Archive Article: 1997/09/26
Ingham Saleground, Suffolk, hosted its third big sheep sale of the season last Friday. And what a different season to last year its been…
This was a day when there were over 5000 sheep penned. Among them were 3400 stores. Hats and coats were the order of the day for visitors, with the weather turning distinctly autumnal. But its been wetter than last year all summer in East Anglia. As auctioneer Philip Dale says: "The grass was half way up the hurdles at the July auction."
This was a day when there were over 5000 sheep penned. Among them were 3400 stores. Hats and coats were the order of the day for visitors, with the weather turning distinctly autumnal. But its been wetter than last year all summer in East Anglia. As auctioneer Philip Dale says: "The grass was half way up the hurdles at the July auction."
Ringing in the changes… Emma Bilner of auctioneers Lacy Scott and Knight announces the start of the event in the traditional way.
The dog days of, er, autumn… George isnt too good at rounding up sheep, according to his owner – pigs are more his speciality!
Prices among the shearling ewes were up on last months offering, with Scotch halfbreds and Mules making to £89 and £86 respectively. Store lamb prices were slightly weaker, partly reflecting the smaller animals on offer. Many of the 1996 sales saw store values rise as the season progressed.
Washing out the wagon… a job for which a nose-peg is sometimes useful.
Speak up, I couldnt quite hear you… a serious business trading sheep may be, but theres usually time for some ringside banter, too. Auctioneer Philip Dale (with pad) now plans to hold an October auction. He says theres still a big demand, with people tupping ewes later. And store lambs will remain sought after, with stubble turnip crops looking healthy.
Busy behind the scenes… Janet Bailey (left) and Pauline Lilley.
Average prices £/head
Store lambs 35.82
Shearling ewes 73.55
Breeding ewes 47.80
Grazing ewes 32.49