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‘FIVE STAR’ BACKMUIR RAMBO WINS OVERALL SIMMENTAL SUPREME AT THE 2026 ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW!

‘FIVE STAR’ BACKMUIR RAMBO WINS OVERALL SIMMENTAL SUPREME AT THE 2026 ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW!

Delfur Nifty wins Female Championship and Overall Reserve
Corskie Stone take the Overall Junior Championship
Simmentals win Team of Four Interbreed for first time since 1998
Simmentals lift Reserve In Overall Individual, and Pairs Interbreeds

Backmuir Rambo 24 from Reece & Andrew Simmers, Backmuir Farm, Keith, powered though a quality line up of Simmentals to win the breed’s Male Championship and be crowned Overall Simmental Supreme Champion on day one of the 2026 Royal Highland Show held at Ingliston, on Thursday 18th June.

Overall Simmental Supreme Champion Backmuir Rambo

Remarkably this is the fifth time in a row the highly noted Backmuir herd has won the Simmental Supreme at the Royal Highland, and the first time with a homebred animal.  This ‘five in a row’ is thought to be a Simmental record and possibly the first time it has been achieved by any beef breed exhibitor at this blue riband event for Scottish livestock.

Played out in front of the judge for the day, Adrian Ivory of the Strathisla herd, Strathisla Farms, Moolies, Meigle, Blairgowrie, this January 2024 born upstanding young bull came through his class before taking the Male Championship and finally getting the all important Championship tap in front of the packed ringside crowd.

Full of breeding, Backmuir Rambo 24 is an ET calf sired by the 18,000gns Wolfstar Jackaroo, and out of Brandane Lu Lu, who was also 18,000gns when purchased at the Next Gen II Sale held at Carlisle in December 2022. Commenting on his Champion, the judge Adrian Ivory said:  “This was very much my type of bull and just full of flash and presence he caught my eye immediately.  A very modern type of Simmental bull he’s full of breed character with a lovely head, is very natural, has plenty of length with a good top and end, and walked well. A super Simmental bull and a classy Champion.”

Simmental judge, Adrian Ivory

The amazing ‘five in a row’ for Reece & Andrew Simmers started back in 2022 when they won the Royal Highland with Islavale Lullaby (purchased at the first Next Gen Sale in 2020).  The following 2023, 2024, 2025 years saw the iconic Annick Ginger’s Lucia win a personal hat trick and make it four in a row, and with the homebred Backmuir Rambo now stepping up to make it an incredible five wins.  Along the way there’s also been an Individual Interbreed Supreme, and now Reserve!

With a little time for reflection, a delighted Reece Simmers said:  “After last year I said it was a forward aim to win the Championship with a homebred animal so to achieve that so soon we are all really delighted.  Winning five in a row is very humbling and beyond any expectation you could reasonably have.  The standard and quality of Simmental cattle in that time has been so high and ever improving.  For the Backmuir herd to now have this little piece of history in the 183rd year of Scotland’s premier agricultural show is something really special.”

“Rambo has length, width, size for his age, has a sweet head, a depth of hip, and is square on the plates.  He’s the colour we like, has plenty of presence, and we think is similar in type to the 22,000gns Backmuir Ralf (also a Jackaroo son) sold at Stirling in February this year.  He’s got cows in calf due in September, and after a wee rest now will be put out back to work.”    Just rounding it all up, Backmuir Rambo was Overall Simmental Supreme; Simmental Male Champion; part of the winning Interbreed Team of Four; Overall Reserve in the Individual Interbreed; and Reserve in the Interbreed Pairs.

Winning a high end Female Championship was another animal with a Royal Highland Show pedigree behind her in the shape of Delfur Nifty from Delfur Farms, Rothes, Aberlour.   This much decorated young 2022 born cow, was shown with her cracking second calf at foot, a heifer also named Nifty, and by the 28,000gns herd stock bull Islavale Magnum.

Delfur Nifty

Needing little introduction, Delfur Nifty has been a prolific Championship and Interbreed winner across multiple calf shows, winter fairs, county shows, and summer ‘majors’.  Writing her own little bit of breed history, in 2024 she became the first Simmental to win the Royal Highland Show Interbreed Junior Championship!   Delfur Nifty is by Ballymoney Larry, a Saltire Impressive son, and is out of Delfur Joyful, an Islavale Cassius daughter.

It was a mighty judge off in the Female Championship with Delfur Nifty getting the Championship nod over the legendary Annick Ginger’s Lucia who took the reserve Female Championship.  Of his Female Champion and Overall Reserve Supreme, Adrian Ivory said:  “What a fantastic example of a Simmental female this is.   A ‘working mum’ she is very maternal with a great bag on her and making a terrific job of her outstanding calf at foot.  With a flashiness and presence, she has a good breed head, walks well, is full of length and with a good top.  Another very modern, high quality Simmental cow.”

Speaking afterwards a delighted Garry Patterson, the Delfur Simmental Herd Manager said:  “It’s been a fantastic show and to win the Female Championship and Overall Reserve Supreme with the quality that was on show is just tremendous.  To then follow that up with being a part of the winning Interbreed Team of Four, and Reserve in the Interbreed Pairs is just tremendous.  It’s a great follow on from winning the Junior Individual Interbreed with her in 2024. In herself she’s a big, upstanding, powerful female full of breed character, and with good mobility.  This is her first calf at foot sired by Islavale Magnum and she’s making a great job of her with plenty of milk.  She’s a special, benchmark female but very much of the type that we’re aspiring to breed in the Delfur herd.”

Overall Reserve Simmental Female Champion Annick Ginger’s Lucia

Placing Overall Reserve Female was the aforementioned legendary Annick Ginger’s Lucia from Andrew & Reece Simmers, Backmuir Farm.  Lucia’s name is already cemented into Simmental breed history with her hat-trick of Overall Supreme wins at the Royal Highland, the Individual Overall Interbreed Supreme at the Highland in 2024, a hat-trick of Individual Supremes at the Scottish National Show, and multiple major wins at Scottish county shows!  This 2020 born cow is of course by Wolfstar Gold Digger, and is out of Annick Colleen’s Ginger EX 93.

In keeping with recent years, it was again another hugely successful show for the Simmental breed.  The win in the Interbreed Team of Four was the first time this title has been secured by the Simmental breed since 1998.  Taking Overall Reserve in both the Overall Individual Interbreed, and Interbreed Pairs, once again gave the breed terrific visibility and profile.  Another fantastic show of Simmental cattle and again indicative of the ever improving quality within the Simmental breed.   A massive well done to all of the exhibitors.

Overall Junior Champion, & Champion Junior Male, Corskie Stone

Back in the bulls and the young April 2025 born Corskie Stone from the also prolific Mr WJ & J Green, Corskie, Garmouth, Fochabers, lifted a nice double when winning the Overall Junior Championship, and Junior Male Championship.  Corskie Stone, is by the stock bull Rathnashan Magnum, and is out of Corskie Migem.   No strangers to the winners circle, the Overall Junior Championship made it two in a row with the classy Corskie Pinnette having won it last year.  With a bit of connectivity, Corskie Stone’s great granny, Corskie Hi-Gem VG 88 was a full sister to Corskie Cegem who won the Junior Interbreed at the Highland in 2013.  Corskie also won the Junior Interbreed title in 2016. Of his Overall Junior Champion, the judge Adrian Ivory said:  “This young bull just oozed style and breed character.  He walked very well, had a good top, with width to him, and was very good over the plates.  A standout bull and with a big future ahead of him.”   These comments were echoed by Laura Green who said: “He’s a very modern Simmental bull with plenty of length, good width, and a nice shape behind.  He’s also got a lovely temperament and from here we’ll be aiming him at either the October Stirling Sale or February next year.”

Reserve Overall Male Champion, Denizes Nugget

Coming through the senior bulls and winning the Overall Reserve Male Championship was the mighty Denizes Nugget from Lancashire breeders Jimmy & Vikki Wood, Popes Farm, Dutton, Preston.  The June 2022 born Denizes Nugget, bred by M A Barlow & Sons, Ulnes, Nr Leyland, Lancashire, was purchased for 37,000gns at Stirling in February 2024.  Sired by Denizes Hamish, and out of the noted Ashland Topaz Lopez, Nugget arrived at Ingliston weighing in at 1500kgs!  Commenting, Vikki Wood said:  “We’re really pleased to support such a prestigious show and represent the breed by showing a big, quality Simmental bull.  Nugget has great width, length, and conformation, and is good on his feet and legs.  He’s got good breeding behind him, is very easy to handle, and is breeding very well.  Nugget is entered into the Royal Norfolk, Great Yorkshire, and Royal Welsh so he’s on tour at this summer’s shows!”

