Work is full steam ahead

Harrison & Hetherington is investing a six figure sum in a first phase of improvements at its mart at Kirkby Stephen.

The first stage of improvements, which is due for completion before the busy autumn sales, includes newly-built market offices, a major refurbishment of the sale ring and rostrum and new roofing to provide additional cover over the pennage.

On target: Kirkby Stephen mart manager Stuart Bell, left, and Mike Beaty, of Nu-Style builders look at plans for the new office building on the cleared site.

The level of development of the second phase of work, which will include an area to promote the Swaledale breed in conjunction with the Swaledale Trust, depends on a grant application which is currently being re-considered.

Nu-Style builders of Kendal have demolished the office building behind the rostrum which is being replaced by a new, larger permanent office, including a kitchen, store and toilets. Work has already begun in the ring with the rostrum being re-positioned and roofing over the pennage will be completed this summer. Phase two of the work will include demolition of the existing café to provide new catering facilities, toilets and extra office accommodation.

Original plans subject to the grant aid, included a viewing gallery over the ring and a shop area. "The improvements will upgrade the facilities at Kirkby Stephen for customers, staff and livestock," said mart manager Stuart Bell.

Harrison & Hetherington acquired the mart in 2002 when it took over the livestock auction business of Penrith Farmers' and Kidd's.

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