After serious consideration, Heather Pritchard, marketing manager of pedigree sheep and cattle sales at Harrison and Hetherington's Borderway Market, Carlisle, has left the business following more than 42 years service.

One of the UK's most respected and loved figures in the industry, Heather took on the role of pedigree sales and marketing manager almost 35 years ago, and since then has been behind building up today's impressive pedigree-breed sales calender at Borderway Mart.

Multi-talented from the outset, Heather has been a well known face in the auctioneer's box, clerking major breed sales, and would also be seen and heard as the official compere of pre-sale shows at Borderway Mart, taking results and later, photographs. She would also compere prestigious beef cattle society shows at the Royal Show at Stoneleigh and national breed events along with major shows in the north of England.

Adding a further string to her bow, it was Heather who compiled most breed sale catalogues while often being at the beck and call of many breeders' worries and concerns, virtually 365 days of the year.

A statement from the H & H Group, said: "Heather been with H&H for over 42 years and during that time she has been pivotal in building the nationwide reputation of the pedigree livestock division. Her relationship with pedigree societies and breeders across the UK has been hugely influential in the growth of this side of Harrison and Hetherington's business.

Read more:

"Under Heather's tutelage, the department has grown to provide the respected and incomparable service it does today. Because of her dedication and clear guidance, the pedigree team will be well placed to carry on the excellent work and thereby give Heather the confidence to leave them to develop and expand the department.

"Heather's knowledge and commitment have been unsurpassed since she joined the company in 1979 as an administrative assistant and since then she has gone on to successfully manage H&H's renowned pedigree department through a period of sustained growth.

"Heather will be greatly missed by colleagues and customers alike and we wish her all the very best in her future plans."

It is understood that two experienced and enthusiastic people in Louise Forrest and Anna McGregor will continue to drive the pedigree department at H&H, based at Carlisle.

Auctioneer, James Little has also been appointed as pedigree sales manager and will be responsible for the promotion and development of all pedigree beef and sheep sales, who will work alongside commercial sales manager, Grant Anderson.