Unsung heroes have been celebrated for their dedication and service to the community.
The Pride of Andover Awards, held at the Lights in Andover on October 22, honoured individuals and groups who have made a difference in the lives of others across Andover and neighbouring villages.
Among the winners was the Andover Repair Cafe, which received the top honour, the Spirit of Andover Award.
The event was hosted by Channel 4’s Hunted star and former soldier Jordan Wylie.
Mr Wylie said: "It's a night full of love and passion. These people do it because they want to do it. It's all about bringing positivity to the town and everyone in Andover."
He was joined on stage by compere Tommy Gentleman.
Mr Gentleman, who grew up in Andover, is an entrepreneur, business consultant and motivational speaker.
He is known for his passion for leadership and personal growth.
The awards featured 11 categories, each shining a light on those who quietly make a big impact in their communities.
The evening also included tributes to two well-known figures from the Andover area who died in the past year.
Julian Chen of New Street Dental Care, the awards’ main sponsor, was remembered as a ‘true friend and local community hero’.
Mr Chen’s daughters spoke on stage and accepted gifts from the organisers.
They said: "Thank you for showing up for each other and proving that the soul of Andover is in its people."
They announced that New Street Dental Care would be stepping down as the main sponsor, passing the title to Anodver Aesthetic Practitioners.
Tributes were also paid to David Mellor, founder of the family-run business David Mellor Family Jewellers.
Clive Jackson of Doctor and the Medics delivered a speech via video, thanking both men for their contributions.
Mr Jackson said: "For all the work they do and all you do, thank you."
He closed his tribute with a rendition of his hit song Spirit in the Sky.
The Mayor of Test Valley, Gordon Bailey, expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in making the awards a success.
Mr Bailey said: "I’d like to thank the Pride of Andover team, they are the people who have organised everything for this event.
"Also, we should thank Tommy and Jordan, who have been wonderful, and the chief exec of Test Valley, as he does a lot of work behind the scenes, as does our council leader, Phil North, who is in the audience tonight."
At the end of the evening, Mr Wylie donated £350 to The Abel Foundation, a charity supporting sufferers of Mitochondrial Disease and their families.
The Pride of Andover Awards serve as an annual reminder of the generosity, kindness and community spirit that define the town.
Each nominee and winner represents the best of Andover, with their efforts often going unrecognised and unrewarded.
Share