New sale for farmers who are restricted by Bovine TB

A new regular sale has been launched at Melton Livestock Market for farmers whose farms are operating under Bovine TB restrictions.
Hugh Brown, CEO of Melton Market EMN-211002-085404001Hugh Brown, CEO of Melton Market EMN-211002-085404001
Hugh Brown, CEO of Melton Market EMN-211002-085404001

The first ‘Orange Market’ was held on Friday and proved very popular.

Farmers affected by restrictions cannot sell at regular weekly markets, which can often cause emotional and financial problems that can devastate hard-working families and businesses.

Without the market sale outlet, farmers repeatedly have to accept increasingly low prices for cattle that would usually be worth substantially more.

The new Melton Orange Markets enable these farmers to bring their animals to sale as long as they have tested negative for TB and been issued with a movement licence from APHA.

Hugh Brown, the market’s CEO, said: “We are delighted to have launched Melton Orange sales successfully.

“With the increasing prevalence of Bovine TB in the region, it is important for us to offer our customers a safe way to sell at market for the best price available.”

The first Melton Orange Market day started with a flying trade for Limousin steers at 20 months to £1,340 and heifers to £1,290.

Other breeds which sold for top prices included Longhorns, Salers, British Blues, Simmentals and Lincoln Reds.

The Orange Market will continue on a monthly basis and farmers operating under TB restrictions are welcome, subject to the conditions.