Reserve Overall Junior Champion & Champion Junior Female, Denizes Matilda 21st

Winning the Junior Female Championship, and Overall Junior Reserve, was Denizes Matilda 21st from the aforementioned MA Barlow & Sons, Ulnes, Nr Leyland, Lancashire.  September 2024 born, this powerful, growthy heifer is another by Denizes Hamish, and is out of Denizes Matilda 5, a daughter of a previous Royal Highland Show Champion, Blackford Galaxy.  Denizes Matilda 21st will also now move on to the Simmental English National Show held within the Royal Norfolk.

Reserve Junior Female Champion, Guiltcross Saffon

All the way from Norwich and making their debut as exhibitors at the Royal Highland Show was Marcus & Helen Searle, Wagon Lodge, Kenninghall.  It was a more than worthwhile journey with their February 2025 born heifer Guiltcross Saffron winning her class and taking the Reserve Junior Female Championship. Full of breeding Saffron, described as ‘a stylish, modern heifer, thick set, and fantastic across the plates’ is by the noted Woodhall Ferrari 14, and out of Brandane Kirsty, a Sterling Gino 15 daughter.  Speaking afterwards, Helen Searle said:  “This is our first time at the Highland and was just a great opportunity to see how we stack up against some of the biggest breeders in the Simmental breed.  It’s also a bit of promotion as we have bulls sired by her full brother that we’re aiming for Stirling in October. To get Reserve Junior Female was amazing and beyond any expectations given the standard of Simmentals at the Highland.”

Reserve Champion Junior Male, Tippetcraig Someboy

Staying in the juniors and it was a terrific Reserve Junior Male Championship win for the Burns Family, Tippetcraig Farm, High Bonnybridge, Stirlingshire with their young bull Tippetcraig Someboy (P).   Tippetcraig Simmentals were established in 2023 and this was the first time the family had shown a homebred Simmental at Ingliston.  Remarkably, the Reserve Junior Male Championship was also secured in the Highland pedigree classes, a breed the family has been showing for some years. Of Tippetcraig Someboy, Lindsay Stark said:  “We think he’s a long, clean and modern polled bull, with a tremendous top on him.  He has a natural flashy presence about him which makes him a joy to show. We have really enjoyed bringing this bull on because of his lovely nature, and he’s simply a delight to work with.  All being well, Tippetcraig Someboy will head to the Stirling bull sales this October.” This latest prize follows on from Tippetcraig Someboy winning the Junior Male Championship at the Stars of the Future Calf Show in November last year.

Tippetcraig Someboy (P) is by Kilbride Farm Maverick, a son of the noted Kilbride Farm Jetstream, and is out of Broombrae Rosina M2 21, a Lisglass Goldstar daughter purchased in February 2023 at Stirling.  Fast establishing, the Tippetcraig herd presently comprises of fifteen breeding females.

Simmental Overall Interbreed Team of Four Champions

From a quality entry, the breed was able to put forward some fantastic combinations in the respective Interbreeds.  Leading the way was the Team of Four who secured a first Championship win for the Simmental breed in this ‘blue riband’ interbreed since 1998.  Joining Backmuir Rambo, and Delfur Nifty, was two heifers who had to be under three years of age.  First up was the class winner Drumsleed Rachel 24 (P) from regular exhibitors and past Champions Geral & Morag Smith, Fordoun, Laurencekirk.  This June 2024 born heifer is by the homozygous polled Coose Negotiator (PP) and is out of Drumsleed Granola 15.  Completing the winning team was Bowhill Ruth from D&R Holdings, Newmiln, Ayrshire, and who had stood second in her class to the Junior Female Champion.  Bowhill Ruth is by Denizes Lancelot and is out of Overhill House Mary, an Aultmore Goliath daughter. August 2024 born, Bowhill Ruth as a yearling baby, stood as reserve Junior Female at last year’s Scottish Simmental National Show.

Supreme Championship Backmuir Rambo & Delfur Nifty

Male Championship Backmuir Rambo & Denizes Nugget

Female Championship Delfur Nifty & Annick Ginger’s Lucia

Junior Championship Corskie Stone & Denizes Matilda 21st

Junior Male Championship Corskie Stone & Tippetcraig Someboy

Junior Female Championship Guiltcross Saffron & Denizes Matilda 21st

2026 Royal Highland Show
Thursday 18th June 2026
Judge Mr Adrian Ivory, Meigle, Blairgowrie, Perthshire

Results

Class 263 Female born on or after 1st April 2025
1st Miss Heather Duff                    Pitmudie Skye
2nd WJ&J Green 2827                  Corskie Siller
3rd Gavin Brown                            Springfield Skylar

Pitmudie Skye

Class 264 Female born between 1st January and 31st March 2025
1st MG Searle                                Guiltcross Saffron
2nd WJ&J Green                            Corskie Southern
3rd J&K McMillan                           Brandane Sporty Spice
4th Delfur Farms                            Delfur Shakira

Reserve Champion Junior Champion, Guiltcross Saffon

Class 265 Female born on or between 1st July and 31st December 2024
1st Barlow Brothers                       Denizes Matilda 21st
2nd Bowhill Simmentals                Bowhill Ruth
3rd WJ&J Green                            Corskie Role Play
4th Gavin Brown                            Springfield Rose

Reserve Overall Junior Champion & Champion Junior Female, Denizes Matilda 21st

Class 266 Female born on or between 1st January and 30th June 2024
1st Gerald Smith                           Drumsleed Rachel 24
2nd Laura Green                           Garmouth Kim’s Rachel
3rd R&A Simmers                         Backmuir Lu Lu’s Rosalu
4th Miss Heather Duff                   Pitmudie Robyn

Drumsleed Rachel 24

Class 268 Female Born in 2021 or 2022 in milk or certified in calf at time of show
1st Delfur Farms                            Delfur Nifty
2nd WJ&J Green                           Corskie Mimic
3rd R&A Simmers                          Annick Ginger’s Nutmeg

Class 269 Female born on or before 31st December 2020, in milk of certified in calf at time of show
1st R&A Simmers                          Annick Ginger’s Lucia
2nd JH&VG Wood                         Popes Princess Lumi

Class 270 Bull born on or after 1st April 2025
1st WJ&J Green                            Corskie Stone
2nd J&E Dyet                                Merkland Supersonic
3rd N&N Gwynne                          Chestermann Sandy
4th Miss Heather Duff                    Pitmudie Shetland

Class 271 Bull born on or between 1st January and 31st March 2025
1st The Burns Family                    Tippetcraig Someboy
2nd WJ&J Green                           Corskie Sunnyd

Class 272 Bull born on or between 1st January and 31st December 2024
1st R&A Simmers                          Backmuir Rambo

Class 273 Bull born on or before 31st December 2023
1st JH&VG Wood                          Denizes Nugget,
2nd Clive Houldey                         Backmuir Nate,

Champion Junior Female
Denizes Matilda 21st                    Barlow Brothers

Reserve Champion Junior Female
Guiltcross Saffron                       MG Searle

Overall Champion Female
Delfur Nifty,                                   Delfur Farms

Overall Reserve Champion Female
Annick Ginger’s Lucia   R&A Simmers

Champion Junior Male
Corskie Stone,                WJ&J Green

Reserve Champion Junior Male
Tippetcraig Someboy   The Burns Family

Overall Champion Male
Backmuir Rambo                         R&A Simmers

 

Reserve Overall Champion Male
Denizes Nugget                            JH&VG Wood

Overall Champion Junior
Corskie Stone                               WJ&J Green

Reserve Overall Champion Junior
Denizes Matilda 21st                    Barlow Brother

Overall Supreme Champion
Backmuir Rambo                         R&A Simmers

Reserve Supreme Champion
Delfur Nifty                                    Delfur Farms

Best Group
R&A Simmers

15,000GNS MAISLEY RIP ‘TEARS IT UP’ AND LEADS RECORD SIMMENTAL MAY SALE TRADE AT STIRLING!

15,000GNS MAISLEY RIP ‘TEARS IT UP’ AND LEADS RECORD SIMMENTAL MAY SALE TRADE AT STIRLING!

28 Simmental bulls average £9758, up by £963 on the year, for three more sold
£9758 is a new record Simmental average for the May Stirling Sale
Sixth consecutive year a new record Simmental average at this fixture
Simmentals lead the all-breeds averages
Eight Simmental bulls make 10,000gns and more
Clearance rate of 85%

‘May the 4th be with you’ was the theme of the day as Simmental bulls sold to a new record average at the May Stirling Simmental Sale at United Auctions, on Monday 4th May.

