Auction witnesses effects of Dairy Farmers of Britain collapse

Craven Dairy Auction saw the effect of the collapse of Dairy Farmers of Britain last week, with the day’s top price of £2140 going to a cow from the ongoing dispersal sale of William Mitchell, Grange Farm, Oakworth.

This price went to a new calved, home-bred Holstein  Friesian cow, giving ten gallons. She was purchased by C and J Terry, Fountains, Ripon.

The Mitchell family has been milking for three generations, but Mr Mitchell said it was just not economically viable to continue milking his 40 cow herd after the collapse of the co op.

Geoff Mellin, Slippery Stones Farm, Oakworth has also been effected by the co op’s demise, but remains optimistic about the future of milk production on his farm.

His Holstein Friesian second calver sold for the next best price of £2010 to P J and H Hartley, Bashall Eaves, Clitheroe.

Averages:

Newly calven cows; £1508, newly calven heifers; £1690, in-calf heifers; £1415, maiden heifers; £1075.

(Craven Cattle Mart)