World of James Herriot opened in 1999 and celebrated 25 years at a special ‘Black Tie Dinner’ on Saturday 5th October 2024 at The Garden Rooms at Tennants, Leyburn which brought together special guests, including Alf Wight’s (James Herriot) son and daughter, Jim Wight and Rosie Page; Nicholas Ralph, (James Herriot), Sam West (Seigfried Farnon) the two main stars of Channel 5’s All Creatures Great and Small, Peter Wright the Yorkshire Vet who was James Herriot’s apprentice; Channel 5 TV’s production teams Playground and Daisybeck, Graeme Hall, Dogs behaving (Very) badly and a host of local dignitaries and business leaders.
Plus, James Herriot fans from Australia, Belgium, Germany, Holland, Netherlands, New York and the UK. The event was compered by BBC Radio York’s Elly Fiorentini and proceeds were donated to Herriot Hospice Homecare.
Sam West played a duet on the piano with Alexandra Harwood, the composer of the All Creatures Great and Small theme music, Sean Ruane’s operatic voice was a treat for everyone and York String Quartet complemented the evening’s atmosphere with well-known classics.
Rosie Page, a doctor herself, volunteer, trustee, and now an ambassador spoke at length, and passionately about how what was simply called the Homecare charity co-branded with the name Herriot to unlock synergies and fund-raising opportunities far and wide as Herriot Hospice Homecare.
The first manager of the World of James Herriot, Stuart Gill (now at Newby Hall) made a special presentation to the daughter of Councillor June Imeson who took the bold decision to buy the premises that had been both home and practice to Alf Wight, his family and his partners. And, Ian Ashton, managing director of the World of James Herriot presented a gift to Kate Pawlett, director and centre manager to recognise her 24 years of service at the World of James Herriot.
Still one of the best raconteurs around, like his father before him is an observer, Jim Wight, former partner in his father`s practice closed the speeches. A splendid evening at the Garden Rooms, Tennants Auction House in Leyburn, with one of the best function meals based on a menu of local ingredients by Stephanie Moon Chef Consultant at All Things Food. Thank you to everyone who attended and your continued support for All Things Herriot Great and Small…
