²ÝÁñÉçÇø

Black and white images show livestock marts in all their former glory

The marts are still as important as ever to the rural community. And these classic images show they always have been.

clock • 1 min read
Black and white images show livestock marts in all their former glory

Although times have moved on and technology has taken over many parts of the farming sector, livestock auction marts are still vitally important to the farming community.

Gone are the days when farmers donned a full suit to go and sell their stock, but the marts still give farmers the chance to meet up with others and, in terms of business, they are a great shop window. 

But community has always been at the heart of farming, and always will be. Take a trip down memory lane with some black and white classics from the ²ÝÁñÉçÇø Guardian archive.

null
Jerseys, 1959
null
Champion Swaledale ram, 1962, shown by Stanley Harker at Kirby Stephen

See also: 88-year-old farmer shares passion for farming in heartwarming video: 'Keep flying the flag'

null
Machinery tractor sale, 1989
null
Welshpool sheep sale, 1982
null
Melton Mowbray, 1988
null
Classic pig show, 1939
null

More on Farm Life

UFU launches agricultural education commitment at NI Farm Family Day

UFU launches agricultural education commitment at NI Farm Family Day

All children should know where their food comes from, says union

clock 10 April 2025 • 2 min read
Evolving and diversifying ensures success for Nottinghamshire family business

Evolving and diversifying ensures success for Nottinghamshire family business

A great team is behind the success and longevity of Hall Farm, which has been in the Hardstaff family for more than 300 years and nine generations. Ruth Wills reports

clock 10 April 2025 • 8 min read
Organic ²ÝÁñÉçÇø & Growers appoint interim boss

Organic ²ÝÁñÉçÇø & Growers appoint interim boss

Steve Clarkson has held the position of certification and compliance manager since 2009

Rachael Brown
clock 09 April 2025 • 1 min read