James Herriot Convention 10 -12 October 2008

CONVENTION SUCCESS

Forty Herriot fans from across the globe came to Thirsk in October.

The third 'Herriot Convention' saw people travelling from Nottingham, the Netherlands, Harrogate, Houston USA, Canada, Conway, Finland and Farndon to spend time in and around Thirsk and the Hambleton Hills.

Friday saw the return of the ever popular walking tour around Thirsk - the highlight being a visit to the Church where Alf and Joan got married and tea at Mrs Pomfreys!

On Saturday everyone spent the day in the company of Jim Wight and his sister Rosie Page on a tour of the Hambleton Hills calling in on some of Alf and Joan's favourite locations and recounting stories about the many people who inspired the characters in the James Herriot stories.

Saturday evening saw everyone don their glad rags for a very traditional 1940s Tea Dance. Held at Thirsk Town Hall there was a live band and period buffet supported by Taylors Tea of Harrogate.

And on Sunday modern day TV Vet, Matt Brash from York who is the vet for Flamingoland Zoo entertained the delegates over Sunday lunch..

Itinerary for the weekend in 2008:

DAY 1 Friday 10 October - Optional

• Arrive mid afternoon and enjoy a guided walk in small groups around the picturesque market town of Thirsk - the real Darrowby!
• You will see Herriot landmarks - including St Mary's Church where James and Helen were married, and have tea at Mrs Pumphrey's real home.

DAY 2 Saturday 11 October

• Saturday will be a full day around Thirsk and the Hambleton Hills
• Travel via luxury coach with our special guests Rosie Page and Jim Wight. James Herriot's son and daughter. as they take us on a tour around the area, telling us about the real people who inspired the Characters Iain the books
• Will we be stopping at the Sutton bank visitor Centre and take a short walk to one of Alf's favourite views from lake Gormire and across to Thirsk
• In the evening join us for a 1940's tea dance in the Town hall, with live music and sing-a-longs in much the same way as James and Helen (Alf and Joan). 1940's dress is optional but would certainly add to the atmosphere of the evening, but don't worry we won't be eating dried egg sandwiches for tea!

DAY 3 Sunday 12 October

• On Sunday morning enjoy a visit to the World of James Herriot, visit the Air raid shelter which is used for Educational workshops and see a small exhibition of how No. 23 and no.25 looked during the renovation.
• A traditional, three course Sunday Lunch will be served at the Golden Fleece in the market place.
• Following lunch you will be entertained by our guest speaker (name to be confirmed) and a final few words from Jim Wight and Rosie Page about their personal memories of their father.