News & Star Cumbria auction markets experienced a sales bonanza last year, turning over £160 million worth of livestock and for the first time surpassing pre-foot and mouth figures.

Until last year, the marts were making a slow and gradual recovery since the epidemic hit the county and devastated the livestock industry six years ago.

But there was a surge in prices and the number of livestock sold in 2006, pushing turnover far beyond the £147 million seen in 2000.

The marts were closed for 12 months during foot and mouth but all seven Cumbrian auction companies survived despite severe casualties nationally.

Posted: 02|10|07 at 7:48 am. Filed under: UK News.