Auction as factory closes
Farmers from across Shropshire will be selling their sugar beet machinery at auction next week following the closure of British Sugar's Allscott plant.
Auctioneer firm Halls is organising sales at Shifnal and Kidderminster.
Planting, cultivation, harvesting and haulage equipment that has been used by sugar beet growers in Shropshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire will be sold at the auctions.
Halls director David Giles said: "Many of the entries have come from sugar beet growers across Shropshire and North Worcestershire, who are leaving the industry following the planned closure of the British Sugar processing plant at Allscott.
"Traditionally, this has been a very strong sugar beet growing area and British Sugar's decision has come as a devastating blow to farmers.
"We are organising the two auctions as a service to farmers who find themselves in this unfortunate situation.
"The sales have attracted interest from prospective buyers from as far away as East Anglia and we are also expecting interest from Europe."
The sales will take place at Coppice Green Farm, Coppice Green Lane, Shifnal, at noon on February 8, and at Stone Sale Ground, Kidderminster, at noon on February 9.
Entries for the Shifnal sale are being accepted by Halls at the Welsh Bridge, Shrewsbury on (01743) 284777 and from Herefordshire and Worcestershire at Gavel House, 137, Franche Road, Kidderminster on (01562) 820880.
