He was the model for the character "Tristan Farnon" in Wight's semi-autobiographical novels which were adapted in two films and television under the name All Creatures Great and Small. Tristan was portrayed as a charming rogue who was still studying veterinary medicine in the early books, constantly having to re-take examinations because of his lack of application, often found in the pub, and provoking tirades from his bombastic elder brother Siegfried. Sinclair made no objections to Wight's portrayal of him, and seemed rather to enjoy the celebrity, appearing on television and lecturing at veterinary schools all over the UK and elsewhere.