Cattle trade remains buoyant

DAIRY CATTLE trading shows no sign of slowing up, say auctioneers, as farmers face a clear choice – to leave milk production or build up their herds.

Those producers staying in milk are looking to consolidate their herds with the best dairy cattle coming forward through the dispersal trade.

Auctioneer Richard Turner, of Devon-based Stags, said the dispersal trade for dairy cows was still commanding a premium.

“They‘re exceeding the general market trade – the cows are likely to be well-known and at a dispersal, buyers know there is a genuine reason for sale.

“It also allows people to bid for cattle they might not otherwise get the chance to buy.”

At a recent sale at Taunton market, trade was slightly easier with a top bid of £830 for a Holstein Friesian heifer, while a Guernsey heifer realised £455, said Mr Turner.

Wright Manley dairy auctioneer Stuart Hassall said the weekly trade remained strong, but the number of dispersals was markedly up on last year.

“Monthly sales are still enjoying a very solid trade, and those producers still in dairying are furthering their commitment to the sector – there are fewer people treading water now.”

Robert Taylor, head of Harrison and Hetherington‘s dairy department at Borderway Mart, Carlisle, said trade should remain buoyant for the foreseeable future.