0:00:07 > 0:00:10We may live in a digital age,
0:00:11 > 0:00:14but a surprising amount of British trade is still done
0:00:14 > 0:00:16the old-fashioned way...
0:00:16 > 0:00:19- 1,200... - INDISTINCT CALLING
0:00:19 > 0:00:21..at traditional auctions.
0:00:21 > 0:00:23Now's your time to get a bargain.
0:00:23 > 0:00:26These sales may feel like throwbacks to a bygone age,
0:00:28 > 0:00:31but for the buyers and sellers who flock to them,
0:00:31 > 0:00:33they're still the best way to conduct business.
0:00:33 > 0:00:36At 1,600, blow your nose and bid again.
0:00:36 > 0:00:39We'll be visiting the UK's most dynamic traditional markets.
0:00:39 > 0:00:40BELL RINGS
0:00:42 > 0:00:45..selling everything from pigs to cattle,
0:00:45 > 0:00:47sheepdogs to ponies...
0:00:49 > 0:00:51..fish to veg,
0:00:51 > 0:00:55and discovering how they are the heartbeat of rural life.
0:00:56 > 0:00:58There'll be bargains to be had today.
0:00:58 > 0:01:00- 4.50.- Best part of being in an auction.
0:01:02 > 0:01:04Today, we're in Wales,
0:01:04 > 0:01:07at the UK's biggest annual auction of Welsh Cobs,
0:01:09 > 0:01:12the classic British horse breed with a global reputation.
0:01:13 > 0:01:16We'll be meeting the auctioneers in the hot seat...
0:01:16 > 0:01:18At £300...
0:01:18 > 0:01:22To be an auctioneer at an event like this, it's a massive buzz.
0:01:22 > 0:01:25..and following the fortunes of three buyers and sellers...
0:01:25 > 0:01:27It's like being a child in a candy store.
0:01:27 > 0:01:28You know, you want to look at everything.
0:01:28 > 0:01:30It's really exciting.
0:01:30 > 0:01:33..as they experience all the excitement...
0:01:33 > 0:01:35Mine are just going through.
0:01:35 > 0:01:36..and tension...
0:01:36 > 0:01:39At 1,000... Oh, I say.
0:01:41 > 0:01:43..as the hammer falls.
0:01:54 > 0:01:59We're in the ancient market town of Builth Wells on the River Wye,
0:01:59 > 0:02:03in the rolling hills of the Powys in beautiful mid Wales.
0:02:05 > 0:02:09On the outskirts of the town is the Royal Welsh Showground,
0:02:09 > 0:02:13holding a very special auction, held here once a year -
0:02:13 > 0:02:15the Welsh Cob Autumn Sale.
0:02:22 > 0:02:25The buzz, the atmosphere. I really like the atmosphere.
0:02:25 > 0:02:27It's exciting already that we're down here, and you can just feel
0:02:27 > 0:02:30people are bit excited at the beginning of the day.
0:02:30 > 0:02:32- How are you?!- Yeah, good.
0:02:32 > 0:02:36And you see people you haven't seen sometimes for years.
0:02:36 > 0:02:40It's surprising how the horses bring people together.
0:02:40 > 0:02:41Good girl, good girl.
0:02:41 > 0:02:43500-plus animals here,
0:02:43 > 0:02:46so there's a good selection of animals to suit most people.
0:02:46 > 0:02:49Any prospective purchasers or sellers,
0:02:49 > 0:02:51this is the place to come.
0:02:57 > 0:02:59He's looking more handsome than ever.
0:02:59 > 0:03:03There is no other sale like this anywhere in the world,
0:03:03 > 0:03:06in numbers and in attendance.
0:03:06 > 0:03:09Andrew Elliott has been selling horses at this sale
0:03:09 > 0:03:11for the last 20 years.
0:03:11 > 0:03:14All good? Morning, madam, how are you?
0:03:14 > 0:03:16Andrew Elliott. How do you do?
0:03:16 > 0:03:18Mark, I am your auctioneer for today.
0:03:18 > 0:03:20Over the three days of this sale,
0:03:20 > 0:03:23there will be somewhere in the region of between 5,000 and 6,000 people here.
0:03:23 > 0:03:27They've travelled from the tip of Scotland, they've come up from Kent,
0:03:27 > 0:03:30they've come from Cornwall. There won't be a county...
0:03:30 > 0:03:35There's barely a town in the United Kingdom which won't be represented
0:03:35 > 0:03:38at this sale. And, then, of course, we go overseas, as well.
0:03:38 > 0:03:39So, it's special.
0:03:39 > 0:03:42Well, you'll be fine, you'll be fine. I always say it doesn't matter
0:03:42 > 0:03:44where they are, they sell on their merits.
0:03:44 > 0:03:46They sell on their merits, so...
0:03:46 > 0:03:49Andrew's finishing his first task of the day,
0:03:49 > 0:03:52walking the ground and visiting some of the horses and owners.
0:03:52 > 0:03:55That's fine. As long as I know what the worst-case scenarios are.
0:03:55 > 0:03:57I'm going to try and make you wealthy,
0:03:57 > 0:03:58I'm going to try and make us wealthy.
0:03:58 > 0:04:02- OK?- You keep trying! - We'll keep trying. Thank you.
0:04:02 > 0:04:03- Thank you.- See you later, bye-bye.
0:04:03 > 0:04:05Bye-bye, bye-bye. Bye-bye, bye-bye, bye.
0:04:06 > 0:04:09With the start of the sale fast approaching,
0:04:09 > 0:04:10the pressure is mounting.
0:04:11 > 0:04:13I think it's a bit like being on stage.
0:04:13 > 0:04:15I get stage fright because I have a stammer,
0:04:15 > 0:04:18which thankfully doesn't often present itself on the rostrum,
0:04:18 > 0:04:21but it's always there, and I'm always thinking about it,
0:04:21 > 0:04:23so, yes, I do get nervous. I get stage fright.
0:04:23 > 0:04:25And because I want to keep these people happy.
0:04:28 > 0:04:31Today, Andrew is performing to a maximum capacity crowd.
0:04:32 > 0:04:342,500 people have turned up,
0:04:34 > 0:04:38bringing much-needed revenue to the local economy.
0:04:38 > 0:04:41Ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of Builth Wells, the warmest, the very,
0:04:41 > 0:04:43very warmest of welcomes to this,
0:04:43 > 0:04:46the 54th annual Autumn Cob Sale,
0:04:46 > 0:04:49here on the good Showground at the Royal Welsh.
0:04:49 > 0:04:53Now, then, quality, performance.
0:04:53 > 0:04:55I don't need to do any more talking here.
0:04:55 > 0:04:57This good fellow will do it all for me.
0:04:57 > 0:05:02A Welsh Cob is one of the UK's native breeds.
0:05:02 > 0:05:07It's a very, very hardy, tough animal.
0:05:07 > 0:05:092,000 now. 500, I got.
0:05:09 > 0:05:11Six. Seven.
0:05:11 > 0:05:15In the arena, buyers assess the horses in three key ways.
0:05:15 > 0:05:1850. Come on.
0:05:18 > 0:05:21The first thing that a prospective buyer is going to look at
0:05:21 > 0:05:25is blood. By blood, we're referring to breeding.
0:05:25 > 0:05:27What a type to have in this ring.
