Best prices since BSE hit in 1996

ALTHOUGH there seemed to be slightly more finished cattle moving in the early days of this week, it was not sufficient to dampen the rising price trend.

There 3 cent/kg (1p/lb) more at a number of factories this week, pushing prices to a level hadn't seen since before BSE hit in 1996 and well ahead of even the most optimistic spring beef price forecasts of six months ago.

This week, prices for U grade are at 100p/lb or slightly higher. Quality R grade cattle are making 100p/lb and the general quote for Rs is 96p or 95p/lb, with a little more being paid for better quality animals, and where cattle are scarce. The Os are quoted at 93p or 92p/lb.