Defra has given markets and abattoirs within eight kilometres of border zones the option to become part of the zone so previously excluded stock can be sold there.

For Skipton Auction Mart, entering the conditions means livestock from Calderdale, Kirklees, other parts of West Yorkshire and Nidderdale can now go to market.

Jeremy Eaton, general manager, said last month's alteration to the Bluetongue boundary hugely cut the numbers of livestock passing through.

"As a direct result, it has become difficult to maintain the interest of buyers who need both choice and numbers to make transport economical.

"After careful consideration, the board at Skipton decided that the most important issue was to maintain the number of buyers at the ringside to ensure that a strong and healthy demand persists until the time when the Bluetongue status of the whole region – or country – changes."

The decision proved particularly positive for farmer Ian Dodson, from Ripponden, who bought an award-winning heifer at the market.

Mr Dodson, who is restocking his dairy herd, bought the Craven Dairy Auction Champion for £1,500 along with six other milkers.