Popular auctioneer to continue in role

Apr 5 2008 by Tom Patterson, The Journal

STUART Bell, well-known across the UK as a leading auctioneer of both pedigree and commercial livestock, continues his role with Harrison & Hetherington after reaching his 65th birthday.

Retirement was not an option for Stuart who came to Kirkby Stephen Mart in July 1975. He was keen to carry on as senior auctioneer and livestock adviser, and is the main point of contact for the pedigree Swaledale sheep sales at Kirkby Stephen, St John’s Chapel and Middleton-in-Teesdale.

He has a life-long knowledge of the breed and its breeders both from his farming roots and almost 40 years in auctioneering.

“The quality of the livestock and the people who breed them and, of course, especially the Swaledales have always held me to Kirkby Stephen.” said Stuart.

“I am pleased to continue what I was doing before my 65th birthday.” He will also continue the ambassadorial role for Harrison & Hetherington at all major livestock shows and events across the country.

Harrison & Hetherington runs three of the five Swaledale Sheep Breeders’ Association district sales and, with the exception of Ruswarp in North Yorkshire Stuart has auctioneered at all of them.

Swaledale association chairman Alan Alderson said: “I am pleased Stuart is continuing. He is one of the most experienced Swaledale auctioneers. He is well-respected and knows people the length and breadth of the British Isles, which is a great help.”

Stuart will continue to sell livestock associated with the marts run from Kirkby Stephen, including the Mule sales at Lazonby, as well as store and breeding cattle sales.