0:05:27 > 0:05:29Buy the stallion.
0:05:29 > 0:05:31Now, you know what he's produced.
0:05:31 > 0:05:34You've got a great chance to buy a son. Come on.
0:05:34 > 0:05:36Second thing is how it looks.
0:05:36 > 0:05:39The physical attributes of a Cob.
0:05:40 > 0:05:42900. It's your turn.
0:05:42 > 0:05:4550. 1,000.
0:05:45 > 0:05:47But just because it looks good,
0:05:47 > 0:05:49doesn't mean it's going to move well.
0:05:49 > 0:05:51£1,000 in front.
0:05:51 > 0:05:52Sold. 50!
0:05:52 > 0:05:54Buyers want to see the horse's movement
0:05:54 > 0:05:56as it runs around the arena.
0:05:57 > 0:05:59For the sellers, this is a big moment.
0:05:59 > 0:06:011,200, 1,200.
0:06:01 > 0:06:04Your vendor, his moment of glory in the ring,
0:06:04 > 0:06:08to whether he's going to shine or whether he's going to crash
0:06:08 > 0:06:10and burn, whether it's going to make £100,
0:06:10 > 0:06:12whether it's going to make £10,000.
0:06:12 > 0:06:15His time in the ring is probably no more than two minutes.
0:06:15 > 0:06:171,200. Come on, ladies.
0:06:17 > 0:06:191,200.
0:06:19 > 0:06:20He's a bit of a star.
0:06:20 > 0:06:221,200.
0:06:22 > 0:06:24They take him, you lose him.
0:06:24 > 0:06:28To be an auctioneer at an event like this, it's a massive buzz.
0:06:28 > 0:06:31At 1,400, there it is!
0:06:31 > 0:06:341-4. First time, sold here.
0:06:34 > 0:06:36Hammer's up. 2-2-3.
0:06:36 > 0:06:38Well done, that team. Thank you, there.
0:06:42 > 0:06:45Seller and breeder Marilyn Beach is a regular here,
0:06:45 > 0:06:48who's hoping to sell four horses at the auction
0:06:48 > 0:06:51to help ensure a solid future for her stables.
0:06:51 > 0:06:54All right, Gran?
0:06:54 > 0:06:55Thank you.
0:06:55 > 0:06:57I really enjoy the sale.
0:06:57 > 0:07:02I enjoy the preparation, I enjoy the day, I enjoy the work,
0:07:03 > 0:07:05and if we stay for the party tomorrow night,
0:07:05 > 0:07:07I'll enjoy that, as well.
0:07:18 > 0:07:21Marilyn has been breeding and training Welsh Cobs
0:07:21 > 0:07:22for the last ten years.
0:07:24 > 0:07:27I think I love everything about horses.
0:07:27 > 0:07:29I always have done.
0:07:29 > 0:07:31They give me peace,
0:07:31 > 0:07:34they gave me purpose, and...
0:07:34 > 0:07:37Well, I just love everything about them.
0:07:37 > 0:07:39SHE CHUCKLES SOFTLY
0:07:39 > 0:07:43Marilyn is keen to maintain good finances at the stables...
0:07:43 > 0:07:44Ooh, sorry, sweetie.
0:07:44 > 0:07:47..so that one day she can hand them down to her granddaughter, Robyn.
0:07:51 > 0:07:55- Is that going to fit her, Rob? - Uh, this might be a bit big.
0:07:55 > 0:07:59One day, I would hope that, yes, we can pass the reins to Robyn,
0:07:59 > 0:08:01but nobody's going to make her do it.
0:08:01 > 0:08:03She'll do it because she wants to,
0:08:03 > 0:08:05and I'm sure she will want to,
0:08:05 > 0:08:08because once they're in your blood, they're there for ever.
0:08:11 > 0:08:16Marilyn's daughter, Claire, also loved horses, but in 2008,
0:08:16 > 0:08:19she died suddenly at the age of just 43,
0:08:19 > 0:08:23and the stables became a lifeline for the grieving family.
0:08:23 > 0:08:24Robyn adores her horses,
0:08:24 > 0:08:27and she's always been passionate,
0:08:27 > 0:08:30and when she lost her mum,
0:08:30 > 0:08:32then they were her saviour.
0:08:32 > 0:08:37You know, she used to spend hours and hours in the stables with them.
0:08:38 > 0:08:41And, really, they were what sort of what pulled her through
0:08:41 > 0:08:43such a rough time.
0:08:44 > 0:08:46Good girl.
0:08:48 > 0:08:51Sometimes I get tearful,
0:08:51 > 0:08:53and I think I shouldn't be here,
0:08:53 > 0:08:57it should be her mother doing it, but there you are.
0:08:57 > 0:09:01It's how things are, and we just have to make the best of it.
0:09:01 > 0:09:02And I think we do.
0:09:04 > 0:09:07Grandmother and granddaughter are keen to get good prices
0:09:07 > 0:09:09for their horses at auction.
0:09:12 > 0:09:14Three of the animals they're selling are foals
0:09:14 > 0:09:17that Marilyn has nurtured since birth.
0:09:18 > 0:09:20Celtic Prince,
0:09:20 > 0:09:21Kez,
0:09:21 > 0:09:24and Marilyn's favourite, Hattie.
0:09:25 > 0:09:27She's a bit of a character.
0:09:29 > 0:09:31But she's a very pretty foal.
0:09:31 > 0:09:34In fact, she's probably one of the prettiest that we've bred.
0:09:34 > 0:09:37I hope she gets a good home,
0:09:37 > 0:09:40and so the price I would expect to get
0:09:40 > 0:09:43is in the region of £400-500.
0:09:46 > 0:09:48Hello, girl. Oh, you're a sweetie, aren't you?
0:09:48 > 0:09:50You're a sweetie. Yes, you are.
0:09:50 > 0:09:52But the horse they're banking on for a big price
0:09:52 > 0:09:55is an older mare called Lexley Eclair.
0:09:55 > 0:09:59We're hoping to get about 4,000 for her.
0:09:59 > 0:10:02Well, when I sell her, I will obviously cry a lot,
0:10:02 > 0:10:04because I always do.
0:10:04 > 0:10:06Because, you know, I do such a lot with them.
0:10:06 > 0:10:09You're a very special, girl, aren't you?
0:10:09 > 0:10:10Yes, you are.
0:10:10 > 0:10:14At the auction, Lexley Eclair will be ridden by granddaughter Robyn.
0:10:16 > 0:10:19It's important that people see her riding up there,
0:10:19 > 0:10:22otherwise, you start to question - or I do, anyway -
0:10:22 > 0:10:25you know, why isn't it ridden? You know, what's wrong with her?
0:10:25 > 0:10:28Whether she's ridden in the ring or not all depends
0:10:28 > 0:10:29on how she takes the day.
0:10:29 > 0:10:31You know, she's only been riding eight weeks.
0:10:31 > 0:10:33It's a big ask of anything.
0:10:33 > 0:10:35It'll all depend on how...
0:10:35 > 0:10:38You know, how she takes it and how she's coping.
0:10:38 > 0:10:40If she does it all right, then we go in the ring.
0:10:40 > 0:10:43It's a loud old noise, and it's a...
