How town reacted to that milestone victory for Harrogate Town at Wembley Stadium

Talks on Harrogate Town's FA Trophy heroes' possible bus parade through town but will it happen this time

The success of Harrogate Town on the pitch is now reflected in its growing stature off it, as people from different sectors of the town hailed its FA Trophy triumph at Wembley Stadium on Bank Holiday Monday.

Paula Lorimer, director of Harrogate Convention Centre, said: “I would like to offer huge congratulations to Harrogate Town on lifting the FA Trophy on behalf of everyone at Harrogate Convention Centre. Not only do we have a beautiful town, but an up-and-coming football team which we are all very proud of.”

Nick Hancock of Your Harrogate online radio station said: “We should all be exceedingly proud of not only the team’s success but also how the Team are a part of this community.

"I remember meeting manager Simon Weaver and the chairman Irving back in 2011 and they told me their ambitious plans not only for great things on the pitch but for the club to play a big part in the local community. It is so impressive that they have done everything they said they would do all those years ago.”

Simon Colgan, owner of the Empress on the Stray pub where fans often gather before Harrogate Town games in normal times, said: “I can’t imagine how bitter sweet this must feel for the Harrogate Town players and management.

“It’s such a shame that Harrogate Town supporters could not share their big day with the players and staff.”

Harrogate Borough Council is full of praise for Harrogate Town’s achievements but says it’s disappointing the FA refused to let fans attend.

Coun Stanley Lumley, Harrogate Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism & Sport said: “I’m delighted to offer my congratulations to Harrogate Town for a fantastic achievement, the club goes from strength to strength.

“The fantastic win at Wembley last weekend and return home with the FA Trophy is another great milestone in an exciting recent club history.

Coun Lumley continued: “It’s a great disappointment that the loyal fans weren’t able to attend the game but a credit to the players for doing the business without their physical support.

“This success along with other achievements is firmly putting Harrogate on the national sporting map.

“Football is a great forum for bringing people together and I look forward to a time when the ground is back open and is full and fans who can celebrate together.”

OPINION: District is proud of Harrogate Town for winning with style and class - Nick Hancock

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