Farming News

Weekly mart reports

Published 20 November 2008

FOR their weekly sale on Tuesday the Hexham and Northern Marts had forward 86 cattle, which included three young bulls and 53 over 30 month animals. A good show of prime cattle were keenly bid for.

Burning energy for warmth

Published 20 November 2008

IN an effort to save energy emissions and cut the heating bills I have moved my office desk and opened up the fireplace.

Early slaughter may backfire

Published 20 November 2008

BREEDING cattle are being slaughtered too early to secure short term financial safety for farmers, the National Beef Association (NBA) has warned.

Doggy drama over for now

Published 13 November 2008

I ALWAYS heave a big sigh of relief when Bonfire Night is over. The past few years have been traumatic.

Champion’s owner sings praises of Mamma Mia

Published 13 November 2008

A FARMER from Melkridge has enjoyed double success in two major shows over the last few weeks.

ON TUESDAY Hexham and Northern Marts had forward 91 cattle, which included two young bulls and 52 over 30 month animals. The prime cattle trade was considerably sharper on the week to average 161.3p and £913.88 per head.

Rachel promoting agriculture in Spain

Published 13 November 2008

A YOUNG farmer from Tynedale was inspired to set up a rural group in Spain after participating in a week-long trip to Budapest.

Warning issued on farm-related crimes

Published 13 November 2008

FARMERS in Tynedale have been told to take precautions in the build-up to Christmas to avoid being targeted by criminals in the area.

CLA supports group to rid TB in cattle

Published 6 November 2008

THE Country Land and Business Association (CLA) in the North East has declared its delight following the announcement of the setting up of a new bovine TB eradication group.

NBA says farmers back in control

Published 6 November 2008

ABATTOIRS no longer have beef finishers in a choke-hold, with new rules being set for establishing the value of prime cattle, says the National Beef Association.

Paying tribute to war veterans

Published 6 November 2008

KICKING through fallen leaves is fantastic on a crisp dry autumn day. Sadly, once rain falls, the heaps become a soggy slimy mess, which takes all the fun out of it.

Weekly mart reports

Published 5 November 2008

FOR their weekly sale on Tuesday, Hexham and Northern Marts had forward 70 cattle, which included 50 over 30 month animals. All price cattle classes were sharper.AT THEIR Scots Gap centre sale on Wednesday Hexham and Northern Marts sold 1,036 prime lambs to average 44.3kg, 116ppkg and £51.38 per head.

The cold comforts of central heating

Published 30 October 2008

THE seasons have moved on rapidly in 48 hours. Bright sunshine was replaced by torrential rain and howling wind. Frost nipped at hands and ears making hats and gloves into essential items for an early morning walk. Winter has arrived.

Rural housing fee meets opposition

Published 30 October 2008

THE CLA in the North-East has greeted with caution a recommendation that all private landlords should be forced to buy a permit or licence to let houses.

Weekly mart reports

Published 30 October 2008

ON TUESDAY Hexham and Northern Marts had forward 76 cattle, which included 51 over 30 month animals. Trade for prime cattle similar to previous week, with quality sorts keenly bid for. Prime cattle prices. Heifer per kilo: Limousin to 170.5p and 157.5p Flotterton, 167.5p(2) and 162.5p Black Heddon, 162.5p and 157.5p Tone Hall and 159.5p Keepwick. Charolais to 158.5p Flotterton and 157.5p Tone Hall. Steers per kilo: Limousin to 156.5p Little Whittington. Simmental to 152.5p Little Whittington. Heifers per head: Limousin to £1,025.10 and £907.85 Black Heddon and £1,024.71 Flotterton. Charolais to £996.53 Sunniside, £963.68 Flotterton. Steers per head: Simmental to £1,006.50 Little Whittington.