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Stray Defence Association announces change of 'confrontational' name

Tuesday, 12 May 2026 09:54

Cherry Blossom in bloom on the Stray in Harrogate.

A Harrogate organisation dedicated to protecting the town’s iconic Stray has announced a change of name after 93 years.

The Stray Defence Association has officially rebranded as the Harrogate Stray Association as of today (12th May 2026).

The group says the move is intended to better reflect its “proactive, community-minded mission” while continuing its long-standing role in safeguarding the 200-acre green space.

A spokesperson for the newly named Harrogate Stray Association said:

“While we’ve been the "Stray Defence Association" since 1933, we want a name that reflects our proactive, community-minded mission rather than sounding reactive or confrontational.

“Our mission remains the same: protecting and preserving the Stray for future generations.”

The organisation was founded on 12th May 1933 and describes itself as a guardian of Harrogate’s “most cherished green space.”

Its mission is focused on ensuring the Stray “is protected from encroachment and remains an open, unspoilt space for everyone to enjoy.”

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