TRAVELLERS are learning more about the world’s most famous vet in his centenary year.

James Herriot was the pen-name of Thirsk vet Alf Wight, who was born in 1816 and went on to win international renown through books, films and TV series.

Grand Central Rail has teamed up with The World of James Herriot centre in Thirsk, together with Herriot Country Tourism Group and Visit Thirsk to celebrate the anniversary.

And now it has unveiled the new James Herriot artwork on one of its trains. The Class 180 loco was re-dedicated to the author in a ceremony at King’s Cross station in London today, June 22.

In attendance were the vet’s son and daughter, Jim Wight and Rosie Page, along with Peter Wright and Julian Norton, stars of the Channel 5 TV series The Yorkshire Vet as well as Hambleton council leader Cllr Mark Robson.

An exhibition celebrating Thirsk and the Herriot Country was also held on the concourse.

The unveiling was building on the partnership which brings many thousands of visitors into the Thirsk area each year.

Ian Ashton, managing director of World of James Herriot and Chairman of Herriot Country Tourism Group, said: “This is a real team effort and in Alf Wight’s centenary year, we are delighted to be working with Grand Central and Visit Thirsk to share the good news about James Herriot’s hometown.”