Maisley Rip 24 15,000gns

Leading the way, and tearing it up, was Maisley Rip from Michael Stronach, Maisley, Keith. This November born bull is by the noted Coose Lincoln EX 95, who has had sons up to 20,000gns, and is out of Maisley Fizz’s Martini VG 85. With terrific figures across the board, including a breed top 1% for Maternal (Milk), this bull went commercially when bought by Iain Johnston, Kirkton Farm, Falkirk.

Very much a front and centre part of the Islavale team, Michael Stronach established his own Maisley prefix, and with father Stewart offering him the pick of the heifers as a 21st birthday present. The wise choice saw him go for Islavale Fizz and with the Stirling sale topper Maisley Rip coming directly from that line! The 15,000gns is a top sale price to date for the Maisley prefix and with another bull aimed at the October Stirling Sale.

A good, working show of Simmental bulls averaged £9758, a new Simmental record average for this fixture. Eight bulls made 10,000gns and more, and with the 28 out of 33 sold realising a terrific clearance rate of 85%. Remarkably this is the sixth consecutive year in a row that a new record Simmental average has been set at this May fixture.  The Simmentals also led the all-breeds averages for the second consecutive round of Stirling Sales, following on from February this year. Commercial producers once again underpinned the demand and when purchasing seven out of the eight five figure bulls.

Commenting after the sale, the British Simmental Cattle Society’s General Manager Iain Kerr said: “There’s a sustained demand for Simmental breeding from commercial producers at present, and it’s been great to see that continued at this May Sale and following on from February here at Stirling. On the day the good bulls in themselves with proven breeding behind them, combined with figures for milk and calving, were readily sold. This efficiency of the Simmental breed in what it offers maternally, and with the increased recognition of its terminal abilities in age at slaughter and daily carcase gain, is making a practical mark commercially. I’m really pleased for the breeders to see them sell more bulls on the year and to an increased average.”

Islavale Rafferty 24 14,000gns

Including the top price, a fine team of four bulls from the Stronach family all made over figure figures and averaged a terrific £13,650. Selling at 14,000gns was the December 2024 born Islavale Rafferty who had placed Reserve Supreme Overall and Junior Champion in the pre-sale show of bulls judged by Richard Rodgers of the noted Hiltonstown herd, Portglenone, Co Antrim. The second youngest bull in the catalogue, Islavale Rafferty is by Bighill Parker who has already had sons sell up to 15,000gns at Stirling in February this year.

Judge Richard Rodgers in action at Stirling

With a show record to boot, Rafferty was Senior Overall Champion at the Stars of the Future Calf Show in November 2025. Again with breeding and figures, Islavale Rafferty 24 is in the breed’s top 15% for Maternal (Milk), and also Eye Muscle Score.

This bull went to the well-known Keeldrum pedigree herd of David Lowry, Newsteadings Farm, Lanark. Commenting on his purchase Mr Lowry said: “I first saw this bull as a calf at the Stars of the Future Show in November and really liked him, and he’s grown on well since then. He’s a very breedy looking bull with a beautiful Simmental head. He’s got a super top, has plenty of width, and is very good on his feet and legs. Rafferty will now be the junior herd sire and will be used on Denizes Impeccable daughters.”

Islavale Raphael 24 12,500gns

Selling at 12,500gns was the first prize winner in the third class of the day, Islavale Raphael. This ‘eye catching’ November 2024 born bull is another by Coose Lincoln EX 95, and is out of the Curaheen Giant daughter Islavale Libby VG 89. Again with breeding and good figures, Raphael has a well above breed average Maternal (Milk) figure, and is in the top 10% for Eye Muscle Area. Buying this bull was Robert Bell & Partners, Craigo, Milnathort, Kinross.

Auchorachan Robbie 24 12,000gns

Selling at 12,000gns was the first prize winner and Reserve Senior Champion in the shape of Auchorachan Robbie 24 from D&R Durno & Sons, Glenlivet, Ballindalloch. A stylish, dark red bull, Robbie is sired by the 11,000gns Hemingford Nelson EX93, who is half-brother to the record breaking 56,000gns Hemingford Prince Charming, and is out of Auchorachan Madie GP 84, a Greencap Kane 19 EX 91 daughter. This bull went to Huntly when selling to J Hunter & Co, Braehead, Bainshole. A few lots later and the Duron’s confirmed a good day when selling another Nelson son, Auchorachan Redford for 8000gns to noted commercial producers Hamilton Organic Ltd, Aikengall, Dunbar.

Well House Rhythm is a dancer 24 10,500gns

Four bulls made 10,500gns. The first of these was early in the catalogue and in the form of the third prize winner Well House Rhythm Is A Dancer from M/S A&B Munro, Wellhouse Farm, Beauly. This upstanding bull is by Kilbride Farm Islander 17, and is out of Well House Jasmine 29th, a Blackford Island Rock daughter. Again with a well above average Maternal (Milk) figure, this bull was knocked down to J&J Marshall, Daleigh, Morayshire.

Woodhall Rancher 24 10,500gns

Also at this 10,500gns figure was the August 2024 born Woodhall Rancher 24 from F&J MacAskill, Woodhall Farm, Innerwick, Dunbar. This bull is by the privately purchased Mixbury Hall Magnus 21, a son of the noted Tilbrook Frank, and is out of Woodhall Ingrid, an Islavale Frontier 14 daughter. Another Simmental bull with good calving and maternal (milk) figures, Woodhall Rancher 24 sold to the Borders and WW Dunlop & Son, Commonside, Hawick.

Westridge Remington 24 10,500gns

Enjoying a solid day’s trading was Ward Farms (Scotland), West Mains Farm, Carnwath, with their top priced bull being 10,500gns for the third prize bull Westridge Remington 24. October 2024 born, this bull is sired by Coltfield Maestro 21, and is out of Westridge Hawk Bess. With a very good Maternal (Milk) figure, Remington was bought by W&W Dawson & Sons, Whinbrae, Huntly. Another Coltfield Maestro son, Westridge Rio 24, a few lots earlier in the sale sold for 8200gns to T Howden & Sons, Balerno, Midlothian.

Islavale Rafiki 24 10,500gns

The final bull at the 10,500gns figure was another from the Stronach family in the shape of the fully homebred Islavale Rafiki. October 2024 born, Rafiki is by Islavale Echo 2 13 EX 92, and is out of Islavale Natalie 2, a Corskie Highlander daughter. Full of breeding and figures Islavale Rafiki is in the breed’s top 5% for Maternal (Milk), and top 10% for Calving Ease Direct, and Self Replacing Index. Buying this bull was GM Mitchell & Son, Hilton of Carslogie, Cupar, Fife.

Delfur Rolex 24 9500gns

Selling at 9500gns was the Reserve Junior Champion, Delfur Rolex 24 from Delfur Farms, Dundurcas Farm House, Rothes, Aberlour. With good Maternal (Milk) figures and strong Terminal and Self Replacing Indexes, Rolex is by the 28,000gns Islavale Magnum, and is out of Delfur Evelyn L14 an Innerwick Ivor 17 daughter. Buying this bull was Farquharson Farms, Fyvie, Aberdeenshire. Another Islavale Magnum son, Delfur Romeo earlier made 7000gns when selling to F Bradley, Tillyminate, Huntly.

Another young bull at the 9500gns mark was Rockytop Rooster from Gary & Angela Christie, Birchfield, Glass, Huntly. Sired by Annick Manhattan 21, and out of Rockytop Tinka’s Geneva, this bull carried top 5% figures for Maternal (Milk), and top 10% Terminal Production, and Self replacing Indexes. When the hammer went down this bull was bought by RM Lamont, Creagmhor, Glenelg, Kyle.

Springfield Reeves 24 9000gns

Early in the catalogue, Gavin Brown, Penicuik, Midlothian, sold his powerful bull Springfield Reeves for 9000gns. In the pre-sale show, this June 2024 bull had stood second in his class to the day’s Overall Supreme Champion. Described as “having fantastic length and shape from a calf, right through to present, and always carrying natural flesh,” Springfield Reeves was also +8 for Maternal (Milk). This bull was sold to the North of England and S Shell & Sons, Brandon, Alnwick, Northumberland.

RMS & ATD Pettit, The Den, Fochabers made 8500gns when selling Spey-Bay Rocky 24 for 8500gns to OF Adam, Highholm Farm, Dunfermline. A second prize bull to the Reserve Senior Champion, Rocky is another by Coose Lincoln EX 95, the sire of the day’s top price, and is out of Woodhall Wynn, a Corrick Kentucky Kid daughter. With breeding and figures, Spey-Bay Rocky is +13 for Maternal (Milk) putting him in the breed’s top 5%.

