Farmer’s View looks at the tup sales season

There’s something I love about the madness of the tup sales season.

Over the summer, many flocks from around the country compete at local and national shows and the chatter among sheep breeders starts about who has been successful this year.

The heat starts to build with the annual “tup looks”. Enthusiastic breeders go round the junket of hill farms in our picturesque neighbourhood, inspecting the fruits of many an optimistic shepherd as he or she displays fine specimens of the breed.

In my part of Angus, Blackface breeders take a day to cover our bit of the country, then more days travelling both north and south to see if they can spot just the perfect breeding male to enhance the qualities of their flock’s performance.

These days are more than just looking at sheep, of course.

There is a chance to see a great sheepdog in action, unusual sheep pens, or a magnificent view, but most of all sampling the copious amounts of soup, main courses and sweets that are provided, plus a fabulous collection of home-baking and the odd dram for the non-drivers in the company, which all enhances the banter and camaraderie of the occasion.

Sale day arrives and we have a show the night before, where these ovine prima donnas are scrutinised not only by the judge but a host of prospective buyers from either side of the Irish Sea.

Regardless of the rosettes handed out, mental images are taken, a physical examination made, a lot number scribbled down.

Heading into the ring, most of the other sellers help with brushing and titivating each sheep, and if the Irish eyes are smiling, there may be that extra few bids to make a good sale.

What I can never understand is why is it easier to buy a bad sheep at £1,000 than it is to sell a good sheep for £500!

These days are more than just looking at sheep, of course

Taxi for a tup: the sales season is a highlight of the calendar.