Cheers to Peroni as he tops Welshpool sale

Although COVID-19 restrictions are slowly beginning to ease, it was still not possible to have the much-anticipated pre-sale show. The breeders did, however, have the opportunity to parade their bulls shortly before the sale, with the auctioneers providing an informative commentary for each bull forward.

We saw a steady trade with 23 bulls selling to average £4419.13, with a 58% clearance. The demand for a modern Charolais bull continues to remain strong and this was reflected in the sale.

Welshpool Charolais Sale 17 April 2021 – Lot 54 Caylers Peroni sold for 7600gns

Caylers Charolais of Caylers Farm, Nuthampstead, Nr Royston, Hertfordshire secured the top price of the day at 7,600gns with their bull CAYLERS PERONI. This 15-month-old bull is sired by First and out of Caylers Neeve, a daughter of Rosanna Jupiter. Peroni will be heading to his new home with E G Morgan of Blaencar, Brecon, Powys.

Welshpool Charolais Sale 17 April 2021 – Lot 18 Brampton Pancake sold for 7300gns

BRAMPTON PANCAKE, bred by MR G W Turner of Brampton Hall, Skelton On Ure, Ripon, North Yorkshire secured the second best price of the day, selling for 7,300gns. A son of Border Jamboree out of Brampton Nala, and a daughter of Brampton Hamish. This September 2019 born bull heads off to Shropshire.

Welshpool Charolais Sale 17 April 2021 – Lot 5 Montgomery Prelude sold for 6000gns

The hammer came down at 6,000gns for the 23-month-old MONTGOMERY PRELUDE, bred by Roberts & Jones of Parc, Llangadfan, Welshpool, Powys. Sired by Gretnahouse Jugular, who goes back to the easy calving Blelack Digger. Prelude is out of a Balmyle Harlequin daughter, Montgomery Meirwen. This bull caught the eye of Morgan & Son of The Farm, Dutlas, Powys.

Welshpool Charolais Sale 17 April 2021 – Lot 70 Oakchurch Rustic sold for 5600gns

Selling at 5,600gns was OAKCHURCH RUSTIC, one of the younger bulls in the catalogue and bred by J & A Price of Oakchurch Farm, Staunton-On-Wye, Herefordshire. This 14-month-old bull is a son of the 18,000gns bull Thrunton Fairfax out of Oakchurch Glamourgirl, a daughter of the easy calving Blelack Digger. This lad was purchased by RI & G Davies of Penlanlwyd, Powys.

Welshpool Charolais Sale 17 April 2021 – Lot 28 Chameran Patton sold for 5000gns

Two bulls went under the hammer at 5,000gns. First up was CHAMERAN PATTON, bred by Highfields Park Farm, (Mr D Ross) Highfields, Beech Green Lane, Withyham, Sussex. Fully parent verified to Chameran Icarus and Edenhurst Louise, a daughter of the 10,000gns bull Ratoary Ferguson. This October 2019 born bull heads off to start work at Richards & Co of Maenllengen, Newton, Powys.

Welshpool Charolais Sale 17 April 2021 – Lot 46 Caylers Prince sold for 5000gns

Next to be knocked down at 5,000gns was CAYLERS PRINCE, another bull from the Caylers Charolais stable. Born in November 2019, this lad is sired by the 22,000gns bull Maerdy Ignition and out of Caylers Lime, a daughter of Gretnahouse Ultimate. Securing the winning bid was C J Jones of Brondrefawr, Pantydwr, Powys.

Welshpool Charolais Sale 17 April 2021 – Lot 25 Sportsmans Premier sold for 4500gns

The gavel came down twice at 4,500gns with SPORTSMANS PREMIER the first to get this price. This 18-month-old bull is bred by Boden & Davies Ltd, Mellor Hall Farm, Mellor, Nr Stockport, Cheshire. Sired by the 40,000gns bull Maerdy Newman and out of Sportsmans Nadia, a daughter of the 70,000gns bull Barnsford Ferny. This lad was snapped up by G W Williams of Panygwyn, Pwllheli, Gwynedd.

Welshpool Charolais Sale 17 April 2021 – Lot 36 Chesham Potemkine sold for 4500gns

The second bull to bang down at 4,500gns was CHESHAM POTEMKINE, bred by Mr B Harman, Grove Farm,Grove Lane, Chesham, Buckinghamshire. Born in October 2019, this bull is sired by the easy calving Balthayock Musketeer and out of Chesham Leona, a daughter of the 18,000gns bull Thrunton Fairfax. Davies Bros secured the bid and Potemkine heads to the home of Gelli Lwca Fach Farm, Pontydwei.

Six bulls reached 4,000gns. First up was the May 2019 bull MAERDY PROPLAN, bred by Mr D E Evans of Monfa, Gwernaffield Road, Mold, Flintshire. A son of Maerdy Figaro-W and out of Maerdy Enid, a daughter of Vald’Or-Ra, another to go under the hammer to RI & G Davies of Penlanlwyd, Powys.

TRANNON PARKER followed, this time bred by Mr J A Williams of Llechwedd Ddyrys, Caersws, Powys. Parker is by Tutbury Napoleon and out of Trannon Juicy, a daughter of Wesley Evolution. This August 2019 born lad heads off to JE & SJ Roberts of Pantybriallu, Welshpool.

CHESHAM PROMETHEUS, also from the stable of Mr B Harman, was the third bull to go under the hammer at 4,000gns, also born in October 2019 and sired by the easy calving Balthayock Musketeer. This bull is out of Chesham Juniper, another daughter of the 18,000gns bull Thrunton Fairfax, with JLC & G Williams of Ysgubor Goch, Gwynedd securing the bid.

The fourth bull to go at 4,000gns was HENDY POPE, bred by Mr J A W Rees of Nantyrhendy, Llangurig, Llanidloes, Powys. This 17-month-old bull is sired by Lisnagre Nero and out of Hendy Gentle, a daughter of Killadeas Contact. His new owners D A Williams will be taking him home to Nant Y Ffin, Llandilo.

MAERDY PATHOS followed, again bred by Mr D E Evans. Born in November 2019, this bull is sired by the easing calving Blelack Fabulous, his dam Maerdy Meirwenwen is another daughter of Vald’Or-Ra. This lad will be making his way to B G Clarke of Premier Barton Farm, Exeter.

The last of the bulls to reach the bid of 4,000gns was PENFOUND RALLYTALLY, a son of Burradon Talisman and out of Penfound Grandgirl, a daughter of Cargriff Caesar. This January 2020 born bull is bred by R S & S M Hopper of Penfound, Poundstock, Bude, Cornwall and will be heading to his new home at E & H Chapman of Morfodion, Llanidloes, Powys.

There were two in-calf cows with calves at foot to follow the bull trade, both bred by Mr G G Morris. First to come into the ring and the top price female of the day was the 2015 born CARGRIFF LIBERTY with her heifer calf at foot CARGRIFF RONA. Liberty is sired by Cargriff Homer and out of Tynewydd Sonia, a daughter of Gower Nautical. This unit went under the hammer at 3,100gns and was purchased by RWL & JE George of Middle Hasguard Farm, Pembrokeshire

Concluding the sale was CARGRIFF LAVENDER, also born in 2015 and with her heifer calf at foot CARGRIFF ROSEMARY. Lavender also sired by Cargriff Homer, is out of Blelack Angela, a daughter of Thrunton Socrates. This unit was purchased for 2,600gns and will also be heading to the home of Morgan & Son of The Farm, Dutlas, Powys, their second purchase of the day.

The evening of Friday 23 April saw the first Society sale to take place at Clogher, previously it was held at Dungannon. A steady trade took place over the course of the evening, with 15 bulls sold, an average price of £3,241, and a whopping 79% clearance.

The 20-month-old BROWNHILL PADDYRABBIT had the honour of reaching the highest price of the day, maxing out at 4,500gns. Paddyrabbit is from the Devine Brothers herd in Strabane, Co. Tyrone and was born to Brownhill Ella, a daughter of Shaen Topper. His sire is Mullaghbane Topline, a son of the highly regarded Doonally New. Paddyrabbit has quite the legacy to live up to, as Doonally New was known for his impressive gestation length and beef yield EBVs. His great potential caught the eye of Mr T Whileside, and he will be making his way to his new home in Greysteel, Co. Londonderry.

