Two of Stirlingshire’s long-established and highly respected business enterprises are embarking on a strategic partnership which will have significant implications for the rural economy of the area and Scotland as a whole.

Baird Lumsden, the leading rural property specialist based in Bridge of Allan, has been named as the property and valuation specialist for Caledonian Marts (Stirling) Ltd, the national livestock auction house.

In its new partnership, which commences this week (ending Friday September 6), Baird Lumsden will assume responsibility for a host of matters of immediate concern to farmers and rural landowners, including property sales, valuations, renewable energy, SFP entitlements, milk quotas, compensation claims, farm bookkeeping, planning and development.

The deal will give Caledonian Marts clients and shareholders access to Baird Lumsden’s Scotland-wide expertise in rural property affairs in its offices in Edinburgh, Bridge of Allan and Oban.

Caledonian Marts was formed in 1962 and commenced trading at Millhall on the outskirts of Stirling in 1963. The company is a farmers’ co-operative and has more than 2500 shareholders.

The society has nine farmer directors covering a wide range of livestock production and other agricultural practices and it also leases Oban Livestock Centre for auction purposes.

Donald Yellowley, director of Baird Lumsden, said: “This partnership will provide an excellent combination of the skills and expertise of two old established businesses which have been providing a quality service to the rural community for many decades.

“The auctions held by Caledonian Marts are a key component of the rural economy in Scotland and provide a valuable networking arena for farmers and landowners for whom property-related transactions are an intrinsic part of their business.

“Baird Lumsden warmly welcomes the opportunity to offer its recognised experience and expertise in this field to a such a large, well-informed and professional client group.”