FOREWORD Malcolm Neesam's writings and lectures on the history of Harrogate and the colourful characters who helped to shape the town have enthralled the residents of Harrogate for many years. Now, with the publication of Exclusively Harrogate, Mr Neesam's extensive knowledge of our beautiful town will be shared and enjoyed by a wider audience. The author has the rare gift of being able to put the flesh on the bones of our history, to paint a lively picture of times past, and to draw some interesting parallels with present day happenings! Exclusively Harrogate tells the story of this North Yorkshire town which developed a reputation as one of the finest spa resorts in the world. Mr Neesam's animated style of writing brings to life those distant days of gracious living when being seen at the right places, with the right people, was of paramount importance. Harrogate was very much 'the right place' and now, more than a century later, the town still retains that image of elegance and gentility which sets it apart from any other. Enjoy this dip into the past and learn a little about why Harrogate, now a thriving conference and tourist town, is still so very special. Jean MacQuarrie