ORGANISERS of an annual awards show, which celebrates the unsung heroes of our town, are calling for nominations ahead of this year’s ceremony.

Residents are being encouraged to submit their nominations for this year’s Pride of Andover Awards, which kicked-off with a sponsors’ launch on Saturday.

Chairman of the awards, Karen Hamilton, said: “We are thrilled to be able to finally accept nominations for selfless and inspirational people in our community and look forward to reading about those who do extraordinary work in Andover.

“The Pride of Andover Awards is a great way to say ‘thank you’ to citizens who demonstrate dedication, devotion and bravery from everyone living or working in the local area.”

This year’s ceremony, which will be held at the Lights Theatre and presented by Katie Piper on October 18, will consist of eight awards.

This includes the main Spirit of Andover Award, backed once again by the awards’ main sponsor, David Mellor Family Jewellers.

Other sponsors this year include, Simplyhealth, New Street Dental Care, The Commercial Centre, The Breeze Radio, Aspire Defence and Andover Vision.

Places for People Leisure has also joined the list, having recently announced it will sponsor the newly-created Sports Award.

Helen Meckiffe, Test Valley contract manager for Places for People Leisure, said: “We were pleased when Iris Anderson approached us with regards to being a sponsor for the Pride of Andover Awards as we are keen to play a part in supporting local causes, that benefit the community.

“We are delighted to sponsor the Sports Award. To sponsor a category that is recognising someone locally who has made a difference to their club or league and been an inspiration to others, fits with our company ethos of getting more people moving and healthy in the community.”

Nominations for this year’s awards are now open and close on Thursday, August 31.

Entry forms can be sent by email to entries@prideofandoverawards.org.uk or through the Pride of Andover website.

For any enquiries or further information on the categories and the awards visit prideofandoverawards.org.uk.