RAM FAIR

Southland Times, Issue 19823, 20 March 1926, Page 10

RAM FAIR

SALE AT CHRISTCHURCH. A HEAVY ENTRY. (Per United Press Association.) Christchurch, Mar. 18. The annual ram fair of the Canterbury Agricultural and Pastoral Association was commenced to-day, when flock rams were sold. The entry was a very heavy one, comprising 5,184 head, compared with 3,714 last year and 3,851 in 1924. Iji practically all sections there was an over-supply. This was particularly so in longwools and in the final stages of the market these breeds were very hard to sell. The demand for Border Leicesters was spiritless throughout, but for English Leicesters it was fair until buyers’ w'ants were supplied. The comparatively small entry of Romneys met with a weak demand. Corriedales slackened over the final part, there being an excess entry, but good Corriedales sold really well throughout. The best demand of the day was for Southdowns, which met with a strong market until near the conclusion. Half-breds also sold well until purchasers’ wants were supplied, but Merinos and Shropshires met with meagre competition. Passings were heavy in longwool breeds, but most of the entry was sold subsequently. All breeds showed a distinct drop in value on last year. The prices ranged as follows: English Leicesters 2gns to 9igns, Romney 2gns to lOgns, Corriedale 2gns to 15gns, Border Leicester 2gns to 6gns, Shropshire 2gns to 71gns, Southdown s : lgns to 154gns, Half-bred 4gns to BJgns, Merino 2gns to 24gns, Ryeland sgns to 7gns. A sale of stud sheep will be held today.