TV REPEAT TV’s original

AHYPOCHONDRIAC Pekinese called Tricky-Woo, pregnant cows who needed a helping hand and cute calves all added to the gentle appeal of All Creatures Great and

Small.

Based on vet James Herriot’s best-selling books, the BBC drama began in 1978 and followed the fortunes of a newly qualified country vet in the 1930s working in the Yorkshire Dales.

Christopher Timothy starred as James Herriot with Robert Hardy as his boss Siegfried Farnon and Peter Davison as his laid-back younger brother Tristan Farnon.

Carol Drinkwater completed the cast playing wife Helen Herriot with Lynda Bellingham taking over the role from 1988. Robert Hardy’s own dogs also appeared in the series.

Christopher Timothy once said: “It was a life-changing opportunity for me and I met some wonderful people. The funny thing is that when I watch it now I remember some episodes so clearly and fondly, but I’ve watched some of the early episodes and don’t remember anything about them at all.”

Ninety episodes were made over seven seasons and Thora Hird, Benidorm’s Sheila Reid, ‘Allo ‘Allo star Gordon Kaye and Blackadder’s Patsy Byrne all appeared over the years.

All Creatures Great and Small is now to be adapted for a new TV series and Christmas special by Channel 5 ahead of the 50th anniversary of the original publication of the books.

Channel 5’s Sebastian Cardwell said: “James Herriot has a special place in the heart of the public and the commission of this iconic series, against the stunning backdrop of the Yorkshire Dales, is set to bring joy to a new army of TV viewers.” Robert Hardy, left, as James Herriot’s boss Siegfried Farnon, and, above, James with one of his many patients