A good show of quality rams and females was forward for the annual Dorset Horn and Poll Dorset May Fair in Exeter, where a top price of 3400gns was achieved.

Selling at this price was the overall champion, Thomas Wright’s Poll Dorset ram, Ballytaggart Boss Hogg B2167, from Ballymoney, Co Antrim, Northern Ireland. Sired by Bannsside Xavi X53 and out of Ballytaggart U803, he was knocked down to Devon-based breeder, J Rice for 3400gns.

Just behind, on 3200gns was David Rossiter's Huish Bentley B16084, purchased by A and G Sturgess, Shaftsbury. Two other sheep broke the 2000gns mark, while a further 20 made over 1000gns.

The reserve champion realised 2300gns selling to M Jones, Bridgend. This was Francis Fooks’ polled shearling ram Poorton A373, by Poorton U153.

And, the best single-horned ram was Tim Pratt's Staverton Arnie A2167, which realised 2200gns to A Fitton in Bolton.

Leading the females at £340 was the champion pen of registered hoggs from Francis Fooks, purchased by Tom Slater, Haverfordwest, while the 1000 head of unregistered females sold in pens peaked at £182 per head for Ivor Prouse’s 10 unregistered ewe lambs.

According to Russell Steer, auctioneer at Kivells, fewer sheep were forward for the sale, with the top pens of commercial gimmers fetching £160-£180, while other decent types made £140-£150.

Averages: 103 rams, £770.42 (+£25)

Auctioneers: Kivells.