Islavale Rafferty & Delfur Rolex, Junior Championship

 

Robgill Rocky and Auchorachan Robbie, Senior Championship

 

Robgill Rocky & Islavale Rafferty, Overall Championship

BACKING NATURAL FLESH AND LOW INPUTS

BACKING NATURAL FLESH AND LOW INPUTS

Gavin and Anna Brown have been breeding pedigree Simmental cattle for 12 years, having started with just two Highland cows a year earlier. Today, their Midlothian farm carries 30 pure Simmental females, eight Simmental-cross females, 14 Highland cattle, 200 commercial sheep and 30 pure Suffolks. Springfield Farm, near Penicuik in Midlothian, extends to 300 acres, comprising 200 acres of grassland and 100 acres of woodland.
The couple, who have five-year-old twins, Logan and Josh, bought the farm in 2010. Back then, there was just one shed and, in Gavin’s words, the fields were ‘rank’. They bought Highlanders first, as they were the easiest and most useful cattle to put on the largely peat-based farm, and then spent the next 10 years improving badly run-down soil. Four years on and the couple decided to invest in pure-bred Simmental cows to breed what they saw as the ideal female for their system.

Gavin Brown (image: Rob Haining)

They were drawn to the breed for its docility, ease of calving and carcase quality – key traits for producing the ultimate breeding cow under a commercial, low input regime. “I had always liked the look of the Simmental, and they were known to be a calm, easy-handled breed,” explains Gavin. “Because of the nature of the ground, we had to be able to run a pedigree herd on a commercial, low-input system, and it’s reasonable to say the Simmental has lived up to my expectations, and more.” The Browns now 38 females, including 30 purebred Simmentals and eight Simmental-cross cows used as recipients, alongside their 14 Highland cattle.

Some of the Highland cattle grazing near the holiday pods (image: Rob Haining)

While the Simmentals are bred for the pedigree market, the Highlanders primarily supply the farm’s wholesale meat business, with any bulls showing breeding potential sold through Oban and females used as replacements. At present, Gavin says two of the six Highland bulls on the ground ‘will make it’ as breeders, with the remaining four destined for the food chain. The couple also sells home-produced lamb and pork in a pop-up shop on site twice a month and aim to open a small farm shop in the future.

The Browns run 4 holiday pods with a further two getting fitted out to be placed onsite soon (image: Rob Haining)

When it comes to Simmentals, the goal is to breed naturally fleshy cattle with depth, width and style and for Gavin, getting the genetics right from the outset has been crucial. “Our foundation females originated from the Woodhall herd, with the purchase of two heifers that consistently produce cattle that go on and perform,” he says. “All our cows have done their bit, but I’d also have to mention Hazelden Jingles 1, which repeatedly produced top-quality show stock over the years. Now we’re seeing our own breeding making its stamp on the herd, which is both pleasing and encouraging.” Gavin’s eye for stock is driven by a clear template. “When it comes to selecting new stock, I look for a naturally fleshed animal that has character. I like a bit of power and a big character – big but not extreme. It’s just as important that the animal has length and good cover. I like a female to be milky, and a heifer that looks like she’ll be a good cow maker.

Home grown silage is the staple diet of the herd (image: Rob Haining)

Usually, if you find an animal with a big, sweet, breedy head and a big nose end, the rest follows.” Over the years, several stock bulls have stamped their mark on Springfield, but two stand out. Shilo Freedom was privately purchased in Ireland in 2015 for €4000 after Gavin spotted him on Facebook as a show calf. “He was well fleshed with good cover and has bred good stock that have been retained in the herd.”

Young Bulls Springfield Son, Sonny Bill and Sumo (image: Rob Haining)

His out-and-out favourite, however, is Islavale Jabba, which he describes as his greatest investment and the bull that has really taken the herd forward. Bought six years ago at the United Auctions’ May Stirling Bull Sales for 6000gns, Jabba was actually Anna’s choice on the day. “He had length, muscle and balance, and he has produced prolific females and males that have proven successful in both pedigree and commercial herds,” says Gavin. The Browns also have Bighill Plato, which is shared with the Annan-based Newbie Mains herd. However, they are now on the lookout for a replacement for Jabba, which has reached the end of his tenure.

Springfield farm home to the Brown family (image: Rob Haining)

But, in contrast to many bull breeders, Gavin will not be basing his future choice of stock bull on EBVs. “I look at the animal first, and if the figures happen to be good, then it’s a bonus,” he says. “Some people are inherently driven by figures. It’s what they trust, and in my opinion, they couldn’t be further from the truth, as the validity of those figures remains questionable. Why follow something that is 40% accurate?

Springfield Spike one of last year calve crop housed in the shed over winter (image: Rob Haining)

“There’s a happy medium between having two bulls of the same age, and one’s bigger and leaner as opposed to one that’s well fleshed but smaller in scale. One might be a few inches taller and the same weight, but on paper, they’ll look the same! “Study the animal and go for something with shape that puts on natural flesh and weight quickly, so it shows the potential for the meat side later. We want something that will get those weights early on, so it meets both the fat guys’ and the store boys’ criteria, because the potential is there. At the end of the day, your eye’s your merchant.”
The Simmental’s strong fertility and productivity are now making a real impact at Springfield. Calving difficulties are rare, and barren cows are almost unheard of. “We try to calf everything in late April and early May, with the bull left out for two turns to keep calving tight,” Gavin explains. “If they don’t hold or we have problems, then they’re culled. We have been extremely fortunate and have only ever had to cull one and that was for her age.”

Home grown silage is the staple diet of the herd (image: Rob Haining)

Cull cows are often flushed before sale to retain their superior genetics within the herd if they have been recognised as good breeders. “In our last run of bulls in February last year, we calved 26 cows with 16 bulls, of which 15 made it, and the rest were heifers. We only killed one in that batch, with the remainder averaging £8000,” he adds.

Halter training for sale entries Rebel and Reeves (image: Rob Haining)

Cows are housed from October until calving, then turned out to grass. Indoors, they are bedded on peat sourced from a neighbouring site, having previously relied on straw. Gavin calculates that peat is saving the farm around £3600 per month in material costs alone and says it is also more efficient in practice, with the shed now cleaned out every three weeks instead of using four bales of straw per day. “Using peat bedding on the run up to sales keeps cattle cleaner, as the dung falls straight off,” he says. “There are also fewer foot problems as moisture and heat are less of an issue in peat.” An added bonus is its value as an organic fertiliser. “We haven’t bought artificial manure for 10 years,” Gavin points out.

The Springfield herd of Simmental cattle were founded in 2014 (image: Rob Haining)

Stock is fed a straightforward diet of haylage until the weather and grass allow turnout, but never before May. Weaning takes place at 10 months, with all calves reared on Davidsons Ultimate Top Blend. The aim is always to promote beef production rather than pedigrees. “That’s your breadwinner,” he says. “If you happen to get one that’s a pedigree breeder’s animal, that’s brilliant, but that’s not what we’re aiming for.

Springfield Rebel is Lot: 478 at Stirling (image: Rob Haining)

We try to keep it completely commercial by running a simple system. “This blend can be fed from weaning right through to selling and is used for both beef and sheep rearing.” He is careful not to push his bulls, describing it as ‘a very fine balance getting everything right’, for an uncomplicated system. Typically, two or three females are retained annually as herd replacements, with any surplus heifers sold for breeding. Bulls are sold either through United Auctions’ Stirling Bull Sales in February or May, or privately from home.

Recently built shed to house the cows over winter (image: Rob Haining)

Gavin is now building a reputation and sells four to six bulls privately each year. “We try to muster somewhere between eight and 14 bulls to go to the February and May Stirling sales,” he says. The Springfield herd has already posted some strong sale results, with their best to date being 13,500gns for Springfield Pace sold to a commercial breeder in Orkney.

Springfield Rebel is Lot: 478 at Stirling (image: Rob Haining)

Across private and market sales last year, bulls averaged £7000. “I rarely sell bulls which reach the teens in value; however, I would rather sell all my stock to average £7000 than sell one at £20,000 and five to the killing house,” says Gavin. Looking ahead to the May sales, the couple will have two senior bulls forward, both sons of Islavale Jabba. Springfield Rebel, a July 2024-born bull, is out of the 15-year-old Woodhall Clinique, one of the herd’s foundation cows, while 22-month-old Springfield Reeves is out of the homebred Springfield Kiana.

Last year’s heifer crop, currently housed with the last years bulls in the neighbouring pen (image: Rob Haining)

Away from the sale ring, Springfield Simmentals have also become a formidable force in the show ring, enjoying notable success at calf shows over the years. Showing has undoubtedly helped raise the herd’s profile. “We like to take cattle to LiveScot at Lanark, which we’ve won twice, Borderway Agri Expo, where we’ve been overall champion once and reserve twice, and Stars of the Future Calf Show, overall champion once and reserve once,” Gavin comments.

