RAMSBOTTOM and Bury were raising the 'baa' at the annual Skipton Auction Mart’s multi-breeds sheep showcase.

A Charollais ram from Ramsbottom was crowned champion in its category at the competition, where it was the day's top price for its breed.

Owner Mark Worthington, of the Moss Side flock in Higher Moss, Ramsbottom, took away first prize for his shearling ram by a tup — a male sheep — from his late mother's Sandbrook flock.

A joiner by trade, Mr Worthington's own flock was established in 1990 and now comprises some 25 lambing ewes.

The victor sold for 550gns to JG Pears, of Penistone.

Sheep of all shapes and sizes, including pedigree and pure-bred rams and females, went on display, with the auction attracting a solid turnout of 897.

Main sales for Suffolks, Blue Texels and Zwartbles were supported by second sales for Texels, Charollais, Beltex and other breeds, which took place in both the MV and non-MV commercial rings.

It was a ram lamb by Midcombe Brigadier from Bury who won in its class.

Farmer David Houghton, of the Tophill flock, was the winner, with his ram lamb selling for 360gns.

A spokesman for Skipton Auction Mart said: “As usual there was quality in abundance at the annual highlight, with sheep to suit all tastes and pockets. The Texel section, in particular, saw a strong trade for both shearling rams and ram lambs. Numerous high quality runs were presented.”