The Yorkshire dales have never seemed more beautiful for James - now he has a lovely wife by his side, a partner's plate on the gate and the usual menagerie of farm animals, pets and owners demanding his constant attention and teaching him a few lessons along the way.

All of the old Darrowby friends are on top form - Siegfried thashes round the practice, Tristan occasionally buckles down for finals and James is signed up for a local cricket team.

'He can tell a good story against himself, and his pleasure in the beauty of the countryside in which he works is infectious' The "Daily Telegraph"

'Full of warmth, wisdom and wit' The "Field"

'It is a pleasure to be in James Herriot's company' "Observer "