James McAlister was one of Bute's best known farmers and the oldest survivor of one of the longest established farming families on Bute.

Taking the chair of Bute Agricultural Society in 1968 he was later elected as the society's honorary life vice-president in recognition of his valued participation in his work within the organisation over many years. He also took over as local chair of the NFU in 1970.

After already having a well-established Ayrshire herd, James became a member of the British Simmental Cattle Society in 1973. He attended sales at Bingley Hall, in Birmingham, selling grading up registered females. Bruchag was the chosen prefix and Ruth, the foundation heifer arrived in 1976, purchased from the second importation from Germany.

In 1978, Bruchag Hilda was the first home-bred heifer to be registered. Bulls were sold at society sales at both Carlisle and Perth.

Over the years, James and Mairi made some very good friendships within the Simmental breed, enjoying many of the Scottish club events and in particular the organised trips they attended throughout the country.

James was immensely proud of his children, James, Duncan, Charles, Mary, Robert, Ninian, Donald, and his grand-children.