Record Prices Achieved at Rathfriland Co-op Cattle and Sheep Sale

The recent cattle and sheep sale at Rathfriland Co-op was notable for its high prices across various livestock categories. Dairy stock achieved a top price of £3400, underscoring the strong demand in this segment. Notably, a breeding Limousin bull reached £3800, marking one of the highest prices of the event.

In the cattle section, bull calves up to six months old showed vigorous trade, with a Hereford bull calf from a Ballynahinch farmer reaching £1170. Weanling bull calves reached a high of £1910 for a 525kg Aberdeen Angus from a Castlewellan farmer. Meanwhile, heifers were sold up to £1900, specifically a 499kg Shorthorn.

The fat cows segment also recorded significant sales, with prices peaking at £2180 for a 623kg Charolais. Bullocks saw a top price of £2300 for a 746kg Aberdeen Angus, indicating strong interest in this category as well.

The sheep section was equally impressive, with fat ewes obtaining a top price of £320. Strong ewes consistently fetched prices over the £252 mark, illustrating robust market conditions. Meanwhile, spring lambs and hoggets also performed well, with prices for spring lambs reaching as high as £198 for a 28kg animal from a Newry farmer.

Fat rams were in demand, with a top price of £295, and ewes with lambs reached £365, highlighting the competitive nature of the sale across all categories.

The overall success of the sale at Rathfriland Co-op reflects the current strength in livestock markets, with high-quality animals attracting premium prices from buyers keen to secure the best stock.