Service of celebration in Harrogate for civic stalwart who 'will be very much missed'

Held at Stonefall Crematorium, friends and family turned out in force to pay their respects to former Harrogate Mayor Bob Nash at a service officiated by the Rev Jim Grebby.

Born on January 24, 1933, Mr Nash died on January 23, 2026 at the age of 92.

Among the many people who has been sharing their memories of him was David Bown, Chief Executive of Harrogate Theatre, who was offered the role in 2004 by Mr Nash himself.

Writing in his regular column for the Harrogate Advertiser, David Bown said: “Bob Nash was a long-standing friend of Harrogate Theatre.

"His passing has been met with sadness here at the theatre and across the town, with many community groups paying tribute to a man whose life was defined by his service to Harrogate.

“Born and raised in the town, Bob Nash lived all his 92 years in Harrogate and devoted much of his life to its civic, cultural and sporting life.

"Bob remained a loyal supporter of Harrogate Theatre and as a reflection of that dedication, sent his apologies for the theatre’s Annual General Meeting just one day before his passing.

"Alongside his cultural endeavours, Bob gave many years of service to local government.

"He served as a Harlow Ward councillor for 16 years and remained a frequent visitor to the theatre and a huge supporter of our pantomime.

"He will be very much missed by all who knew him.

"In 2004, whilst working for a theatre in Northamptonshire, I applied for the vacant post of Chief Executive of the Harrogate Theatre and was called for interview.

"The pantomime was running with a fresh-faced Tim Stedman leaping around the stage in a production of Aladdin.

"I sat before an interview panel of notable Harrogate dignitaries which included Bob.

"He was his usual incisive, blunt and mischievous self.

"After two days of interviewing activity, I was offered the job by Bob himself.”

Bob Nash, January 24, 1933 to January 23, 2026.