0:10:43 > 0:10:45It's a great atmosphere, it's quite exciting,
0:10:45 > 0:10:47but I don't think they feel the same.
0:10:47 > 0:10:49Sometimes, they're like, "Oh!"
0:10:49 > 0:10:52If everything goes to plan at the auction,
0:10:52 > 0:10:56Marilyn could earn up to £6,000 for her horses,
0:10:56 > 0:10:59and keep the stables that have seen her and Robyn
0:10:59 > 0:11:00through such hard times
0:11:00 > 0:11:02in good shape for the next generation.
0:11:11 > 0:11:13- Where's the trailer to? - On the back of my car.
0:11:13 > 0:11:15Could you just walk her down and walk her back for me?
0:11:15 > 0:11:16Would that be all right?
0:11:24 > 0:11:26Oh, there's a good boy.
0:11:26 > 0:11:28Oh, bless you, too.
0:11:28 > 0:11:30Big scary world, isn't it?
0:11:30 > 0:11:33At the auction, Marilyn and Robyn
0:11:33 > 0:11:37have 30 minutes to groom and settle Lexley Eclair.
0:11:37 > 0:11:41You will find vendors that are on edge, are nervous.
0:11:41 > 0:11:43A lot of these stock, as well, that we're selling here,
0:11:43 > 0:11:45it's the first time away from home.
0:11:45 > 0:11:48A lot of them have been born and raised and grazed
0:11:48 > 0:11:50on Welsh hillsides.
0:11:50 > 0:11:52They've not seen this amount of people.
0:11:52 > 0:11:56So, then, to bring their stock down to this environment,
0:11:56 > 0:11:58it's a whole new world.
0:11:58 > 0:12:01My biggest worry is the start.
0:12:01 > 0:12:04That first getting them out and riding them around
0:12:04 > 0:12:07and seeing how they take the environment.
0:12:07 > 0:12:09Normally, once they've done that,
0:12:09 > 0:12:11me and the horse are a lot calmer.
0:12:11 > 0:12:15Because she's only a baby, I was quite worried for her,
0:12:15 > 0:12:17but she's taking it really well, to be honest.
0:12:17 > 0:12:21Potential bidders take the chance for a last-minute look at the mare
0:12:21 > 0:12:24before she goes under the hammer.
0:12:24 > 0:12:27She's like, "What are you doing in there?"!
0:12:27 > 0:12:28Had to be quick!
0:12:28 > 0:12:31She's a big girl.
0:12:31 > 0:12:33I think once she's got a bit of muscle in her, as well,
0:12:33 > 0:12:37- she's going to...- Yeah.- ..she's really going to chunk up a bit.
0:12:37 > 0:12:39Yeah, she is.
0:12:39 > 0:12:41She's caught the eye of a nice family,
0:12:41 > 0:12:45but they'd like to see her out and, uh, ridden.
0:12:45 > 0:12:49Buyers are looking to see what the horse looks like on the move,
0:12:49 > 0:12:51and its temperament with the rider.
0:12:53 > 0:12:56People are quite drawn to her because, obviously,
0:12:56 > 0:12:57she is a beautiful girl,
0:12:57 > 0:12:59but she's actually taking it quite well,
0:12:59 > 0:13:03and she's reacting quite well to the crowd.
0:13:03 > 0:13:05She's quite quiet.
0:13:05 > 0:13:09So, I think she's catching people's eye for the fact that
0:13:09 > 0:13:11she's taking it quite well.
0:13:11 > 0:13:13For a baby, anyway. Come on.
0:13:15 > 0:13:19Today, I'm feeling extremely nervous.
0:13:19 > 0:13:21There's a lot of hustle and bustle.
0:13:21 > 0:13:25I'm hoping that the horse will behave well,
0:13:25 > 0:13:27which is a big ask for such a youngster,
0:13:28 > 0:13:31and that she'll perform to her best,
0:13:31 > 0:13:34and hopefully get a good price, and a good home.
0:13:34 > 0:13:36Mine are just going through.
0:13:36 > 0:13:38- Number nine?- Yep.
0:13:41 > 0:13:46Marilyn has a reserve price of £4,000 on Lexley Eclair,
0:13:46 > 0:13:51If they don't reach this, they'll be taking her back home.
0:13:51 > 0:13:53Now, then, this is lot number 28 in the ring.
0:13:54 > 0:13:56Lexley Eclair.
0:13:56 > 0:13:59Now then, Eclair is as sweet as her name.
0:13:59 > 0:14:03First bath yesterday, excellent, as she was with the farrier.
0:14:03 > 0:14:05She loves to be made a fuss of.
0:14:05 > 0:14:07Loves her work.
0:14:07 > 0:14:10Granddaughter Robyn is taking the horse around the arena
0:14:10 > 0:14:12to show her off to the crowd.
0:14:13 > 0:14:162,000 now. From a very, very good stable now.
0:14:16 > 0:14:192,000, 1,500, 1,000 starter, away.
0:14:19 > 0:14:22At 1,000 now. Yes, I hear the yes. 1,000 I'm bid. Two.
0:14:22 > 0:14:241,200 the outstanding bid is at.
0:14:24 > 0:14:271,200 I've got. 1-2, 1-4, 1-6. At 1,600...
0:14:27 > 0:14:30Then nerves start to get the better of the horse.
0:14:30 > 0:14:32At 1,000...
0:14:32 > 0:14:34Oh, I say.
0:14:35 > 0:14:38These horses are supposed to be cool-headed,
0:14:38 > 0:14:39not jumpy and skittish.
0:14:39 > 0:14:41Here we go. At 1,600.
0:14:41 > 0:14:44At 1,800, 2,000 I'm bid now.
0:14:44 > 0:14:45At 2,000 now.
0:14:45 > 0:14:47At 2,000 I've got now.
0:14:47 > 0:14:492,000 bid. At 2,000 we are bid.
0:14:49 > 0:14:51At 2,000 now. Hammer's heading up.
0:14:51 > 0:14:54At 2,000, take a little one if it helps you.
0:14:54 > 0:14:57At 2,000. Take a little one, two, one.
0:14:57 > 0:15:00The same applies there. At 2,100. 2-1, 2-3.
0:15:00 > 0:15:012-3.
0:15:01 > 0:15:042-6, have I?
0:15:04 > 0:15:062-8. Do you fill it up?
0:15:06 > 0:15:10At 2,800. The blood is worth double this money.
0:15:10 > 0:15:12At 2,800, at the very least.
0:15:12 > 0:15:15It's nowhere near the £4,000 reserve,
0:15:15 > 0:15:18and the horse looks jumpy again.
0:15:18 > 0:15:19At £3,000, then.
0:15:19 > 0:15:21Bidding grinds to a halt.
0:15:21 > 0:15:24Away today, then, at 3,000.
0:15:24 > 0:15:28I'm afraid we won't let her go there. Not sold. Thank you, ma'am.
0:15:35 > 0:15:38Well, the auction was more than a bit of a disaster.
0:15:38 > 0:15:41She's never ever behaved like that at home.
0:15:41 > 0:15:43I think it was just all too much for her.
0:15:43 > 0:15:46A four-year-old. It was just too much.
0:15:49 > 0:15:51Robyn feels rotten.
0:15:51 > 0:15:55She feels really sick, because she rode beautifully,
0:15:55 > 0:15:58she did everything she could do,
0:15:58 > 0:16:02but the horse just wasn't playing ball today.
