Livestock market to continue trading

As a record trade was recorded Monday at Welshpool Livestock Market, the facility said it intends to remain open in order to supply the food chain.

Brisk demand on Monday pushed prices higher with the company confirming the ‘best trade ever seen in Welshpool Livestock Market’ as the top 60 prices for all culled sheep was over £160. The top price of the day saw Texel ewes sold for £193.

With concerns over the food chain allayed by supermarket chiefs to stop panic buying, the Market has also quelled fears by announcing strict new measures, but continuing to trade.

“We at Welshpool Livestock Sales are taking the Coronavirus outbreak very seriously and along with the Livestock Auctioneers Association are monitoring guidelines and recommendations being made by the Chief Medical Officer,” they stated.

“We as Auctioneers are a vital element of the food supply chain and are implementing responsible measures to contain the outbreak. There is currently no restrictions on the operation of a Livestock Market, however, we respectfully request that only buyers, sellers and livestock transporters attend our auctions and not to bring family members or children with them. The General Public are also asked to not attend and stay away from the auction. 

“We also request that anyone feeling unwell or showing any symptoms of Coronavirus/COVID 19 does not attend the market.

“As good hygiene is paramount, for those that do attend the market, we ask that you take all necessary precautions recommended by Public Health Wales before arriving and make use of the hand washing / sanitising facilities at the Market. 

“This advice is in line with current guidelines however the advice is continually changing. We will keep you updated, keep an eye on our social media posts for the latest position.”