Councillor John Smith with Ian Ashton

A replica name plaque of a special new train serving North Yorkshire was formally presented to The World of James Herriot this week.

The name James Herriot is a regular sight on the train journey between London and Sunderland - one of Grand Central Railway’s Class 180 trains was named after the vet this summer.

The Sunderland based railway company honoured the Yorkshire based vet cum author who was born in their home town and for a short time practised there.

On Wednesday (October 7) the plaque was presented to the museum by Ian Ashton from the Herriot Country Attractions Group’

“We are very excited that Grand Central has honoured one of our most famous sons,” said Ian. “It has given the group tremendous support and we hope the friendly, family image it portrays to the public, coupled with the name James Herriot, will bring many more people into Yorkshire to visit our beautiful county and all its attractions.”

The special train - number 180112 - was officially named by Jim Wight and Rosie Page, son and daughter of Alf Wight, in July.