 calved heifers £1847.53, five maiden heifers £793.80 (Norton and Brooksbank).

As the winter show season gets into top gear, following yesterday's AgriScot and with the major primestock shows all falling in the next three weeks, I reflected last night on the trip home from Edinburgh on the relative success of AgriScot and the Royal Highland Winter Fair.

Held just a week apart in the same venue the fortunes of the two couldn't, from an outsiders viewpoint, be more contrasting.

Yesterday's event, aimed squarely at large scale, professional producers drew a massive crowd to the equally massive turnout of tradestands. And from what I heard and saw both visitors and standholders alike were there to do business.

All the main suppliers were there and the crowd coming through the door was impressive to say the least.

Looking ahead to next week's Royal Highland Winter Fair is, sadly a less exciting prospect. While I have no doubt there will be a first class show of stock in the rings at Ingliston, I don't expect there to be much a showing of trade stands and the crowd, if experience can be relied on, is bound to be smaller.

So, despite all the historic reasons against it, there can for the future success of at least one of these events only be one answer, combine the two into one great show. Some other commentators have suggested the fact that the two exist is testament to the strength of Scottish farming. I disagree, it is in fact testament to the inability of some parties to  bury historic prejudices. Come guys get round the table again and set the wheels in motion for one big show worthy of the industries you're serving.

The Ayrshire champion has lifted the overall Supercow title here at AgriScot, with Barr Ranger Lottie from Colin Laird and granddaughter Ann leading the cow to victory having bought her a fortnight ago at the Barr herd dispersal at Carlisle.

This one cost the duo 7000gns and is by Horizon Ranger Red. She is currently giving 37 litres a day in her fifth lactation and has an impressive show record behind her.

As in the heifer championship there was no reserve ticket awarded.

Standing reserve in the Ayrshire championship was Brieryside Trimova from Messrs Lawrie.

Meanwhile, taking the Holstein title was Saxelby Goldwyn Rose from Messrs Butterfield, with Wyndford James Grey from Wilfred Maddocks in reserve.

Leading the Jerseys was Emma Murray with Whiteoaks Julian Flower, with J and I Wilson reserve with Wellhead Rocket Boo.

Taking the Red and White Holstein title was Cheviotview Beckham Kitty Red from Messrs Lawrie, with Cuthill Towers Daisy Mae reserve for A and S Lawrie.

photos to follow in due course....

Jugding is back underway this afternoon and so far the junior classes have been completed with the junior Ayshire class going to Messrs Lawrie with Brieryside Trimova 25, a McCornick Nelson daughter. Second spot went to G and G Templeton with Knowe Silver Bell, a Blackaddar B B Kellogg daughter. Third were Messrs Davidson and Sons with Halmyre Urr Showgirl.

In the Holstein junior class top place was R and E Butterfield with Saxelby Goldwyn Rose, a Braedale Goldwyn daughter. Then in second was Huddlesford Mrs Melody from Huddlesford Holsteins and third was Berryholme Golwyn Maud from H Wright and Son.

Taking the Jersey junior honours was J E Badham with Barcapel Remake Mamie, a Roick Ella Remake daughter. Second in this line up was Robert Hunter with Clydevalley Centurion and third was Clydevalley Sultan Girl from the same home.

In the Red and White Holstein class the top spot was taken by Messrs Lawrie with Cheviotview Beckham Kitty Red. Second was Cuthill Towers Daisy Mae from A and S Lawrie and third was Hunday Bob Melanie from Rhins Red Holsteins.

More results from the senior cow classes to follow in due course along with the overall championship.....

The interbreed heifer title here at AgriScot has gone to the Holstein senior heifer Drointon Jordan Brenda from Glyn Lucas, auctioneer at H&H, Carlisle. This one, by Roylane Jordan, is owned in partnership with Spanish breeder Quim Serrabassa and Dutch producer Erica Rijnetddweft.

Having been bought from the Borderway Black and White Sale in 2007 for 4000gns Jordan Brenda is run back in the Drointon herd where she was bred and was on her first show outing here today. She is currently giving 45 litres a day and is due to be flushed to Alexander before being put in calf to Sanchez. A first choice heifer is likely to be offered for sale in Itlay next September.

Taking the Jersey heifer class were Messrs Murray Farms with Trecanda Vindication Lily, a Vindication daughter, while second were Messrs Savage and Fleming with Shellon Sultan Prince, an SHF Centurion Sultan daughter.

In the Red and White Holstein class the first prize ticket went to Alexander Gray and Son with Langside Cactus 8, a Humeston Golden Bolt daughter. Second here were Messrs Nadin and Bradbury with Sterndale Sara Red, a Rosedale-L Rampage Red daughter.

Standing second to the overall champion in the senior Holstein heifer class was Huddlesford Melody Highlight from the Davidson family, This is a Huddlesford Monsoon daughter.

Cattle judging has got underway here at AgriScot with the first two heifer classes already decided.

Taking the Ayrshire junior heifer class was John Adamson with Swaites Felecity 6, a West Spittal Regiment Red daughter.

Second here were the Templeton family with Knowe Irnola 9, a Cuthill Towers Prince Freddie daughter and third were Messrs Lawrie with Brieryside Anita 4, a Brieryside Pure Gold daughter.

Honours in the Holstein junior heifer award went to S L and P S Bell with Holmland Golden Oralie, a Braedale Goldwyn daughter. Taking the second place in this class was James Baillie with Dalserf Lou Dellia, a Jenny Lou Marshall daughter. Then in third were D J and S Tomlinson with Bilsrow Gibson Ada, a Silky Gibson daughter.

Judging is continuing throughout the day, so check back later for up to date results and photos....

Beeston market saw its best trade yet for Suffolk females, with the largest collective sale this autumn resulting in a top price of 1800gns.

This one was the pre-sale champion from Myfyr Evans' Rhaeadr flock, a two crop ewe by Castlewellan Cruz. she sold to Chris Holmes, Rookery.

Then at 1600gns was a shearling ewe from Jimmy Douglas' Cairness flock. This one, by Thurston Chieftan was sold carrying twins to Cairness Acheivement and was bought by Mike Waycott, Devon.

At 1300gns was another from Cairness, a two crop Stockton Savannah daughter in lamb to Achievement which sold to Paul Osman, Devon. And at the same money was another from Jimmy Douglas, a Whitestone Warrior daughter which sold to John Gould, Buxton, Derbyshire.

Selling at 1100gns was the best of the day from Charles Proctor. This shearling ewe is by Straithisla Schumacher and sold to A W Jones, Conwy, in lamb to Achievement.

Topping the ewe lambs at 1050gns was one from Myfyr Evans which sold to Messrs Troup, Aberdeenshire. The final bid above 1000gns was for a lamb from Clive Norbury's Alphazone flock. This Muiresk Adrenaline daughter sold to Jimmy Douglas.

Averages; 54 ewes £480.67, 70 shearling ewes £501.40, 32 ewe lambs £440.83 (Wright Manley).

Northern Irish Limousin breeders saw trade peak at 6000gns on Saturday on a day that saw 16 lots head to the mainland.

