Pedigree Holsteins sell to 2,350gns at dispersal

The dispersal of the entire milking portion plus all autumn calving heifers from the Watermeadow herd of pedigree Holsteins saw prices rise to 2,350gns for a fresh third calver at Beeston.

The herd, being dispersed on behalf of CJ Gurney and Son of North Weston Farm, Thame, Oxfordshire was full of very milky strong cattle that were averaging 10,156kg, 4.21% butterfat and 3.07% protein.

Leading the bidding was Watermeadow Drake Daisybeau 172nd (Ex90), a third calver who was sold giving 46kg daily and was one of eleven head purchased by PB Sutton and Partners of Atherstone, Warwickshire. They also purchased the top priced fresh heifer, Watermeadow Shottle Marijke 21st who had calved at the end of July and was giving 38kg a day.

The second top seller was a second calver, Watermeadow Samuelo Freda 29th (GP82?2yr) who calved at the end of August and was sold giving 54kg to IE and TM Speed, Chester. Next in the price list was another heifer, Watermeadow Shottle Freda 37th (GP83?2yr), who calved in June and was sold giving 42kg and purchased by Norman Tomkinson, Gnosall, Stafford for 2,220gns.

Dry cows peaked at 2,150gns for the outstanding Watermeadow Bolton Buttercup 44th (VG87) due in October with her fourth calf selling to T Pickup, Entwistle, Bolton.

The in?calf heifers were an exceptional group and sold on a fast trade. The leading bid was 2,150gns for Watermeadow Tee?Off Buttercup purchased by Norman Tomkinson.

AVERAGES:
132 cows and milking heifers, £1,384.01; 17 in?calf H=heifers, £1,899.88; 149 head £1,442.87
(WRIGHT MANLEY)