The strength in demand for the Easter trade is reflected in the last two week’s sheep kill recorded at 54,822 and 58,561 head.

Last week’s kill also included 1,1953 spring lambs, some 1,595 above the previous week, with factories, wholesalers and butchering all looking to have an offering of spring lamb for Easter.

Prices are running €1/kg above last year’s level and range from €7/kg to €7.20/kg with weather and an earlier Easter date greatly limiting supplies. Hoggets meanwhile hold firm at €6.00/kg to €6.15/kg on average.