(2).jpg "Sheep Food and Farming Update")
October 2026
- Lamb markets have been strengthening week-on-week, with deadweight new season lamb prices averaging 724p/kg on 26 September. This represents a 54p/kg increase on the same time last year, and 144p/kg above the five-year average. At the same time, abattoir throughput is down 5% on the five-year average, with finished lamb producers facing forage shortages and disease pressure from bluetongue virus (BTV-3).
- The number of confirmed BTV-3 cases in the current season has reached almost 1,700, with the greatest proportion of cases reported in the southwest of England. The hot, dry summer is thought to have exacerbated infections, providing favourable conditions for the virus-carrying midges. Livestock farmers are being encouraged to continue vaccinating their stock against the virus, with vets reminding farmers that annual booster vaccines are crucial to maintain immunity.
- Store lamb numbers have increased sharply over the last few weeks, with live market throughput up 39% on last year. Despite increased supply, prices were 22% higher than 2025 averages, at £120/head as buyers anticipate tight supplies into the autumn.
- Increased demand for British wool has fuelled an increase in auction prices to an average of £1.70/kg across the first four sales of the 2026 season. This marks a 70p/kg uplift on 2025 prices. Around 3,000 tonnes of new season wool has been sold so far, with British wool prices expected to rise further as the season progresses, meaning some producers may receive more than £1/kg.
- The Scottish Upland Sheep Support Scheme (SUSSS) 2026 application window is now open. The scheme provides additional support, on top of the Basic Payment Scheme, to sheep producers in rough grazing areas. Applications for SUSSS close at midnight on Monday 30 November.