0:16:02 > 0:16:04With Lexley Eclair unsold,
0:16:04 > 0:16:08all their hopes now rest with the three foals.
0:16:08 > 0:16:11They'll have a chance to try again soon at this three-day
0:16:11 > 0:16:14mid Wales market, the home of the Welsh Cob.
0:16:22 > 0:16:24Are you going to talk to her nice? Hello, beauty.
0:16:26 > 0:16:29- Pretty chilled out about life, isn't she?- She is!
0:16:29 > 0:16:32The Welsh Cob dates back at least 1,000 years.
0:16:36 > 0:16:40For centuries, they were our national workhorses,
0:16:40 > 0:16:43from transport to farming...
0:16:45 > 0:16:46..and mining.
0:16:46 > 0:16:50But they remain as popular today as they were then.
0:16:52 > 0:16:55They're known for their resilience, their hardiness.
0:16:55 > 0:16:58They're used to living in tough conditions,
0:16:58 > 0:17:00on the sides of hillsides.
0:17:01 > 0:17:06It has a massively passionate, passionate, passionate following.
0:17:06 > 0:17:07Not just from the Welsh,
0:17:07 > 0:17:10not just from the rest of the UK,
0:17:10 > 0:17:13but internationally, as well, worldwide.
0:17:14 > 0:17:19Cobs are exported to around 17 countries worldwide,
0:17:19 > 0:17:22an export trade worth millions of pounds a year to Wales.
0:17:23 > 0:17:27Here we go. Alone with company, loves to please, willing Cob,
0:17:27 > 0:17:29good with the farrier...
0:17:29 > 0:17:31But with the breed so popular,
0:17:31 > 0:17:35the sheer scale of the Autumn Cob Sale presents unique challenges
0:17:35 > 0:17:37for auctioneer Andrew.
0:17:37 > 0:17:41With a crowd this big, how exactly do you spot the bidders?
0:17:41 > 0:17:441,000 anywhere? 500 I've got. 500's the opening bid.
0:17:44 > 0:17:49This particular sale ring is a massive sale ring.
0:17:49 > 0:17:53You are quite a long way away from your buyers,
0:17:53 > 0:17:58because you need this big ring to allow the animal to show itself off.
0:17:58 > 0:18:02We're looking, in that sale ring there,
0:18:02 > 0:18:04at maybe 2,500 people.
0:18:04 > 0:18:08Now, you will get bidders that will bid to you in the most discreet
0:18:08 > 0:18:10fashion, because they want to keep their powder dry.
0:18:10 > 0:18:13They don't want anyone else to know they're going to be bidding.
0:18:13 > 0:18:16And then you get the very flamboyant bidder, as well,
0:18:16 > 0:18:21who really gives a big flourish and a flash of their bidder's card.
0:18:21 > 0:18:25You have got to tune yourself in, as an auctioneer.
0:18:25 > 0:18:27Thankfully, you've got spotters as well,
0:18:27 > 0:18:29and we couldn't do it on our own.
0:18:29 > 0:18:34We've got other guys and ladies that are looking out where we can't see.
0:18:34 > 0:18:38But you're constantly, constantly looking around
0:18:38 > 0:18:40the whole ring for any bid.
0:18:40 > 0:18:42You can't afford to miss them.
0:18:42 > 0:18:44As an auctioneer, you can't afford to miss them.
0:18:44 > 0:18:46920. Thank you, sir.
0:18:54 > 0:18:57574 over there. Five for the black one at the back.
0:18:57 > 0:18:59She has a lovely temperament and is totally unspoiled.
0:18:59 > 0:19:01She has four straight moving paces,
0:19:01 > 0:19:03and a definite future ridden or fantastic broodmare.
0:19:05 > 0:19:08For many people at the Builth Wells auction,
0:19:08 > 0:19:11buying horses is crucial for their business.
0:19:11 > 0:19:15- Some nice horses going through there, look.- Yeah.
0:19:15 > 0:19:16It's looking good.
0:19:16 > 0:19:19And especially for buyer Janet Alderton,
0:19:19 > 0:19:21who's at the sale for her disabled riding school.
0:19:23 > 0:19:26It's like being a child in a candy store!
0:19:26 > 0:19:29You know, you want to look at everything. It's really exciting!
0:19:34 > 0:19:37Janet runs the business from her farm in Herefordshire.
0:19:37 > 0:19:41As a one-to-one riding school for people with disabilities,
0:19:41 > 0:19:44it relies on sourcing good horses for the job.
0:19:44 > 0:19:48So, in 2013, a group of like-minded people
0:19:48 > 0:19:50and myself got together,
0:19:50 > 0:19:52and we formed a group called Ride To Achieve,
0:19:52 > 0:19:57which was very much looking at having one-to-one sessions,
0:19:57 > 0:19:59and it's found a niche market,
0:19:59 > 0:20:01and we're thriving.
0:20:10 > 0:20:12That's a good boy, aren't you? Hey?
0:20:12 > 0:20:13How are you, Janet? Are you all right?
0:20:15 > 0:20:18Every week, the school works with around 40 riders
0:20:18 > 0:20:22with a wide range of physical and learning disabilities.
0:20:22 > 0:20:26For customers like Jackie, it's worked wonders.
0:20:26 > 0:20:28Because they give you one-to-one attention.
0:20:28 > 0:20:32They recognise your dreams and your hopes and your potential,
0:20:32 > 0:20:35and they really help you to achieve what they want you to achieve.
0:20:35 > 0:20:36And nothing's impossible.
0:20:36 > 0:20:40Push the hand down a little bit so it really takes the contact forward.
0:20:40 > 0:20:43For somebody like me, in a wheelchair, they give you freedom,
0:20:43 > 0:20:45because, you know, moving about isn't always easy.
0:20:45 > 0:20:47Get on something like Victor and you're away,
0:20:47 > 0:20:50and that's an amazing feeling in itself.
0:20:50 > 0:20:53Janet's daughter, Jo, is the head trainer.
0:20:53 > 0:20:56I think it's essential as a coach
0:20:56 > 0:20:58to have the correct horse
0:20:58 > 0:21:00that will work with us,
0:21:00 > 0:21:03that will help our riders.
0:21:03 > 0:21:05I think they need to have a good nature, be safe.
0:21:05 > 0:21:10So, it really is essential that the horse and the coach works as a team,
0:21:10 > 0:21:13and can work as a team with the rider.
0:21:13 > 0:21:15That's it. Just watch that outside shoulder.
0:21:15 > 0:21:17To work at the riding school,
0:21:17 > 0:21:20a horse has to have just the right mix of qualities.
0:21:20 > 0:21:24And with their strength, intelligence and calm temperament,
0:21:24 > 0:21:26Welsh Cobs are ideal.
0:21:26 > 0:21:29It'd be really exciting if we could find two horses.
0:21:29 > 0:21:32One that's already broken in and going,
0:21:32 > 0:21:36and that we were able to sort of ride on and produce fairly quickly,
0:21:36 > 0:21:39and then a youngster for us to bring on in the future.
0:21:39 > 0:21:42That would be our ideal result, would be to have two.
0:21:42 > 0:21:43So, yes, fingers crossed.
