The reserve champion, a 315kg Charolais cross heifer from J and W Kellas, Raws, Dufftown, went on to secure the top price of £1900 or 603.2p per kg at United Auctions’ sale of 801 weaned and suckled calves at Huntly.

The judge David Wright, Ardgour, found his champion in a 405kg British Blue cross bullock from J Anderson, Lynemore, Strathdon, which later realised £1440 or 355.5p.

Heifers (330) averaged 321.6p, up 29.4p per kg on the year.

Bullocks (471) cashed in at 345.1p (+27.8p), selling to 538.5p for Limousin crosses from Muirburn, Lonmay and to £1590 for Charolais crosses again from Raws, Dufftown.

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Leading Prices

Bullocks – 1-250kg – £1050 Muirburn, Lonmay. 251-300kg – £1300 Raws, Dufftown. 301-350kg – £1350 Lynemore, Strathdon. 401-450kg – £1510 Whiteinches, Pitcaple.451-500kg – £1580 Whiteinches, Pitcaple. 501-551kg – £1590 Raws Farms, Dufftown.

Heifers – 1-250kg – £880 Towie, New Deer. 251-300kg – £1260 Raws, Dufftown. 301-350kg – £1900 Raws, Dufftown. 351-400kg – £1640 Raws, Dufftown. 401-450kg – £1080 Raws, Dufftown; 451-500kg – £1360 Invereen , Tomatin. 501-551kg – £1520 Hillhead, Drybidge. 552-601kg – £1560 Raws, Dufftown.