Dairy cattle in short supply

A new record average price of £1,081 for dairy cattle was recorded at Shrewsbury Auction Centre as demand outstrips supply.

Top price for dairy heifers was £1,360 for a Hidden View Best heifer from Messrs J.R. Wilkinson and Co, of Meifod, who also topped the cow section at £1,170 for a second calving heifer by a Genus test bull.

Shrewsbury Auction Centre chairman and Halls' dairy specialist David Giles said: "We have ever more buyers in attendance who recognise that they must pay £1,000 plus for quality animals, which Shrewsbury can boast every week."