Leading breeders and keen buyers combined to make a record-breaking occasion, at the inaugural ‘White Gold’ Charolais sale, held on Friday 21st January at the Borderway Mart, Carlisle, with Northumberland breeders Jonathan & Jayne Watson taking the centre record for a Charolais heifer sale, at 18,000 guineas. The sale attracted 31 entries from some of the best Charolais genetics from across the UK and was described afterwards as “a flyer”, all breeders who attended were delighted with the results.
This was the first dedicated Harrison and Hetherington collective sale of Charolais females on behalf of The British Charolais Cattle Society for many years, with entries from some of the most prominent breeders in the country. Leading prices were Tweeddale Rosemary 18,000gns, Burradon Rozy 9,000gns, Burradon Rebecca 9,000gns, Tweeddale Royalty 5,000gns, and Elgin Robin 5,000gns. The sale average for 25 females sold was £4779.60, representing an 80% clearance.
Seller Jonathan Watson, of Tweeddale Charolais from Bowsden Moor Farm, said: “ We are delighted to have been part of this inaugural Charolais Female Sale at Carlisle. The vendors presented a unique opportunity for purchaser to buy the best of their breeding herds which has perhaps never been possible before. The 8 heifers we presented were literally our Crown Jewels and it was very pleasing to see them all go on to either establish new or enhance existing pedigree herds. To have attained the centre record at this sale with our principle maiden heifer, Tweeddale Rosemary , was a wonderful surprise and a shock. It is hopeful that this sale will become a regular fixture for the future”.
Commenting on the sale, auctioneer James Little added: “After a long absence of dedicated Charolais female sales in Border way I was absolutely delighted the company was instructed to carry out this inaugural event. The sale attracted a lot of interest nationwide resulting in a fantastic result. The clearance rate was exceptional with many bidders present, with a variety of budgets. All heifers were well bid for, and to achieve a centre record of 18,000gns really capped the day off. We have already had new parties looking to consign at next year’s event.”
James Little, Auctioneer for Harrison & Hetherington, said: “We were delighted to rekindle what was always a successful winter sale of Charolais females, and to be working with The British Charolais Cattle Society. The aim was to provide both a showcase and a live ring sale, answering the demand from those looking to improve their existing herds and those wanting to start up their own herd.
“In recent years these noted herds have primarily sold females directly off farm, so the opportunity to purchase on the open market, under one roof, has been almost non-existent.”
In the past, The Charolais Cattle Society have held a Christmas Cracker sale of females at the end of the year. On reviewing the demand, the new standalone female sale was organised, with the backing and support of several Charolais breeders north and south of the border.
Commenting after the sale, Allen Drysdale, Chairman of The Society concluded: “The ‘White Gold Sale’ today was a resounding success, with a centre record set for the breed. It was clear to see that there is a huge demand for top quality Charolais females. I must compliment the breeders for putting forward such a great show of heifers. What pleased me the most was to see heifers selling to all parts of the country including into Northern Ireland, with many going to newly established herds. This reaffirms the ever-growing demand for Charolais cattle.
“I would like to thank H&H for hosting such a great sale, and to all purchasers as well. We wish you all the very best of success with your heifers. Lastly thanks to all exhibitors in making today such a success for the breed and look forward to making this a permanent date on The Charolais sales calendar. ”
The Charolais is a popular breed for British farmers due to its sustainability and profitability and the breed offers a bright future for British beef. With continued improvement to calving ease, unrivalled growth rates and outstanding carcass quality, the Charolais is renowned for crossing into profit.