The second-highest price of the day, at 4,200gns, was secured by MAGHERAGART PINNACLE, an attractive 19-month-old from the herd of Mr J Donnelly of Dromore, Co. Tyrone. Pinnacle has several high sellers in his lineage: his sire is the 22,000gns Newhouse Bigal, and his dam, Mountjoy Infanta, is a daughter of the 30,000gns Balmyle Bollinger. The lucky new owner of Pinnacle is F Smyth, who will be introducing him to their herd in Omagh, Co. Tyrone.

Two lots reached the third-highest price of 3,800gns. The first was the 16-month-old MOORLOUGH PICADOR, bred by Mr J McBride of Strabane, Co. Tyrone. Picador’s twin brother, MOORLOUGH PARKER also sold, for a price of 2,600gns. The twins’ sire, Clyth Diplomat, was the Junior Champion at Stirling in 2009, and sold for 16,000gns. Their dam is Moorlough Heighlight, a daughter of the tremendously successful Thrunton Voldemort. The brothers are sure to make their new owners very happy once they’ve settled into their new homes. Picador will be going home to Tirgarve, Co. Armagh, with Mr A Sloane, while Parker will be heading back with Mr S McAleer to their farm in Pomeroy, Co. Tyrone.

Also selling for 3,800gns was BROGHER PRINTER, from the herd of Mr T Phair of Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh. Printer has inherited some of the best traits of his predecessors, boasting a good calving ease EBV from his sire, Blelack Fabulous, and fantastic growth rates from his dam, Brogher Josephine – a daughter of the ever-popular Blelack Digger. This promising young bull attracted the attention of Mr C Maxwell, who will be taking him back to his farm in Clough, Downpatrick, Co. Down.

Another bull from Mr T Phair’s herd, BROGHER PRESIDENT, secured the next highest bid of 3,600gns. This 17-month-old was born to Brogher Emmy, a daughter of Sang-D’or, and was sired by the 11,000gns Woodpark Elgin, a son of the 19,000gns Corrie Alan. President will be making his way to Newtownstewart, Co. Tyrone, to the farm of S & R Millar.

Coming in at the next highest price of 3,400gns was DRUMCONNIS RELENTLESS. This promising 13-month-old comes from the herd of Mr J McGrath of Omagh, Co. Tyrone, and boasts a phenomenal calving ease EBV of +20.5%, placing him in the top 1% for this trait. Relentless was sired by the French bull First, who is well known for his exceptional calving ease. His dam is the easy-calving Fairway Happydawn, another daughter of Blelack Digger. He is sure to integrate well into his new herd in Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, courtesy of winning bidder Mr P Parke.

Also possessing a good calving ease EBV, and reaching a price of 3,200gns, was RATOARY REDBULL. A local bull, Redbull comes from the herd of Mr S McGovern of Clogher, Co. Tyrone. He was born to Knockshe Irine, a daughter of Mogador, and sired by the Supreme Champion at Balmoral in 2016, Stranagone Jones – another of Blelack Digger’s numerous offspring. This handsome 15-month-old will be welcomed to his new home in Fivemiletown, Co. Tyrone with buyer J Jackson.

Selling for 2,800gns was one of the older bulls forward for sale: the 21-month-old KILLADEAS PADDY. Paddy was bred by S & D Bothwell of Ballina Mallard, Co. Fermanagh, and was sired by the 11,000gns Battleford Laser and out of the easy-calving Killadeas Irene, another daughter of Blelack Digger. He caught the eye of A & R Wauchob, who will be taking him back to Newtownstewart, Co. Tyrone.

Minutes earlier, the first sale of the day was secured by ROYALDOWNS PRESIDENT at 2,700gns. This handsome fellow was born in April 2019 to Royaldowns Gigi, a daughter of Maerdy Impeccable, and sired by the easy-calving Fiston. President originates from the well-established herd of M McKeown Esq. of Downpatrick, Co. Down, and will also be heading back to Newtownstewart with A & R Wauchob.

14-month-old CRUMMER RANGER managed to fetch a sum of 2,600gns for his breeder, Mr A Dunne of Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh. Ranger was sired by the easy-calving Whitecliffe James, a son of Blelack Digger, and his dam is Tannaghmore Nova, a daughter of the 8,000gns Blelack Blackberet. This handsome young bull caught the attention of Mr E Lindsay, and he will soon be settling into his new home at Florencecourt, Enniskillen.

Two bulls sold for a final price of 2,500gns, the first being WOODPARK PLATINUM. The 17-month-old bull was bred by Mr W Short of Omagh, Co. Tyrone, and was born to Maerdy Inbred, a daughter of Froufrours. Like the previously mentioned Brogher President, Platinum was also sired by the 11,000gns Woodpark Elgin. He will be heading back to Lisnaskea, Co. Fermanagh with Mr K Little.

Also coming in at 2,500gns was MONIENDOGUE ROBERT, from the herd of Mr J Maguire of Belleek, Co. Fermanagh. Robert was the youngest bull forward for sale over the course of the evening, at only 13 months old. Sired by the 13,000gns Conval Frank and out of Deerfin Tina, another daughter of Doonally New, Robert is certain to fit in well with his new herd in Ballinamallard, Co. Fermanagh, under the care of Mr C Morrow.

It was quality over quantity at the Exeter Livestock Centre on Friday 23rd April, as three attractive bulls found new homes. The average selling price came to £3,220.

The lot securing the highest bid of 3,200gns was the 23-month-old DOWNTOWN PILOT, from the herd of Mr B W J Lavis in Okehampton, Devon. Pilot was sired by Glenrock Lorenzo, who boasts impressive growth EBVs across the board, and out of the easy-calving Downtown Jazz. This handsome fellow will be going home with A & J M Hembrow, back to Lostwithiel, Cornwall.

The remaining two bulls to be sold over the course of the day both secured prices of 3,000gns. The first of these was FOXACRE PERADVENTURE, from the well-established herd of Mrs A Orr-Ewing in Swindon, Wiltshire. Sired by Graiggoch Lad, and out of Foxacre Idille, this 23-month-old also caught the eyes of A & J M Hembrow, and he is sure to settle in nicely at his new home in Lostwithiel.

The final sale of the day, also for 3,000gns, went to the youngest bull entered: PENFOUND RAWHIDEOZZIE. This charming 14-month-old was bred by R S & S M Hopper, from Bude, Cornwall, and was born to Penfound Minxy – a daughter of Penfound Genius. His sire was Maxworthy Ozzie, a son of the phenomenally easy-calving Wesley Equinox. This young bull offers a great deal of potential, and grabbed the attention of B P Potbury, who will be taking him home to Wellington, Somerset.

Pringle headlines at Stirling in crisp bidding

Charolais once again returned to Stirling for United Auctions’ bull sale on Sunday 2 May 2021, where bids flowed freely both in-person and remotely via the internet and phone. While the late spring sale is typically smaller than its February counterpart, there was no compromise on the quality of animals present. A total of 21 bulls were sold, resulting in a clearance rate of 58% and an average price of £5,615, up £370 on last year’s lockdown sale.

Panmure Pringle, sold for 9,500gns

The highest bid of the afternoon, at 9,500gns, was secured by PANMURE PRINGLE from the herd of J M Cant & Partners of Arbroath, Angus. Pringle is the latest in his paternal lineage to reach impressive prices. His sire is the 12,000gns Elrick Jester, and his grand-sire is Thrunton Fearless, who reached a price of 16,000gns in 2011. Pringle’s dam is Panmure Isabella, a daughter of the popular Blelack Digger. This attractive 16-month-old bull is already showing great potential with a 200-day weight  EBV of +38, placing him firmly in the top 1% for this trait. Pringle will be making his way to Fortrose, Ross-shire, to the farm of winning bidder J H Anderson.

Thrunton Pioneer, sold for 8,000gns

Reaching the second highest bid of 8,000gns was the 19-month-old THRUNTON PIONEER. Pioneer was bred by J H C Campbell and Sons of Alnwick, Northumberland, and is backed up with a notable lineage. He was born to Thrunton Flamenco, a daughter of the 22,000gns Newhouse Bigal, and sired by the 26,000gns Balmyle Dickler. Pioneer will be going home with W Pringle & Son to their farm in Gorebridge, Midlothian.

Thrunton Pele, sold for 7,500gns

Two bulls sold for the next highest prices of 7,500gns, both of which are also from the herd of J H C Campbell and Sons. The first to sell was THRUNTON PELE, one of the older bulls in the running at 22 months-old. Pele is sired by Maerdy Jerusalem, who reached a price of 28,000gns at Stirling in 2015, and his dam is Thrunton Malibu, a daughter of Thrunton Gladiator. He caught the attention of B Kier & Son, who will be introducing him to their herd in Alford, Aberdeenshire.

