H+H Strengthens Livestock Auctioneering Team in the Borders and Northumberland

H+H has appointed Greg MacDougall to lead its operations at St Boswells and Wooler livestock trading centres, supporting the continued development and growth of its business throughout the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland.

For Greg, the move marks a return to the mart where his career began more than two decades ago. Originally from Selkirk, he gained his first experience at St Boswells Mart during school holidays before joining as a trainee auctioneer in June 2004, aged 17.

He remained there until 2011, gaining his professional qualifications and grounding in livestock auctioneering, before moving south to further develop his career with Bentham Auction Mart. His career achievements are many and include receiving the Farmers Guardian Auctioneer of the Year award.

In his new role, Greg will support all existing and new customers whilst developing sales at both centres. He will also work with colleagues across H+H’s network of marts, including Borderway at Carlisle, drawing on the company’s wider buyer connections and specialist sales programme.

Robin Anderson, Chief Commercial Officer at H+H, said, “Greg is a significant addition to our business. His standing within the industry and understanding of the region will complement the strengths of our established teams at St Boswells and Wooler. Both marts have longstanding customer relationships and a reputation for personal service. We are looking forward to both welcoming and supporting Greg and building on those foundations together.”

“Continuing to invest in our people is integral to the growth of H+H. Combining local service with the resources and reach of the wider business helps us achieve the best possible results for our farming customers.”

This significant appointment follows last week’s announcement that parent company H&H Group plc achieved annual pre-tax profits of almost £2 million, with strong livestock trading contributing to its performance.

Greg’s initial focus will be on visiting farms, meeting new and existing customers and discussing their priorities. As he explains: “St Boswells is where it all started for me, so returning to the area means a great deal. I have gained valuable experience and made many good friends during my time away, and I am looking forward to bringing that experience back to the Borders.

“St Boswells and Wooler are two tremendous marts based in exceptional stock-rearing country. The cattle and sheep produced across the Borders and North Northumberland are recognised for their quality, and I am keen to work with farmers to help them make the most of that reputation when marketing their stock.

“Livestock represents a hugely valuable asset for farmers, reflecting years of investment, breeding decisions and hard work. Our job is to maximise its value through the live auction ring, bringing the right buyers together and creating competition for every lot.

“With transport and fuel costs an important consideration, there is real value in having a successful mart close to home. Alongside that, H+H’s specialist sales and online bidding platform give us further opportunities to reach purchasers beyond the ringside.”

H+H is the UK’s leading livestock trading company. Established in 1870, it serves pedigree and commercial producers across Northern England and Southern Scotland through livestock auctions, farmstock sales and online trading. Its live-streaming and online bidding service enables buyers to participate remotely, extending the reach of sales.