Heading up the prices was Aghadolgan Daytona from Raymond Savage. This September 2008-born son of 23,000gns sire Sarkley Sebastian is out of a Goldies Oswald daughter and sold to Norman Cruickshank for his Lanark-based Normande herd.

At 4400gns was another from the same home Aghadolgan Drover. This one, also by Sebastian is out of a Ronick Iceman daughter and sold to Roy Savage, Dromore.

Selling for 4100gns was the pre-sale champion from Messrs Green, Lisburn. Derriaghy Diggerman is by AI sire Rocky and ouf of Derrraighy Upstart, a Shire Milton daughter. He sold to P Donnelly, Ballygawley.

And a brace then sold at 4000gns, the first of which was Carnew Derby from J and J Aiken, Dromara. This Ryedale Paragon son is out of Sweethall Redlady, a dam with Cannon in her back pedigree and sold to J Kelly, Limavady.

Quality animals forward and a strong attendance of buyers saw prices top 6900gns at Beeston Castle Auction at the Annual Autumn Colours sale of Brown Swiss, Ayrshire, Shorthorn and Jersey cattle.  

Taking the top spot was the 14 month old Ayrshire heifer, Haresfoot Century Bella, who was sold in a specialist section for high class individuals marketed under the name of 'Kaleidoscope of Colour'.

This one is a daughter of Brieryside Centurion and out of Haresfoot Bella 6^th an EX95-4E cow. Consigned by Duncan Hunter, Berkhampstead, Herts she was purchased in a joint deal by Andrew Gough, Shropshire and Blaise Tomlinson, Leics for 6900gns.    

Second in the money in this high class section was the seven month old Jersey calf, Grahmar Connection Virtue, forward by Graham Wallace, Goostrey, Cheshire. By Giprat Belle's Connection and out of an EX93-2E dam, this one sold to Northern Crusaders Syndicate, Yorkshire for 3600gns.

Then at 3000gns came another Ayrshire, the fresh calved heifer, Heydale Winsome 117^th from Peter Berresford, Buxton, who sold for 3000gns to Duncan Hunter.

Similar prices were also witnessed for all Ayrshire's in the Autumn Colours sale which included a 3000gns bid for a bull, Haresfoot Elmo, from Duncan Hunter. This son of Lagace Modem and out of the EX94-3E cow Haresfoot Ella 47^th, sold to Messrs Armstrong, Maryport, Cumbria. Ayrshire milkers sold to 2300gns, served heifers to 1220gns and maiden heifers to 1100gns.

Brown Swiss were in demand and sold to a top of 2250gns for a registered halfbred fresh heifer from Jack and Barclay Taylor, Myddle, Shrewsbury. She sold giving 28kg daily to D and H E Colclough and Sons, Hassall, Sandbach.

But, despite Jersey's having the largest entry of the day, trade was sluggish with prices only topping at 1950gns. This was for Shellen Senooir Xavier a two year old fresh calved daughter from Tom Savage and Sheila Fleming, Appleby, Cumbria to Mitchell Oldershaw, Derbyshire.  

Prices hit a top spot of just 2700gns at Friday's sale of Herefords at Carlisle, with trade leed by Baldinnie 1 Malta from John Cameron. This Leos Pride 1 Vanquish son is out of Baldinnie 1 Model 5 and sold with a terminal sire index of +25 and a self replacing index of +31 to J M and A M Weir, Appleby.

At 2600gns was Panmure 1 Emperor from Messrs Cant. This is a Solpoll 1 Brigadier son out of a dam by FS 1 Versache. He sold with a terminal sire index of +16 and a self replacing index of +19 to W Weightman, Country Durham, having stood champion in the pre-sale show.

Topping the females at 2200gns was Romany 1 Mink from the Wilson family, Kelso. This is a September 2007-born Romany 1 Atlas 4 daughter out of Romany 1 Mink 43 and soldd in calf to SMH Calgary.

Averages; three bulls £2371.25, nine females £1080.33 (Harrison and Hetherington).

Trade at Friday's sale of Simmentals at Carlisle hit a top call of 5500gns when the reserve male champion, Midhope Winston from W J Hollingsworth sold to Neil Balderstone, Skegness. This is a son of Dirnanean Snowie, an Omorga Lennox son, and is out of Midhope Kai, a Greenside Eric daughter. He sold with a terminal sire index of +20 and a self replacing index of +21.

Then at 4500gns was April 2008-born bull Gerrard Winner from Messrs Carter. This Salisbury Challenger son is out of Gerrard Royale 7, a Gerrard Major daughter. He has a terminal sire index of +21 and a self replacing index of +29 and sold to Brett Corcan, Newton Stewart.

Making 3400gns was the overall champion from the pre-sale show, Blackpool Wyatt from David Loftus. This is a Lamhoj Supery son out of a dam by Stirling Logan. With a terminal sire index of +21 and a self replacing index of +20 he was bought by B Duffton, Huntly, Aberdeenshire.

Just shy of that at 3200gns was another from the Carters, Gerrard Ward. This Brinkton Brilliant son is out of Gerrard Belinda 28, a Sacombe Wishful Thinking daughter. He was bought by S Renshaw, Spilsby.

In the females the top call of 4000gns was paid for the female champion from the pre-sale show, Chestermann Ringleader Katy from Messrs Gwynne. By Blackford Ringleader and out of Chestermann Katrina's Kuss, a Stirling Rapier daughter she sold to W Warren, Gomersal.

At 2500gns was another Blackford Ringleader daughter, Chestermann Ringleader Nymph. This is out of Brinkton Nymph, a Strathisla Julius daughter and sold to the same buyer.

Averages; 11 bulls £3054.55, five females £1512, Chestermann herd 11 females £2238.41 (Harrison and Hetherington).

Trade at Robbie Wilson's reduction sale from his Strathisla Suffolk flock at Stirling on Saturday was brisk, with the sale hitting a top call of 12,000gns.

Sale leader (centre of the picture) was a January 2005-born embryo bred ewe by Strathisla Kingsway. This one, FNV F26, is out of a dam, FNV X48, by Glenisla Godfather which goes back to Muiresk McKelvey. She sold in lamb to Glenhead Golden Phoenix and was dam of Strathisla Sea Bird, this year's Edinburgh sale champion which sold for 10,000gns and Strathisla Shadrach, a £20,000 sale. She was snapped up by Gary Beacom, Co Fermanagh.

Next best at 8500gns (left of the picture) was another embryo bred ewe bred exactly the same way. Also a 2005-born ewe, this one again sold in lamb to Golden Phoenix and is dam to £4500 tup Strathisla Soldier of Fortune. Like the 12,000gns ewe she is ET sister to 45,000gns sire Strathisla Dead Lucky. She also sold to Mr Beacom.

And at 5500gns (right of the picture) was a shearling ewe by Strathisla Schumacher and out of a daughter of X48. This was also AI'd to Golden Phoenix and joined the Northern Irish contingent, heading to Alfred and Norman Robinson, Downpatrick.

Selling at 4800gns was another shearling ewe, FNV K94. This is a Schumacher daughter out of a dam by Glenho Gurka. This one's great grandam is full sister to 14,000gns sire Strathisla Kingsway and sold in lamb to Golden Phoenix to Bill Borthwick, Ayrshire.

