LIVESTOCK auction marts in England and Wales saw their total turnover rise to more than £1.7 billion in 2017.

The Livestock Auctioneers Association (LAA) has reported strong trade throughout the year, with average values rising in almost all categories of cattle and sheep, and an increase in buyers attracted to the competitive live-sales ring.

The total number of sheep sold broke through the ten million barrier – 148,000 more than in 2016. The increase included 73,000 more store and breeding stock and 75,000 more slaughter stock.

Average values were up on virtually all categories of sheep in England, while averages in Wales increased for breeding and prime stock, although cull ewe prices remained fairly static.

The figures are for the period between January 1 to December 31 last year and, the LAA said, do not consider, for example, the later old season lamb/hogget sales.

Ted Ogden, of CCM Auctioneers, said the sheep trade at Skipton mart during 2017 had “generally been very comfortable”.

“We have had plenty of customers ring-side, and a good strong trade in premium sheep. This has in part been driven by demand from farm shops, high quality retailers and family butchers. There has also been increased trade into premium markets across north western Europe.”

Cattle sold through livestock marts totalled 1.119 million, up 7,000 on 2016. A further 243,000 calves also went through the live sales ring.

Store cattle averages in England rose by £59.08 to £802.69, while Wales saw an increase of £36.09 to £834.57. Beef breeding cattle averaged £1,069.17 in England, up £47.31, while in Wales a huge leap of £161.50 saw averages at £1,055.87.

Huge demand saw dairy values rocket in both England and Wales, with increases of £223.64 and £94.64 respectively taking the England average to £1,172.51 and £968.48 in Wales.

Slaughter cattle averaged £1,117.17 in England, up £51.99, but showed a small drop in Wales to £1,127.04. Increases of more than £100 saw cull cow averages at £758.79 in England and £722.19 in Wales.

Richard Haigh, auctioneer at Selby, said: “When supply is slightly tighter, this puts an added edge on competitiveness. The live market reacts quickly to changes in supply, working to the benefit of the vendor.”

Chris Dodds, LAA executive secretary, said: “Livestock auction markets are pivotal to the supply chain, providing an open, transparent and competitive marketing forum for the red-meat sector. It is pleasing that both the sheep and cattle sectors have performed so well in 2017, and continue to do so in the early part of 2018.”