0:21:45 > 0:21:48The school needs a regular supply of horses to operate.
0:21:48 > 0:21:52Otherwise, they'll struggle to keep up with customer demand.
0:21:52 > 0:21:54He's a good boy. Yes, he is.
0:21:54 > 0:21:56He's a good boy.
0:21:57 > 0:21:59Yes, he is.
0:21:59 > 0:22:01For Janet's riding school customers,
0:22:01 > 0:22:03there's a lot resting on this auction.
0:22:06 > 0:22:09It's really important that we find the right one.
0:22:09 > 0:22:12Because, actually, this horse potentially will be life-changing.
0:22:12 > 0:22:14You know, it changes people's lives.
0:22:14 > 0:22:17It's going to be inspirational for
0:22:17 > 0:22:19such a range of people.
0:22:19 > 0:22:21And, yeah, we're always excited about that.
0:22:39 > 0:22:44With this school demanding a regular supply of exceptional horses,
0:22:44 > 0:22:46and Janet and Jo having a limited budget,
0:22:46 > 0:22:50they certainly have their work cut out.
0:22:50 > 0:22:53- He's got a kind face. - Yeah. There's a mare down there.
0:22:53 > 0:22:55- OK.- It's in foal, though.
0:22:55 > 0:22:58- OK!- No, no, but... But I like it.
0:22:59 > 0:23:02You know, when you're enthusiastic about horses,
0:23:02 > 0:23:05what more can you want? This is better than Disney World,
0:23:05 > 0:23:08this is just perfect, it's just so exciting, so stimulating.
0:23:10 > 0:23:13It might be fun, but buying horses is a serious business.
0:23:13 > 0:23:15And Janet has a game plan.
0:23:17 > 0:23:18All right, baby.
0:23:20 > 0:23:22Sales are a little bit of a cloak-and-dagger thing,
0:23:22 > 0:23:25because you don't want to show any interest in anything,
0:23:25 > 0:23:27because if you show an interest,
0:23:27 > 0:23:29then they think that that prices are going to go up.
0:23:29 > 0:23:34Would it be possible just to sort of walk him up and down here, please?
0:23:34 > 0:23:35Thank you.
0:23:35 > 0:23:39So, you know, I want it as cheap as possible, the sellers,
0:23:39 > 0:23:41the vendors, want as much as possible, so,
0:23:41 > 0:23:45you take on a little bit of a slightly protective layer
0:23:45 > 0:23:47of being a little dismissive.
0:23:47 > 0:23:50You ask a few questions, but you walk away.
0:23:50 > 0:23:53You don't stand there raving about how exciting something is,
0:23:53 > 0:23:55because you don't want them to know that.
0:23:55 > 0:23:57That's just not your poker hand at all, you know.
0:23:57 > 0:23:59Good boy.
0:23:59 > 0:24:01They found a horse they like the look of.
0:24:01 > 0:24:03A strong, four-year-old male called Lucky Ace,
0:24:03 > 0:24:06that would be perfect for their disabled riders.
0:24:07 > 0:24:09He really fills the eye.
0:24:09 > 0:24:13He's got a lovely big front on him, which is really important.
0:24:13 > 0:24:17- He's got a kind eye.- He's got a kind eye. Lovely, real nice example
0:24:17 > 0:24:19of the qualities of the Welsh.
0:24:19 > 0:24:21Yeah, he's certainly one we'll look to follow.
0:24:21 > 0:24:25- It's...a lot to like about him. - Yeah.
0:24:25 > 0:24:27Yeah, nice horse! Hello, beautiful!
0:24:27 > 0:24:29Everywhere you look, there's quality.
0:24:29 > 0:24:32You're looking at it, you're thinking, can you make that work?
0:24:32 > 0:24:34Would it happen? Whoops, sorry.
0:24:34 > 0:24:37We have to come back to being realistic about what we're actually
0:24:37 > 0:24:40looking for, at the moment. Because, from a business point of view,
0:24:40 > 0:24:41we have to buy the right animal.
0:24:41 > 0:24:44This isn't a hobby, this is a business.
0:24:44 > 0:24:47But, yeah, this is the best environment ever.
0:24:47 > 0:24:48Absolutely love it!
0:24:52 > 0:24:56Disabled riding school owners Janet and Jo are ready to place their
0:24:56 > 0:24:57first bids in the arena.
0:24:57 > 0:25:00This is really electric, this is really exciting.
0:25:03 > 0:25:05Next up in the sale is Lucky Ace.
0:25:05 > 0:25:08The horse they've just been inspecting.
0:25:11 > 0:25:13It's the perfect horse for their school.
0:25:13 > 0:25:15Strong and calm, without being too wide
0:25:15 > 0:25:18for their disabled customers to ride comfortably.
0:25:21 > 0:25:25This is the type of horse that could change people's lives.
0:25:25 > 0:25:28500, 500, 500, 500 here!
0:25:30 > 0:25:33But as this sale starts, competition is strong.
0:25:36 > 0:25:40Buyers have got to decide how many pound notes are in their wallet,
0:25:40 > 0:25:43and how far they're prepared to go.
0:25:43 > 0:25:46If you like that Cob, you've got to think to yourself,
0:25:46 > 0:25:48"How much am I going to spend on that?"
0:25:48 > 0:25:52"How much would I be prepared to spend on that?"
0:25:52 > 0:25:56- How much more, do you think? - Huh?- How much more, do you think?
0:25:56 > 0:25:58Just see where they're going.
0:25:58 > 0:26:00The price has rocketed up,
0:26:00 > 0:26:03and head has to rule over heart.
0:26:03 > 0:26:061,800 is on top.
0:26:06 > 0:26:092,000 down below.
0:26:09 > 0:26:10At 2 I'm bid down below.
0:26:10 > 0:26:12Janet drops out of the bidding.
0:26:12 > 0:26:142,000 I'm bid there. 2-2.
0:26:14 > 0:26:16- Yeah, he's going... I hope he keeps going.- Yeah.
0:26:16 > 0:26:20- Because it's a nice horse. - Yeah, it's nice. He is.
0:26:20 > 0:26:212-4, 2-4.
0:26:21 > 0:26:23- Yeah.- 2-6.
0:26:23 > 0:26:25Yeah, no, he's out for us now. He's out, yeah, yeah.
0:26:25 > 0:26:28- Yeah.- 2,600's in again.
0:26:28 > 0:26:31It's really, really, really, nice but out of our price range now.
0:26:31 > 0:26:34He's gone on up. I hope he keeps going for more money.
0:26:34 > 0:26:37He's worth a lot of money, this horse. He's lovely.
0:26:37 > 0:26:40£2,600, then. There it is. On top. Hammer's up.
0:26:40 > 0:26:43Coming down. 2-6, well done you.
0:26:43 > 0:26:47It seems Janet and Jo need to set their sights a little lower,
0:26:47 > 0:26:52or risk not getting the horses their stables really needs.
0:26:52 > 0:26:53Yep, that was nice.
0:27:02 > 0:27:04There's a good boy.
0:27:04 > 0:27:06Oh, bless you, too!
0:27:06 > 0:27:08Sellers Marilyn Beach and granddaughter Robyn
0:27:08 > 0:27:12are getting ready for their final sale in the arena.
0:27:12 > 0:27:14Shall we put these on? Or we can try.