Another shearling ewe, this time by Glenho Gurka himself sold at 2200gns to Ross Lawrence, Devon. She's out of a dam by Glenhead the McCoy and was carrying lambs to Sea Bird.

This was followed at 2000gns by another of the shearlings, a Strathisla Speed daughter out of a dam by Glenho Gurka. Once again in lamb to Golden Phoenix she sold to the Machray family, Inverurie.

Making 1800gns was an ET bred sister to 48,000gns sire Strathisla Dylan Thomas. By Schumacher and out of a dam by Glenhead the McCoy, this traded in lamb to Golden Phoenix to Lee Duns, Ross-shire. (United Auctions).

Prizes were spread far and wide among a range of exhibitors at Saturday's Black Beauty Bonanza show of Aberdeen-Angus at Thainestone.

Taking the top yearling heifer prize under Canadian judge Doug Robertson was Mosston Muir Eline from Tom Rennie. This one is by Rawburn Transformer and iut of Mosston Muir Elise. This heifer drew plenty of admiring looks from the ringside, with two watchers, Jim Logan and John Elliot taking their cheque books out to secure her in a £15,000 private deal. She will now be used in ET programmes in their Rawburn and Galawater herds.

Leading the brace of yearling bull classes were entries from Blelack, with the championship going to Blelack Lord Hildalgo from the Massies. This is a first crop son of Netherallan Peter Pershore.

Taking the heifer calf championship was Jamie Leslie, Shetland, with Scholland Diana from his recently established Scholland herd. This is an ET bred calf by Rawburn Echester and out of Skaill Diana.

And taking the bull calf championship were Hamish and Margaret Sclater with Deveron Jackson Eric, a Blackhaugh Easy Papa son.

Here's a brief report from the Limousin sale at Brecon, which saw trade peak at 12,000gns.

The top price and new centre record went to Glangwden Derwent from the Jermans. This is a Haltcliffe Ullswater son out of a dam by French sire Paul.

Commercial calf producers were busy spending their income from recent suckled calf sales at Welshpool last week when Charolais sold to a top price of 8300gns at the town's new market.

Leading the trade was Pedr Dougal from Peter Howells, Llanbyther. This one is by 16,000gns sire Blelack Tycoon and out of a homebred cow which goes back to Gwenog Ivory, dam of 31,000gns Pedr Thumper. Buying this one was Wyn Ashton for his 200-cow commercial herd at Cefn Coch.

Then at 7500gns was Dorcas Danzig from George and Claire Moriss. This Blelack Topgun son is out of a Maerdy Ozone-sired dam and sold to D T Richards, Measteg.

Class 1 Native Heifer

Richard and Judy Fountaine's heifer, Lucombe Carro; Res, Paul Barwood and Anita Padfield's heifer, Bambles Lip Gloss.

Class 2 Native Steer

Michael and Melanie Alford's Galloway steer, Super Man; Res, Kingham Enterprises's South Devon, Big Bucks.

Class 3 Continental heifer

Richard and Judy Fountaine's Limousin, Millington Dinead; res, Paul Barwood and Anita Padfield's Limousin, Withersdale Donna.

Class 4 Continental Steer

Mike Dickens's Limousin, Walburn Dave the Rave; res, W Hardy and Sons Limousin, Jericho Desire-A-Bull.

Class 5 Native heifer

Brailes Livestock's Angus Cross, Black Diamond. Res, J and W Laight's South Devon Cross, Badger.

Class 8  Native Steer

Mike Dickens's Angus cross, Foscote; res, M A and L H Richardson's South Devon Cross, Sidmonds.

Class9

Michael and Melanie Alford's British Blue cross, Lady Gaga; res, Phil and Sharon Sellers's British Blue cross, Betty Boop.

Class 9a 

Mr M Morris's Miss British Blue cross, Miss Impress; res, Paul Barwood and Anita Padfield's British Blue cross, Twilight.

Class 10

Michael and Melanie Alford's British blue steer, Paparatzil; res, Phil and Sharon Sellers's British Blue steer, Dick Turpin.

Class 11

Phil and Sharon Sellers's Limousin cross, Rihana; res, Mr M Hallam's Limousin cross, Tip Top.

Class 11a Richard and Judy Fountaine's Limousin cross, Real Classy; res, Mr J and

Mrs Wareham's Limousin cross, Roxy.

Class 12 Mr D H Plested's Limousin cross steer, Jimmy Mac; res, Miss Nicola Beardsley's Bandit.

Class 12a Mike and Jean Dickens's Limousin cross steer, Bisto; res, Phil and Sharon Sellers's steer, Priceless.

Class 13 Phil and Sharon Sellers's Charolais cross, Fantasia; res, Collins Framing Enterprise's British Blonde cross, That's My Girl.

Class 14 Jason and Sarah Wareham's steer, Diddy Man; res, Brailes Livestock's Four eyes.

Champion Continental heifer

Phil and Sharon Sellers's Charolais cross heifer, Fantasia; res, Michael and Jane Alford's Lady Gaga.

Champion Continental Steer

Michael and Jane Alford's British Blue cross steer, Paparatzil; res, Mr D H Plested's Limousin cross, Jim.

Overall Champion

Phil and Sharon Sellers's Charolais cross heifer, Fantasia; res, Michael and Jane Alford's British Blue cross steer, Paparatzil;

(Next page for Saturdays results and pictures)  

And the Championship has just been announced. This went to Phil and Sharon Sellers, Derby with their Charolais cross, Fantasia, which came through from class 13 and took the champion continental heifer title.

In reserve was Michael and Melanie Alford, Devon with their British Blue cross steer, Paparatzil. This was winner of class 10 and was champion continental steer.

Back from the lunch breaking and judging of the heifer sired by a pure bred Limousin bull has just finished. Split into two classes it was those heifers under 550kg that were first under the judges scrutiny. But it was yet another success for Phil and Sharon Sellers, Derby with their 530kg Rihana. In reserve Was Tip Top forward by Mr M Hallam.

In the second class for those weighing more than 550kgs it was a tough call for judge Stuart Clatworthy. But living up to its name was Real Classy forward by Richard and Judy Fountaine, Milton Keynes, Bucks. This one weighed in at 644kg. Taking the reserve title was Roxy by Mrs S and Mr J Wareham, Heathfield, East Sussex.

For those weighing under 600kgs it was Mr D H Plested, Chinnon, Oxon taking top spot with Jimmy Mac who weighed in at 558kg.  In reserve was Miss N Beardsley, Ashbourne, with Bandit.

The first of the classes sired by a pure bred British Blue Blue has just kicked off. And with some classy stock in the ring for heifers sired by a pure bred British Blue under 600kg the rosette was handed to Michael and Melanie Alford, Devon with 598kg, Lady Gaga. She was shown by Colin Hutchings. In reserve was the 534kg Betty Boop from Phil and Sharon Sellers, Belper, Derby.

In the second split of the class for heifers sired by a purebred British Blue bull over 600kg, it was Miss Impress, who certainly lived up her name when she took first place in the class. Impress who weighed in at 686kg was forward by Mr M Morris, Lutterworth, Leics. Reserve in this class was Paul Barwood and Anita Padfield with 634kg Twilight.