Thrunton Pontiac, sold for 7,500gns

Also reaching 7,500gns was Pele’s younger cousin, THRUNTON PONTIAC. Pontiac boasts an impressive +14.6 calving ease EBV, a trait that’s prominent in his ancestry. His sire, Thrunton Nevada, is a son of the notoriously easy-calving Blelack Digger, and his dam is another of Thrunton Gladiator’s daughters, Thrunton Josephina. Pontiac is certain to settle in nicely at his new home in Blackhills, Peterhead, under the care of A & L Craig and Co.

Newlogie Principal, sold for 6,000gns

The 20 month-old NEWLOGIE PRINCIPAL achieved the next highest price of 6,000gns. Principal was bred by AJR Farms of Ellon, Aberdeenshire and was sired by the easy-calving Newlogie Nobel. His dam, Maerdy Modryb, is a daughter of Maerdy Hearthrob, who sold for 26,000gns at Stirling in 2014. He will be heading back to Grantown-on-Spey, Morayshire, with J & J Marshall.

A trio of bulls achieved a price of 5,500gns, the first of which was LOGANBAR PETROUS. A local bull, this 20 month-old hails from the farm of Mr D M Lyle of Dunblane, Perthshire. Petrous has exhibited excellent growth rates throughout his life and has grown into a strapping lad with plenty of bulk behind him. He was sired by the Irish-born Lisnagre Jamson and out of Loganbar Isabella, a daughter of Wesley Fixture. The winning bidder was J D Bilsland, who will be introducing Petrous to his herd in Croftamie, Glasgow.

Lochend Pedro, sold for 5,500gns

Two sibling heifers’ calves from the herd of Mr & Mrs J W Millar in Port of Mentieth, Stirlingshire, also sold for 5,500gns. First to sell was LOCHEND PEDRO, a charming 18 month-old born to dam Lochend Nuvette, a daughter of the award-winning Gretnahouse Archangel. Pedro’s sire is Gretnahouse Ming, a son of the tremendously easy-calving Wesley Equinox. Pedro will be making his way to his new home at the farm of M Dykes in Kilmarnock, Ayrshire.

Lochend Pluto, sold for 5,500gns

Hot on his brother’s heels, and selling only moments later, was LOCHEND PLUTO. Pluto was also sired by Gretnahouse Ming, but was born instead to Lochend Nova, a daughter of the easy-calving Mortimers Echo. This impressive family history of calving ease has continued through Pluto, who is within the top 1% for both calving ease and birth weight EBVs. Pluto’s lucky new owner is Mr Turner of Strath Farm, Campbeltown.

GOLDIES PILAR managed to secure the next highest bid of 5,200gns. This 18 month-old was bred by the well-known Mr H Goldie of Ruthwell, Dumfries. He was sired by the award-winning Tweeddale Matador, who sold for a price of 10,500gns in 2017, and is out of Goldies Icequeen, a daughter of Goldies Formidable. Pilar will be heading up to Inverness, to the Scottish Government’s Bull Stud facility at Knocknagael.

The hammer came down a total of three times at 5,000gns, firstly for HARESTONE PERU, a charming young bull from the herd of R & N Barclay in Insch, Aberdeenshire. Peru was born to Harestone Julie, a daughter of Blelack Digger, and was sired by Harestone Hercules. Hercules’ excellent growth EBVs appear to have been inherited by Peru, who has shown consistently above-average growth across the board. Peru will be going to his new home at Southwick Farms in Southwick, Dumfries.

Next to sell at 5,000gns was GOLDIES PARKER, a sibling of Goldies Pilar. This 17 month-old was born to Goldies Jade, another daughter of the high-yielding Goldies Formidable. Like his brother, Parker was also sired by Tweeddale Matador, who has a proven record of producing progeny with both high calving ease and high performance. Parker will soon be beginning the long journey all the way up to Stromness, Orkney, to the farm of buyer W S L Muir.

Balthayock Patrician, sold for 5,000gns

The final bull to sell for 5,000gns was BALTHAYOCK PATRICIAN, from the herd of Major D F W H & N R Parker of Balthayock, Perth. Patrician has a great deal of potential, showing consistently high growth rates, and carrying two copies of the sought-after F94L gene. He was sired by Balthayock Influence, and out of Balthayock Lizzy, a daughter of the 20,000gns Maerdy Grenadier. This promising young 16 month-old caught the attention of R & M Wilson, who will be taking him home to Dalry, Ayrshire.

Pouncer swoops top price at Carlisle

At long last it was time to dust off the rosettes as the traditional pre-sale show could once again take place at the annual Spring sale at Borderway Mart, Carlisle. The show, judged by Mr Alistair Smith of Northampton, took place on Friday May 14, and highlighted the stunning animals on offer.

Proceedings began in earnest on Saturday May 15, attracting a flurry of bids across all stock. A total of 49 bulls sold, with an average price of £7142.14 and a phenomenal 87.5% clearance. In addition, a further 14 heifers went under the hammer for an average price of £3570.

Reserve Intermediate Champion & Reserve Supreme Champion Gretnahouse Pouncer, sold for 20,000gns

The top price of the day, at a whopping 20,000gns, was secured by Reserve Supreme Champion & Reserve Intermediate Champion GRETNAHOUSE POUNCER. Pouncer is from the herd of the well-respected Mr A G Houston of Kirkpatrick-Fleming, Dumfriesshire, and was sired by the easy-calving Westcarse Jimmy. Pouncer has also inherited his sire’s excellent growth EBVs, placing him in the top 1% for 200-, 400-, and 600-day weight values. Pouncer’s dam, Gretnahouse Japan, is a daughter of the 17,000gns Balthayock Gladiator. The great potential of this 18-month-old was noticed by winning bidder Mr H Heron, who will be taking Pouncer back to Newtonards, Co. Down.

Gretnahouse Pimp, sold for 16,000gns

Minutes later, the hammer came down at 16,000gns for another bull from Mr Houston’s herd – this time for the 18-month-old GRETNAHOUSE PIMP. Pimp is another cracking young bull sired by Westcarse Jimmy, and once again Jimmy’s influence is clear in Pimp’s impressive growth and calving ease EBVs. Pimp was born to Gretnahouse Jannabel, a daughter of the notoriously easy-calving Blelack Digger, which undoubtedly only adds to his appeal. The young lad caught the eye of both Mr J Wardlaw and Son, Balerno, Midlothian and David Dandie Broxburn, Westlothian who will share the bull.

Annanview Prince, sold for 15,000gns

The third-highest price of the day went to ANNANVIEW PRINCE, reaching a final bid of 15,000gns. Prince was bred by K Watret of Annan, Dumfriesshire, and is out of Gretnahouse Megan, an easy-calving daughter of the 12,000gns Wesley Equinox. Prince’s sire, Harestone Hercules, offers superb growth EBVs, only adding to the promise this young bull holds. P & C Tippetts were the winning bidders, and will be taking Prince home to Shifnal, Shropshire.

Caylers Rocky, sold for 14,000gns

First-in-class CAYLERS ROCKY achieved the next highest price of 14,000gns. Rocky, along with several other bulls from the Caylers Charolais herd, made the long trip all the way from Nuthampstead, Hertfordshire to be sold at Carlisle. He was born in January 2020 to Caylers Glamour, a daughter of Thrunton Dominator, and sired by the 2020 Great Charolais Summer Show Supreme Champion Rosanna Jupiter. Rocky will be making the considerably shorter journey to Ruthwell, Dumfriesshire, where he will be integrated into the herd of Mr H Goldie.

Balmyle President, sold for 13,000gns

Three bulls managed to reach a top price of 13,000gns – the first of which was BALMYLE PRESIDENT, bred by W P Bruce of Meigle, Perthshire. This 18-month-old is out of Balmyle Lucky, a daughter of Maerdy Egret, and sired by 2015 Carlisle Reserve Junior Champion Balmyle Jasper. President will be heading back to Berwick-Upon-Tweed, Northumberland, courtesy of winning bidder Armstrong Farming Ltd.

Ravensworth Prometheus, sold for 13,000gns

Next to reach 13,000gns was 17-month-old RAVENSWORTH PROMETHEUS, from the herd of Mr W S Oates in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear. Prometheus was sired by the highly sought-after Dingle Hofmeister, and his dam is Ravensworth Juniper, a daughter of Thrunton Florida. This charming young bull was snapped up by J C Hobday & Son, who will be taking him back to Hawick, Roxburghshire.

