Some 19 buyers from as far afield as Argyll, Pembrokeshire, Devon and Dorset, made their presence felt Bruce and John Swift's dispersal of the Ailstree British Friesian herd, which witnessed a top price of 2000gns paid on three occasions.

The sale which was staged on site at Rose Farm, Altoft, Yorkshire, was made up of hi-health breeding stock and calves from a TB4 area boasting a history dating back 75 years.

Most of the milking herd had produced between four and 10 calves and averaged £1226 with just seven calves at foot included. The first and second lactation milkers levelled at £1400.

First to hit 2000gns was Ailstree Doreen 82, a Wolfa Gem daughter in her second lactation, purchased by John Trot, Blandford, Dorset.

Minutes later, JB Wallwin, Langer, Nottingham, went to the same money for Ailstree Torch 33, a calved heifer by Skyhigh Patrol, which sold due in August to Aintree Paxton.

The last of the 2000gns bids was given by South Wales dairy farmer, AT Davies, Llanelli, who went to this money for Ailstree Dulcie 137, a fresh heifer, again by Wolfa Gem.

The trade of the day was for the young stock with served heifers peaking at 1400 guineas and bulling heifers up to 1180gns.

Averages: 90 cows and calved heifers, £1226.75; 18 served heifers, £1213.92; 16 bulling heifers, £958.78; 14 yearlings, £796.50. Overall, 138 lots (including seven ‘A’ lots @ £297), £1094.82.

Auctioneers: Norton and Brooksbank.