The Farmers Mart Jun/Jul 2014 - Issue 34 | Page 44

LEYBURN AUCTION MART ‘If stock is brought here it is bought here to be sold, that’s our job’ asking about two ewes that had been withdrawn and in the next minute, Stephen sold them to him. “We don’t stand on ceremony here, you know,” he smiled. “If stock is brought here, it is brought here to be sold, that’s our job.” Stephen does not see a major change happening at Leyburn Mart in the coming years although that doesn’t mean they would not like to take advantage of greater trade. There are reasons why sheep numbers may never get back to where they were, as he explains. “We are always looking for other openings but I cannot see things altering radically. We are not about to see a huge rise in the numbers Proud to be associated with Leyburn Mart of sheep on the moors as headage payments have gone and grouse shooting is now such a big industry up here. The owners of grouse shoots don’t like so many sheep on so they’ve encouraged tenants to take them off the moors. If ever there then came a time when you wanted to put sheep back on the moors, it would be difficult because they will have lost their hefting nature and the moors will have become overgrown.” Stephen speaks in a matter-of-fact context rather than bemoaning what has happened. He is pleased with where the mart is placed and the prices that are being made currently. “On the whole there is a good feeling at Leyburn and all around the livestock markets at present. Let’s hope it stays that way!” All veterinary services includes: Herd and flock health consultancy breeding programmes, foot trimming services, farmer training. Phone: [phone] Email: [email protected] www.bishoptonvets.co.uk www.leyburnauctions.com TODAY’S BUSINESS TRADITIONAL VALUES Old Hall Farm, Church Lane, Esholt, Shipley, West Yorkshire BD17 7RA We are pleased to be associated with Leyburn Auction Mart and wish them continued success for the future Telephone: [phone] Fax: [phone] Email: [email protected] 44 Jun/Jul 2014 FarmersMart An established firm offering specialist services for farmers and all agricultural related b \