Taking the reserve spot was Dick Durbin, from Phil and Sharon Sellers, Belper, Derby.  

The crossbreds are now dominating the ring. Native heifer and native steer judging has just taken place and with only three entries in the native heifer class, it was Brailes Livestock consisting of Rachel Wyllie and Richard Hassale, that took first place with their Angus cross, Black Diamond weighing in at 542kg. In reserve it was J and W Laight with their South Devon cross, Badger weighing 614kg.

It was another win for Mike and Jean Dickens in the native steer class. This time it was with his 483kg South Devon cross, Foscote, shown by daughter Emma. In reserve was M A and L H Richardson with Mervin, a South Devon cross, weighing 654kg.

Champion heifer and steers classes have just been announced and taking the champion heifer title was Richard and Judy Fountaine with their heifer, Millington Dinead. This April 2008 Limousin was bought from Frank Page, Northampton as a calf and has been shown several times this year including Suffolk Show, Asby and Newark Show. This one who weighed in at 588kg will be retained for breeding by the Fountaines.

In reserve was the Limousin, Withersdale Donna forward by Paul Barwood and Anita Padfield.

Taking the steer championship title was Superman, a Galloway forward by Michael and Melanie Alford, Cullumpton, Devon. This one which weighed in at 738kg was bought last September from A Waugh, Cumbria. And a good investment he was having already takeb the native steer title at Agri Expo, Carlisle last month. Superman will be shown at Scottish Winter Fair and the Welsh Winter Fair in the coming weeks. 

In reserve was Mike Dickens with his October 2008 born Limousin that weighed in at 470kg.

Continental heifers and steers have just been under the eye of judge Mr S Clatworthy, Somerset. It was another entry by Richard and Judy Fountaine that took first place in the continental heifer class, with Millington Dinead. Pipped to the post again were Paul Barwood and Anita Padfield with their Limousin Withersdale Donna.

In the steer class, it was Mike Dickens taking the class trophy with his Limousin steer, the 470kg, Walburn Dave the Rave. In reserve was the 526kg beast, Jericho Desire-A-Bull from W Hardy and Sons.

The first two classes, native steer and native heifer have been judged. Taking first place in Native heifer was a South Devon, forward by Richard and Judy Fountaine, with Lucombe Carro. This one weighed in at 598kg. In reserve was the Lincoln Red, Brambles Lip Gloss from Paul Barwood and Anita Padfield.

It was a Galloway taking the first place trophy in the Native steer class for Michael and Melanie Alford. Super Man weighed in at 738kg. In reserve was a South Devon, Big Bucks forward from Kingham Enterprises. This one weighed in at 622kg.

It's still quiet around the show ring here at the East of England Winter Stock Festival, but with judging due to commence in the next few minutes, i'm sure the crowds will soon be flocking to see the quality of cattle on offer- with more than 130 cattle entered.

Keep up to date for all the latest results and pictures which we will bring to you as they happen.

Charolais bulls witnessed a strong trade at N I Charolais club's autumn show and sale, which saw prices peak at 5600gns.

Leading trade was the reserve champion, Brogher Domino, who was within the breed's top 10% with a TI +30 and SRI +35. He is a Doonally New son and out of a homebred dam and was forward by Trevor Phair, Enniskillen, Fermanagh and sold to Alex Ferguson, Aughnacloy, Tyrone.

Next in the money was the 17 month old Clogher Diamond, a twin who is by Major and out of a Clogher bred dam going back to Doonally New. Consigned by Joe Kelly, Clogher, Tyrone, it was a 5400gns bid that secured Diamond for A Loughran, Cookstown.

A 5000gns bid was enough to secure Drumconnis Dallas, a 17 month old for T J Kelly, Derry. Forward by John McGrath, Omagh, Tyrone, this other Doonally New son is out of a homebred cow by Moyness Lincoln.

Derryharney Dreamer went under the hammer at 4800gns selling to I Hetherington, Omagh, Tyrone. Consigned by Harold Stubbs, Lisnaskea Dreamer is a Hilllviewfarm Perfect son and out of a homebred dam.

The supreme champion, Dunmore Duran was next in line selling for 4500gns to Kyle McCall, Collone, Armagh. This 19 month old Doonally New son, was out of a Derrygiff Mills sired cow from Derek Campton, Cookstown.

John Mcgarth saw a good day trading when his second entry of the day, a July 2008 born Drumconnis David, again by Doonally New was knocked down to 4400gns to Mark Thompson, Kesh, Fermanagh.

Two more entries shared the 4400gns price tag. First was Corryglass Dazzler, a June 2008 born Doonallly New son and out of a homebred dam. Bred and exhibited by Brian Phair, Enniskillen, Dazzler returned to Enniskillen with Ian Brown.

The last call of 4400gns went to Gordon Cutler, Enniskillen for his 13 month old, Gortdonaghy Dice. By Cloonmore Bernard and out of an Allanfauld bred cow, he sold to Sam Calvin, Coleraine, Derry.

Averages 26 bulls:£3159.45 (Dungannon Farmers' Mart)

A new centre record price of 8000gns was paid for a Saler at Castle Douglas at the weekend, when Rob and Kath Livesay, Firth Farm, Lilliesleaf, sold Clueghhead Xerox to Graham and Colin McClymount, Newton Stewart.

And at 7200gns was another from the same vendors, Cleuchhead Xpert. He sold to A Jones, Talsarnaw.

Selling at 5800gns was Seamore Dandare from J and S Manners, Denholm. This one was sold to G W and M Richardson and Son, Denholm.

Taking the female championship and top female price was Rigel Alicia from Messrs Pye, Middleton on Leven, Yarm. She sold for 5000gns to the pre-sale show judge Patrick Boyd, Isle of Tiree.

And at 4000gns was Cuil Becky from Messrs McClymount. This sold to H G and S G Pritchard, Gwynedd.

Averages; 22 bulls 3730.80, eight heifers £2438.75 (Wallets Marts). 

Friday's sale of Belted Galloways at Carlisle hit a peak of 1600gns with this price achieved twice for older females.

First to sell at this money was Borderway Julie, a Mochrum Billy Bob sired June 2007-born heifer out of a dam by Grandycroft James. This one was consigned by the auctioneers Harrison and Hetherington from their small herd run on ground alongside the market. She sold to E M and J R Irving, Wigton. The other to make this money was another from H and H Borderway Janet. She's also by Billy Bob and out of a dam by Grandycroft James and sold to the same buyer.

And at 1550gns was yet another from H and H, Borderway Joanne. This Billy Bob daughter, born in March 2007 is out of Borderway Heather, a Burnside David daughter and was bought by J Blacklock, Wark.

It look's like the H and H Christmas bonuses have been secured for another year!!

 Despite fewer buyers than previous years present at Beeston's Wexham Cup bull sale, there were still some competitive bids to secure the best genetics on show.

A bid of 4000gns was the top price paid for one of the best bulls forward, which was achieved for the Inspection Champion, Woodmarsh Lantern.  Bred from six generations of dams scored in the two top grades from the Gould's noted Lyme family, the buyer of the bull was John Dugdale, Settle, north Yorkshire.

