BREEDERS of some of the top performance recorded rams in the country received positive feedback from farmers attending the 5th annual Exlana Ram Sale held earlier this month (August 6) at Ayshford, near Tiverton.

Once again the sales reflected the confidence in their top index performance recorded figures.

Kevin Bateman of Bateman Hosegood, Chartered Surveyors and Land Agents said: "The bidding was keen and the sale well organised with regular and new buyers from all over the UK. Those unable to get to the sale could leave bids by phone or on-line with members from SIG Ltd who were happy to purchase on their behalf."

Bill Geen, chair of Sheep Improved Genetics (SIG Ltd) said: "We were delighted with the turnout. Such strong interest demonstrates the growing recognition from the industry that the Exlana has earnt its reputation as a stand-alone breed with outstanding traits and productivity. The wealth of data we are recording and continue to accumulate is the bed-rock of the Exlana ‘s success.

"Unquestionably an example of a ewe that is more productive while requiring lower management, the Exlana is ideally suited to moving the industry forward at a time when productivity will be key to the on-going development of sheep farming in the UK."

At the annual sale, hosted by David and Janet Disney at Ayshford Barns, 73 per cent of those who bought were new customers, with eight rams selling at over £1,000, amongst which was the top selling ram which fetched £1,610 bought by Mr Steven Bedford of South Molton.

Mr Bedford said: "I am increasingly impressed with the genetic progress SIG are making –the Exlana ram index figures are showing continual growth year on year which puts them head and shoulders above the rest."

Each of the 100 rams selected for the sale were graded on price to reflect the index, the A+ rams in the Signet top five per cent had a 100 per cent clearance, with the average price per ram of £1,050 which was £300 over the set price - further evidence of the interest in the Exlana breed and value associated with the benefits of performance recording.

Before the sale began Catriona Ritchie from Axiom (previously with SRUC) ran through a comprehensive presentation reinforcing the importance of biosecurity for assurance against infection and diseases such as MV, which has reportedly doubled in the national flock over a 15 year period. If contracted it has significant effects on productivity and requires added labour with higher ewe mortality, culling rates and poor ewe body condition.