Springfield Reeves is Lot: 477 at Stirling (image: Rob Haining)

The couple has also tasted success at the Next Gen V Simmental show and sale at Carlisle, and they regularly support the Royal Highland Show, as well as their local Dalkeith and Peebles Shows. Demand for Springfield Simmentals remains strong, and the Browns are optimistic about the future.
“Some of our stock has already made its way into other pedigree herds, with females bought by notable breeders,” says Gavin. “When we started, we expected it to take 10 years for us to establish ourselves and be recognised. But thanks to Facebook, we hit the mark somewhere between seven and eight years. I can’t think how many thousands of pounds’ worth we’ve put out through Facebook and cattle and sheep sales. “Never underestimate the power of social media,” he concluded.

The Browns run 4 holiday pods with a further two getting fitted out to be placed onsite soon (image: Rob Haining)

FARM FACTS
■ Farm acreage – Springfield, near Penicuik, runs to 300 acres – 200 acres of grazing and 100 of woodland.
■ History – Gavin and Anna bought Springfield in 2010.
■ Farm Labour – Gavin, Anna and one full-time man, Fraser Kay, who also works with Sportsmasters, a company owned by Gavin and Anna, which constructs and maintains artificial and natural sports surfaces.
■ Stock – a herd of 30 pedigree Simmental females, eight Simmental cross females, 14 Highland cattle, 200 commercial sheep and 30 pure Suffolks.
■ Calving – Takes place indoors in late April, early May, with cattle on a peat bed and fed on grass and haylage.
■ Diversification – six rental pods, a meat retailing business, two wind turbines and a 16-horse livery.

ON THE SPOT
■ Best investment – Islavale Jabba
■ Biggest achievement – being shortlisted in the Farming Awards for Farm Diversification of the year.
■ Best advice – Alan Jackson once said, calves are feeders, not for shelter!
■ Top tips – Train animals when they are young if you have the time. Go with your gut and trust in it. No regrets, just bad experiences you learn from!

13,000GNS ISLAVALE RINGO TOPS THE SIMMENTALS, AND ALL-BREEDS PRICES, AT ABERDEEN SPRING SHOW & SALE!

13,000GNS ISLAVALE RINGO TOPS THE SIMMENTALS, AND ALL-BREEDS PRICES, AT ABERDEEN SPRING SHOW & SALE!

  • Auchorachan to 11,800gns; Pitmudie to 11,000gns
  • Nine Simmentals average £8,960, up by £1190, and a new centre record average
  • 100% clearance of Simmental bulls forward

Islavale Ringo from WS Stronach, Berrleys, Grange, Keith, made 13,000gns to lead the Simmental Sale and top the all-breeds price at the Multi-Breed Aberdeen Spring Show & Sale at Thainstone, today Wednesday 25th February.

13,000gns Islavale Ringo

In the morning pre-sale show, in front of the judge, David Barclay, Tullo of Garvock, Laurencekirk, this March 2024 born bull had won the Overall Simmental Championship.

Islavale Ringo is sired by Coose Lincoln EX 95, and is out of Islavale Viva 5 VG 88. With a depth of pedigree, classified, and with top figures, Ringo is in the breed’s top 5% for Calving Ease Direct; and the top 10% for Maternal (Milk), and Eye Muscle Area. Come sale time this stylish bull quickly moved to five figures before being knocked down to W&V Leith, North Crannoch, Keith for the all-breeds sale top price.

For the prolific Islavale herd, the 13,000gns represented a top price to date for the herd at Aberdeen, and is also the fourth time in five years they have topped the Simmental trade at this fixture.  The top price continues a tremendous sale season for the herd that has included a quality team of nine Islavale bulls selling at Stirling to average a mighty £18,200, and with the joint top price at 30,000gns. Included within these bulls was another Coose Lincoln EX 95 son at 19,000gns.

The sale at Aberdeen again saw a strong demand for Simmental bulls with all nine forward selling to average £8960, up by £1190, and setting a new Simmental centre record average for this sale.  Three bulls in all made over 10,000gns, and with all of the bulls going to commercial buyers.

11,800gns Auchorachan Reagan

Selling at 11,800gns was the August 2024 born Auchorachan Reagan 24 (TM), from D&R Durno & Sons, Glenlivet, Ballindalloch. This ‘very correct, and well-muscled’ Simmental bull is from the first crop of bulls by Hemingford Nelson who is a half-brother to the 56,000gns record price Hemingford Prince Charming. Out of Auchorachan Kay VG 86, a big daughter of Auchorachan AC/DC, Auchorachan Reagan also carried strong figures being in the breed’s top 5% for 400, and 600 day weight, and being +8 for Maternal (Milk).  In the pre-sale show this bull had placed as the day’s Simmental Overall Reserve.  Purchasing this bull was D&A Bruce, Dorsell, Alford, Aberdeenshire.  The 11,800gns was also a highest Simmental price to date for the Auchorachan herd at Aberdeen.

11,000gns Pitmudie Rambo

Selling at 11,000gns was Pitmudie Rambo 24 from Heather Duff, Pitmudie Farm, Menmuir, By Brechin, Angus.  April 2024 born, this bull is by Coolcran Maximus, a previous NI National Show Male Champion, and is out of Pitmudie Erica 4th, an Overhill House Eragon daughter. Buying this bull was N&S Innes, Cairnhill, Huntly.  Consistently bringing out some quality Simmental bulls, this was the third sale in a row where Pitmudie Simmental bulls have sold into five figures.  The 11,000gns was a joint top sale price for the herd, and the highest price to date made at the Aberdeen Sale. Later in the sale the Pitmudie herd also sold Pitmudie Rooney 24 (TM), an Auchorachan King Kong 19 son, out of another Overhill House Eragon daughter, Pitmudie Lavender, for 7000gns to WLR Keir, Braemorlich, Glenkindie, Alford.

Setting the Simmental Sale off on the front foot was the first bull in the ring, Tillyeve Rolex from Messrs C&M Bruce, Tillyeve, Udny, Ellon. This March 2024 bull is by Corrick Logic and is out of Tillyeve Lexy.  Carrying strong performance figures, this bull is in the breed’s top 5% for 200, 400, and 600 day weight; and in the breed’s top 15% for Maternal (Milk). Heading off to Orkney, Tillyeve Rolex was bought by Messrs J&M Smith, Lower Cornquoy, Holm, Orkney.

Other Simmental Prices:

7000gns Glenlossie Roger to M Thomson, Ospisdale, Dornoch, Sutherland
7000gns Drumsleed Rory to Alexander Farms, Clunycrichton, Banchory
7000gns Drumsleed Randall to J Watson, Overton, Pitsligo, Fraserburgh
5800gns Delfur Rambo to Sootywells Farm, Fordoun, Laurencekirk

30,000GNS ISLAVALE, AND GRANGEWOOD BULLS LEAD STIRLING SIMMENTALS AS  67 BULLS SELL AT 10,000GNS AND OVER!

30,000GNS ISLAVALE, AND GRANGEWOOD BULLS LEAD STIRLING SIMMENTALS AS 67 BULLS SELL AT 10,000GNS AND OVER!

67 bulls at 10,000gns and over, within that 11 over 20,000gns
106 bulls sold (+12), sell to average £12,294 (+£2462)
£12,294 an all-breeds record average at Stirling
92% clearance rate
67 bulls at 10,000gns and over, within that 11 at or over 20,000gns
Simmentals lead the breed averages, and numbers sold over the Stirling fortnight
17 bulls sell to the islands

It was a Simmental fireworks display at Stirling on Monday 16th February, as a huge demand from commercial producers saw 106 bulls sell to average an incredible £12,294, up by £2462 on last year’s record, and to set a new all-breeds record average at Stirling.

An amazing 67 bulls sold at 10,000gns and more, and within that there were 27 at 15,000gns and more, and with 11 at 20,000gns and over!  The clearance rate was 92%.  Over the Stirling Sale fortnight the Simmental breed led the averages and sold the highest number of bulls.

