The Yorkshire Vet returns to Channel 5 tonight (Thursday, August 13) at 8pm for its 23rd season, with Peter Wright once again at its heart. The opening episode is described as "powerful" and follows Peter's "dream" project, as he travels to Sussex for inspiration to create a place in Yorkshire where animal lovers can "remember the pets who have enriched their lives".
Why Peter Wright left Skeldale Vets
Peter Wright left Skeldale Veterinary Centre in Thirsk in 2021, alongside fellow vet Julian Norton, after decades of service. Skeldale is famous because one of its partners was Alf Wight, better known as James Herriot, the author of All Creatures Great and Small.
Peter had worked under Wight for several years, but the departure was prompted by Skeldale being taken over by the company Medivet. Peter said the change in management stopped him from carrying out the work he wanted to do.
Mixed practice and a new start
Peter explained: "I was there from being the new boy and then I gradually became (a) partner. I then became senior partner. I ran the practice for almost 20 years, and I have lots of happy memories of working there."
He added: "But, at the same time, I am what is called a mixed practitioner. In other words, I deal with all creatures, all shapes and sizes. From cows and horses down to hamsters. And to take the farm side away from me, you know, it had to stop because it wasn't economically viable anymore and I couldn't do that work anymore. But I had to continue what I loved and that is being a mixed practised vet."
Peter now continues to practice at Grace Lane Vets in Kirkbymoorside. The Yorkshire Vet airs tonight at 8pm on Channel 5.
