RELATIONS between a North Yorkshire tourist attraction and a global superpower are going from strength to strength as the World of James Herriot sealed its ties with Russia.

An exhibition of James Herriot memorabilia has already been set up at Russia’s State Darwin Museum and now the Thirsk attraction has received a special visit from its curator Svetlana Kolosova.

Ms Kolosova, who visited with her family, presented The World of James Herriot’s managing director Ian Ashton with a Certificate of Understanding and Appreciation.

This represents the close relationship between the two museums and Mr Ashton was delighted to accept the certificate on behalf of the World of James Herriot.

He said: “We are very pleased to have welcomed Svetlana and her family to the World of James Herriot and continue to build our excellent relationship with the State Darwin Museum.

“The agreement to a formal Cultural Understanding was made during the visit to Moscow and Svetlana’s presentation of the certificate here at the World of James Herriot seals that agreement.”

Alf Wight - who wrote as James Herriot - visited Russia accompanying a cargo of sheep in October 1961 and included the story of the trip in one his books “The Lord God Made them All”.

His books and TV series continue to be popular in Russia, so much so that there is an English Fan Club of James Herriot in Moscow and some members have visited the World of James Herriot.

The State Darwin Herriot Exhibition is now touring other museums in Russia including St Petersburg and plans are afoot for a Russian language section to be installed in the World of James Herriot.

Mr Ashton said: “The Russian people are so enthusiastic about everything Herriot and we’ve had many Russian visitors coming to visit Herriot Country and see the places that Alf Wight based his books on.

“It’s amazing how many followers we have in Russia and shows just how far and wide James Herriot’s stories have reached around the world.”

During their visit, the Kolosova family were given a personal tour of the centre by Alf Wight’s son, Jim Wight.

Staff also gave a tour of Herriot Country, visiting Mr Wight’s favourite places.