The next best price of 3100gns also went to the Gould's with Woodmarsh Lexicon, a son of the popular Advent and out of a fifth generation Excellent dam from the Farnear Luxor family. He sold to the Davies family, Abergele, Denbighshire.

Next in the money was Sterndale Ladino ET from Bill Nadin, Buxton realising 2700gns to Glyn Davies for his Rhydygors herd, west Wales. Ladino is a son of Talent and out of Savage-Leigh Licorice, an 18,000kg daughter of the renowned Durham.

It was another son of Talent, Holmland Tantalize Red and out of Indianhead Durham Roxan that topped trade for S L and PS Bell and P Findley, which sold for 2500gns to Ben Towers, Carnforth, Lancashire.

Taking the next three best prices were John and Ruth Morris, Wrexham. Firs twas Woodmarsh Lancer ET a Mr Burns son forward by M and J C Gould at 2400gns. At 2200gns they purchased the Wexham Cup winner, Willsbro Rewind for 2200gns consigned by Willsbro. Also from Willsbro, Willsbro Starlo ET a Goldwyn son, was bought for 2100gns.

Averages 47 bulls, £1751.90 (Wright Manley).

Trade for Galloways at Carlisle last Friday was steady, with the top price of 1450gns paid for a heifer, Scottish Queen 152 of Miefield from W McMorran. This daughter of Youth of High Creoch out of a dam by Craigmuie Seattle sold with her Blue Grey heifer calf at foot to R H and J R Little, Bewcastle.

Then at 1350gns was another of the heifers, Scottish Queen 144 of Miefield from the same vendor. This one is again by Youth of High Creoch and out of a dam by Craigmuie Seattle and sold with a Blue Grey heifer calf at foot to J and M Walker, Langholm.

The best of the bulls on offer, Roan Border Callum from P Jackson sold at 1200gns. This Councillor of Nether Rusko son out of Roan Border Rose, a Huntly Director daughter, sold to D Moffat and Sons, Moffat.

Also at this level were a brace of heifers. The first being Nova 62 of Miefield from W McMorran. Again by Youth of High Creoch and this time out of a dam by Highlight 2 of Romesbeoch, she sold with a Blue Grey heifer calf at foot to A and A Hogg, Langholm. The second was Kathleen 700107 of Ardoch from G J Kyle. This General of Corrie son out of Kathleen 154 of Ardoch sold with a Blue Grey calf at foot to J and M Dodd, Brampton.

Averages; 1 bull £1260, 30 heifers in calf or in milk £995.88, two pedigree cows in calf or in milk £708.75, 19 bulling heifers £705.28 (Harrison and Hetherington).

Topping the sale of Whitebred Shorthorns at Carlisle last Friday was a 4800gns call for March 2008-born bull Blackburn Marshall from G Jackson. This son of Milnholm Scott is out Blackburn Blossom, a Blackburn Taurus daughter and sold to J R F Pattinson, Hexham.

And at 3400gns wasa Barlaes Gladiator, another March 2008-born bull. This one from R and M Ferguson is by Raeburnfoot Talisman and out of Barlaes White Heather, a Glendearg Monarch daughter. He sold to T D and M Moore, Brampton, Carlisle.

Averages; three bulls £3220, two females £813.75 (Harrison and Hetherington).

A packed sale ring resulted in a flying trade for the dispersal of Mike Rickatson's Sheriff herd of pedigree Holsetins, Lodge Farm, York.

Buyers were keen to purchase some of the well bred stock which resulted in trade topping at 3100gns for Sheriff Belero Honey 2 PI, a freshly calved heifer giving 38kg daily. This heifer descends from the late Miss Sybil Edwards' Honey family and joins the Shirewood herd of M B Russell, Boston, Lincolnshire.

Earlier her dam made 2700gns, which was one of 15 purchases made by Mr G A G Evans, Welshpool for his Trawscoed herd. Graham Donaldson, Stokesley claimed Honey's four week old heifer calf by Toystory for his Barlees herd at 880gns. The seven Honey family lots averaged £2107.

Other top cow families developed by the Rickastson family over 50 years commanded premium prices. Red animals were keenly sought after, with the second top price of the day going to Sheriff Marco Joy Red, a four month calved third calf cow selling to Messrs Evans, Welshpool.

Served heifers peaked at 1900gns for a Shottle daughter from the Tina family and yearling heifers made up to 920gns for a Honey by Spirte.

Averages 113 cows and calved heifers, £1422; 48 served heifers, £983; 15 maiden heifers £752; 192 head £1,142 

Saturday's dispersal of Harry Stewart's Castlewellan flock of Suffolks sold to a top call of 5500gns, with this money being paid for an embryo bred ewe lamb. By Strathisla Dylan Thomas and out of a homebred ewe by Kings High and Mighty, this one sold to A J and N Robinson, Downpatrick.

Then at 5000gns was the highest priced ewe of the day, a Kings Theatre daughter out of a dam by Glenho Giants Causeway. This one, CFJ H78, goes back to Wells Fargo and sold in lamb to Cairness Sea the Stars. She was bought by T T Robinson, Newton Abbey.

And making 4500gns was the top priced shearling ewe of the day, Strathisla Dylan Thomas daughter CFJ K51. She's out of a dam by Kings Theatre and sold in a two way split to Gary Beacom, and P Taylor, Coleraine

Selling for 4200gns was another of the older ewes, a 2005-born Kings Theatre daughter, CFJ F68. This one is out of a dam by Glenho Giants Causeway. She sold in lamb to Pankymoor Prelude to J B Croal, Blairgowrie.

Gary Beacom bought another at 4000gns, this was another Dylan Thomas daughter, CFJ K49, which is out of a dam by Kings Theatre and goes back to Giants Causeway.

Also at this money was another of the ewe lambs, another embryo bred lamb by Kings Theatre and out of a dam by Castlewellan Tomohawk. She sold to S K Elsworthy, Bideford, Devon.

The day's big spender, Gary Beacom, then bought another at 3800gns. This was CFJ K75, a shearling by Dylan Thomas and out of a Kings Theatre sired dam. Going back to Muiresk Master Imp she is a maternal sister to 1450gns ram Castlewellan Tyson.

At 3200gns was another Dylan Thomas sired shearling, she's out of a dam by Giants Causeway and goes back to Muiresk King of Diamonds and is maternal sister to Castlewellan Colonel Tom and sold to James Browne, Letterkenny, Co Donegal.

A brace then sold at 3000gns the first of which was another embryo bred ewe, CFJ L8. This Dylan Thomas daughter is out of a Birness First Choice sired dam and sold to A J and N Robinson.

The other at this money was the well breeding stock ram Strathisla Dylan Thomas. This son of Strathisla Schumacher out of a Glenhead the McCoy daugter and bred by Robbie Wilson, sold to Father J Delaney, Castlecote, Eire.

Carlisle Suffolk in lamb show and sale saw prices topping at 850gns for a 2008 in lamb ewe from D M Robertson, Hexham. This was bought by A Botherwell, Smithston Farm, Ayr.

Next at 700gns was a 2007 born ewe by Cragroe Craftsman forward from Darren Jones, Carlisle, Cumbria. Paying this money was Elaine Wilkie, Lockerbie, Dumfriesshire.

