THE first 100pc clearance of British wool for two years partly made up for this year's disappointing prices.

Mr Alun Evans, chairman of the British Wool Marketing Board, put the sell-out down to a flexible and pro-active selling policy.

Introducing his report and accounts for 1999-2000, he also said that, by the end of the selling year in June, 98pc of the clip had been sold. Only 639,000kg (1pc of the clip) had been carried forward.

The main focus for promotion had been in the carpet sector, which now consumed about 70pc of the clip world-wide.

In the UK, new retail display material had been produced while more companies in Europe wanted to be licensed.

Working closely with the British Embassy and the BTI, the board hopes to increase the sale of British Wool to Nepal.

The 1999/2000 clip finalised at 45.7m kg, compared with 49.5m kg. It reflects a 2.5pc drop in the average clip weight from 685kg to 668kg.

The number of registered producers also fell by 3.8pc from 77,936 to 74,995.

Mr Evans said changes in a number of areas would ultimately ensure future savings and efficiencies while strengthening the board's core business of handling and marketing the clip.

New head office and depot premises had been bought in Newtown and changes made to rationalise wool collection and handling in Wales.

Similar changes would be made in the North of England next year.

New equipment had been bought, which would mean that, by next season, all the clip would be measured and sold internationally against test certificates.

Matched funding from the European Social Fund had significantly advanced the standard and availability of shearing training and the number of trainees had noticeably increased at all levels.

On a personal note, Mr Evans thanked everyone who had given him support and encouragement during 15 years as chairman. He will shortly retire and said he left knowing that the board was "as relevant today to the selling of our wool clip as it has ever been".

l Elections are to be held for appoitnments to the British wool Marketing Board.

Two candidates are standing for the English Northern region. They are Mr William Oliver of Fairshaw, Low Gate, Hexham, and Mr Robin Raine of Fog Close Farm, Kirkoswald, Penrith.

Voting papers will be sent to registered producers on Thursday, which must be returned by Thursday, September 21.