Last week’s sale at Rathfriland Mart saw a big leap in prices on Friday last.

There was a large entry of heifers on the day and prices ranged mainly from £300 to £600 over their weight, with quality driving prices on a per kilogramme basis.

The top price was £1,260 which was paid for a quality 590kg short-keep heifer.

Bullocks sold from £785, or £1.91/kg for 410kg, to a top price of £1,225 for 616kg (£1.98/kg). Other quality cattle averaged near £2/kg.

Friesian bullocks sold mainly from £1.30/kg to £1.60/kg, while two Herefords made £2.56/kg for a 508kg bull. Suckler heifers sold to £1,160.

Dropped continental calves made from £205 to £435, with Friesians making from £155 upwards.

Weanlings sold mainly from £550 over, with quality influencing prices strongly. There was very strong demand for light weanlings on the day.