Ms Wilkie also paid 700gns for a ewe forward by G and J Soulsby, Temple Sowerby, Cumbria. She also secured a 2008 born in lamb ewe also from G and J Soulsby for 680gns.

Another entry from Darren Jones also hit a high of 650gns. By Cairness Classical Creation this one who was first in class 3 was secured by J G Douglas, Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire.

A 620gns bid secured a Laurelbank First Flight sired ewe from Lewis Harkness, Dumfries, which heads home with A Bothwell, Ayr.

Two 600gns bids were next in line. First was paid for a Cairness Destiny sired ewe from Darren Jones, Carlisle, Cumbria. This one was secured by J G Douglas, Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire. Also at the same money was another one forward by G and J Soulsby. This one sold to Elaine Wilkie.

Averages 32 ewes, £350.44; 55 shearling ewes, £377.19; 9 ewe lmabs, £445.67; overall £370.72

A second major consignment of Hereford heifers and bulls has been exported to France.

The shipment included six bulling heifers and a bull from the Boundless Herd of B H and M R Myers, Goldalming, Surrey; six heifers from the Hillrow herd owned by A G Wright and Sons, Ely and three in-calf heifers from the Reydon Herd of John Little Farmers, Chelmsford.

Richard  Beale of Stanford Livestock International organised the shipment of the

16 cattle to French buyer, Geoffray D'Herbecourt, Saint Molf, Anjou.

Messrs Myers also sold the 22 month old bull, Boundless 1 Edge, sired by Boundless 1 Voltage to Pascal Bastien, Bagneux in the east of France.

Making a return trip to the UK was Jean-Christophe Betis, St Ceneri le Cerei, Normandy. He purchased a two year old bull, Fisher 1 Earl, sired by Doonbiddie Hustler and two in-calf heifers, Fisher 1 Pansy D226 and Fisher 1 Clover C198.

Both were in calf to successful show winning bull, Fisher 1 Cracker and all three were bred by W J Hutchings and Sons, Chichester, West Sussex.

The two bulls in the shipment are destined to go to the British Breed stand at the SIA Show in Paris next Spring.

The French Hereford Association is now working closely with Institut de L'Elevage to demonstrate the relevance of the Hereford breed in French cattle production systems, says the Hereford Cattle Society.

"The association team have also managed to get the support of major meat companies to develop the awareness of the breed at production level, but also further down the beef chain."

Trade for the Barr Ayrshire herd dispersal is now leading at 7200gns. This sum was given for Barr Sandy Rose 48. This Morwick Sand Ranger daughter is out of Barr Sandy Rose 11 and calved on the 11th of October. She has a sound show record behind her and gave 7455 in her first.

Then at 7000gns were a brace, the first of which was Barr Ranger Lottie, a Horizon Ranger Red Hol daughter out of Barr Lottie 2. She calved in April and had given 6988 in 173 days of her fifth.

The other at this money was heifer Barr Brown Sugar 2. This Barr Apache daughter is out of Barr Raven and calved in September. She had given 546 in 21 days of her first.

And two sold at 6000gns, the first being Barr Butterfly 4. This one is also by Barr Apache and is out of Barr Retrospective and had given 2178 in 77 days of her first.

The second transaction at this level was for Barr Bright Scorpio, a July 2006-born heifer. She calved in May, is by Barr Victory Song and gave 4092 in 129 days of her first lactation.

Selling for 5200gns was Barr Warbler, a Crofthead Roayl Oak daughter. This one was sold dry with a strong show record behind her.

Making 4000gns was Barr Sandy Rose 37. This Horizon Ranger Red Hol daughter is out of Barr Sandy Rose 11 and gave 7337 in a 287 day third lactation. Also at this money was another Sandy Rose, Barr Sandy Rose 49. By Stevenson's Saltire she's out of Barr Sandy Rose 31 and calved her first in March.

More to follow....

The calf champion from September's national show of Aberdeen-Angus, Rull Francis J092 has been sold privately for £6000.

This daughter of Muirhall Top Deal from Edward and Claire Jones, Cullompton, Devon, has sold to Andrew Hodge, Duns, for his Rulesmains herd.

Francis is out of Rull Francis F065, a daughter of Netherton Frances C236 which is in turn a Netherton Royal Sovereign daughter.

Mr Hodge said he'd admired the calf's correctness and tremendous style. "She has a character you can't help be taken with and her pedigree will no doubt compliment the existing bloodlines at Rulesmains."

Trade at today's dispersal of the Barr herd of Ayrshires, the oldest herd in the UK, has so far hit a top spot of 4500gns. This was given for Barr Tia Maria, a November 2002-born daughter of McCornick Nelson, out of Barr Patisserie, a Horizon Ranger Red Hol daughter. This 75% pure cow calved in July and was sold having been AI'd to Wroughton Lord Winston. She has currently given 3009 litres in 89 days of her fourth and is projected to give 7143.

At 3000gns was Barr Soho, a 50% pure cow born in November 2001 and by Horizon Ranger Red Hol. She's out of Barr Jazz, a Bargower Scotlands Pride daughter. She gave 9362 in her fourth lactation.

More news as we get it.......

The Bailey Bros Bi-Annual Sale at Sedgemoor saw a record average of £1861 for the milkers with a top price of £3045.

The best money went to the second calver, Pursuit September Storm. She calved in October and is giving 34kg. A daughter of Prickle, this one sold to John and Pam Taylor for Michael Eavis, Worthy Farm, Pilton. They also acquired the Comestar Outside, October second calver for 2600gns. 

44 unselected calved heifers sold to a top of 2400gns twice for daughters of Ronly and Braedale Freeman. And 30 of the milking cows and heifers sold for more than 2000gns.

Eight red and white cows and heifers generated a lot of interest with an in-calf heifer due in December by Baileys TL Matrix Red, selling for 1700gns.

The bulling heifers sold to 970gns for four daughters of Emerald ACR SA T Baxter.

Averages: 48 calved cows; £1777.00, 7 dry cows; £1339.50, 43 calved heifers; £1955.00, 13 in-calf heifers; £1473.00, 23 bulling heifers; £914.00 (Greenslade Taylor Hunt)

A maiden heifers sold for the top price of 5100gns at the Western Club's Monthly Show and Sale of Holsteins, Beeston.

Dilligas Bolt Ladina is a daughter of Bolton and is bred from four generations of VG EX dams. Her dam is full sister to the famous Savage-Leigh Licorice. This one was put forward by Paul Mann of Falmouth, Cornwall and sold to Showell Farms, Nuneaton for their Moordown Herd.

A young second calver from sisters Katie and Amy Miller, Evesham, Worcestershire went for the next best price of 3700gns. Shanael Jordan Roxy, a three year old VG87 cow, is a daughter of Roylane Jordan. She gave 1000kg as a heifer and is giving 47kg daily with her second calf.

She went to the show judge, Ceri Jones, Abercych, Boncath who previously awarded her champion in the pre show sale.

At 3500gns, the Toystory daughter, Dilligas Toy Durham Merry 2 sold to the new partnership of Glitzy Glam Holsteins, Weston-under-Redcastle, Shrewsbury. She is bred from five generations of VG/EX dams.

