Mule ewe hogs hold up well

Mule ewe hogs sold well at Exeter, with a £140 average for last year’s running lambs.

The sheep trade is holding strong and we are hopeful for the forthcoming mule lamb sales at Tavistock. There has been a lot of interest in the South West Mule group, who are working hard to tempt buyers. If you buy locally you can get better lambs for your money, no transport costs and you know the farmers. The only down side is that many farmers will miss the chance to disguise a very enjoyable and social trip up north with buying sheep. We have weaned a smashing crop of mule lambs and let’s hope as many as possible stay fit for those two sale dates.

Last week I was on a training course on behalf of Moorskills Learning Instructional Techniques. It was very interesting and Vince, who led the course, did a good job showing us the do’s and don’ts of teaching. We discussed various types of learners, how to engage them and the various psychologies involved. I did wonder how many family farms he had been on and if these techniques worked in this sometimes challenging environment. Don’t tell anyone, but I am going to try a few of my new tricks on my dad and brother,whose usual teaching method is to tell you what to do and if you don’t do it correctly, say it louder or shout. I will let you know how I get on.

Matthew Cole