Farmers are being reminded to apply for the Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme ahead of the 31 December deadline.
Applications for the scheme can be made online through the rural payments website or on paper. There are no changes to the scheme for 2016 so farmers who were in the habit of claiming should continue.
NFU Scotland's Livestock Committee Chairman Charlie Adam said: "As farm prices are squeezed this coupled support payment is vital for Scotland's beef producers. Beef production is expensive and this scheme helps target money to farmers who are incurring the costs."
Market round-up
C&D Auction Marts sold 4 prime heifers in Dumfries on Wednesday to a top of 217p per kg and an average of 213p.
There were 12 OTM cattle presented in the rough ring when beef cows averaged 107.2p and dairy cows levelled at 86.3p.
The firm also sold 1008 prime lambs to a top of £87 per head and 193p per kg to average 174p (+10.1p on the week).
A good show of 531 cast sheep saw heavy ewes sell to £112.50 for a Suffolk and average £63.32 (-£6.05), while light ewes peaked at £73.50 for Cheviots and levelled at £44.33 (+£2.48).
Messrs Craig Wilson Ltd sold 2233 prime lambs in Newton Stewart on Wednesday to a top of £85.50 and 200p to average 170.6p (+11.6p).
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