A new smarter Tup Taxi service will minimise queues at the NSA Wales & Border Ram Sale at the Royal Welsh Showground this autumn.

And a shuttle service will run from the vehicle parks on September 19 taking people to the sale area, also operating in reverse taking buyers back to Horse Hill.

Consignments of four or more rams will be delivered to holding pens on the tarmac opposite Hafod a Hendre, for collection by their new owners. Buyers can access the area, load their rams and then leave via one of the exits.

Purchasers with fewer than four rams will have them delivered directly to their vehicle. Those who buy a more sizeable number will be allowed, with proof of purchase, to bring their stock vehicles directly to the sale area.

Safety precautions are also being tightened, with only one passenger transported in each trailer. A gator with seating will be able to transport one passenger. Tup Taxi operators will be encouraged to wear helmets.

NSA Wales & Border Ram Sales executive director Jane Smith explained: “Our aim is to speed up the whole operation, whilst safety is paramount.

“Ted Hopkins Tractors have kindly sponsored the six seater golf buggy, which will run continuously from Horse Hill & North 2 & 3 when buyers are heading for the sale, to help those less able to walk from their vehicles. The service will reverse as the day progresses, with buyers returning to their vehicles.”

Meanwhile 300 plus rams will be heading to the Royal Welsh Showground for the Early Sale on Monday, August 1. The event traditionally sets the standard for the season and is important for early lamb producers.

The 178 Charollais forward will include a reduction sale of gimmers from G & J Williams, Cwmpadest, Crai, near Brecon. There will be 109 Texels offered for sale, along with Suffolks, Dutch Spotted, X-breds and a consignment of 24 recipient ewes.

Last year’s Early Sale saw a top price of 1600 guineas paid for a Charollais shearling ram, with two Texel tups selling for 1400 guineas each. Three Suffolks each sold for 850 guineas.