ACTOR Robert Hardy, known to millions of television viewers as vet Siegfried Farnon in All Creatures Great and Small, returns to the Yorkshire Dales to mark the restoration of an eighteenth century theatre.

During his visit to Richmond's Georgian Theatre Royal next week, he will also have the chance to meet again the producer of the Seventies' television programme, Bill Sellars, who is to retire as theatre manager.

Mr Hardy, seen on BBC television as Fr Martin in P D James' Death in Holy Orders, screened at the weekend, starred alongside Christopher Timothy and Peter Davidson in the TV version of James Herriot's books.

In Richmond, he will give the prologue to a show by vocal and instrumental group Chalemie at the theatre on Wednesday and next Friday and Saturday, September 5 and 6.

On Thursday, there is no performance, but a testimonial party is held on stage, 6-8pm, to mark Mr Sellars' retirement.

Chalemie kicks off the theatre's autumn programme with a Georgian evening of music, comedy, dance and mime. Performances are at 7.30 and an interval supper with wine is available.

Wednesday's performance marks the beginning of the first full season in the restored theatre, which has been closed for over a year for a £1.5m facelift.

Lady Crathorne, chairman of the theatre trustees, said: "The events as a whole mark the end of one era in the continuing story of the Georgian Theatre Royal and the start of an exciting new one.

"The overwhelming response to the theatre's restoration and the new building has been extremely positive and we look forward to seeing many new and familiar faces in the audience during the exciting season ahead."

Speaking of his return to the Georgian theatre, Mr Hardy said: "I hold the Richmond stage in great affection."

Tickets and autumn programmes are available from the box office, tel 01748 825252.