Base cattle quotes are finishing the year at 350p to 356p/kg for U-3 grade animals, with R grade cows on a base of 280p/kg, but deals being made as high as 300p/kg on top-quality continental lots.

For prime cattle, price deals offered have been broadly similar to the past few weeks. Cattle are moving from a base of 358p to 362p/kg, but deals of 364p to 370p/kg have been reported where bigger numbers are on offer.

Factory agents report that they have plenty of cattle for the next two weeks. But with a robust trade in Britain and improved prices south of the Irish border, trade should remain relatively steady into January.

Sheep: Factory prices for lambs are also unchanged this week as demand tails off after a busy Christmas buying period.

Plants are quoting 385p/kg to 390p/kg, with some producer groups securing 5p/kg above base.