Two bulls topped the trade at 30,000gns.  The first of these was the much admired Islavale Rocketman from WS Stronach, Berryleys Farm, Grange, Keith.  Entirely homebred this May 2024 born bull is by Islavale McCoist, whose first sons sold to average 17,000gns in October last year, and is out of Islavale Harper EX 90, a Simmental ‘Golden Cow’, whose sons have previously sold to 28,000gns.  Purchasing this bull was D&R Durno & Sons for their Auchorachan herd at Glenlivet Ballindalloch.  Speaking after the sale, Michael Durno said:  “A terrific bull, Rocketman has all the physical attributes I am looking for in a stock bull.  He has a tremendous carcase, good legs and feet, great breed character, and is a nice colour with good hair. His pedigree is different from the bloodlines I have in my herd currently, and very importantly he has a lot of EX classified animals in his breeding. That gives me a lot of confidence that he will sire stock that will be correct and functional. I’m very much looking forward to using him on daughters of Coose Nebraska (P) and Hemingford Nelson.” For the prolific Islavale herd, a really top quality team of  nine bulls sold to average a mighty £18,200, a record average for the herd at sale and with every bull selling into the teens and more.  The nine bulls sold for: 30,000; 19,000 x2; 18,000; 15,000 x2; 14,000; and 13,000 x2. The 30,000gns was also a new record sale mark for the herd.  In commenting, Stewart Stronach said: “In breeding bulls I always have maternal traits at the top of my list. I’m not looking for extremes, just good, big long, and square bulls to breed quality females. As a herd we’ve had a good day but it’s great to see such a sale for the Simmental breed and the demand from commercial buyers.”

Islavale Rocketman 24 30,000gns

Also at the 30,000gns mark was Grangewood Romeo 24 from Andrew, Yvonne, & Calum Leedham, Boghead Farm, Tarbolton, Ayrshire. Romeo was the first son to be sold by the 16,000gns Overhill House Neil who led the all-breeds trade at Stirling in May 2023, and is out of the Omorga Alonso sired Grangewood Polly’s Hermione.  A bull with power, shape, style, and easy fleshing, Grangewood Romeo carried terrific calving figures and had a show record behind him having been a first prize winner at the 2025 Scottish Simmental National Show.  Purchasing the joint top price was the noted Delfur Farms, Rothes, Aberlour.  For the Leedhams, and their 40 cow Grangewood herd, the 30,000gns was a top price at sale to date. A delighted Andrew Leedham said following the sale: “It was an incredible sale and for us to sell all four bulls to average 15,000gns was unbelievable.  Romeo was in my opinion the best bull we have bred. He’s full of style and show presence whilst still retaining the shape and conformation needed for today’s market.  Having excellent calving figures backs this up and is one of the main considerations of buyers.  We are really pleased he has gone to a top pedigree herd and wish them the very best with him.”

Grangewood Romeo 24 30,000gns

Reece and Andrew Sim­mers, Back­muir Farm, Keith brought a terrific team of bulls to Stirling which met with another top trade and a leading price of 28,000gns for their Reserve Inter­me­di­ate Cham­pion, Backmuir Red Rum 24.  Entirely homebred this bull is by Backmuir Kingsley, a previous Male Champion at the Scottish National Show, and is out of the Corrick Hayden daughter Backmuir Kreole’s Kylie. This June 2024 born bull was bought by Richard McCulloch for his noted Overhill House herd at Armadale, West Lothian.  A pen full of quality bulls with breeding and performance figures, the nine Backmuir entries grossed £142,800 to average £15,866.  The Backmuir bulls sold for: 28,000; 22,000; 17,000; 14,000 x2; 11,000; and 10,000gns x3!  Of his purchase Backmuir Red Rum, Richard McCulloch said:  “This was a tremendous, modern Simmental bull.  He was great over his plates, had length to him with shape, and had excellent locomotion with a leg in each corner. In the show ring I thought he had a real ‘wow’ factor and was full of style with a really nice Simmental head, and is the colour I prefer. Just a very well put together bull and one that I think will click in the herd with my Kilbride Farm Merlin daughters.”  The 28,000gns was a new Simmental sale high price for the Backmuir team and who beat their previous mark on three occasions through the sale!

Backmuir Red Rum 24 28,000gns

When the gavel had been put down, and the dust had settled, the British Simmental Cattle Society President Chris Martindale reflected  on the sale: “It’s been an amazing Simmental Sale day.  To sell 67 bulls at 10,000gns and more, and to set an all-breeds record average of £12,294 for the most bulls sold, is a tremendous vote of confidence in the breed. The continuous improvement in these Simmental bulls is there to see and the quality that members are bringing forward just keeps getting better which is a tremendous credit to them.  The dual purpose aspect of the Simmental in efficient beef production is really hitting home to commercial cattle farmers and they were very much driving the trade today and going into the high teens for bulls with confidence.  We use the term ‘there’s more to Simmental’ but it really is true when you’re getting these top maternal traits combined with the breed’s proven abilities in age at slaughter and daily carcase gain. The way the industry is there’s such an emphasis on breeding quality female replacements and as I’ve said with females being the engine of any suckler herd.  When you see heifers with calves at foot now regularly making £5000+, and if you’re needing twelve to fifteen replacements a year, then commercial producers are really seeing the advantage of buying a quality Simmental bull.”

Next best for the Simmers was the 22,000gns paid for Back­muir Ralf 24.  This March 2024 born bull is by the 18,000gns Wolfstar Jackaroo, and is out of the Islavale Hamilton sired Backmuir Kutz’s Lois.   In the pre-sale show judged by Neil McGowan of the noted Incheoch herd at Alyth, Blairgowrie, this bull had placed Senior Champion and Reserve Overall Supreme.  Of his Reserve Overall, Neil said:  “My Reserve Overall was a very correct, well put together bull, who had length , was well fleshed, and moved really well.”  When the hammer fell, this bull was bought jointly by Nick and Nadia Gwynne, and their son Frank who run the Chestermann, and Castlewigg herds at Cas­tlewigg Farm, Whithorn. Commenting, Nadia Gwynne said: “We think this is a really good bull, big and powerful, with excellent locomotion, a good temperament, and excellent breeding behind him.  He’s not extreme, but has excellent conformation. We had seen the bull previously and he was very much our first choice to purchase.” Of the sale generally Nadia went on to say: “It was a fantastic sale with tremendous prices throughout and there’s an ever growing recognition that Simms can do it all!”

Backmuir Ralf 24 22,000gns

Also at 22,000gns was the upstanding Coltfield Richard 24 from Cameron and James MacIver Wester Colt­field, Kin­loss. This April born bull is a son of Scotland Hill Invader 17 EX 92, who was purchased privately from the Pitgaveny herd, and is out of Coltfield Holly whose only other bull bred sold for 10,000gns.  Coltfield Richard was bought by Adrian Ivory for his noted Strathisla herd at Strathisla Farms, Moolies, Meigle, Blairgowrie and who commented: “We followed the Coltfield bull from the inspection and really liked his scale, conformation, and locomotion, and he also had the figures that we were looking for.  From here the plan will be to take semen off him and then put him to a group of cows in the summer.  We’re delighted to have got him and look forward to seeing his progeny in due course.”  The 22,000gns was a top Simmental sale price to date for the 40-cow Coltfield herd.

Coltfield Richard 24 22,000gns

The first prize in Class Three, and Reserve Senior Champion was the April 2024 born Drumclog Richard from Robbie Hamilton, Allanton Farm, Darvel, Ayrshire.  This free moving, stylish, powerful bull was bought by Dennis Isbister, Old Hall, Stromness, Orkney.  With a bit of a back story, this was a first Simmental bull at sale for the 24-year-old Robbie, who is a sheep auctioneer at United Auctions.  In November 2024 Drumclog Richard was the Junior Male Champion at the Stars of the Future Calf Show.  Sired by Newbiemains Mighty 21, this bull is out of Islavale Margarita, purchased privately from Stewart Stronach.  The 21,000gns investment for Dennis Isbister followed hard on the heels of him selling Isbister Ricky for 13,500gns at the recent sale of Orkney bred bulls held at Orkney Auction Mart.  Commenting Mr Isbister said:  “This bull really caught my eye.  He had a real presence to him, with a good top and backend, is a lovely dark red colour which I liked, and is a different bloodline for us.  We hadn’t seen him prior to the sale but I liked him in the show ring and where he did really well.  He’ll be the ‘main man’ within our pedigree and commercial herd.  It was a great show of Simmental bulls and a good day for all of the vendors.”

Drumclog Richard 24 21,000gns

Also at the 21,000gns mark was the junior bull Corskie Reebok, who was part of another tremendous pen of Simmental bulls from the Corskie herd of Mr WJ & J Green, Corskie Garmouth, Fochabers.  This September bull is by Rathnashan Magnum, who sired the Overall and Reserve Overall Champion at Stirling in October and has sons up to 30,000gns, and is out of Corskie Kirsten EX 91, an Auchorachan farmer 14 daughter.   This bull was bought by Reece & Andrew Simmers for their Backmuir herd at Backmuir Farm, Keith. It was another fantastic day for the 180-cow Corskie herd who sold eleven bulls on the day to gross £144,900 and average £13,172.  The Corskie bulls sold for 21,000; 20,000; 16,000; 14,000; 13,000; 12,000 x2; 9000; 7500 x2; and 6000gns!

