In price terms, this hasn’t made a huge difference to average prices, although some mart managers are reporting that prices have lifted €1 to €2/head. A huge factor affecting prices continues to be the covering of flesh on lambs, with better-fleshed lambs a lot easier sold.

Heavy butchers’ lambs are a solid trade, with some butchers securing numbers over the past week. At the top of the market, some lambs over 50kg are making up to €115/head, with the majority selling from €108 to €113/head.

Factory demand has been strong, with a little more bite in some sales for well-fleshed lambs.

Lambs from 45kg to 48kg are selling mainly from €100 to €106/head for average types, with better-conformed and well-fleshed types making over €108/head.

Those that are lacking flesh are having a negative affect on average prices. Those carrying less flesh are making from €86 to €94/head.

The trade for store lambs is back a touch, but this is mainly due to more mixed lots on offer and reduced demand as we face into Christmas week.

Stores from 37kg to 42kg are selling mainly from €84 to €94/head, with those from 34kg to 37kg selling mainly from €74 to €82/head and better-fleshed types making over €84/head.

Lambs under 34kg are selling from €66 to €72/head mainly, but where quality and cover is poor, demand is easier, resulting in a slower sell.