Ringside at Thrapston, Northants

Thrapston Market, Northamptonshire. Prime sheep commanded a firm trade at its 5 August sale, with 712 head going under the hammer to average an SQQ of 155.1p/kg.

“The overall quality of stock on offer was improved on recent weeks,” said auctioneer Brian Pile.

Top price of £75 a head went to HC & A Reynolds, with the top price per kilo of 175p achieved by Mr & Mrs JE Smith.

Cull ewes met a storming trade, topping at £90 a head and averaging £63.76. “A cracking result – these returns go a long way to purchasing replacements.”

In the cattle ring, buyers competed for all types of stock. Steers sold to 156p/kg and averaged 138.9p/kg, with heifers reaching 160p/kg and levelling at 142.1p/kg.