Corskie Reebok 24 21,000gns

As always, the Stirling Sale featured a number of cracking bulls from Northern Ireland.  Leading the contingent this time was the heterozygous polled Bridgewater Farm Rocky 24 (P) from Nigel Glasgow, Cookstown, Co Tyrone. This bull is by Coose Lincoln, who has sired bulls up to 14,000gns, and is out of Bridgewater Farm Phyliss 4th.  Through the summer of 2025 Rocky 24 (P) was the Northern Ireland National Show Male Champion, and Reserve Male Champion of the Year. Purchasing this bull, who stood second in his class, was Pitgaveny Farm, Elgin, Morayshire. Commenting afterwards a delighted Nigel Glasgow said: “Rocky was a stylish calf from birth and has always shown tremendous potential.  He has such a great temperament and has been a pleasure to work with.  We’re really pleased with the sale and that he’s gone to such a good home.”

Bridgewater Farm Rocky 24 20,000gns

Hot on the heels of her 30,000gns sale topper in October, Laura Green Corskie Farm, Garmouth, Fochabers, was back in the top prices when selling Garmouth Rebel 24 for 20,000gns to DC Houldey at Kirt­leton House, Lock­er­bie. This September 2024 born bull is by the breed’s former record holder, the 45,000gns Bel Dhu Caper­cail­lie, and whose sons have pre­vi­ously sold to 25,000gns.  Garmouth Rebel’s grand dam was Reserve Junior Female Champion at the Royal Highland in 2015.  Commenting, Clive Houldey said:  “This was a bull with great character, size and shape, had a tremendous growth rate, and some of the best figures in the catalogue, a really top bull.  We have a beef suckler herd of about 140 cows within which Garmouth Rebel will be used in due course.”

Garmouth Rebel 24 20,000gns

The third bull to make 20,000gns was the October 2024 born Innerwick Royal Star 24 from Mr & Mrs L Moffat, Innerwick Farm, Dunbar, East Lothian. This October 2024 born bull is by the herd’s noted 17,000gns Wolfstar Jimmy Choo and is out of Innerwick Jenny.   In the pre-sale show this stylish young bull won a strong Junior Championship before going on to be tapped out as the day’s Overall Supreme Champion.  Commenting on Royal Star 24, the judge Neil McGowan said: “ My Champion was a young bull with presence, who had plenty of style, was good across the plates, and carried a lot of flesh.  He had tremendous depth behind him on his hindquarters and had a real sweet bone to him.  He moved tremendously well, and very much had a breeder’s head.  Just a really good Simmental bull and a worthy Champion out of a strong show of Simmental bulls throughout.”  The Champion bull went south to Northamptonshire when being purchased by Peter Donger who runs a noted Saler herd at Seawell Grounds, Towcester.  Speaking after the sale, and with Royal Star 24 being a third Overall Supreme Simmental Champion at Stirling/Perth sales for the Innerwick herd, Dorothy Moffat said:  “We were really delighted to be pulled out as Overall Champion, and especially with Innerwick Royal Star being so young.  He really was always a stylish calf from day one.  I’d also like to say thanks to my daughter Louise, and to Stewart and Logan for prepping Royal Star.  The overall standard of Simmental bulls was high and reflected in the prices, with some fast bidding. It was a fantastic day for the breed and to be part of it.”

Innerwick Royal Star 24 20,000gns

Closing out the bulls at 20,000gns was another from the Green family’s pen in the shape of Cor­skie Rad.  This May 2024 born bull is by Rathnashan Leonardo, whose sons have been up to 26,000gns, and is out of the Drumagarner Hughes sired Corskie Mia VG 86.  This was one of two Corskie bulls purchased by Islay Estates, Bridgend, Isle of Islay.  Deep into the junior bulls, the same buyers purchased Corskie Radio 24 for 16,000gns.  The October 2024 born Corskie Radio 24 is a son of Blackford Mars 21 EX 93 whose first three sons won the Group of Three and averaged £12,250 at Stirling in October 2025.

Two Islavale bulls in consecutive lots sold for 19,000gns.  First at this price was another entirely homebred bull, the March 2024 born Islavale Ras­cal 24 who is by Islavale Lucifer 20 EX 95, and out of the Atlow Dixon 12 EX 91 daughter Islavale Kit VG 85. With good calving figures and a pedigree full of EX classified cattle, Islavale Rascal went to noted commercial producers JR Graham & Partners, Greenshields, Biggar, Lanarkshire.  Islavale Lucifer had previously sired sons up to 13,000gns.  The very next bull through the ring also sold for the same money and again commercially.  Islavale Rosco is by Coose Lin­coln, a sire who has had sons up to 14,000gns, and is out of the Curaheen bandit daughter Islavale Elisha EX 93.  Again with EX classified parents, and positive calving figures, this bull was bought by RM MacKay & Sons, Greenvale, Thurso, Caithness.

Islavale Rascal 24 19,000gns

19,000gns Islavale Rosco

Selling a bull to 18,000gns, for the second Simmental Sale in a row, was Anne MacPherson, Blackford Farm, Croy, Inverness with the intermediate section bull Blackford Rafiki 24 (ET).  Being by Curlieu Knight, and out of Blackford Aero EX 92 (EX2), this bull is a full brother to the noted Blackford Galaxy, a proven cow breeder, and a past Royal Highland Show Supreme Champion.  Another bull heading to Orkney, Blackford Rafiki was knocked down to JI & WN Stout, Whitehall, Stronsay.

Blackford Rafiki 24 18,000gns

Following on from their 30,000gns joint top price, the Leedham team sold another quality bull, Grangewood Revolver 24, for 18,000gns and to cap a top day for them.  June 2024, and another of the first sons of the 16,000gns Overhill House Neil, this bull is out of Grangewood Faith’s Imelda. Buying this bull with ‘terrific power, style, length and easy fleshing, and super calving ease figure,’ were commercial producers MM&A Campbell, Watten, Wick, Caithness.

Grangewood Revolver 24 18,000gns

The sensational trade carried right to the end of the catalogue and the third last bull in the ring, Islavale Redneck 24 from the Stronach team made 18,000gns when selling, again commercially, to GM Mitchell & Son, Carslogie, Cupar, Fife.  This October 2024 bull is by Coose Lincoln EX 95, and is out of Islavale Topaz 17 VG 86.  A strong pedigree full of EX classified cattle, Islavale Redneck was another bull in the sale to carry terrific calving ease and milk figures.

Islavale Redneck 24 18,000gns

A worthy note to the sale was that both the days Supreme and Reserve Supreme Champions in the pre-sale show were sired by Wolfstar bulls from the herd of Alex & Ross King, Ormiston, East Lothian.  The quality Simmental bulls brough out from this 70-cow pedigree herd was again evident with Wolfstar selling four bulls on the day to 17,000; 15,000; 13,000; and 10,000gns!  Their sale topper at 17,000gns was the April 2024 born Wolfstar Rizzle Kicks.  Packed with figures and pedigree, Rizzle Kicks carried some of the highest Terminal Production and Self Replacing indexes on the Simmental database.  He is sired by Glenturk Lord of the Rings, and is out Wolfstar Mamma Mia, a Wolfstar Ivan 17 daughter.  Going pedigree, Wolfstar Rizzle Kicks was bought by GW Smith for his pedigree Drumsleed herd at Fordoun, Laurencekirk.

Wolfstar Rizzle Kicks 24 17,000gns

The top run of prices continued when Backmuir Royal sold for 17,000gns. Another homebred bull by Backmuir Kingsley, the same sire as the day’s 28,000gns third top price, Backmuir Royal, out of Backmuir Lorrette’s Klassy, a Corrick Hayden 16 daughter, was sold for commercial use to G Wilson, Bridge of Marnoch, Huntly.

Backmuir Royal 24 17,000gns

The quality bulls from Northern Ireland kept coming and with the noted Kilbride Farm herd of the Robson family, Doagh, Ballyclare enjoying another top trade.  Bulls from the herd combining depth of pedigree, performance figures, and polled genetics sold for 17,000; 14,000, 13,000, and 11,000gns!  Leading their line up was the 17,000gns homozygous polled Kilbride Farm Rathlin P 24 (PP).  This July 2024 born bull had stood second in class nine to his stablemate Kilbride Farm Rayban 24 (P).  Sired by the herd’s noted Flop Agrochyt (PP), and out of Kilbride Farm Eunice 359N (P), this bull was knocked down to J&A Dunlop, Ashfield Farm, Maybole, Ayrshire.  The aforementioned Kilbride Farm Rayban 24 (P) made 14,000gns when being bought by Craighill Farms, Duntrune, By Dundee.  Heterozygous polled, and another by Flop Agrochyt (PP), Rayban 24 (P) is out of Kilbride Farm Dora 104M (P).

