The Saltire Simmental herd of J. & G. Houliston, Drem, East Lothian has been a familiar name in pedigree and commercial circles since its establishment in the early 2000s. Built on the use of top AI sires, the herd has not only achieved regular five-figure bull...
SIMMENTALS ‘ON THE MONEY’ IN SOUTH WEST OF ENGLAND!
This week we’ve been down through Scotland, into the borders, and the North West of England. Today we’re taking a look at the South West of England and Simmentals again topping sections across commercial sales in the region. Sale centres included are Hallworthy;...
SIMMENTALS FEATURING STRONGLY AT HARRISON & HETHERINGTON SALES!
Sales at Borderway Mart, Carlisle, and St Boswells, Scottish Borders, featured We’ve been bobbing round the country and featuring auction marts where Simmental cattle are continuing to do the business and attract top prices across all sale commercial sale sections....
ALASDAIR HOUSTON

The British Simmental Cattle Society has been deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Alasdair Houston, MBE, DL, FRAgS, of Gretna Green, earlier this week.
A hugely respected and popular figure within agriculture, livestock and the pedigree sector, Alasdair met with great success in the sales and show ring over a sustained period with his noted Charolais and Aberdeen Angus pedigree herds. Earlier this year he was awarded the Sir William Young award for his ‘exceptional contribution to the world of cattle breeding’.
Serving a period as Chairman of the British Charolais Cattle Society, and also a period as Chairman of the Board of Harrison & Hetherington, Alasdair was a dynamic individual who coupled his roles in agriculture whilst being a hands-on farmer, and developing his significant and successful business interests in Gretna.
From a Simmental perspective, Alasdair also of course leaves his indelible fingerprint on the history of the breed having bred Gretnahouse Supersonic, a bull who is the second most prolific in the British Simmental herdbook.
On behalf of all members, the Society’s deepest condolences are extended to Lucy, Rafe, and Tara at this sad time.