Public invited to 'say a few words' at memorial to much-missed Harrogate figure
A memorial is to be held to a hugely respected figure in Harrogate life who was awarded the CBE.
The extraordinary life of John Charles Harris CBE DL MA will be celebrated at United Reformed Church on Victoria Avenue in Harrogate when people are invited to say a few words.
Mr Harris’s life spanned political commitment, internationalism, local government, the arts, the law, business, charity and community support.
Born in London in 1936, his CV included chief executive of South Yorkshire Metropolitan County Council, Deputy Lieutenant of South Yorkshire, Director of the South Africa Housing Network Trust, Chair of the Northern Counties Housing Association, a member of the Guild of Freeman of the City of London, a solicitor, local government officer and an international management and legal consultant.
In Harrogate, where he moved to live in 2014, this pro-European took on important roles in the Royal Hall Restoration Trust, Harrogate Theatre, Harrogate and Knaresborough Labour Party, Harrogate Homeless Project; U3a, the Harrogate and District City of Sanctuary, and the West Park Centre.
Following his death on August 27 this year, his family said they were “heartbroken to have lost our wonderful husband, father, grandfather”.
Anyone that would like to say a few words at the event on Saturday, October 17 coordinated by Alison Micklem, Minister of the United Reformed Church, is very welcome to do so.
If you can tell the family in advance that will help plan the timings but if you decide on the day that is fine.
There is no particular dress code but John loved bright colours so it would be appropriate to wear colours from the South African flag.
Refreshments will be served.
There will be food suitable for vegetarians but the family is very sorry that it is not possible to cater for other dietary requirements.
Please let the family know you if you are planning to attend as that would help them to manage the seating and catering.
Doors open 2.30pm, start time is 3pm and the memorial will end about 6.30pm but people are welcome to arrive and leave when it suits.