Herriot vet documentary gives healthy boost to tourism figures
TOURISM in Herriot Country has been given a healthy boost from the second TV series of The Yorkshire Vet, a documentary based on the original ‘All Creatures Great & Small’ veterinary practice in Thirsk.
Tourism bosses have said the series, which is screening again on Channel 5, has contributed to a 9% increase in visitor numbers.
The series featuring Skeldale Veterinary Centre, where James Herriot based his famous books, ties in with the re-launch of Herriot Country Tourism Group which aims to regenerate the area’s tourism offer.
“This is fantastic news for the World of James Herriot in the 100th Anniversary year of James Herriot’s birth. It’s also a boost for the Herriot Country Tourism Group in this part of Yorkshire because there are so many people who have been inspired by the original James Herriot books, TV series and films of All Creatures Great and Small and we are delighted that Daisybeck Productions and Channel 5 have produced another series,” said Ian Ashton, World of James Herriot managing director.
A statue of Alf Wight, ‘James Herriot,’ installed in 2015 is set in the gardens of the attraction. The statue launched the James Herriot Foundation Trust with aim of raising funds to support people wishing to gain a career in the animal care sector.
“Visitors from around the world make their way to the World of James Herriot here in Thirsk and this new series based on the modern Skeldale Veterinary Practice has helped to boost our visitor numbers year on year by around 9% and is of huge interest for Herriot fans and now a new generation of aficionados” added Mr Ashton.
A black tie dinner is to be held on October 1 at Tennants Garden Rooms in Leyburn to commemorate the 100th Anniversary and to raise funds for the James Herriot Foundation Trust.
Yorkshire Opera star Lesley Garrett OBE, will perform and BBC Look North presenter Harry Gration will be master of ceremonies.
