WORK to create a visitor attraction dedicated to Britain's most famous vet gets under way this month.

But people interested in having a sneak preview of the World of James Herriot can find out how it will look via the Internet.For Hambleton District Council has just set out on the information super highway and opened a web site - complete with a virtual tour of the proposed Herriot centre at Thirsk.

Actual work on the £1.4m illion flagship Millennium project starts later this month.

Northallerton-based firm Walter Thompson won the five-month contract to transform vet and James Herriot author Alf Wight's former surgery in Kirkgate into a visitor attraction.

York designers Optimum Design are charged with fitting out the rooms - ready for an opening next Easter.

The centre will be the only educational centre of its kind in Britain, dedicated to veterinary science past, present and future.A new tourist information centre will also be housed in the building.

Council leader, Coun June Imeson, said interest in the centre was growing. "It has world-wide appeal - the centre is already generating interest from across the globe - 12 months before it is due to open."

The council's new web site will also provide information about accommodation in the area and details on Captain Cook Country, dates of market days and notes on recycling in the area.

Susan Reay, head of information technology for the council, said: "The site is promoting not just Hambleton District Council, but the area as a whole.

"It is a wonderful opportunity to give information to people from all corners of the world - information to attract them to the district."

* The web site address is: www.hambleton.gov.uk

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