0:27:14 > 0:27:17They need to make some money to help the financial future
0:27:17 > 0:27:22of their stables, and now it's all down to their three foals.
0:27:22 > 0:27:25We've just come down to the collecting ring,
0:27:25 > 0:27:27and shortly we'll be going into the sale ring,
0:27:28 > 0:27:32and I'm very, very nervous and excited.
0:27:32 > 0:27:34Electric, the mood is.
0:27:37 > 0:27:39Having raised the foals since birth,
0:27:39 > 0:27:42parting with them is bittersweet for Marilyn.
0:27:42 > 0:27:46I'm hoping at the end of it, that they will be sold,
0:27:46 > 0:27:48and there'll be smiles all round,
0:27:48 > 0:27:50but I'll certainly have tears.
0:27:50 > 0:27:52No question.
0:27:54 > 0:27:57As the previous lot goes through,
0:27:57 > 0:28:00bidding seems to have slowed down.
0:28:00 > 0:28:01Not so good.
0:28:03 > 0:28:06Six-month-old Celtic Prince is first up.
0:28:08 > 0:28:102 I got. 200 a bid. At 250.
0:28:10 > 0:28:13250, 250, 300.
0:28:13 > 0:28:15Look at the size of him.
0:28:15 > 0:28:18Proper boy. Proper fella.
0:28:18 > 0:28:20The price is slowly creeping up.
0:28:20 > 0:28:22At 300 bid, four!
0:28:22 > 0:28:24400, 400.
0:28:24 > 0:28:26Take a big step, sir. If you don't, he will.
0:28:26 > 0:28:27450, 450.
0:28:27 > 0:28:28450.
0:28:28 > 0:28:30Close the door.
0:28:30 > 0:28:32450, last call, last look.
0:28:32 > 0:28:35Gone left. Sold, then, at 450.
0:28:35 > 0:28:37Thank you, sir.
0:28:37 > 0:28:40Buyer is 200 at 450.
0:28:40 > 0:28:44Next in the arena is Kez, also about six months old.
0:28:44 > 0:28:47At 200, 200. 200 now.
0:28:47 > 0:28:49At two, 200. Thank you, sir.
0:28:49 > 0:28:52300, 300, 300, 300.
0:28:52 > 0:28:54£320.
0:28:54 > 0:28:57Last look at the good Kez.
0:28:57 > 0:28:59Sold at 320.
0:28:59 > 0:29:01And the foal sells for a good price.
0:29:02 > 0:29:05Last up is the filly called Hattie.
0:29:05 > 0:29:08Marilyn thinks it's the prettiest foal she's ever bred.
0:29:09 > 0:29:11She wants £500.
0:29:11 > 0:29:14But auctioneer Andrew is having trouble getting the crowd going.
0:29:14 > 0:29:171,000 anywhere?
0:29:17 > 0:29:19200 in the ring. At 200 now.
0:29:19 > 0:29:21It may be in your eyes an absolutely
0:29:21 > 0:29:25drop-dead gorgeous beast that you're offering,
0:29:25 > 0:29:28but, for some reason, the audience doesn't agree with you,
0:29:28 > 0:29:30and no matter how much you talk it up,
0:29:30 > 0:29:33you can't get those purchasers to put their hand in the air.
0:29:33 > 0:29:35Very disappointing. At 150.
0:29:35 > 0:29:38I've loved it. Why don't you love it?
0:29:38 > 0:29:40Last look. 180. 180.
0:29:40 > 0:29:41- 180.- Yes!- 200.
0:29:41 > 0:29:45£200, my good man, close to me, is out, there's the bid.
0:29:45 > 0:29:50At 200, I look at you again, sir. At 200. 200. Look at me, sir.
0:29:50 > 0:29:53- Very disappointing, but...- £200. Selling here.- ..that's the trade.
0:29:53 > 0:29:55Last chance.
0:29:55 > 0:29:57At £200. Thank you.
0:29:58 > 0:30:00389 at 200.
0:30:00 > 0:30:03Thank you. Thank you.
0:30:03 > 0:30:06Marilyn may not quite have got the prices she hoped for,
0:30:06 > 0:30:09but she still managed to sell the three foals.
0:30:09 > 0:30:11I'm a bit disappointed with the prices,
0:30:11 > 0:30:15but I'm really happy and proud at the way they looked.
0:30:16 > 0:30:20So, today has been a mixture of emotions.
0:30:20 > 0:30:23Yeah. A mixture.
0:30:25 > 0:30:26And I always cry.
0:30:31 > 0:30:34For Marilyn and Robyn, the auction has served its purpose.
0:30:34 > 0:30:36With the sale of their foals,
0:30:36 > 0:30:39they've raised £1,000 to reinvest in the stables.
0:30:47 > 0:30:49At 520, 520.
0:30:49 > 0:30:51- 1,002.- 70.
0:30:51 > 0:30:55The Autumn Cob Sale has been a big feature of Welsh life
0:30:55 > 0:30:57for over 50 years.
0:30:58 > 0:31:01In the early days, it was held on a farm over the course
0:31:01 > 0:31:03of a single day,
0:31:03 > 0:31:07with one or two auctioneers selling around 100 horses between them.
0:31:10 > 0:31:15The scale of the auction today is so large, it needs a whole team
0:31:15 > 0:31:18of auctioneers, carefully pacing themselves.
0:31:18 > 0:31:20One, five. One, five.
0:31:20 > 0:31:23600, 700. 700, 800.
0:31:23 > 0:31:25At 150. Hammer's coming up.
0:31:25 > 0:31:27Sold at 2,000.
0:31:27 > 0:31:30On a day like today, we'll have cut the catalogue up
0:31:30 > 0:31:32into equal chunks of 20 lots.
0:31:32 > 0:31:35There are four auctioneers that are in operation today,
0:31:35 > 0:31:39so you have 20 lots, then you're off, give it to the next guy,
0:31:39 > 0:31:41he has 20 lots. You're revitalised,
0:31:41 > 0:31:43you haven't used all your energies up,
0:31:43 > 0:31:47so you're there, bright and buzzing again and ready to hit the ground.
0:31:47 > 0:31:48Hammer's up. Comes down.
0:31:48 > 0:31:50Sold. Well done, team.
0:31:50 > 0:31:54That effort involved to sort of cajole bids out,
0:31:54 > 0:31:57because you want to get the best possible price,
0:31:57 > 0:32:00you want to make it worthwhile for the vendors.
0:32:00 > 0:32:03The modern Autumn Cob Sale prides itself on its heritage,
0:32:03 > 0:32:05adhering to old traditions.
0:32:05 > 0:32:09Many families have been buying and selling here for decades.
0:32:09 > 0:32:121,500. Sold at 1,500.
0:32:15 > 0:32:20Like David Oliver, who's been coming to the auction for nearly 30 years,
0:32:21 > 0:32:25when his father and grandfather first brought him as a little boy.
0:32:25 > 0:32:28- All right? How far are you off? - Two minutes, we'll be ready
0:32:28 > 0:32:30- to bring them out. - And do you know which numbers...
0:32:30 > 0:32:33Now the 35-year-old is in charge of the family horses,
0:32:33 > 0:32:36with father Des helping out.
0:32:36 > 0:32:39And they have a surprising use for hair gel.
