"Between 3,500 and 4,000 horses pass through the two Sale Rings every year with the largest monthly throughputs in May/ June/ September and October. Horses come to be sold from every corner of Wales as well as the Border country and Midlands, whilst buyers come from Wales, England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Eire and some have gone to the Continent.

Many have gone on to do well in principal shows, Hunting field and many years ago a horse called "Nickel Coin" was bred locally and went on to win the Grand National. Many well known celebrity buyers have been in attendance over the years including David Broome, Mick Jagger and Marianne Faithfull - as well as famous names from the world of Boxing, Rugby and Horse Racing.

In those days, heavy horses i.e. Cart, Collier and Shire horses were in greatest demand to be taken to London to pull Brewery Carts, Milk Floats and general duties. Dealers used to arrive loaded with money in purpose made money belts which they wore around their midriffs and all the dealings were in cash. Later on during the war years there was excellent demand for Pit Ponies to work the coal mines of South Wales.

Over the last 30 years with Hunting becoming popular there has been a call for good Hunters and strong cobs for this purpose. Indeed, the Welsh Cob is now exported throughout the world and is considered one of the finest animals available.

In February 2005, passports were required for every horse sale and while this may have reduced numbers slightly, it certainly improved the quality of the animals offered for sale and subsequently the prices obtained.

At the present time, coloured horses make excellent money with black and white yearlings and foals making 1200 gns - 2000gns. These used to be known as "Gypsy" horses but are now widely kept by everyone.

The Sales started around 1898 and have continued without interruption for over 100 years. During the early years working horses and shepherding ponies were the main entries and sold to local farmers to work on the land.

During the 1st World War many of the working horses were commandeered by the Government to pull heavy guns and transport. In the late 40's and early 50's, the sales had to be extended to 2 days and over 800 horses sold every month - Ponies on Thursdays and working horses on Friday.

Numbers then reduced for a few years until they became very popular again over 30 years ago and have remained attracting large crowds every month. Ever since the beginning, the sales have been conducted by the family firm of Evans Bros."

Article written by Dewi Davies of Evans Brothers Auctioneers.