IT’s an ill wind that blows no good, and true to the idiom, last week’s strong three-year-old trade at Goresbridge lifted spirits and was a major boost in these difficult times. Selling over three days of almost unbroken sunshine, and notably enhanced by the online bidding facility, the demand was lively and consistent until the close of play. Interestingly, although the top prices did not quite emulate the heights of those of 12 months ago, the figures for week two illustrated an increased depth of trade, to deliver an improved clearance of 62% (56% in 2019) together with significant hike in average to €4,285 (€3,544).

Declaring himself “very satisfied” with the sale as a whole, Goresbridge auctioneer Martin Donohoe went on to comment, “In these times, it was great to see the figures up significantly, and to turn over in excess of €2,000,000 over six days, gives people confidence and augers well for the future of the whole industry.”