0:32:40 > 0:32:43A bit of hair gel, just to make
0:32:43 > 0:32:45the mane and tail lie the way you want it.
0:32:45 > 0:32:47Just makes them look...
0:32:47 > 0:32:49Just makes a difference to the way they look.
0:32:49 > 0:32:50It's all sort of neat and tidy.
0:32:50 > 0:32:53They look like they've got a little bit more quality.
0:32:53 > 0:32:56A little bit for the foals and then a little bit for me after.
0:33:05 > 0:33:09The Oliver family farm, about 50 miles from the Cob sale,
0:33:09 > 0:33:11earns its keep with 400 sheep,
0:33:11 > 0:33:14but it's the horses that dominate.
0:33:15 > 0:33:17I think it's in your blood, especially for us.
0:33:17 > 0:33:19It's something we were born into,
0:33:19 > 0:33:21and we know no different and it's a passion
0:33:21 > 0:33:23that's been handed down through generations,
0:33:23 > 0:33:26and I don't think we could do without them.
0:33:26 > 0:33:28I couldn't imagine life without a horse.
0:33:28 > 0:33:30Good girl.
0:33:30 > 0:33:34What started years ago as a hobby has gradually become the focus
0:33:34 > 0:33:37for David, sister Sarah and the whole family.
0:33:37 > 0:33:39Go back in now, I think.
0:33:39 > 0:33:42It's our passion, it's what we love and that, for us, is...
0:33:42 > 0:33:45That gives us a lot of fulfilment as a family.
0:33:45 > 0:33:48The next generation, David's nieces,
0:33:48 > 0:33:51have already been drawn into the family passion.
0:33:51 > 0:33:52Whoa, steady! Whoa!
0:33:52 > 0:33:54Whoa. Whoa.
0:33:54 > 0:33:55Whoa!
0:33:57 > 0:33:58Oh.
0:34:00 > 0:34:03We're quite lucky, as well, I've got two nieces, Macy and Jodie,
0:34:03 > 0:34:06who are absolutely in love with the horses.
0:34:06 > 0:34:09They're very, very keen, and they're getting a little bit older now
0:34:09 > 0:34:12and I'm starting to have to fight them for duties.
0:34:12 > 0:34:15They want to come and lead the foals and make a fuss of the foals,
0:34:15 > 0:34:17and they've got their own ponies here on the farm, as well,
0:34:17 > 0:34:21and they do come down most nights to try and mess and play with them,
0:34:21 > 0:34:24as well, so, yeah, it's great that they're showing an interest.
0:34:27 > 0:34:30But the line between passion and obsession is a fine one.
0:34:33 > 0:34:36And David admits that they may have crossed it.
0:34:37 > 0:34:40They seem to have crept on us, numbers, to be honest.
0:34:40 > 0:34:42We've got about 40 horses, at the moment.
0:34:42 > 0:34:44But if anyone asks, we tell them 25.
0:34:44 > 0:34:46Doesn't sound so much.
0:34:46 > 0:34:51The family with 40 horses that says they have 25
0:34:51 > 0:34:53is perhaps in denial.
0:34:53 > 0:34:57Downsizing is needed, but it's easier said than done.
0:34:57 > 0:34:58I often say we should cut down.
0:34:58 > 0:35:01Dad argues which ones we should sell.
0:35:01 > 0:35:03And then he likes certain ones, I like certain ones,
0:35:03 > 0:35:04my sister likes certain ones.
0:35:04 > 0:35:08So we end up then keeping them all, which isn't good news. But, yeah,
0:35:08 > 0:35:11we will cut back a little bit before this winter.
0:35:11 > 0:35:12We have to, really.
0:35:13 > 0:35:14With winter approaching,
0:35:14 > 0:35:18reducing the huge number of 40 horses is essential,
0:35:18 > 0:35:19if the farm is to function.
0:35:20 > 0:35:24We do have to house them over winter. Because it's farm ground,
0:35:24 > 0:35:27we can't afford to let the horses run out all winter, really.
0:35:27 > 0:35:29They cut the ground up and there's nothing in the spring
0:35:29 > 0:35:32for the ewes and lambs, so it's a case of perhaps having to sell,
0:35:32 > 0:35:36just to make life a lot easier over the winter.
0:35:36 > 0:35:39And, of course, Dad isn't getting any younger.
0:35:39 > 0:35:40He won't thank me for saying that.
0:35:40 > 0:35:44So, yeah, it's just trying to keep the work down, really.
0:35:44 > 0:35:46It's not been an easy decision,
0:35:46 > 0:35:49but to avert their impending horse crisis,
0:35:49 > 0:35:52the family have chosen four animals to take to the auction.
0:35:55 > 0:35:58Three foals and a young adult mare.
0:35:58 > 0:36:00This is Claire.
0:36:00 > 0:36:04She's a four-and-a-half-month-old filly foal.
0:36:04 > 0:36:07She's a nice filly. There is no reserve on her, so, hopefully,
0:36:07 > 0:36:10fingers crossed, she'll find a nice home. This is Prada.
0:36:10 > 0:36:14She's looking a little bit, uh,
0:36:14 > 0:36:18scruffy! We have washed her this morning in preparation for the sale.
0:36:18 > 0:36:20So it's just taking a little bit of her coat...
0:36:20 > 0:36:22Because the foals' coats are quite thick,
0:36:22 > 0:36:25it does take them quite a bit of time to dry out,
0:36:25 > 0:36:27so, yeah, she isn't looking at her best!
0:36:27 > 0:36:30And we thought, she's quite saleable, she's a lovely colour,
0:36:30 > 0:36:31with four white socks.
0:36:31 > 0:36:33This is Cara.
0:36:34 > 0:36:38She's about the same age again, four-and-a-half, five-months-old.
0:36:38 > 0:36:41And she's very closely related to Claire.
0:36:41 > 0:36:45This is one I'm in a bit of trouble with Dad, actually,
0:36:45 > 0:36:46for entering for the sale.
0:36:46 > 0:36:48It's one of his favourites this year.
0:36:48 > 0:36:50But we've got to sell something.
0:36:50 > 0:36:54But we have got a reserve on this filly.
0:36:54 > 0:36:55We would like about £1,000 for her.
0:36:55 > 0:36:58This is the final lot we're selling, this is the mare.
0:36:58 > 0:37:00This is Pavereen Glamour Chick.
0:37:00 > 0:37:02She's very, very well bred,
0:37:02 > 0:37:05and we think she will make somebody else a good mare.
0:37:05 > 0:37:07So fingers crossed.
0:37:09 > 0:37:13Selling four horses will create much-needed space on the farm.
0:37:13 > 0:37:16If we do happen to have a lucky day and we do happen to do well with
0:37:16 > 0:37:19the ponies, I think the biggest treat we'll have, maybe,
0:37:19 > 0:37:21is improving a few of the facilities at home,
0:37:21 > 0:37:23improving the stables and things like that,
0:37:23 > 0:37:27so it's sort of putting it back in, into the enterprise, really.
0:37:28 > 0:37:30No holidays. And we might buy a drink or two.
0:37:30 > 0:37:33Yeah, but there'll be no posh cars outside.
0:37:39 > 0:37:42Back at the auction, sales seem buoyant.
0:37:42 > 0:37:45£4,800.
