THIS YEAR will be one of the most important in Skipton auction mart's 113-year history.

Jeremy Eaton, general manager, yesterday said that April had been set as the completion date for Craven Cattle Marts' flagship development and diversification scheme at its Skipton headquarters, seen, above.

"Once complete, the project will bring more people on site throughout the week, opening up many new opportunities for CCM and the businesses located here, as well as allowing us to refocus on our livestock business," he said.

Much of the building work is in place and has already expanded and enhanced CCM's own operational areas and provided vastly improved facilities for its customers.

Craven College has launched the Centre for Rural and Equine Studies - itself a landmark project which is said to have set new standards in agricultural-related training and education.

The college has occupied its new classrooms at the mart, with work fast nearing completion on an equestrian centre, with its own equine and exhibition arena and stables.

Workshops, countryside skills areas and the new horticultural unit are also taking shape.

"Building up livestock sales at all three CCM auction marts in Skipton, Sedbergh and Masham remains a number one priority this year," said Mr Eaton, "while the opening of the new meat processing unit at Skipton will assist in supporting sales of prime cattle.

"We are pleasantly surprised that sheep numbers have returned to the market so rapidly and are in some cases exceeding pre-foot-and-mouth levels.

"Inquiries are building up nicely for ewes and lambs, while store cattle have opened the year at exceptional prices. There is still plenty to do, however, in maintaining sheep numbers, as well as increasing store cattle numbers, which will take longer to build."

An open day will be held at Skipton once all project work is in place