It is run by Dorothy Macdonald and her chirpy team . The café opens to the side into a function room which takes overspill on busy day and is fully available for hire for functions , seminars and groups .

The building has various smaller offices for hire as well as a sound proofed boardroom which can take 15 – 20 people . The building has free wi-fi throughout . Speaking to Paul Gentry , he was keen to stress that he and the board were looking to expand from sales to include events such as breed society shows , conferences , seminars , training days , a meeting place for clubs such as Young Farmers . Complementing the superb catering for whatever

Paul Gentry

you require from sit-down meals to buffets , there are also full bar facilities .

In 2021 a major event for DFAM is the hosting of Beef Expo on Saturday 22nd May . It was scheduled to have happened this year , but like almost all shows and events in the agricultural calendar it was cancelled . Beef Expo is the largest technical beef event in the UK and is a celebration of the best of The British Beef Industry .

Given Humbleton Park ’ s size and location there is plenty of opportunity for further development of rural and agri related businesses on the site .

Covid 19 has thrown up its challenges as the building was coming to fruition and in the preparation for opening , however the strong team that is Darlington Farmers Auction Mart took it all in their stride . Strong credit must also go to Chris Dodds and The Livestock Auctioneers Association for keeping markets open , which has been vindicated by strong trade .

As the pandemic progressed people began to shop locally , butchers and farm shops have seen trade double . There has also been a marked increase in online sales from local butchers and

suppliers . Many more people now want to buy ethically reared quality local meat . This has all helped to boost trade through live ring ’ s in auction marts and has shown just how important auction marts are to ensure a transparent and fair trade ”.

Darlington saw a 53 % increase in numbers across June and July , August was 44 % up on August 2019 . They are keen to build on this and keep the momentum going .

Paul Gentry said to me : “ Everyone here is excited about the future , welcoming buyers and sellers old and new from around the country as DFAM ’ S reputation continues to grow , we are very much looking forward to the hosting of Beef Expo and hosting other smaller events and groups .

The doors are open , and success already established at the new Darlington Farmers Auction Mart and all is now set for the next 142 years and beyond .