For James Herriot, veterinary practice doesnt turn out to be quite the science he studied at college.

Arriving at Skeldale House in the Yorkshire Dales as a newly qualified vet, he soon discovers that a knowledge of country lore, a strong stomach and a stout pair of boots prove much more useful. In this first volume of All Creatures Great and Small, James has his first encounter with Mrs Pumphreys pampered dog Tricky-Woo and is smitten by Helens charms.

Tristan is feeling a little worse for wear after a little too much relaxation at the Darrowby pub and Siegfried resorts to a touch of sorcery when a gypsys pony refuses to recover.