Mornity Rugby, sold for 13,000gns

The final bull to secure a bid of 13,000gns was MORNITY RUGBY, a 14-month-old from the herd of Jack Nicoll Farms in Blairgowrie, Perthshire. Rugby is a heifer’s calf, being born to Mornity Nikita, a daughter of the award-winning Maerdy Hwre. He was sired by the popular easy-calver Westcarse Houdini, who fetched a price of 14,000gns at Carlisle in 2013. Rugby boasts notable growth EBVs, and is sure to produce valuable calves for his new owner, M A J Jarrold of Cosheston, Pembrokeshire.

Retties Rogue, sold for 12,000gns

The hammer came down at the next highest price of 12,000gns for two bulls, the first being 16-month-old RETTIES ROGUE. Rogue comes from the herd of R & C Rettie of Perth, Perthshire, and is another bull sired by the 14,000gns Westcarse Houdini. His dam is Retties Nena, who was sired by the ever-popular Blelack Digger. Offering a calving ease EBV of +7.7, Rogue has plenty of potential to pass on to his future progeny. Shennanton Livestock were the winning bidders for this stylish bull, and he will soon be settling into their herd in Newton Stewart, Wigtownshire.

Caylers Rambo, sold for 12,000gns

Next to secure a bid of 12,000gns was another offering from Caylers Charolais: CAYLERS RAMBO. This easy-calving 14-month-old was also sired by the award-winning Rosanna Jupiter, and was born to Caylers Heidi, a daughter of the 10,000gns Thrunton Alpha. Rambo offers consistently above-average growth EBVs in addition to his superb calving ease of +11.7, and is sure to settle in well at his new home in Blackmill, Bridgend with new owner Williams Partners.

Elgin Pandy, sold for 10,000gns

Another two bulls sold for the next highest price of 10,000gns, the first of which was ELGIN PANDY. Pandy was bred by Mr R A Milne of Elgin, Morayshire, and was sired by the easy-calving Carwood Lochness. His dam is Elgin Mary, who is a daughter of popular sire Westcarse Houdini. This attractive November-born bull caught the eye of winning bidders A & E Shand, and he will be heading back to their herd in Ellon, Aberdeenshire.

Reserve Junior Champion Mornity Romeo, sold for 10,000gns

The final bull to reach a five-figure bid was Reserve Junior Champion MORNITY ROMEO, another from the herd of Jack Nicoll Farms. A half-brother to the 13,000gns Mornity Rugby, Romeo was also sired by Westcarse Houdini. His dam is Mornity Matilda, a daughter of Baggrave Lysander. Like his brother, Romeo will also be heading back to Wales, this time to the herd of D J & M D Prosser & Jones in Brecon, Powys.

The next highest price of 8,000gns was secured by first-in-class ELGIN PROSPECT, another bull from Mr R A Milne’s herd. This 17-month-old is out of Elgin Mabel – another daughter of Westcarse Houdini – and sired by the easy-calving Caylers Noah. The excellent calving ease and growth EBVs from his lineage are evident in Prospect, and he is sure to settle in nicely to his new home in Lockerbie, Dumfriesshire, under the care of A J Macgregor.

Four bulls went under the hammer for a final price of 7,000gns, two of which were half-brothers from the herd of I & D Goldie of Annan, Dumfriesshire. The first of this pair to sell was SOLWAYFIRTH PRESLEY, a strapping 19-month-old sired by Glenericht Majestic and out of Solwayfirth Misty, a daughter of Solwayfirth Javelin. Majestic is known for producing well-performing progeny, having bred sons to 14,000gns in the past. Presley caught the eye of J Wight & Sons, and will be making the journey back to Biggar, Lanarkshire.

Just moments later, the hammer came down again at 7,000gns for Presley’s half-brother, SOLWAYFIRTH PIONEER. From the same herd, and also sired by the 11,500gns Glenericht Majestic, this October-born bull is instead out of Solwayfirth Donna, a daughter of Maerdy Restful. The winning bid this time came from J & I H McFadzean, who will be taking Pioneer back with them to Newton Stewart, Wigtownshire.

Intermediate Champion & Supreme Champion Formakin Prestige, sold for 7,000gns

Next to reach a bid of 7,000gns was the weekend’s Supreme Champion & Intermediate Champion, FORMAKIN PRESTIGE. This charming 18-month-old was bred by the McMurrich Partnership of Causewayhead, Stirlingshire, and was sired by the popular French AI bull Jingle. Prestige was born to a daughter of Blelack Digger, Formakin Ladybird, and continues Digger’s legacy of good calving ease EBVs. The winning bid came from W Kingaby, and Prestige will soon be settling into his new home in Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire.

Junior Champion Caylers Rio, sold for 7,000gns

The final bull to reach 7,000gns was Junior Champion CAYLERS RIO, another from popular breeders Caylers Charolais. At only 13 months old, Rio was the youngest bull forward for sale, however his stylish presentation still managed to catch the eye of judge Alistair Smith and bidders alike. Rio was sired by the well-growing Elgin Nailer, and is out of Caylers Holly, a daughter of Thrunton Dominator. Taking this young Champion home are C & E McCombie of Huntly, Aberdeen.

There was also a good demand for Charolais females over the course of the day, with prices reaching a high of 6,000gns. Two draft sales took place, including a draft of 7 heifers from the Harestone herd, and a draft of 5 heifers from the Bassett herd.

Bassett Polly, sold for 4,000gns

The highest-priced non-draft female was first-in-class BASSETT POLLY at 4,000gns. Polly was bred by Miss J Atkinson and sold by Brailes Livestock of Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire. Polly was sired by Whitecliffe Lacroix, a son of the 31,000gns Whitecliffe Highlight, and her dam is Bassett Margaret, a daughter of Bassett Inspector. At the time of the sale, Polly had recently been AI’d to the highly sought-after Wesley Equinox. The winning bid went to I N & A N Hollinshead, who will be taking Polly home to Goostrey, Cheshire.

Harestone Pasadena, sold for 6,000gns

The larger of the two draft sales included heifers from the Harestone herd of R & N Barclay in Insch, Aberdeenshire. The highest-priced heifer in this draft was HARESTONE PASADENA, at 6,000gns. Pasadena comes from a noteworthy lineage, being sired by the 46,000gns 2018 Supreme Champion Balthayock Minstrel, and out of Harestone Lively – a daughter of the 11,000gns Allanfauld Gambler. At the time of the sale, Pasadena was scanned and found to be 8 weeks in calf to Harestone Oscar. Pasadena will be making the long journey all the way to Truro, Cornwall, where she will be introduced to the herd of J Gregory.

The other draft sale of the day was from the Bassett herd of Miss J Atkinson in Malton, North Yorkshire. Five heifers were offered in this draft, reaching a top price of 2,500gns for 22-month-old BASSETT PIPPIN. Pippin, like all of the Bassett heifers forward during the day, was sired by Whitecliffe Lacroix. Her dam is Bassett Edna, a daughter of Oldstone Egbert who has long been a very popular AI bull. Pippin will be making her way to the herd of R J Stott in Carlisle, Cumbria.

Peter Gets the Prestige of Topping the Market

The evening of Friday May 21 marked the end of the Spring sale season, culminating in a high-quality offering of bulls at Swatragh Livestock Market. A total of 14 bulls sold for an average price of £3540, resulting in a fantastic 93% clearance.

Prestige Peter, sold for 5,500gns

Topping the lots at 5,500gns was PRESTIGE PETER. This 17-month-old was sold by A Armstrong from Dromore, Co. Tyrone. Peter was sired by Cavelands Fenian, and born to Bostonia Lizzie, a daughter of the 16,000gns Balmyle Vagabond. This strapping young bull caught the eye of D McMullan, and he’ll be heading back to their herd in Maghera, Co. Londonderry.

Tanhill Porker, sold for 5,300gns

A trio of home-bred bulls, also from the herd of A Armstrong, secured the next three highest bids. First to sell, for 5,300gns, was 22-month-old TANHILL PORKER, a son of the popular easy-calver Whitecliffe James. Porker’s dam is Thrunton Marion, a daughter of the 22,000gns Newhouse Bigal. With such an impressive lineage, Porker is sure to make new owner S Taylor incredibly happy once he’s settled into their herd in Ligoneil, Belfast.

Tanhill Pacman, sold for 4,200gns

Next from A Armstrong’s herd were two half-brothers sired by Woodpark Elgin, who boasts excellent growth EBVs and secured a price of 11,000gns at Stirling in 2011. Reaching the next highest price of the evening, at 4,200gns, was TANHILL PACMAN. Pacman’s dam is Maerdy Joanofark, a daughter of Maerdy Dynamite. This charming 17-month-old will be making his way back to Larne, Co. Antrim with new owner K Topping.

