James Herriot's arrival at the village for an interview for the new vet's post nearly goes unnoticed when surgery manager, Siegfried Farnon, forgets about the appointment. After a long wait, a visit to Mr Biggins, and a drink down at the local, James finds himself with the job and miles of beautiful Yorkshire countryside around him. The vets in practice include Siegfried's brother, trainee vet, Tristan Farnon.

He's young-at-heart, but when he's not struggling with pigs and his vet's exams, he's there to give James advice. James' heart is stirred by more than sick animals when he bumps into Helen Alderson. Until he can win her over, he's got to convince some of the local farmers about using more trusted remedies for treating sick stock.