0:37:46 > 0:37:48Well done to you.
0:37:48 > 0:37:52And big prices are getting cheers from the crowd.
0:37:52 > 0:37:54- £5,500.- We're in the wrong game!
0:37:57 > 0:38:00That is a lot of money.
0:38:00 > 0:38:02It's the perfect time to sell Cara,
0:38:02 > 0:38:05the horse David's dad doesn't want to part with.
0:38:05 > 0:38:09It looks like it might go jousting, but she's...
0:38:09 > 0:38:12It's just a Lycra hood and it just keeps the coat flat,
0:38:12 > 0:38:15and it just helps keep the mane over, because the mane wants to be
0:38:15 > 0:38:18on the opposite side to the side to the side you lead.
0:38:18 > 0:38:20It's just presentation again.
0:38:20 > 0:38:22I just hope it makes a difference later on.
0:38:22 > 0:38:25We'll take that off her before we take her down to the ring.
0:38:27 > 0:38:29It's like seeing somebody with her curlers in.
0:38:30 > 0:38:35It is down to the vendor to present their lots in their best possible
0:38:35 > 0:38:39light, and there's a lot of cosmetic loveliness that goes on.
0:38:39 > 0:38:41There's whitener going on.
0:38:41 > 0:38:44They're making their socks look brighter.
0:38:44 > 0:38:46They'll even put glitter on them, as well,
0:38:46 > 0:38:49to add a bit of pizzazz and a bit of showmanship.
0:38:50 > 0:38:54There's a £500 reserve on Cara.
0:38:54 > 0:38:57David's dad might still get to take her back home.
0:38:57 > 0:38:59£500 away. 500, 500.
0:38:59 > 0:39:013,300 away.
0:39:01 > 0:39:02300. 200 bid.
0:39:02 > 0:39:03150, 250. 300.
0:39:03 > 0:39:05300 bid 300.
0:39:05 > 0:39:0850. 350, 350. At 350.
0:39:08 > 0:39:10Under 350.
0:39:10 > 0:39:12We cannot go there, 350.
0:39:12 > 0:39:15Didn't sell her. Quite happy, really.
0:39:15 > 0:39:17That's a surprise.
0:39:17 > 0:39:19So Cara's going home after all.
0:39:22 > 0:39:23But, over the next two lots,
0:39:23 > 0:39:27the family's fortunes change, and both Claire...
0:39:27 > 0:39:29At 200. A bid 200. Last look round.
0:39:29 > 0:39:32Sold then at £200.
0:39:33 > 0:39:36Yeah, we sold that one.
0:39:36 > 0:39:37..and Prada....
0:39:37 > 0:39:39Sold at 450. In the stands.
0:39:39 > 0:39:41..sell for a good price.
0:39:43 > 0:39:45Last up is the family's star item,
0:39:45 > 0:39:48the adult mare Glamour Chick,
0:39:48 > 0:39:50with an ambitious reserve of £2,000.
0:39:52 > 0:39:56And David's last chance to make much needed room on the family farm,
0:39:56 > 0:39:59even if he is reluctant to part with her.
0:39:59 > 0:40:01Older breed. Behind her there.
0:40:01 > 0:40:032,000, 1,500. 1,000, away.
0:40:03 > 0:40:041,000 away. 1,000.
0:40:04 > 0:40:06800 where? 500 I'm bid.
0:40:06 > 0:40:09Glamour Chick is struggling to impress, and the bidding's off
0:40:09 > 0:40:11to a sluggish start.
0:40:11 > 0:40:12600, 900. 900 a bid.
0:40:12 > 0:40:14900. 900 a bid.
0:40:14 > 0:40:15900 a bid. 900.
0:40:15 > 0:40:16900 a bid.
0:40:16 > 0:40:181,000 bid. 1,100. 1,100, 1,100.
0:40:18 > 0:40:211,200. A bid. 1,200. 1,200. Last lots round and all.
0:40:21 > 0:40:23We cannot go there, 1,200. That'll stop.
0:40:23 > 0:40:26It's a no sale for Glamour Chick.
0:40:26 > 0:40:28But David's still feeling upbeat.
0:40:28 > 0:40:32The two we had a reserve on we're taking home, that's fine.
0:40:32 > 0:40:35We wanted more for them. We knew they were good enough,
0:40:35 > 0:40:37and the other two have found fabulous homes.
0:40:37 > 0:40:40It's swings and roundabouts, but we're still smiling.
0:40:50 > 0:40:52With the sale coming to a close,
0:40:52 > 0:40:56buyers Janet and Jo are running out of time to buy the horses
0:40:56 > 0:40:58they need for their disabled riding school.
0:41:00 > 0:41:03But they have their eye on two excellent foals.
0:41:03 > 0:41:06We might be bidding on this one, OK.
0:41:06 > 0:41:09It all depends how quickly it goes up.
0:41:09 > 0:41:12It's a young filly, Crow Eyed Rosebud,
0:41:12 > 0:41:16whose smaller frame will be perfect for younger disabled riders.
0:41:16 > 0:41:18- Do you want it?- Yeah.
0:41:18 > 0:41:20180. Sold right at 180.
0:41:20 > 0:41:23180 buys to the team here.
0:41:23 > 0:41:27They snap her up at a bargain price, a small investment for their future.
0:41:27 > 0:41:30I might as well take two home on the lorry.
0:41:30 > 0:41:33So if this one goes the right money, I'll be buying this one, as well.
0:41:37 > 0:41:40- It's on 50 at the moment.- Yeah.
0:41:40 > 0:41:42And luck is with them.
0:41:42 > 0:41:43They get a good deal on another foal.
0:41:45 > 0:41:47It wasn't exactly what they planned,
0:41:47 > 0:41:51but Janet and Jo got two quality foals
0:41:51 > 0:41:54for £350, and after training they'll join the ranks
0:41:54 > 0:42:00of the riding school, ready to change the lives of future clients.
0:42:00 > 0:42:04It's taken us on a roller-coaster of experiences.
0:42:04 > 0:42:06We've seen some really lovely horses,
0:42:06 > 0:42:09but actually to be going home with two is great.
0:42:09 > 0:42:10Absolutely great.
0:42:14 > 0:42:18Three days, 6,000 visitors
0:42:18 > 0:42:21and 359 horse sales later,
0:42:21 > 0:42:23the auction is over.
0:42:24 > 0:42:27Elated. We've had a good sale.
0:42:27 > 0:42:28A little bit tired.
0:42:28 > 0:42:30I'm a little bit hoarse.
0:42:30 > 0:42:33We've been selling little horses and now I'm a little bit hoarse,
0:42:33 > 0:42:35but it's gone well. Gone smoothly, and there's been a lot of
0:42:35 > 0:42:37very happy people here.
0:42:42 > 0:42:46At Janet's stables, the two foals have already started
0:42:46 > 0:42:49their training as future horses for the disabled.
0:42:50 > 0:42:54On the Oliver land, David still has 38 horses
0:42:54 > 0:42:56to nurse through the winter,
0:42:56 > 0:42:59but hopes to slim things down in the spring.
0:42:59 > 0:43:01And at Marilyn's farm,
0:43:01 > 0:43:04Robyn is determined that Lexley Eclair
0:43:04 > 0:43:07will finally do them all proud at next year's auction.