Next in the milkers was Shavington R Rock Samantha Red, a fresh red heifer by Baileys Red Rock. Consigned  by Harold and Pat Crapper, Dronfield, Derbyshire, she sold for 3100gns to the McClurg family, Crossgar, Northern Ireland.

Another heifer from Paul Mann went for the next best money of 2800gns. Dilligas Advallie Red is by Advent and out of the eighth generation VG/EX Miss Arsenio Allie Red. She joins Peter Mercer's Sandringham Herd, Crewe.

Averages:

12 cows; £1763.13, 82 milking heifers; £2117.54, 1 in calf heifer; £1575.00, 3 maiden heifers; £3990.00, 98 head; £2125.93, 22 embryos; £366.07 (Wright Manley)

Red rose handler Shaun Richards, who has regularly sold at Craven Cattle Marts' seasonal working sheep dog sales since their inception in 1995, achieved his best-ever price at the early Autumn fixture at Skipton Auction Mart. (Fri, Oct 30).

Mr Richards, of Watson Laithe, Hapton, Burnley, sold his two-year-old tri-coloured bitch Tib for the day's top call of 3300 guineas to South Wales trialist Nigel Watkins, of Panthowell, Carmarthenshire.

The well thought of Scottish-bred smooth-coated, prick-eared bitch, by D McDonald's Dave, out of Michael Shearer's Bess, has yet to experience the nursery trials arena, but has been well prepared for the task by Mr Richards following extensive work on his hill flock.

Tib proved to be one the sharpest dogs ever to run a trial at Skipton, demonstrating an excellent outrun, lift, fetch and drive. She responded well to both voice and whistle, dropping like a stone at every command - and now appears primed to show her true potential.

Mr Richards recalled: "On my first visit to Skipton 14 years ago, I sold a dog called Pete for 1600gns. I have now achieved my highest ever price. Skipton is the top place to be selling dogs. Its popularity and levels of trade continue to improve. There are always willing buyers for good dogs."

This time around, Mr Richards brought a trio of three promising performers. As well as heading the prices, he sold Jan, an 18-month-old black and white bitch, for 1500gns to Welshman John Lightfoot, of Pentre Isa, Llandegla, Clwyd, and a three-year-old black and white dog, Spot, for 1450gns to Scotsman J Sutherland, who is based at Durness on the north coast of Scotland

Nigel Watkins purchased a total of four dogs. He paid 2100gns for a February, 2008-born red and white dog Mack, a good all-rounder placed first time out in his junior trial, from Northern Irish handler WJ Torrens, of Killen, Castlederg, County Tyrone.

 His other two acquisitions were a supplemented entry dog from Jean Howes, of Redgate, County Durham, at 1500gns, and a successful 1250gns bid for an 18-month-old registered black and white dog from fellow Welshman and Skipton regular Emrys Jones, of Tal-y-Bont.

 The day began well when the first dog to take the field, Mist, a tri-coloured January 2006-born bitch from Barry Hopwood, of Mold, North Wales, sold for 2750gns to a buyer from Cumbria. Mist is by FV Roberts' Spot, out of IB Jones' Mist.

Wullie Stevenson, from the Arran Sheepdog Centre, based on the Scottish island, achieved a price of 2600gns for Jan, a January, 2007-born black and white mottled bitch by two N McVicar dogs, Spot and Meg.  The buyer was Andrew Armstrong, of Kirkoswald, Penrith, who works on the Lowther Park Farm Estate and will work his new acquisition on their 2000 sheep.

The Welsh were particularly well represented and another familiar face at Skipton, Huw Francis, of Penllwyn, Powys, had the best of the younger entries when his 16-month-old tri-coloured, nursery-ready bitch Elwy Penny - Pen - was knocked down for 2200gns to Scottish buyer Joe McRobert, of Fingland Farm, Moffat, Dumfriesshire.

Pen is by Welsh Open trialist Mr Francis's own Moss, by fellow Welsh breeder, Bodfari-based Arthur Roberts' Elwy Roxy. Moss has produced some quality progeny and his last four Skipton-sold dogs have averaged 2200gns.

 Mr McRobert said he has secured some good dogs at Skipton over the years, among them the Welsh-bred Joe, who was sold on to Bobby Dalziel, of Ettrick, Selkirk, and went on to win the International Supreme Championship in 2006 in the hands of the renowned Scottish trialist.

John Lightfoot also sold at the fixture. His well-bred 23-month-old black and white dog Hari, a son of Alan Jones' Bet, winner of the Welsh National trials last year, made 1820gns when acquired by Midlands buyer John Porter, of Broughton Astley.

John Bell, of Howden, Selby, who has headed the Skipton prices a record-breaking 12 times in the past seven years, was again prominent when selling his April, 2008, black and white dog Mac, by 2009 International driving champion, Chorley-based Tom Lawrenson's Spot, for 1500gns to Irish handler Allistair Lyttle, of Pettigo, County Donegal.

 Craven Cattle Marts' general manager Jeremy Eaton said: "Vendors and purchasers from all parts of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland now attend Skipton working dog sales and it has become a top international venue.

 "It's also a regular and enjoyable day out for many people, offering plenty of opportunities not only to sell and buy quality dogs, but to exchange pups and even to 'cover' bitches, as well as meeting fellow handlers socially."

 With 79 dogs forward, well-broken dogs and well-bred pups were in strong demand, though dogs requiring finishing were harder to place. Broken registered dogs averaged £1439, with part-broken dogs selling to 1450gns unbroken dogs to 580gns  and pups to 720gns

In a bid to avoid the disruption being caused by the current postal strikes, exhbitors for this month's English Winter Fair are being asked to collect their entry details, when they arrive at the show, rather than receiving them in the post.

Kate Tomlinson, EWF show secretary, says the post is just too unpredictable currently to guarantee exhibitors get the correct documentation for cattle, sheep and pigs entered for this year's event at Stafford Showground on the weekend of 21-22 November. "We have had to take matters into our own hands to protect producers.

"Exhibitor packs containing livestock numbers, passes, hospitality tickets and catalogue vouchers will be retained at the showground. Instead, we are arranging for producers to collect packs when arriving with livestock at the event on Friday 20 November."

"Despite the disruption being felt by all winter shows we are very pleased to report entries for all but one livestock section are up significantly on last year's inaugural event which, in itself, was well attended," adds Mrs Tomlinson.

With the onset of November comes the onset of the annual round of in-lamb ewe sales. Charollais breeders may have got their's already well in hand, but for Suffolk breeders this weekend marks two of the bigger sales this year.

First up on Friday is the collective sale of females at Carlisle, with entries from a range of noted flocks, inlcuding the Proctor family's Conveth otufit and Hans Porksens' Hans flock.

Messrs Soulsby also have a run in from their Williamsgill flock and Ian Park, latterly shepherd to the Flodden flock, but now trading in his own right with his Tyneview flock.

However, the main event of the weekend will be the dispersal of Harry Stewart's Castlewellan flock at Moira, Northern Ireland. Having started in Suffolks in 1988 Harry has invested heavily in the breed over the last 21 years and has reaped the rewards of his investment taking top money for rams and ewes over the years both at home in Northern Ireland and across the water here on the mainland.

