AN attraction devoted to the world’s most beloved vet has a new manager.

Kate Pawlett has stepped up into the new role of centre manager at the World of James Herriot in Thirsk.

The centre opened in 1999 and Ms Pawlett has been part of the team since 2001, staying with it when the formerly council-run enterprise became a private sector operation in 2012.

Managing director Ian Ashton said: “Kate is been a long-serving member of the team who I have come to rely on and trust for most of the day-to-day operational activities including managing our volunteers.

“Without doubt, she richly deserves the recognition and benefits her appointment will bring whilst freeing up some of my time to concentrate on strategic matters.”

Ms Pawlett added: “Every day I meet many interesting people from all over the world, especially from the USA, who all seem to enjoy so much the interpretation and information about Alf Wight and his former home and surgery.

“It gives me a real buzz to be involved in running the centre and to see how much people enjoy it.”

The centre recently won the White Rose Visitor Attraction of the Year Award and has been shortlisted for the VisitEngland Excellence Awards and VisitYork Tourism Awards.