Lift in trade at Kilkenny Mart

As a write this column I am thinking back to the Ballyfoyle Show which attracted a record crowd to this rural setting.

There were hundreds of horses and ponies taking part in lots of disciplines be that show jumping, lead rein competition,  side saddle etc. To run such an event takes a lot of work and requires a large body of people to park cars, look after trade stands steward the different rings.

All monies raised go to very worthy causes with the main beneficiary been the Carlow Kilkenny Home  Care Team with other local charities also being supported. This hard working committee under the direction of Ann Callanan deserve great credit for their magnificent achievement.

TAP HERE FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS

The volunteers also need to be acknowledge for their dedication. I have often said that without volunteers who manage to raise large sums of money for the many magnificent causes this country of ours would be in a much worse state. Ballyfoyle take a bow.

Mart

Last Thursday in Kilkenny it was good to see a lift in the trade for all types of cattle be that beef or forward stores. With factories dropping quotes over the past few weeks it appears that the reduction in numbers has steadied the situation and an excellent export trade plus farmer interest means the livestock mart is proving an excellent alternative to the negativity been displayed by factories.

Our sale on Tuesday saw an excellent trade for cull cows with calves and runners making super  prices. The sheep trade is the only sector showing disappointing returns compared to last year with butcher lambs ranging from €176 to €211 and factory types €160 to €182 per head cull ewes are selling from €128 to €300 per head .

While the rest of Europe is trying to cope with heat waves with temperatures raging from 30 to 40 degrees the dull weather we are experiencing is been welcomed by many. 

Relay For Life

This weekend  Kilkenny Rugby Club hosts  Relay For Life Kilkenny 2025  this is a fund raiser for the Irish Cancer Society and also remembers all those who have passed away from cancer. The event starts on Saturday at 1pm and finishes on Sunday 1pm this weekend, July 5 and 6. Everyone is welcome and if you do not have a lot of time on your hands you could pop in on Saturday evening from 9pm to take part in a very moving ceremony. Everyone is welcome any time throughout the 24 hours  and I would love to see you there.  Until next time Do Be Careful On The Farm & Good Buying Good Selling & Good Luck .