Transporting the audience to a barn and a little rustic kitchen in the Yorkshire Dales of yesteryear, this show recreates the nostalgic quality of the much-loved book and TV series.

Newly qualified vet James Herriot (Oliver Mellor) has to impress a wide range of tough critics when he arrives in Darrowby, from potential new employer Siegfried Farnon (expertly portrayed by Mark Curry) to disgruntled farmers and prospective wife Helen (Clare Buckfield). After accepting an offer of “four quid a week and full board” Herriot wins over on all counts.

Herriot’s natural affinity with the environment is captured via his narration, including walks with Helen “looking over the Dales with a breeze in our hair”.

This stage adaption by Simon Stallworthy is well-balanced between what is left to the audiences’ imagination, (the car, farm animals, which successfully rely on sounds from behind the barn door) and the animated interactions between characters.

The biggest theatrical personality is Susan Penhaligon’s Mrs Pumphrey, who provides comedy moments with pampered pooch Tricki Woo. There is also solemnity with animals put to sleep and the occasional emotional monologue.

The spirit of the TV series is perfectly captured and condensed for this stage production.