Harrogate is no stranger to a famous face, with celebrities often stopping by to check out the sights or even holiday in Yorkshire’s spa town. But how many of them are actually from the area? Here’s a look at five famous people who are originally from Harrogate: Jim Carter [caption id="attachment_2329" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Harrogate's own Jim Carter (right) pictured with his Downton co-star Penelope Wilton - who is also from Yorkshire (Scarborough!)[/caption] Now there’s a familiar face! Downton Abbey favourite Jim Carter, who plays lovable butler Mr Carson, was born and grew up in Harrogate. He attended Ashville College and was even Head Boy in his final year before moving south to study law. Jim eventually dropped out of university to pursue his love of the theatre and won over the hearts of the nation as Mr Charles Carson in the hit series Downton Abbey. Jack Laugher [caption id="attachment_2330" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Jack Laugher (right) diving with Chris Mears at the Olympics in Rio (2016)[/caption] Harrogate’s own Jack Laugher rose to fame in 2016 when he and diving partner Chris Mears scooped gold for Great Britain at the Summer Olympics in Rio. The duo were crowned winners of the men’s synchronised 3-metre springboard event, making Jack both a Commonwealth and Olympic champion. He was born in Harrogate and has even credited Harrogate Hyrdo Swimming Pool as the place he had his first diving lesson! Maisie Adam You’ll recognise Harrogate's favourite stand-up comedian Maisie Adam from some of the biggest TV panel shows in the country. Maisie was born in Pannal and attended St Aidan’s Church of England High School. She eventually left to pursue a career in comedy at the East 15 Acting School in Essex. Maisie has appeared on 8 Out of 10 Cats, Mock the Week and QI, and has even been back to visit her hometown for performances at Harrogate Theatre’s Comedy Festival. https://www.facebook.com/OfficialQI/posts/3917776201570220 Rachel Daly Footballer Rachel Daly is another sporting figure who hails from Harrogate and has gone on to be a global success. Now playing her football in America with Houston Dash, Rachel started her career with Leeds United and as recently as last year was representing England in the FIFA World Cup. [caption id="attachment_698" align="aligncenter" width="753"] Rachel Daly featuring for England Ladies[/caption] Hugo Speer Actor Hugo Speer has appeared in some absolute classics of British television and has even had success in the film industry, but few people know he’s Harrogate through and through! Hugo was born in Harrogate and attended Harrogate Grammar School before moving south to attend the Arts Educational School. Nowadays Hugo can be found narrating TV shows, including Cops with Cameras, The Bachelor and 999: What's Your Emergency? [caption id="attachment_695" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Hugo Speer (right) in the ongoing police drama London Kills[/caption] So that's it for our list of famous people from Harrogate - did any surprise you? Read more stories from across the region here.
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