TRIBUTES have been paid to one of television’s most fondly remembered television actors, Robert Hardy, who brought All Creatures Great and Small character Siegfried Farnon to life.

Robert Hardy, who played the Thirsk-based vet in one of television’s most enduring family TV shows, has died at the age of 91. 

He visited North Yorkshire last year for an emotional reunion of the cast of the show for a centenary celebration of the birth of James Herriot author Alf Wight.

The celebration at Tennants Auction Room in Leyburn saw him reunited with actors Christopher Timothy, Peter Davison and Carol Drinkwater. 

Ian Ashton, managing director of the World of James Herriot museum in Thirsk, said yesterday: “We were so, so lucky and honoured to get him to come to the event along with the other three actors. It was the first time in 25 years they had all been together under one roof; it was such an emotional and fantastic occasion.”

Mr Ashton said the actor came across as a “quiet and warm” character. 
“He was a larger than life character, but the other side to him was someone who was very gentle and kind to people and came across as really, really humble; a great guy,” he said.

Robert Hardy’s career in stage, television and film spanned more than 70 years and he discovered a new fan base playing Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge in the Harry Potter movies.

He also took on the role of former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill in Churchill: 100 Days That Saved Britain (2015) and in Winston Churchill: The Wilderness Years (1981).

The Bafta-nominated star, from Cheltenham in Gloucestershire, was also awarded a CBE for his services to acting.

Three months ago a petition was launched calling for Hardy to receive a knighthood, which was supported by the World of James Herriot.
The Change.org petition, stated he was “long overdue” a Knighthood, saying he had made a unique contribution to British culture and been “taken into the hearts of people all over the world”. 

It read: “He is a National and International Treasure and no one deserves the honour more. At 91, time is precious. He was nominated for a KBE in 2015 and is under consideration.” 

Hardy’s children Emma, Justine and Paul said in a statement: “Dad is also remembered as a meticulous linguist, a fine artist, a lover of music and a champion of literature, as well as a highly respected historian, and a leading specialist on the longbow. He was an essential part of the team that raised the great Tudor warship The Mary Rose.

“Gruff, elegant, twinkly, and always dignified, he is celebrated by all who knew him and loved him, and everyone who enjoyed his work.”