Highland mart to get major overhaul before August sale

ONE of the most famous auction sites in Scotland is to receive a six-figure upgrade.

United Auctions has revealed plans for a new loading bank and improved penning at Lairg Auction Mart.

Lairg mart hosts three important sales each year, including the famous August sale of North Country Cheviot Lambs, which is one of the largest in Europe.

The first phase of improvements is expected to be completed in time for the opening lamb sale in August.

The announcement follows the outright purchase of Lairg by UA in February and a subsequent review of its existing facilities. Together with Lairg, Scotland's leading livestock auctioneers also purchased Huntly mart and the area office and lairage facility at Oban.

The improvements complete a comprehensive review of UA's operations that in the past 12 months has seen the amalgamation of the Perth and Stirling businesses at the Stirling Agricultural Centre and the upgrade of Dalmally and Islay marts.

UA executive chairman David Leggat said: "I'm sure this will be welcome news to our customers at Lairg. It's a very special market and is famous for the quality of stock on offer. I am delighted we have been able to make this commitment. The market is deserving of the investment and so are our customers."