ONCE again McCartneys report the best trade of the week at their fatstock auction at Kington on June 2.

The fine sunny weather saw an entry of 1,100 lambs, 200 hoggets and 454 cull ewes and rams. Every department was keenly contested by the buyers, some who failed to fulfil their orders.

Lambs saw an overall average of 204.8ppk, with a top of 212ppk. All weights were in demand with 46.5kg from David Rogers making £92.50, 44.5kg from Clive Brick at £91.50, 43kg from Dave Bedford at £90, 40kg from Brian Chilman at £85 and 39kg from Edgar Davies at £82.50. Overall the lambs averaged £86.50.

A good seasonal entry of hoggets saw a very sharp trade, particularly on the heavier sorts, with many lots over £90/head. 60kg at £97 from W Aubrey, 54kg at £93.50 from Joan Bufton, £92.50 for 58kg from Charlie Jones and 48kg at £82.20 from J Jones.

Another good entry of cull ewes and rams saw an average of £74.60 with a top of £125 for texels and £103 for Suffolk cross. All types exceeded expectations. More needed to meet buyers requirements.

We have buyers for in excess of 3000 hoggets and 750 cull sheep per week to meet our buyers' requirements.

McCartneys at Kington, offer an on-farm livestock grading and marketing advice service on a no charge basis.

Kington Market is every Thursday, commencing at 11am with hoggets. For further information please contact Gareth Wall on 01544 230316.