The Livestock Auctioneers’ Association (LAA) welcomed the Government announcement that Step 4 of the Covid-19 Roadmap will proceed as planned in England yesterday, but has encouraged its members and their clients to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to continue to help protect public health.

As the majority of legal restrictions end in England and the Government guidance emphasises personal responsibility, the LAA is reminding its members and market attendees that they should continue to be cautious, and follow all guidance as set out by individual market operators.

Chris Dodds, executive secretary of the LAA explains, “We have been extremely grateful of the support of our buyers, vendors and operating member marts during the difficult challenges while certain restrictions have been in place.”

He continues, “During this period, it has again demonstrated the importance of the livestock market, not only in setting the tremendous trade we have seen over recent months, but also as an essential social hub for the wider rural community.

“While we are delighted to welcome back farmers and visitors to the mart environment, providing an opportunity to meet and socialise that has been missed throughout the pandemic, we encourage continued precaution and ask visitors to work co-operatively with their market. Our priorities remain to protect public health while still being able to supply the food chain,” he adds.

Each market’s facilities are different, and therefore it is at the discretion of the market operator as to how the ease of restrictions is managed. Precautions such as the provision and use of sanitising and hand-washing facilities are still encouraged, as well as the use of face coverings, where applicable.

Buyers and vendors are urged to contact their local auctioneer for specific measures within individual livestock markets. The ease of restrictions is currently only applicable to livestock markets in England, as the LAA awaits further restrictions being lifted in Wales.