John Yates, Chief Executive of the Texel Sheep Society, said the industry was shocked by the high price.

'The staggering amount surprised many. A lot of people see these animals as lamb chops, but these flocks are at the top of the genetic pile. This was the elite animal that stood out,' he said.

'Most people would see it as a ridiculous price for a sheep but, for a sheep breeder, it is an investment,' he added.