Train dedicated to the original '˜Yorkshire vet' to be unveiled

Writer James Herriot, aka Alf Wright, at Austicks bookshop on the Headrow, Leeds, autographing his book.

"The Lord God made Them All" in 1981. — Writer James Herriot, aka Alf Wright, at Austicks bookshop on the Headrow, Leeds, autographing his book. "The Lord God made Them All" in 1981.

HIS Books brought the world to the farming communities of Yorkshire, and now a train that will bring visitors from the capital to God's Own Country will be decked with his image.

Next week Grand Central Rail will unveil new artwork dedicated to James Herriot and the man behind him, veterinarian and writer Alf Wight, on its Class 180 train at King’s Cross station.

The move will honour the 100th anniversary of Mr Wight’s birth, and has seen Grand Central partner with the World of James Herriot, Herriot Country Tourism Group and Visit Thirsk.

Jim Wight and Rosie Page, son and daughter of Mr Wight, will be attending the ceremony along with Peter Wright and Julian Norton, stars of the Channel 5 TV series The Yorkshire Vet.

An exhibition to celebrate will also be held at King’s Cross concourse on the day, which will include a selection of pieces from the World of James Herriot, including creations by 300 ‘Yarn Bombers’ who knitted and cloaked the town with creations for the Tour de Yorkshire.

The managing director of Grand Central Rail, Richard McClean, said: “We are delighted to be able to unveil the new James Herriot artwork and promote the attraction along our route. Grand Central runs five daily services from London to Thirsk and we hope that people will make the most of our services and visit The World of James Herriot as well as the beautiful county.”

Ian Ashton, managing director of World of James Herriot and chairman of Herriot Country Tourism Group, said: “This is a real team effort and in Alf Wight’s centenary year, we are delighted to be working with Grand Central and Visit Thirsk to share the good news about James Herriot’s hometown.”