Elite cattle first sees 1900gns top

23 April 1999

Elite cattle first sees 1900gns top

THE first sale of Elite Health Status cattle saw bidding top at 1900gns in Norfolk last week and demand could increase as more herds join health schemes, say auctioneers.

The opportunity to select from over 300 head of Holstein Friesian cattle drew buyers from as far north as Lancs whenMessrs E R Spratt dispersed their Sparham herd at Swaffham, Norfolk.

It is believed to be the first Elite Health Status herd (Cattle Health 2000 Scheme) to have been dispersed by auction in the UK.

"We may well see Elite Health Status cattle command a premium among commercial milk producers but thats unlikely to happen until more herds are in the scheme," said auctioneer Tom Brooksbank, whose list of buyers included three existing health scheme herds.

These included Raveningham Farms Ltd which made the top call for a second calver by Caernarvon Jogger, one of 37 animals bought for its herd near Norwich.

Another second calver by Jogger made 1500gns to join the Rushmere herd of the Exors of KH K Budgen, Lowestoft, Suffolk.

A strong trade for heifer calves peaked at 550gns paid by Clitheroe, Lancashire dairy farmers D and M Wilson, for a 10-month-old daughter of Olivehome Aeroline. Bulk buyer of younger cattle was P M Lewis, Polegate, Sussex who took 34 head for his Bewick Court herd.

Averages: 165 cows and heifers £724; 40 served heifers £596 and 59 served and empty heifers £311. (Norton and Brooksbank)