TREVOR Hebdon, chief executive of the area's largest livestock auctioneers, has urged farmers to continue to support marts by using them to market their stock.

Announcing 40 per cent improved pre-tax profits of £347,000 for the Harrison and Hetherington group which is a partner in Kendal Auction Mart as well as owner of other marts at Carlisle and Kirkby Stephen, Mr Hebdon said the firm was facing huge pressure, significant change and reduced livestock numbers but was committed to providing: "a financially sound and sustainable livestock marketing system for years to come".