Charlie took five tup lambs to Longtown C & D Auctions this morning. One tup lamb stayed back because of a bad eye, and two ewe lambs from the same flock were also kept behind. We will keep the weaned lambs in the paddock, as there has been a high mortality rate at two of our grass keeps.
Upon arrival, we were surprised to learn that someone had falsely accused us of wasting two full breakfasts at the auction café. I explained that last week, a friend joined us and was unable to finish a small breakfast. Otherwise, Charlie and I always finish our meals here. It is disappointing to see how unfounded rumours can damage reputations. Ongoing defamation of character or malicious communications are serious concerns.
Several high-quality sheep were in the pens, awaiting auction. An elderly couple received a silver trophy in the auction room; however, I am not certain of the specific reason, and I will research this further. I also observed an extremely rusty, old tractor parked in the auction car park. I photographed it and considered whether the vehicle remained operational.
I initially thought the International Harvester 484 may have been used on a beach, possibly for raking sand or pulling boats. However, Charlie believes this 50-bhp early 1980s tractor was used as a scrapper.
Upon our arrival, we seated ourselves outside the auction ring. Bidding for sheep was conducted per animal, with the total price determined by multiplying the bid by the number of sheep. The first two sheep to enter appeared unwell. Although I cannot recall their final price, I recall that a flock of approximately 100 sheep was sold at £169 per animal.
On our return to Hawick along the A7 near Teviothead, Charlie suggested we stop to visit the Celtic Blacksmith. The jewellery displayed exceptional craftsmanship, though it was beyond our budget at the time.
We loaded chaff into a container. The contents will be gradually fed to the sheep over the winter months.
In a few months, they will return to the farmhouse from grass keep and remain in the sheltered warmth of a poly tunnel. This year, we will reduce the flock from sixty to thirty. Additionally, due to condensation, we are improving ventilation.
As we left Bowden, I asked Charlie to stop the 4x4 so I could photograph a combine harvester. Charlie commented on the impressive width of the header, recalling that his previous combine had a header only 8 feet wide.
While travelling on the A7, we encountered a serious road traffic accident near a road closure. Upon arriving in Selkirk, we spoke with a traffic officer who confirmed that the Ettrick Road was a suitable diversion to reach Ashkirk. I also took some photographs along the hillside.
Charlie refers to these blue flowers as Grandmother’s Bonnet, but online sources identify them differently. My plant identification app recognised them as Harebell.
Today was challenging. Tonight, I am experiencing frequent distressing thoughts describing obscene content, but I am a good listener.