BROADCASTER and journalist Esther Rantzen was a true star at the awards, working brilliantly alongside compere Richard Cartridge, who was described by Esther as one of the best-loved broadcasters in this part of Britain'.

There were some priceless and truly memorable moments but Sylvia Wicks, who won the Mayor's Award for Outstanding Contribution, stood out.

Sylvia, who was presented jointly with her award by the Mayor of Test Valley, Cllr Pam Mutton, and Esther, said she would love to be on Strictly Come Dancing and dance with her favourite professional Brendon Cole, whom she preferred over Anton du Beke.

They discovered, however, that they had both actually danced with Anton. Did she have a message for Anton: "Yes, Sylvia would like to dance with you please. You can come and dance at my 80th birthday party."

And Esther was delighted to hear that John Cockaday, winner of the People's Champion, had named his daughter after her.

After the presentations Richard said: "Thank you again for the honour of being part of your event tonight."

To much laughter Esther said: "I was going to say what a thrill it was for me to Andover' all these certificates - but I decided that that would not be worthy."

And she added: "Please invite me again, I've loved it."