DESPITE the changes in agricultural support, the same values apply now as they did 17 years ago, said David Uffold as he looked at the Texel sheep the family partnership will be offering at their 17th home sale.

Sheep produced from grass with the lowest costs possible has always been the key to profitable sheep production and in an era of no support payments, that will become more true than ever.

The Uffolds have always tried to produce breeding stock whose offspring will be born easily, be thrifty and fatten off grass.

As well as growth rates, fleshing is critical. It is critical to producers because the animals are more valuable and it is critical to consumers as eating quality and consistency of product are better.

Fleshing doesn't mean fat and lean doesn't mean thin.

4 Seen in the picture are some of the 80 pedigree Texel sheep McCartneys will be selling by auction at The Firs, Broncroft, Craven Arms, tomorrow (September 2) at 8pm when the sale will be sponsored once again by Messrs Agri-Lloyd, from Leominster.