With much Muiresk breeding in the flock, notably from Muiresk Rainbow Quest, a personal favourite of mine within the breed, Castlewellan ewes offer a real depth of pedigree which few others can rival.

We'll wait and see who spends the money this weekend, but I'd guess that the big names from southern Ireland will be out armed with their cheque books, as will the usual faces from the north of Scotland, competition for the best in the catalogue could be fierce.  

The upbeat demand for Swaledale rams continued at the breed association's final major fixture of the season when bidding reached £28,000 at the two-day sale at Hawes.

Averages were up on both days with the initial offering of 335 rams averaging £1432 - up £160 on the year followed by an average of £1401 for 308 rams - a lift of £288.

The top call came for a son of the influential ram Aygill Viceroy - already the grandsire of the £47,000 top price paid at the breed's Kirkby Stephen sale the previous week. This time it was a ram from 30-year-old Paul Ewbank's 400-ewe flock at Middlesmoor near Harrogate that led the trade. Paul's father Spence has a quarter share in Viceroy.

The sale topper is out of a shearling ewe sired by a home-bred tup going back to the Mossdale breeding of well known breeder Patrick Sowerby, Hawes.

"It was tremendous to top the sale, but Viceroy is producing some outstanding tups," said Paul Ewbank. The ram, which was unplaced in the show classes, was bought jointly by Stuart Harker (Kendal), Richard Hargreaves (Burnley) and Ken Slack (Appleby).

David and Heather Allison from Barnard Castle. Co Durham sold a ram at £26,000 in a three-way split between John Richardson (Ghyll House), Bobby Blades (Richmond) and Thomas Ivison (Hawes).

The ram has proved the value of a shrewd purchase made in his sire bought  from Eric Coates' flock that only cost £1500. The £26,000 tup is out of a five-shear show winning ewe that has accounted for several titles this summer and is by a Mossdale sire.

Stanley and Pat Brogden's flock from Kirkby Stephen also produced a £26,000 tup with one by a ram from the Ewbank family's flock that cost £13,000 and out of a Kisden sired ewe. Joint buyers were Patrick Sowerby (Hawes) and the Nelson family from Bull and Cave, Clapham.

John Richardson had a £20,000 deal selling a shearling to Derbyshire breeder Paul Hallam. By a tup from the flock of Stuart Harker, the ram is out of a ewe by a £10,000 sire that has bred a string of good progeny that have sold to £7000.

(Hawes Farmers Auction Mart).

Last Saturday's sale of Belted Galloways at Worcester was led by the production sale from Jane Smith's Whitepool herd.

Topping the trade at 3000gns was Whitepool Living the Dream, a maiden heifer out of homebred cow Kinrea Triumph. She sold to J C Oliver, Newcastle Upon Tyne. Two then sold at 2750gns, the first being another maiden heifer Whitepool Leona. this one sold to C McMillans, Ochiltree, having enjoyed a successful show career this summer. The other to make this money was Barclosh Debbie, a cow which sold with her heifer calf at foot. Buying this one was M Williams, Rowlestone, Hereford.

And at 2650gns was in-calf cow Whitepool Christobel. This four year old cow sold to J Landers, Newton Stewart, Dumfries.

Making 2000gns was one from Michael Arbib's Howiemill consignment. This was Howiemill Dancing Violet, a maiden heifer  which sold to Messrs Powell, Stanford Bridge, Worcester.

Averages; 13 in-calf cows £1269.69, three cows with calves £2373, 13 maiden heifers £1656.57 (McCartneys).

The dispersal of John Brigg's Gorse herd of Beef Shorthorns reached a high spot of 3500gns when Gorse Augusta Xceptional, a five year old cow with a bull calf at foot sold to an undisclosed Northampton-based buyer.

This same buyer claimed a total of nine lots on the day, including the next best at 3050gns. This was the only in-calf heifer of the day Gorse Augusta Agatha.

Local buyers, C H Rowberry, Kidderminster secured the herd's stock sire Gorse Tearaway at 3100gns, having earlier claimed Gorse Augusta Yarrow and her steer calf at 3500gns.

Averages; eight cows with calves £2302.12, one in-calf heifer £3202.50, five maiden heifers £1722, one bull £3255 (McCartneys).

Highland cattle hit a top price of 1500gns at Worcester on Saturday when Robert Philips, Skipton, Yorkshire, sold his bull Ulysses of Hellifield. He sold to J and F Farms, Melbourne Derbyshire.

Next best was an 1150gns call for the best of the day from Michael Poland's Mottistone Fold. This was given for Eoin Mhor 2 which sold to A Harrison, East Grinstead, Sussex.

Leading the females on offer were a brace of 1000gns sales. First to go at this money was an in calf heifer from Michael Poland, which sold to R Travers, Dunsfold, Surrey, having stood first in the pre-sale show. The other at this money was the female champion from the pre-sale show female champion Fleur of Eckington from Judy Gardner, Pershore, Worcestershire.

Averages; one in-calf cow £777, four in calf heifers £792.75, eight maiden heifers £739.66, two bulls £1391.25 (McCartneys).

Hopefully, any Royal Show exhibitors who have been waiting on prize money from this year's show received the same surprise in the post as I did yesterday - a cheque from RASE.

As I mentioned here some weeks ago payment has once again been delayed, because of RASE claim, administrative and staff difficulties (word has it their financial director left quickly and quietly)!

However, I would advise anyone who has received their chequee to take heed of the note at the top of the accompanying letter, it simply states "Please present this cheque immediately".

RASE has previously denied having any financial troubles and this might just be a prudent note to attach to the cheques, but one thing's for sure I'll be heading to town later to bank mine before it risks assuming some rubber-like qualities.

Mule classes attracted much attention from spectators with this year being the first year for the class. The final decision rest with judge John Barker, Dumfriesshire who handed the first prize to Ron and Fran Wilson, Armathwaite Cumbria who are also NEMSA Cup winners.

In reserve was Robert Carter, Longtown, Cumbria.

With 117 cattle entered in to the Aberdeen Angus English National Calf Show at Agri-Expo it was a tough call for judge, Alastair Fraser, Forfar, Angus.

Taking the top spot was Balmachie Black Bear from the John Lascalles.  This one was placed breed junior champion at this year's Royal highland Show, also by Mr Fraser.  He came through to take the championship having won the senior bull classes and the yearling bull and supreme yearling championship.

Taking the reserve overall supreme champion was Newbiggin Hill Prince JO11 from Hexham's Alan Walker.

Having failed to sell through the ring at Stirling a fortnight ago, the Angus champion from the sale, Lockerley Kougar has been sold in a private transaction.

Kougar, a Lockerley Rocky son out of Lockerley Kruz Princess, a Netherton Eastern Cruz daughter, has now joined the Beech Hay herd of the Grinnall family, Worcestershire. He has a TSI of +27 and an SRI of +31.

Having been unable  to make the sale at Stirling Rob Grinnall is delighted to have been able to secure Kougar privately for an undisclosed sum. "Our cows are bred to be easy fleshing and we believe Kougar will compliment the existing lines in the herd excellently."