The final Woodpark Elgin son from A Armstrong’s herd was TANHILL PEARLJAM, who achieved a price of 3,900gns. This 17-month-old was born to Maerdy Llewes, a daughter of the 20,000gns Maerdy Grenadier. Pearljam will be making the journey back to A Millar’s herd in Tobernaveen, Co. Antrim

Moorlough Pedro, sold for 3,800gns

Securing the next highest price of 3,800gns was MOORLOUGH PEDRO, from the herd of J McBride in Strabane, Co. Tyrone. Pedro was sired by the tremendously easy-calving Balthayock Champion, and is out of Moorlough Lara, a daughter of the 18,000gns Thrunton Fairfax. With such noteworthy parentage, it’s easy to see why Pedro caught the attention of winning bidder H Nugent of Toomebridge, Co. Antrim.

Birches Pogba, sold for 3,200gns

Next was 18-month-old BIRCHES POGBA who sold for the next highest price of 3,200gns. Pogba was bred my Mr & Mrs N Matchett of Portadown, Co. Armagh, and was sired by Laheens Master. His dam is Doon June, a daughter of the 16,000gns Anside Foreman. Winning the bid this time was W Gourley, who will be taking Pogba back to their herd in Cookstown, Co. Tyrone.

The final bull to surpass the 3,000gns threshold was WOODPARK REGAN, who sold for 3,100gns. At only 13 months old, Regan was one of the youngest bulls forward for sale over the course of the evening. Regan comes from the herd of W Short in Omagh, Co. Tyrone, and was sired by the easy-calving Liscally Nijinsky. His dam is Woodpark Malteser, a daughter of Deeside Gulliver. This attractive young bull caught the eye of PJ Quinn, and will soon be making his way back to their herd in Coagh, Co. Tyrone.

The Scottish Showcase 14th-20th June 2021

Shows such as the Royal Highland have long been staple events for many, and their absence has been sorely missed over the last year. The Scottish Showcase sought to remedy this, by bringing traditional-style shows to an online-only audience, with only competitors attending in-person. Several spectacular Charolais animals were shown over the course of Tuesday 15^th June 2021, with entries across four classes.

Maerdy Morwr – Overall Champion & Continental Beef Interbreed Champion

The day’s Overall Charolais Champion was none other than 5-year-old MAERDY MORWR, who also went on to win the title of Overall Continental Beef Interbreed Pair Champion. This phenomenal bull was exhibited by AJR Farms of Ellon, Aberdeenshire, who had purchased the bull from breeder Mr D E Evans in 2018. Morwr was sired by the popular Maerdy Dynamite, and his dam is Maerdy Fee, a daughter of the French-born Victorieux.

Tophill Roxanne – Best Female & Reserve Overall Champion

Standing reserve to the Charolais Champion was Best Female TOPHILL ROXANNE. Roxanne was a recent acquisition for exhibitor Mr T Atkinson of Cumbria, who purchased her from breeder Mr A J Stott in February 2021. This stunning young heifer was born to Hackleton Hetty, a daughter of Mulroog Alpine, and was sired by Hackleton Largerlout.

The final title to be won by Charolais animals was the Continental Beef Interbreed Pair Championship. First place in this competition went to the pair of HARESTONE MAMMAMIA and the aforementioned MAERDY MORWR. Mammamia was bred and exhibited by R & N Barclay of Insch, Aberdeenshire, and was 1^st in her class in the preceding judging. She was sired by Maerdy Dublin, and her dam is Harestone Brigitte, a daughter of Harestone Ronsard.

Judging of Class 236 – Junior Female, born on or after 20th June 2019

All results:
Class 236 – Junior Female, born on or after 20^th June 2019
1^st – T Atkinson – Tophill Roxanne – s. Hackleton Largerlout
2^nd – A B Hornall – Falleninch Renae – s. Barnsford Ferny
3^rd – T Atkinson – Arradfoot Penny – s. Arradfoot Nixon
4^th – Brailes Livestock – Bassett Ruby – s. Whitecliffe Lacroix
5^th – A B Hornall – Falleninch Renoa – s. Falleninch Imperator
6^th – Brailes Livestock – Bassett Rachael – s. Whitecliffe Lacroix

Class 237 – Senior Female, born on or before 19^th June 2019
1^st – R & N Barclay – Harestone Mammamia – s. Maerdy Dublin
2^nd – R Aitken – Lourie Panache – s. Tweeddale Lookout
3^rd – R & N Barclay – Harestone Odena – s. Harestone Jaquard

Class 238 – Junior Bull, born on or after 20^th June 2019
1^st – A B Hornall – Falleninch Paulo – s. Barnsford Ferny
2^nd – R & C Rettie – Retties Roughdiamond – s. Balmyle Jasper
3^rd – Brailes Livestock – Bassett Richard – s. Whitecliffe Lacroix

Class 239 – Senior Bull, born on or before 19^th June 2019
1^st – AJR Farms – Maerdy Morwr – s. Maerdy Dynamite

Overall Champion & Best Male
AJR Farms – Maerdy Morwr – s. Maerdy Dynamite

Reserve Overall Champion & Best Female
T Atkinson – Tophill Roxanne – s. Hackleton Largerlout

Continental Beef Interbreed Champion
AJR Farms – Maerdy Morwr – s. Maerdy Dynamite

Continental Beef Interbreed Pair Champions
AJR Farms – Maerdy Morwr – s. Maerdy Dynamite
R & N Barclay – Harestone Mammamia – s. Maerdy Dublin

Morwr Sails to the Top at the Great Yorkshire Show

At long last, it was finally time for the much-anticipated Great Yorkshire Show to return over the course of Tuesday 13 to Friday 16 July 2021. With COVID-19 restrictions still in place, the event had to resort to limited capacity, however this did not affect the quality of animals on display. Charolais animals had a tremendous showing in the pedigree beef classes across the Thursday and Friday, including some returning favourites from the Scottish Showcase in June.

Maerdy Morwr, Supreme Champion, Supreme Champion Interbreed Beef Animal, and Blythewood Continental Beef Pairs Champion

MAERDY MORWR once again stole the show after his success in the Scottish Showcase, this time claiming the titles of British Charolais Breed Supreme Champion, Supreme Champion Interbreed Beef Animal, and forming one half of the Blythewood Continental Beef Pairs Championship. This Maerdy Dynamite-sired bull was once again exhibited by AJR Farms of Ellon, Aberdeenshire, who had purchased him from breeder D E Evans in 2018.

Harestone Mammamia, Reserve Supreme Champion, and Blythewood Continental Beef Pairs Champion

In reserve to Morwr in the British Charolais Breed Supreme Championship was another returning animal in HARESTONE MAMMAMIA. Mammamia was also the other half of the Blythewood Continental Beef Pairs Championship, and was bred and exhibited by R & N Barclay of Insch, Aberdeenshire. She born to Harestone Brigitte, a daughter of Harestone Ronsard, and sired by Maerdy Dublin.

Tophill Roxanne, Overall Junior Champion

Stunning young heifer TOPHILL ROXANNE also had another successful showing, earning the title of Overall British Charolais Junior Champion. She was purchased from breeder A J Stott only a few months ago and is already proving to be a valuable asset for exhibitor T Atkinson of Cumbria. Roxanne was sired by Hackleton Largerlout, and her dam is Hackleton Hetty, a daughter of Mulroog Alpine.

Westcarse Robbie, Junior Male Champion, and Reserve Overall Male Champion

Standing in reserve for the title of British Charolais Male Champion was Junior Male Champion, WESTCARSE ROBBIE. This charming 15-month-old was exhibited by S Mitchell of Penrith, Cumbria, who had purchased him from breeder J H Christie in October 2020. Robbie is out of Westcarse Naomi, a daughter of Mortimers Highlandfling, and was sired by Nuthampstead Judas.

