Monday evening’s sale at Milford Mart saw another strong trade for all types of sheep. Due to the time of year, overall numbers are small, but demand continues to be very strong.

Mart manager John Stewart said that factory agents and butchers continue to be very active for all well-fleshed hoggets and lambs. He said that heavier hoggets over 50kg were met with both butcher and some factory agent activity.

As a result, prices ranged mainly from €134/head to €138/head. Those carrying more flesh reached the higher prices.

Lighter hoggets over 45kg were met with strong demand also, but numbers on offer were low. Prices remain strong and similar to the previous week.

Spring lambs were few and far between, but where on offer were a very strong trade. Hoggets around 40kg were met with a brisk trade also and sold mainly from €100 to €110/head, but these were mainly lighter types suitable for further feeding.

There were a good number of ewes with lambs at foot on offer. Young second- and third-crop ewes with twins at foot were much sought after and sold mainly from €190 to €264/lot at the top of the market. Those with singles at foot were a good trade also and sold mainly from €160 to €185 per lot.

Commission rates are 2% to the seller and a little less to the buyer.