THIRSK’S homage to the great James Herriot looks a family must this Monday (August 20) when the racecourse stages its ‘All Creatures’ Family Fun Day.

Set in the heart of Herriot country, Thirsk was one of the favourites of writer James Wight, who penned the famous novels which became one of Britain’s best-loved television series.

And to mark the association, Thirsk will not only have a great line-up of thoroughbreds contesting seven cracking races across the afternoon to keep the adults happy, but a terrific array of other animals sure to delight the children.

These include a petting farm and pony rides and for those more into action than animals, a bouncy castle, play areas and a whole lot more.

On the track, the feature is the ‘Today is Racing UK Club Day’ Handicap over five furlongs, with an 18-strong entry headed by the Brian Ellison-trained Eastern Racer, who caught the eye in no uncertain fashion when dashing away with the seventh round of the Go Racing In Yorkshire ‘Future Stars’ Apprentice Series on the course two weeks ago.

The seven-furlong EBF Novice Stakes has attracted a very strong entry including Juthoor, who is trained by William Haggas at Newmarket for owner Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum. The gelding looked a sure-fire future winner when third to Borodin over course and distance in June.

Racing starts with the Racing UK Extra on racinguk.com Novice Stakes for two-year-olds at 2.05pm, although the gates will be open from 11.30am.

Entry to the Premier Enclosure costs £23 on the day, Paddock Enclosure costs £15 and Family Enclosure starts from £6.  Discounts are available if booked in advance along with great reductions for the special packages and for group bookings whilst, as always, adult accompanied children under 18 get in free. For more information go to www.thirskracecourse.net