Kilbride Farm Rathlin P 24 17,000gns

Denizes Rocketman from MA Barlow & Sons, Nr Leyland, Preston, Lancashire made 16,000gns.  This July 2024 born bull is one of the first at sale by the £32,000 Corskie Nutmeg, and is out of the Blackford Galaxy daughter Denizes Melody.  With top figures again to the fore, this bull was another going commercially and to Stewart farms, Balglass, Lennoxtown, Glasgow.  Further Denizes bulls sold to 10,000, and 8,000gns.  The first prize bull in Class Eight was the June 2024 born Denizes Ringmaster 24, another by Corskie Nutmeg.   This bull was sold after the sale to Reece & Andrew Simmers, Backmuir.

16,000gns Denizes Rocketman

The King family made a further 15,000gns when selling Wolfstar Rock Solid 24 to Allanton Farming, Allanton, Darvel, Ayrshire.  This May 2024 born bull is by the 20,000gns Hiltonstown Matrix and is out of Wolfstar Lilac, an Islavale Guy daughter.  Rock Solid 24 was sold with terrific Terminal Production and Self Replacing Indexes.

Wolfstar Rock Solid 24 15,000gns

Rounding off the hat-trick for the Leedham family was their June 2024 Grangewood Rembrandt who made 15,000gns when selling to Cornwall and the Kurlycoat pedigree herd of J Gregory, Kerling Farm, Truro, Cornwall.  Again by the 16,000gns Overhill House Neil, this bull is out of another Ranfurly Impeccable daughter, Grangewood Polly’s Nikita.  Of this bull Jake Gregory said:  “ Grangewood Rembrandt had a tremendous breed head and that really drew him to me.  He had so much presence to him, and was very correct on his feet and legs.  His sire is breeding seriously well, and I  believe he has all the makings to be a top stock bull.  He’s purchased to serve cows but will also be used in a flushing programme.”

Grangewood Rembrandt 24 15,000gns

Recouping some of his earlier outlay was Richard McCulloch who got 15,000gns for his September 2024 born bull Overhill House Ricki 24.  Another bull with good milk figures, Ricki 24 is by the AI sire Broombrae Major, and is out the Lisglass Goldstar daughter Broombrae Rosina K16.  Buying this bull was Colin Little, East Bracklinn, Callander.

Back to Islavale and one of the youngest in the catalogue, Islavale Rob Roy, made 15,000gns when being bought by the well-know AJR Farms, Milton of Collieston, Ellon, Aberdeenshire.  Another by the homebred Islavale Lucifer 20 EX 95, and out Islavale Imelda, this calf’s pedigree was again packed with EX classified cattle, and having top Maternal (Milk) figures. Even younger, the second last bull to be sold as the demand continued, was Islavale Ronaldo who also made 15,000gns. One of the first bulls for sale by the €8,000 Bighill Parker, Islavale Ronaldo who is out of the Atlow Dixon daughter Islavale Geneva VG 85, was bought by repeat customer A&J Craig of Craig­ton, Castle Douglas. The last Sim­mental through the ring, Isla­vale Reg­gae a Rockytop Luca son, sold for 14,000gns to the Ren­nie fam­ily from Atton­burn, Yeth­olm.

Islavale Rob Roy 24 15,000gns

Islavale Ronaldo 24 15,000gns

The final bull at 15,000gns came from David Maxwell, Jaw Farm, Fintry, Glasgow when he sold Jaw Redbull 24.  June 2024 born this bull is by Wolfstar Mexican Wave 21, and is out of the Curaheen Bandit daughter Jaw Inca.  Another with strong Maternal (Milk) figures of +11, Jaw Redbull 24, a third prize bull, was bought by G&A Milne, Standingstones, Banchory, Kincardineshire.

Jaw Redbull 24 15,000gns

OTHER LEADING BULL PRICES:

14,000gns Backmuir Rex sold to Smallburn Farms, Mayne Farm, Elgin, Morayshire
14,000gns Popes Ringleader, sold to Gelston Castle Farms, Borland of Kelton, Castle Douglas, Dumfriesshire
14,000gns Backmuir Rogan sold to E & L Munro, Rogiehill, Skene, Westhill, Aberdeen

Backmuir Rogan 24 14,000gns

14,000gns Braegarrie Rafa sold to M J & C M Hutchinson, Falahill Farm, Heriot

14,000gns Braegarrie Rafa 24

14,000gns14,000gns Kilbride Farm Rayan P sold to Craighill Farms, Duntrune, by Dundee
14,000gns Overhill House Robot sold to Kincraigie Farms, Lumphanan, by Banchory, Aberdeenshire
14,000gns Corskie Ramekin sold to Hodge Livestock, Lesserlinn, Kirkfield Bank, Lanark

Corskie Ramekin 24 14,000gns

14,000gns Scotland Hill Rooster sold to J & J Pattullo, Sandyford, Kirriemuir, Angus

Scotland Hill Rooster 24 14,000gns

14,000gns Islavale Reggae sold to R Rennie, 1 Attonburn Cottage, Yetholm

Islavale Reggae 24 14,000gns

13,000gns Islavale Risky sold to J R & J A Barron, Findowrie Farm, Brechin, Angus
13,000gns Coltfield Rascal sold to J Walker & Sons, Sauchenbush, Echt, Aberdeenshire

Coltfield Rascal 24 13,000gns

13,000gns Islavale Rome sold to M J & J Mclaren, Fintalich, Muthill, Crieff, Perthshire
13,000gns Wolfstar Ragnar sold to J W Hogg, Longyester, Gifford, East Lothian
13,000gns Omorga Rocky sold to J T & L I Wilson, Cassindilly Farm, Ceres, Cupar, Fife
13,000gns Kilbride Farm Ragnar PP sold to James Jeffrey, Kersknowe, Kelso, Roxburghshire
13,000gns Corskie Ranch sold to John W Sutherland & Son, Granton Mains, Bower, by Wick, Caithness

Corskie Ranch 24 13,000gns

12,000gns Rockytop Rodeo sold to Richard Elliott, Lordsview, High Moor, Farm, Tadcaster
12,000gns Mavsey Ragnarok sold to C M Hanson, Fields Place, Dilwyn, Hereford
12,000gns Corskie Ridgy sold to G Smith & Sons, West Bolton, Alnwick, Northumberland

Corskie Ridgy 24 12,000gns

12,000gns Corskie Regulus sold to Cobbleheugh Farms, Cobbleheugh, Dinnet

Corskie Regulus 24 12,000gns

11,000gns Backmuir Ronaldo sold to T Dun & Sons, Brothershiels, Heriot, Mid Lothian
11,000gns Kilbride Farm Rupert sold to Chapman Farms, West Cockmuir, Strichen, Fraserburgh
10,000gns Denizes Regal P sold to Hamilton Organic Ltd, Aikengall Farm, Innerwick, Dunbar
10,000gns Wolfstar Reprobate sold to James Barrie, Greenlaw, Duns, Berwickshire
10,000gns Braegarrie Rosco sold to Herries Farms, Caerlaverock Estate, Lantonside, Glencaple

Braegarrie Rosco 10,000gns

10,000gns Finlarg Robbie P sold to Hamilton Organic Ltd, Aikengall Farm, Innerwick, Dunbar
10,000gns Pitmudie Rothesay sold to J W Fullerton & Sons, Corsbie, Earlston, Berwickshire

Pitmudie Rothesay 24 10,000gns

10,000gn  Delfur Remarkabull 24 sold to W S L Muir, Upper Onston, Stenness, Stromness, Orkney
10,000gns Kurlycoat Rocco sold to D W Sinclair, Unigarth, Sandwick, Orkney
10,000gns Backmuir Ribeye sold to G J & E Harper, Broadsea Farm, Burnhervie, Inverurie
10,000gns Popes Raasay sold to Philiphaugh Estates, Old Mill Farm, Selkirk

Popes Raasay 24 10,000gns

10,000gns Pistyll Rocky sold to Colin Inglis, Blairsgreen Farm, Saline, Fife

Pistyll Rocky 24 10,000gns

10,000gns Drumsleed Razor P sold to W & J Coghill, Ackergill Mains, Wick, Caithness
10,000gns Strathisla Ratatouille sold to Nunappleton Estate, Home Farm, Roebuck, York
10,000gns Auchorachan Ronnie P sold to Smallburn Farms, Mayne Farm, Elgin, Morayshire
10,000gns Lisglass Real Deal sold to R R & M S McCarlie, WR Hassockrigg Farm, Harthill, Shotts Lanarkshire
10,000gns Coltfield Rhysand sold to B Ross, Torran Farm, Delny, Invergordon
10,000gns Strathisla Rusty sold to I B Richardson, Ardlebank, Edinburgh

Scotland Hill Rob 24 9000gns