Finished cattle fall again
By FWi staff
CATTLE prices plummeted again yesterday at live auctions across England and Wales.
The price of young bulls eased only 0.15p to 91.08p/kg. But average steer prices dropped by more than 2p to 88.08p/kg. Heifer prices fell 1.48p to 87.51p/kg.
At Skipton, commercial steers averaged 79.5p/kg with a top price of only 92p/kg, according to Craven Cattle Marts Ltd. Heifers made a top price of 95p/kg but averaged only 82.8p/kg.
Trade at Bakewell was solid, according to auctioneers Bagshaws. But the 188 fat cattle sold made an overall average price of only 86.3p/kg. Many of the heifers lacked quality and plain heifers sold for 80-85p/kg. Steers averaged 82p/kg.
At Exeter, the cattle were one of the poorest selections seen in recent months. Trade was difficult, according to auctioneer Peter Farnsworth. The few quality cattle sold under the Farm Assured labels met with better demand.
One Belgian Blue cross steer at Exeter sold to 93p/kg, but medium steers averaged only 83p/kg and medium heifers averaged 87p/kg.