Star of The Yorkshire Vet Peter Wright has shared a startling revelation about the show's legacy, as the beloved Channel 5 series celebrates its remarkable tenth anniversary. The programme, which has captivated over two million viewers, follows the daily dramas of country vets against the backdrop of Yorkshire's stunning landscapes.
From Deleted Emails to Global Recognition
Peter Wright, now 69, admits he was profoundly sceptical when first approached by a television production company. "I thought, 'Well, no' and deleted the email. I didn't even really look at it," he confesses. Even after a second attempt, he chose not to respond, believing veterinary shows were "old hat" and destined to flop.
It was only after meeting the producers, and being persuaded by their emphasis on "trust" and "loyalty", that he reluctantly agreed. He even told his wife Lin that nobody would watch it, a prediction he has been happily proven wrong about for a decade. The show has now aired 250 episodes across 22 series and is broadcast in 18 countries, with Wright even being recognised by Australian tourists at the Taj Mahal.
A Decade of Emotional Rollercoasters and Animal Antics
Over ten years, fans have been taken on countless emotional journeys. The series, which originated from the famous Skeldale Veterinary Centre in Thirsk – once home to James Herriot – has never shied away from the messy reality of veterinary work.
Memorable cases include a horrified Peter Wright treating a bulldog injured during an amorous encounter with a hedgehog. Colleague Matt Jackson-Smith, 36, faced the grisly task of removing a goat named Gideon's testicles, while Julian Norton, 53, assisted a donkey called Gary with a significant cyst. For the trio, it's all in a day's work.
The 'Earth Shattering' Impact on Yorkshire Television
The show's success has had ramifications far beyond its own time slot. Peter Wright reveals that Ben Frow, head of programmes at Channel 5, delivered what he calls an "earth-shattering statement".
"He told me, 'There would have been none of these programmes if Yorkshire Vet had failed', including All Creatures Great and Small," Wright explains. The implication was clear: the show's triumph cemented a "love affair" between the broadcaster and Yorkshire, paving the way for a slate of other programmes set in the county.
Fellow vet Matt Jackson-Smith, who joined five years ago, echoes the sense of wonder. Initially urged to watch by his grandmother, he describes it as a "pinch-yourself moment" and says the audience's welcome made it the best decision he could have made. He too has been approached by fans, even while on honeymoon in Mauritius.
Reflecting on the secret to their longevity, Peter Wright credits Yorkshire's beautiful countryside, the local dry sense of humour, and a welcoming, friendly nature. What began with a deleted email has become a decade-long celebration of animals, community, and the unique spirit of Yorkshire.
The Yorkshire Vet: A Decade in the Moors and Dales airs on Channel 5 at 9pm on Wednesday.
