‘I love Tricki Woo!'

Patricia Hodge on taking over the iconic role of Mrs Pumphrey in the hit revival

- CAREN CLARK

Gloriously eccentric widow Mrs Pumphrey and her pampered Pekinese Tricki Woo are cherished characters in James Herriot’s world of All Creatures Great and Small.

The first series of Channel 5’s fresh interpretation of vet Alf Wight’s classic memoirs saw Dame Diana Rigg portray the doting dog owner with relish.

However, after the legendary actor sadly passed away in September 2020, show bosses have decided to recast the role for season two of the hit period drama, with Miranda star Patricia Hodge making her debut as Mrs Pumphrey in this week’s episode.

Here, Patricia, who turns 75 on 29 September, chats to TV Times about playing the larger-than-life character...

Had you watched All Creatures Great and Small before?

Yes, it’s absolutely lovely. Living in a time of seismic change, as we are now, nostalgia is a big thing. It’s a comfort blanket and reassuring to look back at life’s simple pleasures.

Also, I’ve known Samuel West [who plays head vet Siegfried] for years, so when I was asked, it was an easy ‘yes’. I felt like part of the team from day one; they just absorbed the new incarnation.