All results:

Class 69 – Senior Bull, born before 1^st January 2020
1^st – AJR Farms – Maerdy Morwr – s. Maerdy Dynamite

Class 70 – Junior Bull, born on or after 1^st January 2020
1^st – S Mitchell – Westcarse Robbie – s. Nuthampstead Judas
2^nd – G W Turner – Brampton Rocco – s. Anside Nightrider
3^rd – Brailes Livestock – Bassett Richard – s. Whitecliffe Lacroix
4^th – R & C Rettie – Retties Roughdiamond – s. Balmyle Jasper 

Class 71 – Junior Female, born in 2020
1^st – T Atkinson – Tophill Roxanne – s. Hackleton Largerlout
2^nd – Brailes Livestock – Bassett Ruby – s. Whitecliffe Lacroix
3^rd – Brailes Livestock – Bassett Rachael – s. Whitecliffe Lacroix

Class 72 – Intermediate Female, born in 2019
1^st – R Aitken – Lourie Panache – s. Tweeddale Lookout
2^nd – T Atkinson – Arradfoot Penny – s. Arradfoot Nixon

Class 73 – Senior Female, born on or before 31^st December 2018
1^st – R & N Barclay – Harestone Mammamia – s. Maerdy Dublin
2^nd – J Rix – Wissington Oregano – s. Maerdy Heracles
3^rd – R & N Barclay – Harestone Odena – s. Harestone Jacquard
4^th – J E Foster – Crookdake Nancy – s. Hallbankgate Jackpot
5^th – Brailes Livestock – Bassett Nutmeg – s. Bassett Inspector 

Class 74 – Group of Three Animals
1^st – Brailes Livestock – Basset Richard, Basset Ruby, and Basset Rachael – s. Whitecliffe Lacroix 

Class 75 – Pair of Animals
1^st – T Atkinson – Tophill Roxanne and Arradfoot Penny – s. Hackleton Largerlout and Arradfoot Nixon, respectively

CH37 – British Charolais Junior Champion
Champion: T Atkinson – Tophill Roxanne – s. Hackleton Largerlout
Reserve: T Atkinson – Arradfoot Penny – s. Arradfoot Nixon

CH38 – British Charolais Junior Male Champion
Champion: S Mitchell – Westcarse Robbie – s. Nuthampstead Judas
Reserve: G W Turner – Brampton Rocco – s. Anside Nightrider

CH39 – British Charolais Junior Female Champion
Champion: T Atkinson – Tophill Roxanne – s. Hackleton Largerlout
Reserve: T Atkinson – Arradfoot Penny – s. Arradfoot Nixon

CH40 – British Charolais Male Champion
Champion: AJR Farms – Maerdy Morwr – s. Maerdy Dynamite
Reserve: S Mitchell – Westcarse Robbie – s. Nuthampstead Judas

CH41 – British Charolais Female Champion
Champion: R & N Barclay – Harestone Mammamia – s. Maerdy Dublin
Reserve: R Aitken – Lourie Panache – s. Tweeddale Lookout 

CH42 – British Charolais Breed Champion
Champion: AJR Farms – Maerdy Morwr – s. Maerdy Dynamite
Reserve: R & N Barclay – Harestone Mammamia – s. Maerdy Dublin 

CH63 – Supreme Champion Beef Animal
Champion: AJR Farms – Maerdy Morwr – s. Maerdy Dynamite 

Class 114 – Blythewood Continental Beef Pairs Champion
Champions: AJR Farms – Maerdy Morwr – s. Maerdy Dynamite & R & N Barclay – Harestone Mammamia – s. Maerdy Dublin

The long wait for the return of Northern Ireland’s largest agricultural event, the Balmoral Show, was finally over. The event was held over the course of Wednesday 22 to Saturday 25 September 2021 after being cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19. Charolais animals had a strong showing in their classes on Wednesday afternoon, highlighting some of the best the breed has to offer.

The prestigious title of British Charolais Breed Reserve Supreme Champion was secured by 23-month-old GRETNAHOUSE POUNCER. This impressive bull was shown by first-time exhibitor H Heron of Newtownards, Co. Down, who had purchased him from breeder the late A Houston at Carlisle in May 2021. Pouncer was sired by the popular Westcarse Jimmy, and was born to Gretnahouse Japan, a daughter of Balthayock Gladiator.

Reserve to Pouncer was the day’s Junior Champion, STRANAGONE REAGAN. This strapping 18-month-old was bred and exhibited by R McWilliams of Maghera, Co. Londonderry. He was born to Falleninch Fanna, a daughter of Prime Colombo, and sired by Stranagone Jones.

Standing in reserve to Reagan for the title of British Charolais Junior Champion was the stunning heifer SYDENVILLE RASPBERRY. Raspberry was bred and shown by another first-time exhibitor at Balmoral, G Hadnett of Armagh, Co. Armagh. This 19-month-old is out of Brigadoon Imeria, a daughter of popular Irish bull Royal Capitan, and was sired by Newhouse Maxamus.

Securing another rosette for H Heron was THRUNTON NEFERTITI, who claimed the title of British Charolais Senior Female Champion. Nefertiti was purchased by Mr Heron in October 2019 from breeder J H C Campbell, and is proving to be an excellent asset. She was shown with her charming heifer calf, Loughriscouse Savina, who is sure to perform well for Mr Heron in the future. Nefertiti was born to Thrunton Flamenco, a Newhouse Bigal daughter, and her sire is Maerdy Jerusalem.

Judge – Raymond Irvine

All results:

Class 556 – COW, born before 1st January 2018, in calf or in milk having had at least one calf.
1^st – H Heron – Thrunton Nefertiti – s. Maerdy Jerusalem

2^nd – T Devine – Deeleview Esprit – s. Fury Action

Thrunton Nefertiti

Class 557 – COW or HEIFER, in milk or in calf, born in 2018.
1^st – H Heron – Goldstar Osanna – s. Goldstar Hugo2

Goldstar Osanna

Class 558 – HEIFER, born on or after 1st January 2019, and on or before 30th June 2019.
1^st – H Heron – Goldstar Portia – s. Goldstar Ludwig

Goldstar Portia

Class 559 – HEIFER, born on or after 1st July 2019, and on or before 31st December 2019.

1^st – H Heron – Loughriscouse Pippa – s. Harestone Hercules

2^nd – H Heron – Loughriscouse Persia – s. Whitecliffe James

Loughriscouse Pippa

Class 560 – HEIFER, born on or after 1st January 2020.

1^st – G Hadnett – Sydenville Raspberry – s. Newhouse Maxamus

2^nd – S & B O’Kane – Carnview Rose – s. Oldstone Egbert

3^rd – C Todd – Pinehill Rachael – s. Mornity Nero

4^th – H Heron – Loughriscouse Ripple – s. Thrunton Fairfax

Sydenville Raspberry

Class 561 – BULL, born on or before 1st January 2020.

1^st – H Heron – Gretnahouse Pouncer – s. Westcarse Jimmy

2^nd – W Short – Blelack Marmaduke – s. Oakchurch Igor

Class 562 – BULL, born on or after 1st January 2020 and on or before 31st March 2020.

1^st – R McWilliams – Stranagone Reagan – s. Stranagone Jones

2^nd – C Todd – Pinehill Rambo – s. Mornity Nero

3^rd – W McCrory – Glencairn Renegade – s. Sportsmans Columbo

Stranagone Reagan

Class 563 – BULL, born on or after 1st April 2020.
1^st – S McGovern – Ratoary Rambler – s. Montgomery Ianto

2^nd – G Hadnett – Burrenvale Roscoe – s. Goldies Icon

3^rd – S McGovern – Ratoary Rockstar – s. Scardaune Mark

Ratoary Rambler

Class 564 – GROUP OF THREE ANIMALS, bona fide the property of one exhibitor.
1^st – H Heron – Loughriscouse Pippa, Loughriscouse Persia, Loughriscouse Ripple

Loughriscouse Pippa, Loughriscouse Persia, Loughriscouse Ripple

Class S158 – THE ORAGE PERPETUAL CHALLENGE CUP for the best Charolais cow or heifer.
Champion: H Heron – Thrunton Nefertiti – s. Maerdy Jerusalem

Reserve: H Heron – Goldstar Osanna – s. Goldstar Hugo2

Thrunton Nefertiti

Class S159 – JOHN K CURRIE PERPETUAL CHALLENGE CUP for the best Charolais heifer.
Champion: G Hadnett – Sydenville Raspberry – s. Newhouse Maxamus

Reserve: S & B O’Kane – Carnview Rose – s. Oldstone Egbert

Class S160 – SPECIAL PRIZES for the best and reserve best junior Charolais female.

Champion: G Hadnett – Sydenville Raspberry – s. Newhouse Maxamus

Reserve: S & B O’Kane – Carnview Rose – s. Oldstone Egbert

Sydenville Raspberry

Class S161 – THE H A CURRY PERPETUAL TROPHY for the best junior Charolais Bull.

Champion: R McWilliams – Stranagone Reagan – s. Stranagone Jones

Reserve: S McGovern – Ratoary Rambler – s. Montgomery Ianto

Class S162 – SPECIAL PRIZES for the best and reserve best junior Charolais Bull.

