Beet machines sale

Farmers and contractors in Shropshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire are being offered a chance to sell by auction unwanted quality sugar beet machinery and other farm equipment early in the new year.

Auctioneers Halls are organising two auctions on consecutive days in February to sell planting, cultivation, harvesting and haulage equipment that has been used by sugar beet growers in the three counties.

The sales are being held at Coppice Green Farm, Coppice Green Lane, Shifnal at noon on Thursday, February 8 and at Stone Sale Ground, Kidderminster at noon on Friday, February 9.

Halls director Daniel Lovatt said: "Sugar beet growers across Shropshire and North Worcestershire, who are leaving the industry after the planned closure of the British Sugar processing plant at Allscott, have approached us to organise sales of machinery and equipment that will no longer be needed.

"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."

Entries for the Shifnal sale are now being accepted by Halls at the Welsh Bridge, Shrewsbury (Tel: 01743 284777) and from Herefordshire and Worcestershire at Gavel House, 137, Franche Road, Kidderminster (Tel: 01562 820880). Entries must be received by January 17.

An entry fee of £10 per item will be charged and each item must be steam cleaned and well presented for sale.