NEW and old season lambs have recorded some phenomenal prices in recent months and while values are on the decline, they still remain significantly higher than this time last year.

While deadweight prices are holding up better than those sold through the live ring, both sectors are slipping, although it has to be noted that figures for the week ending May 19, revealed the highest ever recorded new season lamb deadweight SQQ at 619.5p per kg, which was up 9p per kg on the week. This compares to the old season SQQ at 576.5p, down 2p.

Estimated slaughterings for the week also increased by 17% week-on-week, to 216,000 head, which was 4% above year earlier levels. However, the pick-up in numbers follows a sharp year-on-year decline in slaughterings during April, according to figures from Defra figures. Throughputs are also estimated to be below year earlier levels in the first two weeks of May, which points to tighter supplies nationwide.

Looking at the new season and old season spilt, just 38% were new season lambs, compared to 51% in the equivalent week last year. New season lamb throughputs declined by 40% year-on-year, while old season lamb throughputs were steadier, down 1% on 2017 levels. Not surprisingly, the switch over to spring lambs is going to be later this year.

Latest liveweight figures for the week ended May 23, show the GB new season lamb SQQ fell by some 37.54p on the week to 266.42p per kg, which is 21p above year earlier levels while the old season SQQ fell 18p to 219.24p – a price 25p higher than this time last year.

Total throughputs at GB auction markets for that week stood at 96,700 head – some 13% fewer than the previous week and 21% less than the same week last year.

Average prices were again down on Monday too, in Scotland for new season crop, with the overall trade cashing in at 263.8p, a fall of 15.7p on the week, compared to 186.7p, for old season, down 32p.

South of the Border, new season lambs averaged 259.4p, down almost 10p, with old season types at 189.6p, dropping 34.3p.

However, while prices have slipped, the late spring and lack of good grass early on in the season, coupled with the seasonal reduction in old season numbers now being seen and the balance of supply and demand could be tighter than normal over the next few weeks.

Add to that the earlier timing of this year's Muslim Ramadan festival – May 17 through until June 15 – which traditionally supports sheep meat values at the start and the end of the period, and it is hoped farmgate prices will improve in the next few weeks.