Tributes have been paid to Starbeck postmaster and community campaigner Andrew Hart, who has died aged 71.
Mr Hart, co-owner and director of The Red Box post office on Starbeck High Street and the King Edward’s Drive post office in Bilton, died on 3rd October while in Malaysia.
A passionate advocate for Starbeck, he founded the Facebook group Starbeck Community Group and championed improvements to the area.
His campaigning included calls for better parking, support for new businesses and action to reduce air pollution at the level crossing.
A spokesperson for Starbeck Community Library said:
“Andrew was a great contributor to Starbeck Community Library and keenly involved in local issues.
“He will be missed by many and our thoughts are with his family.
“He was a fighter, deeply interested in Harrogate and Starbeck and made a unique contribution to local concerns.”
The team at The Red Box also paid tribute to his kindness and care for the community.
A spokesperson said:
“Andrew’s kindness, presence and genuine care touched so many people within our community, and his loss is felt deeply by all of us at The Red Box.
“Your support means more than we can say, and it reminds us of the strength and warmth within our local community.”
Andrew and his business partner Asma had also recently taken over the running of counter services at the Knaresborough Banking Hub on Kirkgate.
He was a member of the Knaresborough & District Chamber’s executive committee.
A spokesperson for Knaresborough Chamber said:
“Andrew was a very vocal champion of the Starbeck community, as well as small businesses in the wider Knaresborough and Starbeck areas.
“He was passionate in his beliefs and fought hard for the causes he believed in. His passing will leave a big hole in the communities he served.
“Andrew was a valued member of the Knaresborough & District Chamber Exec and we would like to extend our deep condolences to his family, business partner Asma and their staff at this very difficult time.”
Harrogate MP calls for independent support in army abuse investigation
Scamp & Dude to open Harrogate store tomorrow
New pizza and kebab takeaway to open in Harrogate
Harrogate teenager signs first professional contract with Leeds United
Ripon Library to host free family theatre show this half-term
Ripon artist's global draw-along raises £21,000 for animal rescue charity
Woman dies following collision on A59 near Flaxby
£2,000 grants available for sports clubs across Skipton and Ripon
Date confirmed for Ripon's Christmas lights switch-on
Plans to replace fire-damaged Knaresborough pub with new venue and seven flats
Date confirmed for return of Ripon's Tinsel Tractor Run
Harrogate MP celebrates 250 spoken contributions in Parliament
Knaresborough boutique wins free advertising campaign on Your Harrogate
Yorkshire Water admits £1.5m Ripon scheme fell short of promised sewage cuts
Harrogate Indoor Funfair reveals 16 rides for half-term return
Harrogate fitness entrepreneur launches new wellness e-book
Ripon hotel to host an evening with Wayne Rooney
Harrogate charities invited to apply for share of £50,000 fund
Police appeal after parcels stolen from Harrogate doorstep
Pannal pupils get new outdoor learning space
