The Farmers Mart Apr/May 2014 - Issue 33 | Page 58

BROCKHOLES AUCTION MART A MODERN AUCTION MART WITH A FAMILY FEEL Ian Wilkinson recently paid a visit to Brockholes Auction Mart to witness their spring lamb, prime cattle and calf sale. lambs a week now, according to David Hargreaves, the chairman. The Auction is run by a Board of Directors many of whom work in the market on sale days. The market is owned by Shareholders, many of whom are farmers. I met two of the team of directors, Chairman David Hargreaves and Tom Garlick, both farmers in their own right. Tom’s wife Sheila, who is office manager, The lamb sale was particularly interesting with farmers, buyers, auctioneers, staff and animals all very close together - in my view this makes for an entertaining, swift and personal auction experience for all concerned. This season has started a little late owing to the weather, but they are doing about 1,000 Pleased to support Brockholes Auction Mart in the local community Tel: [phone] www.towersandgornall.co.uk 8, Rope Walk, Garstang, PR3 1NS Ribble Fuel Oils 281 Carnfield Place, Walton Summit, Preston, Lancashire, PR5 8AN www.ribblefueloils.co.uk Suppliers of Fuel & Lubricants to the farming industry for over 40 years • Tractor Diesel • Heating Oil • Universal Tractor Oils • Diesel • Tanks & Fittings • Bio Lubricants / Fuel Additives For a competitive price call Sales on 01772 337367 or email us - [email protected] 58 Apr/May 2014 FarmersMart Tom Garlick & David Hargreaves welcomed me as I walked in, and this friendly experience and atmosphere continues throughout the mart. The hard working staff, who are employed part time are either farmers or connected with farming businesses. I believe it is this combination that helps to make Brockholes so successful. What strikes you when you watch the checking in weighing and preparation for auction is that absolutely everybody is involved. Farmers and buyers walk freely around the pens viewing the stock. The team James Fish & Richard Furnival at Brockholes has the best interests of the farmer at heart and they handle the animals with care as well as seeking to drive the best prices possible. Following the re-opening of the Market in 2002 and the closure of Preston Auction Market, Carrs Billington are pleased to be associated with Brockholes Auction Mart and wish them every success for the future Your stock deserve the very best! A comprehensive range of products with a full range of services supported by professional on-farm advice, all based at your local Country Store For further details contact Customer Services on 01228 518860 www.carrs-billington.com To read more, visit www.farmers-mart.co.uk