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Jun 2022

Last Updated: 25/06/2022

Community

The Stray Ferret pays tribute to Harry Gration

by John Plummer

| 25 Jun, 2022

Harry worked with us at the Stray Ferret last year when he searched for a local hero. Today we would like to express our deepest sadness at learning of his death yesterday.

Harry Gration was loved by many people in the Harrogate district and across Yorkshire. He touched many lives - last year he worked with us at the Stray Ferret in a competition to find Harry's Heroes.

In the course of a few weeks he met the finalists and made podcasts with them - talking to them about what inspired them to work for others. It was what Harry liked doing best -- meeting people from all walks of life.

Tamsin O'Brien the director of the Stray Ferret worked with Harry at the BBC when he was presenting Look North. Today she said:

"Harry was a one-off. He was fun and simply got on with everyone. A naturally gifted communicator.

"I worked with Harry in my previous career at the BBC and it was joy to work again with him last year on Harry's Heroes. It's hard to take in the news that he's no longer with us.

"I speak on behalf of all of us at the Stray Ferret by sending Helen and his family all our love and thoughts at this time. There was only one Harry Gration."

Susie Little from Covid Co-operation Harrogate, who was one of the nominated heroes, posted a picture on Facebook of herself with Harry and this message :

"I am so sad following the news of Harry Gration’s death last night. He was a true Yorkshire gent; no airs or graces, not a hint of “celeb”.

"I was privileged to spend an hour with him last year when nominated for a Harry’s Hero award. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and BBC colleagues who must be reeling at the news. He was only 72. Rest in peace, Harry. Legend."

Susie Little with Harry last year for Harry's Heroes

Harry Gration lived in York but was a regular visitor to the district.

He was a season ticket holder at Harrogate Town which posted this message:

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of friend of the club, Harry Gration. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Harry’s loved ones at this time

Recently Harry spoke at a Harrogate Brigantes fundraising event. Today a statement was issued from the club's Les Ellington:

“We are shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Harry Gration MBE, who was guest speaker and auctioneer at our charity dinner only on 17 June, helping us to raise over £5000 for our Ukraine appeal.

Our thoughts are with his family, friends and former colleagues at the BBC. Rest in peace Harry and thank you from all of us.”

Do you have memories of meeting Harry Gration? Do send them to us and we will publish them in the coming few days. contact@thestrayferret.co.uk