South west England is one of Britain's premier farming areas, and at its heart is Exeter Livestock Market - the biggest agricultural auction in the West Country. On a busy day, they can sell nearly 4,000 animals here - from cattle and pigs to sheep and calves - and turnover as much as £700,000.

For sheer scale, one animal outstrips them all - sheep. There are nearly 2,500 to sell today. In fact, the auction was taken over by new management five and a half years ago, and they have just celebrated selling one million sheep in that time. Seller Stuart Crang is bringing 80 sheep to market today. Sheep rearing is seasonal, and he has to make the most of his income in the next few months, so prices are vital. With the average sheep selling for around £60, every pound can make a real difference. Buyer Roger Heggadon has to take care he doesn't pay too much. With nearly 2,000 sheep on his farm, and another 100 to buy today, it's a volume business that needs a clear head at auction. In the pig auction next door, buyer Rodney Phillips needs volume too. With over 40 regular customers to supply across the West Country - from butchers to wholesalers - he needs to buy at least 100 pigs to meet all his orders and keep his customers happy. Show less