A NEW series of TV hit All Creatures Great and Small is being filmed in North Yorkshire next year.

With nearly five million viewers and critical acclaim in the UK the first series is set to be distributed across Asia, Europe and America. Now news of the second series has been welcomed by the family of best selling author Alf Wight from Thirsk whose heartwarming tales of country vet James Herriot in the 1930's, are the basis of the programme.

His children Rosie Page and Jim Wight. from Thirsk, said: "We thought Series 1 was excellent. It was an immensely enjoyable adaptation of Dad’s books. We are very hopeful that Series 2 will be equally uplifting and entertaining."

Sebastian Cardwell, Channel 5 Deputy Director of Programmes said: "In challenging times, this new adaptation gained a special place in the heart of the British public. With values of community spirit, solidarity and heart-felt compassion, these stories are important ones for us to tell, now more than ever."

Colin Callendar, Executive Producer added: "It has struck such a chord with audiences worldwide who were hungry for an entertaining, family-friendly show that provided some respite from the complicated and messy times we live in."

A Christmas Special is set to air over the festive period, filming on the new series is due to start early next year in the Yorkshire Dales with the same cast including Sam West as Siegfried Farnon, Nicholas Ralph as Herriot and Rachel Shenton as Helen Alderson.