THE breed record of 2,600gns (£2,730) was equalled by the supreme champion at the Northern Area Jacob Sheep Breeders’ 41st annual show and sale at Skipton Mart.

It came from Tony Reilly’s Deerpark Flock in East Lothian, and was offered for sale on his behalf by Robert Locker, of Greenlaw in the Scottish Borders.

The first prize ewe lamb and female champion, was bred in Wales by Siwan and Wyn Harries, Carmarthenshire, and was bought by show judge Gordon Connor, of West Lothian.

A strong trade for females and rams saw four sheep change hands for 1,000gns or more.

The second top price of 1,200gns fell to the second prize ewe lamb from Stephen Dodsworth, of the Overdale flock in Helmsley. January-born by the home-bred ram, Overdale Robert Price, became another acquisition by the judge.

Mr Dodsworth was also responsible for the first prize shearling ram, male champion and reserve overall champion. Overdale Takan, a January 2015 born also by Overdale Robert Price, has just been sold to the Price family’s Pentrenant flock in Churchstoke, Powys. The runner-up sold for 580gns, top price in class to RE Blacknell, from Stafford.

Jean Price was again to the fore when achieving 1,100gns with her first prize ram lamb and reserve male champion, the February-born 4-horn, Pentrenant Louis, by Hope Flash Lad, reserve champion at both the Royal Three Counties and Royal Welsh Shows.

He was bought jointly by Skipton’s Gavin and Becky Haworth, and exhibitor Robert Locker, who together run the Blackadder Jacob flock. Mr and Mrs Haworth also also have their own local Hurrsdale flock, while Mr Locker also runs his own standalone Edingale flock.

Aged rams sold to 260gns for the second in class from J Atkinson, of the Northlands flock in Thirsk.

ENDS