VENDORS made a welcome return to all sale rings with their livestock at Skipton Auction Mart this week, as a further easing of restrictions signalled an end to drop and go.

However, while optimism was high as sellers were welcomed back, the mart was at pains to point out that safe distancing and other guidelines remain firmly in place for all customers, who are being urged to co-operate in order to ensure compliance continues.

With renewed confidence and optimism for the future clearly evident, Skipton said it was looking forward to increased activity across all sectors, including the forthcoming annual high profile pedigree beef show and sale season.

It is scheduled to begin with the traditional Blue Wednesday pipe-opener on April 28.

As usual, this popular fixture for up-and-coming British Blue breeding bulls, the majority ready for work, along with breeding females, is again expected to create widespread interest among pedigree, commercial, beef and dairy breeders.

Following a week later on Wednesday, May 5, is the annual native cattle showcase for Aberdeen-Angus, Hereford and others, which continues to grow in both stature and popularity.

Also on the same day’s agenda is a special sale of native store cattle.

While this year’s show-only Northern Limousin Extravaganza scheduled for Tuesday, May 11, is not taking place, pre-sale viewing will still be available ahead of the following day’s Craven Limousin highlight, the keynote Spring show and sale of pedigree Limousin bulls and females.

This premier breed fixture is again supported by North East Limousin Breeders Club.

Then, it’s on to the seasonal finale, the Lingfields Beef Cattle Fair, a multi-breed show and sale for pedigree beef breeding cattle on Wednesday, May 28, with show classes for halter-led bulls and females.

Full details for all are at www.ccmauctions.com