They made a solid contribution to a steady day’s trade, which produced a much improved clearance rate of 61% (42% in 2013). The lack of major prices marginally reduced the average to €2,303 (€2,502), but overall it was an upbeat start to the year.

“We are very satisfied with the clearance and also with the amount of new and regular customers from the UK,” summed up auctioneer Martin Donohoe. “It augers well for the coming year and it is encouraging to see plenty of people looking for horses. Looking forward, I think we will have a busy trade at our three-day sale in March.”