A Northern Ireland Limousin breeder is set to take over the reigns of the UK’s largest beef breed society.

Jim Scott from Killyleagh, Co. Down, has been appointed as the British Limousin Cattle Society’s (BLCS) honorary president.

Serving a two-year term of office, and becoming the society’s 14th honorary president, he takes over the reins from Carlisle breeder David Thomlinson.

In a long association with the Limousin breed extending back to 1974, Jim has previously been honorary president of the Northern Ireland Limousin Cattle Club, having served it extensively over many years. He is also a past president of the Northern Ireland Young Limousin Breeders.

Together with his late father Jim Snr., he formed the Ardigon herd of pedigree Limousin’s in 1980. The progeny from the herd has secured many successes over the years, including a Balmoral Championship as well as a Junior and Supreme Reserve Championship at Carlisle.

Notable high prices have been achieved at both Carlisle and Perth sales in the past with the cattle sold going on to be foundation cows and bulls in many herds across Northern Ireland and parts of mainland UK.

On his appointment, Jim said: “I am honoured beyond belief to take on the position as society president. It is a wonderful gesture from the Council of Management and I very much look forward to my term of office.

It is fantastic to see how the breed has developed across the UK since its arrival. I am continually impressed by the quality of modern-day females; they display power, have brilliant maternal traits and superb longevity.

“In addition, the commercial relevance of the bulls on offer at sales these days is outstanding.”

British Limousin

Image source: O’Gorman Photography

Scott said he looked forward to assisting society members as well as the Limousin breed as a whole.

He added that in his new position, he was also looking forward to meeting up with BLCS breeders and buyers at the upcoming autumn sale at Carlisle, as well as other major winter primestock events.

He added: “I am still very much interested in the Young Limousin Breeders’ Club which is a great vessel to encourage youngsters to get involved in the breed.

“The club helps to nurture their interest by educating them on handling stock, stock judging and cattle management which in turn helps to secure the future of the breed.”