James Herriot
| Name | James Herriot |
| Birth name | |
| Birth date | 3 October 1916 |
| Birth place | Sunderland, County Durham, England |
| Death date | 23 February 1995 |
| Death place | Thirlby, North Yorkshire, England |
| Alma mater | |
| Occupation | Veterinary Surgeon, Author |
| Years active | |
| Organization | |
| Known for | |
| Notable works | |
| Spouse(s) | |
| Website | |
James Herriot was the pen name of James Alfred Wight (3 October 1916 – 23 February 1995), a British veterinary surgeon and writer. He is best known for his semi-autobiographical works, which are a series of books about veterinary practice in the Yorkshire Dales, beginning with All Creatures Great and Small.
Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]
James Alfred Wight was born in Sunderland, County Durham, England. He moved with his family to Glasgow, Scotland, where he attended Hillhead High School. Wight went on to study veterinary medicine at the University of Glasgow School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 1939.
Career[edit | edit source]
After qualifying as a veterinary surgeon, Wight moved to Thirsk, Yorkshire, where he joined the practice of Donald Sinclair. It was here that he gained the experiences that would later form the basis of his books. Wight served in the Royal Air Force during World War II, after which he returned to his veterinary practice.
Writing Career[edit | edit source]
Wight began writing in the late 1960s, adopting the pen name James Herriot to comply with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons' regulations that prohibited advertising by veterinarians. His first book, If Only They Could Talk, was published in 1970. The book, along with its sequels, became immensely popular, leading to adaptations in film and television, most notably the BBC series All Creatures Great and Small.
Legacy[edit | edit source]
James Herriot's books have been translated into numerous languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. His work has inspired many to pursue careers in veterinary medicine and has brought attention to the life and work of rural veterinarians. The James Herriot Museum in Thirsk celebrates his life and work.
Personal Life[edit | edit source]
Wight married Joan Catherine Anderson Danbury in 1941, and they had two children, James Alexander and Rosemary. He lived in Thirlby, near Thirsk, until his death in 1995.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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