News Release January 2016
Over 1000 local residents visit world of James Herriot during ‘residents weekend’ arranged with Hambleton District Council
‘The World of James Herriot’ opened its doors to local people for free over the weekend of 23rd and 24th January and over 1000 visitors passed through the Centre.
All Hambleton residents were offered free admission to the £1.4 million Thirsk attraction for two days, which was valid on production of proof of residency such as a utility bill or driving licence.
“Not only did we have people coming through to look around the recreated 1940s home but many came especially to see the latest addition to the centre – a life size bronze statue of Alf Wight (James Herriot) set in the garden of the attraction. We had queues outside at one point and were literally rushed off our feet.” said Kate Pawlett, centre manager.
Previously owned by the local council, the World of James Herriot is now a privately operated company whose management has a vision to continually develop it and attract more visitors including the launch of the James Herriot Foundation Trust initiative which aims to provide bursaries for people wishing to enter the animal care world and for whom the James Herriot stories have been an inspiration.
The centre also won ‘Best Small Visitor Attraction of the Year’ in the 2015 VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, following the Welcome to Yorkshire’s White Rose Award for the ‘Best Yorkshire Small Visitor Attraction of the Year’ in 2014.
“We are delighted that so many local people came to see the Centre and the new Alf Wight Statue.” added Kate.
Pictured: Local residents at the Alf Wight (James Herriot) Statue: Sharon Powell, Katy Hassan, Jazmine Hassan, Malik Hassan, Cameal Hassan, Charis Mclurken and Richard Mclurken.
For further information please contact:
Ian Ashton, World of James Herriot, 23 Kirkgate, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 1PL
Tel: 01845 524234 E-mail: mail@worldofjamesherriot.com
Press Contact: John Gallery, Great Potential. Tel: 07967 032623
E-mail: johngallery@greatpotential.co.uk
Notes for Editors: The World of James Herriot is located in the original home and surgery of the author in the market town of Thirsk. The attraction was formally owned by Hambleton District Council and is now operated as a private business. It is the focus for the Herriot Country Tourism Group, the destination marketing membership organisation that includes hotels, guesthouses, self-catering and other visitor attractions i