Spot quotes were also firm, but there were just enough pigs available to meet demand over the second Easter short week.

As heavy pig contracts are now freely available, some sellers were happy to hold supplies where space allows and roll these pigs into the following week when normal service resumes.

Spot bacon was generally traded in the 152–156p range with modest premiums of 4– 6p for lighter weights, but despite higher retail prices pork is still very competitive when compared with soaring lamb and beef prices.

The euro lost a little ground this week closing on Friday worth 90.3p compared with 90.9p a week ago, but this had little effect on cull sow prices which generally held the 120–124p range with premiums for larger loads and according to spec.

Weaners are still like the proverbial hens’ teeth, although the latest spot quotes of £55+ have yet to filter through to the latest AHDB 30kg ex-farm average of £52.92/head. Weaner prices look set to continue to rise in the weeks ahead whilst supplies stay as short as they are.

The news that Bowes’ Watton abattoir is soon to come under the Cranswick wing was generally welcomed by producers.

Although it is always sad to see one less competitor in the market, Cranswick are a strong well funded British company and if this move helps to secure the long term future and growth of Bowes’ Norfolk abattoir, this should help to reduce food miles for eastern region producers.