Blue plaque installed to mark home of All Creatures Great and Small author

A plaque has been unveiled to honour the man who created James Herriot.

It honours Alf Wight who wrote the James Herriot books, at the vet and author’s former home Rowardennan on Topcliffe Road in Thirsk.

Mr Wight originally lived and worked in the veterinary surgery at 23 Kirkgate – now the World of James Herriot. The books and their adaptations have entertained millions of people worldwide.

In 1953 he decided to have a new house built in Thirsk, and “Rowardennan” became his home for 25 years.

Home owners Linda and Brian Halliday Left, with James Herriot's siblings Jim Wight and Rosie Page are pictured at the unveiling. Picture taken by Yorkshire Post Photographer Simon Hulme

Rowardennan is where he wrote his stories in the living room in front of the fire, with his wife, Joan, sitting by his side.

Rowardennan was bought by Brian and Linda Halliday in 2024, and in 2025 was included in a new James Herriot walk around Thirsk and based on a tour prepared by one of Alf’s greatest fans, Roger French.

Alf Wight’s son and daughter, Jim Wight and Rosie Page, helped to create the tour.

Rosie Page said “It was such a nostalgic visit. Linda and Brian Halliday were so welcoming.”