Joy to the world!

Nicholas Ralph and Rachel Shenton on how James and Helen will try to be there for everyone this Christmas

- CAREN CLARK

ALL CREATURES

GREAT AND SMALL

NEW CHRISTMAS EVE / CHANNEL 5 / 9PM / DRAMA

Fans of All Creatures Great and Small were granted their Christmas wish early when caring vet James Herriot and spirited farmer Helen Alderson got engaged in October’s series-two finale.

Now, as we return to the Yorkshire Dales for a seasonal special of the popular 1930s-set Channel 5 drama, fairy lights are twinkling in Skeldale House veterinary surgery.

However, the happy couple – played by Nicholas Ralph and Rachel Shenton – have hit their first stumbling block on the path to wedded bliss as there is confusion over where they will spend Christmas Day!

There are soon bigger worries, though, when wealthy client Mrs Pumphrey (Patricia Hodge) calls on the veterinary team after her beloved Pekinese, Tricki Woo, falls ill.

Here, in an exclusive interview, stars Nicholas, 31, and Rachel, who turns 34 on 21 December, tell TV Times more...

How does it feel to be back for another Christmas special?

NICHOLAS It’s wonderful to have a jam-packed episode with lovely Christmassy spirit.

I’m still pinching myself about the reception the show’s had, and we have such a good time making it, so this is the cherry on top!

RACHEL Christmas telly is big, isn’t it?! So to be part of that is lovely.

What reaction did you get to James and Helen’s engagement?

NICHOLAS I had text messages from people with lots of hearts and celebrating emojis!