Poultry farmers and buyers are back to the market for the first time since the avian flu restrictions came into force across the UK in December last year.
Results from auctioneers Lawrie & Symington's Lanark show that business has made a promising return with better than expected overall sales.
Lawrie and Symington had a catalogue entry of 621 lots. Topping the day’s trade was a pair of peahens which made £135.
The UK Government lifted the restrictions earlier this month following a veterinary risk assessment concluding that the risk of avian influenza incursion to poultry and captive birds in the UK had decreased to low.
Andrew Goldie, auctioneer at Lawrie & Symington in Lanark, commented: "Yesterday’s results were very encouraging and it’s good that business has now returned to normal after such an extended period.
"Results were up on last year and better than we anticipated. Turnout was very good with the vast majority of lots having sold.
"The bird restriction has doubtless had an effect on the wider market but people recognise that the measures are in place for a good reason.
"Farmers and customers are still worried about avian flu and what it means for them day-to-day, and there’s still a lot of concern about what the future holds.
"However, it’s good to see such a positive return to business and we look forward to welcoming them all back in due course."
