From packed pubs to 33k heifers: The rural phenomenon you've probably never heard of

"Packed pubs, sold-out hotels, a run on steak, €1.5m spent on weanling heifers to a top of €33,500... 'for anyone interested in breeding or showing cattle, or even people who just appreciate top-quality stock, this is our version of the Ploughing' A silence so complete you could hear a penny drop."

"And then the hammer fell: €33,500, the kind of money that once belonged only in pedigree sales, not a commercial ring. It left many onlookers questioning whether Carrick Winter Fair has entered an even crazier financial dimension."

Packed pubs, sold-out hotels and a run on steak accompanied €1.5m spent on weanling heifers, with a top price of €33,500. The event attracted buyers interested in breeding, showing and top-quality stock. A complete silence fell before the decisive auction moment. The €33,500 hammer price reached levels formerly seen only at pedigree sales rather than in commercial rings. The scale of spending and atmosphere drew comparisons to major agricultural gatherings. Many onlookers reacted with surprise and questioned whether the fair has entered an even higher financial dimension.

Read at Independent