Nominations have now opened for awards which recognise the best that Andover has to offer.

Over the next two months, residents are being invited to nominate those who quietly make a difference to other people’s lives for the Pride of Andover Awards. Nominations opened on July 1, and continue until August 31.

The main sponsors of the awards are David Mellor Family Jewellers, with Christine Mellor saying: “We’re delighted to be main sponsors of The Pride of Andover Awards once again.

“As a local business, our community is incredibly important to us. We want to celebrate everything that makes Andover a wonderful place to live; namely, the selfless individuals who volunteer their time and energy, going out of their way to support others, and inspiring everyone who’s lives they touch to achieve great things for the good of our town.

“To be able to sponsor the Pride of Andover awards, particularly this category for another exceptional year is something we feel very passionate about. A thriving community is made up of proactive, selfless people and the Spirit of Andover Award recognises this.”

The stated aim of the Pride of Andover Awards is “to shed light on the town’s unsung heroes - endorsing the inspiring and often selfless actions of Andover’s most generous individuals promoting a sense of pride in our unique north Hampshire town.”

They have been run since 2007, and give awards in a variety of categories, including Community Champion, Inspiring Others, and Young Person of the Year. Previous recipients include Stephen Pugh, a fundraiser who sadly passed away earlier this year.

More awards than ever before, 11, will be handed out at this year’s ceremony, including the top prize, The Spirit of Andover Award, as well as Young Person of the Year, Inspiring Others Award and Community Champion Award.

To nominate someone for an award, visit: https://www.prideofandoverawards.org.uk/nominate/