If Harrow had its own ‘Walk of Fame’, which local legend – living or dead – would be given the very first star?
We put the question to members of the Harrow Online Facebook page and the answers ranged from international superstars to much-loved figures known only to the local community.
Music icon George Michael was among the most popular suggestions.
Luis Valle wrote: “George Michael. He didn’t live in Harrow itself (*update: yes, he did: he lived in Stanmore), but he was educated, socialised and formed Wham! with Andrew Ridgeley in the Harrow / Bushey area, making Harrow central to their musical development.”
Other well-known names put forward included Elton John, Roger Moore, Ian Dury, Kevin Rowland and Kate Nash.
Andrea Sangster commented: “Honey G off X Factor. Or Peter Andre / Fearn Cotton of South Harrow, agony aunt Claire Raynor and Tom (Fletcher) out of McFly. Also the 3 Bs – Byron (Lord), Barker (Ronnie) and Beaton (Mrs).”
Sport also featured heavily.
Mark Fox said: “Chess prodigy Bodhana Sivanandan is the most significant current Harrow resident IMO.”
Charith Gunasekara added: “Mark Ramprakash (England cricketer from Hatch End)”
Ray Rapp suggested: “Stuart Pearce (England footballer who played for Wealdstone)”
David Hamm wrote: “Brian Hall who managed Wealdstone to the non League double in 1985.”
Broadcasters were also mentioned.
Anwar Rizvi said: “Kay Burley Sky News presenter. Seen her at Harrow on the Hill station couple of times. Still lives in the area I believe.”
Stewart Bolasco added: “Bob Holness”
But many residents chose to highlight the people who may never have been famous, yet left a lasting mark on the community.
Jason P said: “Jack Shorne who was a shop owner in Harrow Town Centre has died in 2013 aged 86. I would sleep hours in Jack Shorne’s back in the 1990s. He deserves a mention. Without him I would not have developed my love of army related brick-a-crack. It was full of cool stuff!”
Sandy McGill wrote: “Ray in Long Elmes. What a legend – always happy to see you.”
Others remembered well-known local characters, including “The Stanmore Running Man”, “Reggie from Pinner”, “Mungo Dave. Sadly no longer with us.” and “John the dancer from Tudors”.
Who would you include in the theoretical walk of fame? Let us know in the comments on our socials!.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
He launched Harrow Online in 2010 as a Facebook page sharing local news and information. Since then, it has grown into a trusted source for breaking news, crime, council decisions, planning, transport, business and community stories across the borough.
Harrow Online reaches hundreds of thousands of readers each month and has a social media audience of more than 200,000 followers.
For news tips, press releases or enquiries, contact Chris at info@harrowonline.org.
