Matthew Probert says support is available.
As an auction mart company, we have had the pleasure of experiencing a certain sense of normality through the latter part of 2021.
Like others, we have been permitted to open ‘docks and doors' to all customers who have been keen to attend, not only to buy and sell, but also to meet and gather with friends and like-minded people.
With all the recent national press about mental health and well-being it cannot be under estimated the vital role the auction mart plays as a meeting place for people who live and work in what can be a very isolated profession.
At North West Auctions we have recently been able to welcome back the local field nurses and chaplaincy to both of our markets sites on auction days which has allowed our customers additional support for their health and well-being.
We have had another very successful ‘back end' sales season with record numbers and prices achieved across all sale sections and sites.
Awareness
We have seen customers in attendance from throughout the UK who are now showing an increasing awareness and attention to the health status of stock, with ‘high health' status stock attracting high levels of interest and often selling to a premium.
Vaccinations and the health monitoring of stock is a marketing tool which, if used to its full advantage can be used to significantly increase the value of stock when sold which will in turn reduce farm losses and increase productivity and profitability.
Healthy stock will lead to healthy and happy farmers, as is well known to be the case that farmers take greater care of their stock than themselves.
For the benefit of the UK agricultural industry and auction marts we need to both survive and thrive.
Matthew Probert
Matthew Probert is auctioneer, valuer and land agent at North West Auctions. Call 01539 566 219 or email
[email protected]