Champion: R McWilliams – Stranagone Reagan – s. Stranagone Jones

Reserve: S McGovern – Ratoary Rambler – s. Montgomery Ianto

Class S163 – JUNIOR BREED CHAMPION for the Champion and Reserve male or female animals born on or after 1st January 2020.

Champion: R McWilliams – Stranagone Reagan – s. Stranagone Jones

Reserve: G Hadnett – Sydenville Raspberry – s. Newhouse Maxamus

Stranagone Reagan

Class S164 – THE BREEDERS PERPETUAL CHALLENGE TROPHY for the best Charolais bull exhibited by a club member.

Champion: H Heron – Gretnahouse Pouncer – s. Westcarse Jimmy

Reserve: R McWilliams – Stranagone Reagan – s. Stranagone Jones

Class S165 – THE BARDIN PERPETUAL CHALLENGE TROPHY for the best Charolais animal exhibited by a club member.

Champion: H Heron – Gretnahouse Pouncer – s. Westcarse Jimmy

Reserve: R McWilliams – Stranagone Reagan – s. Stranagone Jones

Class S166 – BRIGADOON PERPETUAL CHALLENGE TROPHY – for the best homebred Charolais in Show exhibited by a club member.

Champion: R McWilliams – Stranagone Reagan – s. Stranagone Jones

Reserve: G Hadnett – Sydenville Raspberry – s. Newhouse Maxamus

Class S167 – CHAMPION PRIZES for the Champion and Reserve Champion Charolais.

Champion: H Heron – Gretnahouse Pouncer – s. Westcarse Jimmy

Reserve: R McWilliams – Stranagone Reagan – s. Stranagone Jones

Gretnahouse Pouncer

Class S243 – SPECIAL PRIZES for the Beef Interbreed Champion and Reserve Beef Interbreed Champion beef breed continental pair.

Reserve Interbreed Pair:  H Heron – Loughriscouse Persia – s. Whitecliffe James

S McGovern – Ratoary Rambler – s. Montgomery Ianto

Loughriscouse Persia and Ratoary Rambler

Class S244 – SPECIAL PRIZE for the Beef Interbreed overall junior beef Champion of Champions

Champion: R McWilliams – Stranagone Reagan – s. Stranagone Jones

Stranagone Reagan

Ranger drives the top price at Stirling

In a long-awaited return to form, the annual October bull show and sale at United Auctions, Stirling took place over the course of Monday 18 to Tuesday 19 October 2021. Charolais animals had a particularly strong showing, with a total of 63 bulls and 16 females finding new homes. The bull sale attained a top price of 28,000gns with a clearance rate of 75% and an average price of £8120 – up £1493 on the previous year. The females sold for a top price of 12,000gns, with an 89% clearance and an average of £6169. Overall, 14 bulls and 2 females sold for 10,000gns and above, and 31 bulls and 6 females reached prices between 5,000gns and 9,000gns.

Balthayock Ranger, Supreme Champion & Junior Champion, sold for 28,000gns

The star of the show, reaching an incredible price of 28,000gns, was the Supreme & Junior Champion BALTHAYOCK RANGER. This impressive young bull is from the well-established herd of Major D F W H & N R Walter of Balthayock, Perth, and boasts other prize-winners in his heritage. Ranger was sired by Balthayock Imp, who achieved the titles of Breed Champion and Interbreed Champion at the Royal Highland Show in 2015. Meanwhile his dam, Balthayock Melissa (a daughter of Balthayock Ferdinand), also secured a class prize at the same event in the past. Ranger will be making his way over to his new herd in Knighton, Powys, under the care of winning bidder T Corbett from the well-known Teme herd.

Goldies Romeo, Reserve Supreme Champion & Reserve Junior Champion, sold for 26,000gns

Hot on Ranger’s tail was the Reserve Supreme & Reserve Junior Champion, GOLDIES ROMEO, who sold for 26,000gns. Romeo was bred by H Goldie of Ruthwell, Dumfries and was sired by the extremely easy-calving Gretnahouse Heman, who sold for 15,000gns at Stirling in 2013. His dam is Goldies Marion, a daughter of Goldies Formidable. This charming young 16-month-old will be making the long journey to Highfields Park Farm in Withyham, East Sussex.

Balthayock Rampage, sold for 25,000gns

The final bull to break the 20,000gns threshold was class winner BALTHAYOCK RAMPAGE, also from the herd of Major D F W H & N R Walter. The hammer came down for this Balthayock Ferdinand-sired 18-month-old at 25,000gns. Rampage was born to the easy-calving Balthayock Unwary, a daughter of Balthayock Raffles. Taking Rampage home is J Price of Staunton-on-Wye, Herefordshire.

Elrick Rabbi, sold for 16,000gns

The next highest price of the day was secured by ELRICK RABBI, at 16,000gns. Rabbi is from the herd of M J Massie of Auchnagatt, Ellon, and was sired by the incredibly popular easy-calver Maerdy Gouverneur. His dam is Elrick Lily, a daughter of historical Supreme Champion Thrunton Fearless. Winning the bid this time was T Smith & Son, who will be taking Rabbi back to their herd in Alford, Aberdeenshire.

Balthayock Rambo, sold for 16,000gns

Also reaching a final price of 16,000gns was another offering from the Balthayock herd: BALTHAYOCK RAMBO. This young 15-month-old has an impressive lineage behind him, having been sired by the easy calving Balthayock Nevada. His dam, Balthayock Mimosa, is a daughter of Ugie Echo, who was Champion at Perth in 2014. Rambo is sure to settle in nicely to his new home in Newcastle Emlyn, Carmarthenshire, courtesy of winning bidder K J Thomas.

Glenericht Ricksen, sold for 14,000gns

GLENERICHT RICKSEN, a 16-month-old from the herd of W K & P Drysdale of Middle Drimmie, Blairgowrie, attained the next highest price of 14,000gns. Ricksen was born to Glenericht Melrose, a daughter of 2014’s Junior Male Champion – Maerdy Hwre. His sire is Glenericht Mecca, who boasts a tremendous calving ease EBV of +31.4. Ricksen will be journeying to Coalville, Leicestershire, to the farm of new owner C Jessop.

Glenericht Ryder, sold for 12,000gns

Also from the Glenericht herd was the bull securing the next highest price of 12,000gns: GLENERICHT RYDER. This charming 17-month-old was sired by the easy-calving Glenericht Limpet, and is out of Glenericht Jewel – a daughter of the ever-popular Clyth Diplomat. Ryder’s lucky new owners are C Smeaton & Sons, who will be introducing him to their herd in Inverarity, Angus.

Elgin Royale, sold for 11,000gns

The final bull to surpass 10,000gns was 18-month-old ELGIN ROYALE from R A Milne’s herd in Lhanbryde, Elgin, who reached a final price of 11,000gns. Royale was sired by Caylers Noah, and born to Elgin Jane, a Caylers Gladiator daughter who was Junior Female Champion at the Royal Highland Show in 2015. Royale will be making the trip to Biggar, Lanarkshire, to the farm of winning bidder F Smith.

Panmure Roberto, Senior Champion, sold for 10,000gns

A total of six bulls all sold for the next highest prices of the day of 10,000gns, the first of which was Senior Champion PANMURE ROBERTO. This 19-month-old was bred by J M Cant & Partners of Arbroath, Angus, and was sired by the 12,000gns Elrick Jester. Roberto’s dam is Panmure Molly, a daughter of the prizewinning Thrunton Firecracker. Like Royale, Roberto will also be journeying to Biggar in Lanarkshire, this time to the farm of J Hyslop & Sons.

Westcarse Radar, Reserve Intermediate Champion, sold for 10,000gns

Next to sell for 10,000gns was Reserve Intermediate Champion, WESTCARSE RADAR. Radar was bred by J H Christie of Stirling, and offered for sale by R & N Barclay of Insch, Aberdeenshire, and boasts a notable heritage. Radar was sired by popular easy-calver Gretnahouse Ming, and was born to Westcarse Candace, a daughter of the 28,000gns Farleycopse Turbo. Winning the bid was A H Fisher, who will be introducing Radar to their herd in Stranraer, Wigtown.

Thrunton Ringmaster, sold for 10,000gns

The third bull to reach 10,000gns was THRUNTON RINGMASTER, a 17-month-old from the well-known herd of J H C Campbell & Sons in Thrunton, Alnwick. Ringmaster was born to a daughter of the 26,000gns Balmyle Dickler, Thrunton Juniper, and his sire is the popular 28,000gns Maerdy Jerusalem. This young lad will be making the trip to Kincraigie Farms in Lumphanan, Aberdeenshire.

