Three farm dispersal auctions held in less than two weeks saw close to half a million pounds worth of livestock and machinery sold by Cornwall-based auctioneer Edward Buckland Ltd.

The sales attracted large crowds of eager buyers from across the region and began at Boskensoe Farm, Mawnan Smith with 160 store cattle and 200 lots of machinery, tools and effects going under the hammer.

Next up were 100 lots of quality, modern machinery sold at Glebe Farm, Summercourt and followed by another 450 lots presented for sale at Great Beer Farm, Marhamchurch, Bude.

Edd Buckland, who conducted the auctions alongside fellow auctioneer Rob North, said: “We’re pleased to report that farm dispersal sales continue to be the very best way of selling livestock and machinery when the decision is taken to either cease farming or change enterprise.”

Older store cattle sold to a strong trade and younger stock under twelve months met an “out of the park” flying trade.

“It is unusual to see on farm disposals of livestock, especially store cattle, but this proved how successful and lucrative this can be,” added Edd. “Many items, machinery in particular, sold well in excess of expectation and trade was simply electric.”

Notable machinery sales across the three dates included £46,000 achieved for a 2018 Manitou MLT telehandler, a 2017 Kubota 135 tractor made £25,000 and the gavel fell on a 2011 JCB 536-60 telehandler at £22,500.

The firm has a busy time ahead with a further three auctions planned for next month. Two collective sales of machinery begin at Fraddon on Saturday, September 14 and followed a week later at Stithians Showground on Saturday, September 21. An on-farm sale follows at Lansallos, Polruan, Fowey on Tuesday, September 24 to disperse machinery and 200 Lleyn breeding ewes.