Zwartbles continue a strong demand to top at 800gns

Zwartbles continue to attract interest among both smallholders and established sheep producers and that was borne out in a solid trade for females at the breed society’s fixture at Carlisle where 61 shearling gimmers levelled at £205.

Taking the supreme championship and earning the top price of 800gns was an in-lamb gimmer from Matthew Simpson’s Tardoes flock at Kilmarnock, Ayrshire. Buyers were Messrs Salmon, Faceby, Middlesborough.

Lancashire farmer Colin Middleton brought a large consignment from his Mittonvale flock near Clitheroe. His best was 520gns given by R Bowman, Penrith. Averages: 31 ewes £152; 61 shearling gimmers £205 and 12 ewe lambs £110.