Trevor Richards, a third generation sheep farmer from Ashford, Kent, has been appointed Chairman of the British Wool Marketing Board from 1 April 2018.

Mr Richards manages the family farm, Lacton Manor, in partnership with his wife Jane, running a flock of 400 breeding ewes including Romney's and Suffolk-cross Mules.

He is currently Chairman of the Ashford Cattle Market Company, and previously chairman of the Romney Sheep Breeder's Society.

Market round-up

Messrs Craig Wilson Ltd sold 280 store heifers at Ayr on Thursday to a top of £1275 per head and 252.5p per kg to average £906.84 and 215.7p (-4.1p on the fortnight), while 321 store, beef-bred bullocks peaked at £1330 and 281.3p to level at £962.30 and 228.7p (-0.6p). Thirty-five store, B&W bullocks sold to £920 and 184.2p to average £759 and 154.1p (-2.3p).

C&D Auction Marts Ltd sold 3652 prime hoggs in Longtown on Thursday to a top of £151 per head and 321p per kg to average 227.9p (-10.7p on the week).

There were also 3586 cast sheep forward when heavy ewes sold to £152 for Texels and averaged £94.56 (-£6.48), while light/export-type ewes peaked at £88 for Cheviots and levelled at £48.47 (-£7.01). Rams sold to £144 for a Texel and averaged £89.86.