THOUGH a larger number forward than last week, the prime cattle ring remained relatively quiet this week, with the main focus on the continuing dairy dispersals.

This week’s prime heifers topped at £1,131 (198.5p/kg) from GB Moorhouse, of Bell Busk, with a 590kg Black & White Heifer.

Monday’s cull cows averaged £1,144, or 175.4p/kg, with native British Beef Shorthorns taking top spot, peaking at 195.5p/kg, or £1,564, from J Drinkall of Anglezarke, Chorley. A showing of Montbeliarde’s from SW&JE Ryder & Son topped at 188.5p/kg (£1430). Black & Whites topped at 173.5p/kg and Aberdeen Angus entries reached 159.5p/kg.

There was a good show forward in the weekly rearing calf arena, with 54 on offer. The best bulls sold at £400+, with top prices from PJ & JE Bolland of Airton selling at £450 and £440. Medium Blue bulls got away at £300-£360, with the smaller end averaging £240-£300. Blue heifers sold to £395 from JR Wellock, Eshton. Medium heifers with good frame averaged £340-£390, the smaller types £240-£280 and a few bobbies £200-£240. Charollais bulls sold to £385 from J Peel of Clitheroe, Black and White bulls sold to £155 from RD Guy of Earby, and Simmental bulls sold to £445 from S & JS Thompson, Gargrave.

Upcoming sales - rearing calves every Monday, 10.30am; prime cattle sales – every Monday, 11.30am.