Chesham Robust, sold for 10,000gns

CHESHAM ROBUST was the next bull to secure a price of 10,000gns. Bred by B Harman of Chesham, Buckinghamshire, this strapping young bull boasts a calving ease EBV of +11.7 and some well-known names in his lineage. Robust’s sire is the popular easy-calver Balthayock Musketeer, and his dam is Chesham Lena, a daughter of the 18,000gns Thrunton Fairfax. Taking Robust home to Latheron, Caithness, is winning bidder S Sinclair.

Glenericht Reggie, sold for 10,000gns

The fifth bull to reach 10,000gns was GLENERICHT REGGIE, another from the herd of W K & P Drysdale and a brother to the 12,000gns Glenericht Ryder. Like his brother, this 17-month-old was also sired by Glenericht Limpet, and he was born to another Clyth Diplomat daughter: Glenericht Hayley. Winning the bid for this young charmer was J Wight & Sons of Biggar, Lanarkshire.

Balthayock Rory, sold for 10,000gns

The hammer came down at 10,000gns for the final time for BALTHAYOCK RORY, another impressive young lad from the herd of D F W H & N R Walter. At only 15 months old, Rory was amongst the youngest of the bulls offered for sale, however his lineage indicates great potential. Rory was sired by the 11,000gns Gretnahouse Lunar, and his dam is Balthayock Natalie, a daughter of Perth Champion and proven easy calver Balthayock Impression. Like Rampage before him, Rory also caught the eye of winning bidder J Price of Staunton-on-Wye, Herefordshire.

Closing proceedings for Charolais sales at Stirling was a production sale of some exceptional heifers from J W Millar of the Lochend herd in Port of Menteith, Stirling. Reaching the highest price of 12,000gns was maiden heifer LOCHEND ROLO. This stunning 12-month-old was sired by the easy-calving Gretnahouse Ming, and her dam is Lochend Navajo, a daughter of the equally easy-calving Mortimers Echo. Rolo attracted the attention of winning bidders C & K Malone, who will be taking her home to Cardenden, Fife.

Selling for the next highest price of 10,000gns was LOCHEND PAWNEE, who had been scanned in-calf to Gretnahouse Ming. Pawnee was sired by 2016 Class Winner Nuthampstead Judas, and her dam is a daughter of Bassett Unicorn, Lochend Eve. Pawnee will be journeying to Withyham, East Sussex, where she will settle into her new home at Highfields Park Farm.

At the next highest price of 9,000gns was another daughter of Gretnahouse Ming, LOCHEND PING. Ping was born to Lochend Mist, a daughter of Mortimers Highlandfling, and she was scanned in-calf to Swalesmoor Oscar prior to the sale. Taking Ping home to Keith, Aberdeenshire, is winning bidder R McAskie.

Show results:

Class 1 – BULL, born on or between 29 November 2019 & 29 February 2020

1^st – R M Adam & Son – Newhouse Perth – s. Chunal Maverick

2^nd – W & N Milne – Glenernan Runaround – s. Elgin Jagger

3^rd – J H C Campbell & Sons – Thrunton Prospecter – s. Thrunton Gladiator

4^th – R & N Barclay – Harestone P45 – s. Harestone Hercules

5^th – D Muirhead – Firhills Rambo – s. Glenericht Mecca

Class 2 – BULL, born on or between 1 & 20 March 2020

1^st – J M Cant & Partners – Panmure Roberto – s. Elrick Jester

2^nd – W K & P Drysdale – Glenericht Rascal – s. Moncur General

3^rd – H Goldie – Goldies Renown – s. Gretnahouse Heman

4^th – J Jeffrey – Kersknowe Rhino – s. Inverlochy Fencer

5^th – H Goldie – Goldies Reformer – s. Tweeddale Matador

Class 3 – BULL, born on or between 21 & 31 March 2020

1^st – J Burnett & Sons – Spittalton Roddy – s. Dingle Hofmeister

2^nd – J M Cant & Partners – Panmure Rebus – s. Elrick Jester

3^rd – H Goldie – Goldies Ranger – s. Tweeddale Matador

4^th – W & N Milne – Glenernan Romeo – s. Elgin Jagger

5^th – W & N Milne – Glenernan Rolo – s. Elgin Jagger

Class 4 – BULL, born on or between 1 & 6 April 2020

1^st – D F W H & N R Walter – Balthayock Rampage – s. Balthayock Ferdinand

2^nd – A Macgregor – Allanfauld Rocknroll – s. Maerdy Norseman

3^rd – Caylers Charolais – Caylers Ronaldo – s. Rosanna Jupiter

4^th – J H C Campbell & Sons – Thrunton Robroy – s. Thrunton Nevada

5^th – A J Clark – Teiglum Rockstar – s. Balthayock Lachlan

Class 5 – BULL, born on or between 7 & 15 April 2020

1^st – Coppinger Wyllie Partnership – Grinshill Roger – s. Allanfauld Neptune

2^nd – M J Massie – Elrick Rabbi – s. Maerdy Gouverneur

3^rd – AJR Farms – Newlogie Radar – s. Maerdy Morwr

4^th – Lucy Houston – Gretnahouse Razzle – s. Westcarse Jimmy

5^th – D & M Campbell – Caithness Rascal – s. Dingle Hofmeister

Class 6 – BULL, born on or between 16 & 25 April 2020

1^st – R & N Barclay – Westcarse Radar – s. Gretnahouse Ming

2^nd – W K & P Drysdale – Glenericht Ryder – s. Glenericht Limpet

3^rd – J H C Campbell & Sons – Thrunton Ringmaster – s. Maerdy Jerusalem

4^th – J Watson & Co. – Tweeddale Realmccoy – s. Tweeddale Matador

5^th – J H C Campbell & Sons – Thrunton Rocky – s. Maerdy Hearthrob

Class 7 – BULL, born on or between 26 April & 5 May 2020

1^st – W S Oates – Ravensworth Ronan – s. Thrunton Florida

2^nd – D Muirhead – Firhills Regal – s. Caylers Napoleon

3^rd – B Harman – Chesham Robust – s. Balthayock Musketeer

4^th – M A G McSporran – Eilean Rambo – s. Gretnahouse Ultimate

5^th – A Ivory – Cardean Rhinestone – s. Kersknowe Nixon

Class 8 – BULL, born on or between 6 & 20 May 2020

1^st – D F W H & N R Walter – Balthayock Ranger – s. Balthayock Imp

2^nd – Brailes Livestock – Bassett Richard – s. Whitecliffe Lacroix

3^rd – W K & P Drysdale – Glenericht Reggie – s. Glenericht Limpet

4^th – J Irvine & Son – Westcarse Roy – s. Gretnahouse Ming

5^th – D F W H & N R Walter – Balthayock Ramrod – s. Balthayock Imp

Class 9 – BULL, born on or after 21 May 2020

1^st – H Goldie – Goldies Romeo – s. Gretnahouse Heman

2^nd – W K & P Drysdale – Glenericht Ricksen – s. Glenericht Mecca

3^rd – D F W H & N R Walter – Balthayock Rambo – s. Balthayock Nevada

4^th – J Irvine & Son – Inverlochy Rocky – s. Caylers Napoleon

5^th – D F W H & N R Walter – Balthayock Rory – s. Gretnahouse Lunar

Class 10 – HEIFER, born on or after 2 May 2019

1^st – Brailes Livestock – Bassett Rachael – s. Whitecliffe Lacroix

Senior Championship – Overall best bull from Classes 1-3

Champion – J M Cant & Partners – Panmure Roberto – s. Elrick Jester

Reserve – W K & P Drysdale – Glenericht Rascal – s. Moncur General

Intermediate Championship – Overall best bull from Classes 4-6

Champion – Coppinger Wyllie Partnership – Grinshill Roger – s. Allanfauld Neptune

Reserve – R & N Barclay – Westcarse Radar – s. Gretnahouse Ming

Junior Championship – Overall best bull from Classes 7-9

Champion – D F W H & N R Walter – Balthayock Ranger – s. Balthayock Imp

Reserve – H Goldie – Goldies Romeo – s. Gretnahouse Heman

Female Championship – Overall best heifer from Class 10

Champion – Brailes Livestock – Bassett Rachael – s. Whitecliffe Lacroix

Supreme Championship – Overall best bull

Champion – D F W H & N R Walter – Balthayock Ranger – s. Balthayock Imp

Reserve – H Goldie – Goldies Romeo – s. Gretnahouse Heman