UPDATE 16 September 2011: since this article was written, the name of the drama has been changed from Young James to Young Herriot.
The people behind BBC’s new drama series about the early life of the vet James Herriot, “Young James” are keen to add a touch of authenticity to its props so they sent a team to search the cellars of Thirsk’s “The World of James Herriot” museum for examples of the sort of equipment that Herriot would have used when he was training during the 1930s in Glasgow before he came south to the Yorkshire Dales to practice.
James Herriot’s son, Jim Wight (Herriot’s real name was Alf Wight) is very excited about the prospect of the new series, and has given BBC researchers access to his father’s original manuscripts and diaries to help ensure that the drama is underpinned by factual details.
You can see Jim in the image above examining a fearsome-looking hypodermic syringe with Claire Pidgeon of the production company Koco Drama Ltd of Glasgow taking photos.
You can read more about the programme here and you can see pics of the cast and read more here.
Filming for the series is due to begin soon, and the programme should be on our screens in the autumn.
In the meantime, you can get the chance to meet Jim Wight or his sister Rosie Page at a number of events taking place this summer.
The first of these is a Garden Party at the World of James Herriot museum on Saturday 25 June from 7.00 – 9.00 pm. There’s an exhibition by a Yorkshire artist, Suzanne Cartwright, followed by a question and answer session with Jim & Rosie. Tickets (including two drinks and a buffet) cost £10 each. Profits will help fund the Museum.
There’s also a series of “Tea and Talks” with a guided tour of the Museum by either Jim or Rosie followed by a natter over a cup of tea. Places for these are strictly limited so early booking is essential. Tickets cost £12 per person and these intimate occasions will take place between 4.00 & 6.00 pm on:
Thursday 30 June
Thursday 28 July
Thursday 25th August
Thursday 22nd September
For information or to book tickets for any or all of these call the World of James Herriot on 01845 524 234 or email james.herriot@hambleton.gov.uk.
And if you need accommodation in Thirsk, check out some Thirsk guest houses or Thirsk B&Bs on Hello Yorkshire.