SWmarket just moving
SWmarket just moving
THE south-west is one of the areas hardest hit by foot-and-mouth but the land market is still moving, although many farm sales have been put on hold.
Warson Barton Farm, near Tavistock, Devon, which was due to be auctioned this week, has been sold prior to the public sale. Selling agent Kivells says the 340-acre stock and arable farm attracted plenty of interest including some overseas enquiries via e-mail.
The unit was bought by an Essex farmer for considerably in excess of the £800,000 guide. David Kivell says the purchaser wanted a more rural location which he felt was no longer available in Essex.
In Cornwall, Beardon Barton Farm at Boyton, Launceston, has come on the market with Stags. This 116-acre holding features a five-bedroomed farmhouse and 54 acres of IACS-registered land.
Additional income comes from a terrace of five stone and slate listed holiday cottages. The annual rental is approximately £32,000 and agent Gordon Miller is asking for offers in the region of £750,000.
Mr Miller says the opportunity for diversification should ensure plenty of extra interest as returns from farming diminish.