Breeding sheep sales in Scotland got off to a good start with an average price of £163/head at last week’s gimmer sale in Thainstone. The sale saw 789 sold through the ring with a top price of £420/head for four Beltex.

Auctioneer Colin Slessor said: “At the opening breeding sheep sale of the season, all classes sold at greatly increased rates on the year, keeping in line with the strong cull ewe trade and the higher prime lamb market.”

Meanwhile, the store lamb trade also looks strong. United Auctions sold over 12,000 store lambs on Monday, with Texel-cross lambs making £71/head, Cheviots £64/head and Blackfaces making £42/head.

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