Andover was alive with music this past weekend as Andover Rocks 2025 brought an electrifying atmosphere to the town. With 345 performers giving their time for free across multiple venues, the festival successfully raised over £5,000 for mental health support through music intervention, with further donations still being collected online.
Founder and organiser Marie Ponting described the event as a huge success, both in terms of fundraising and the sense of community it created.
“Andover Rocks 2025 was such a great experience. Seeing the town vibrant with movement, people, and sound really created a warmth in my heart—it was everything I’d envisaged and more.
We have raised just over £5,000 and are looking into collaborative projects that will help people cope with their mental health using the medium of music.
I would like to thank the whole Andover Rocks team, whose support, dedication, trust, and professionalism have been unwavering. All of the musicians who participated, the venues who hosted, and the people who came out, supported, donated, and enjoyed themselves.”
A Community Effort to Support Mental Health
All performers took part voluntarily, reinforcing the festival’s mission of using music as a force for good. A huge contribution was also made by local venues, many of whom donated towards the cause, including:
- The Angel Inn (Yvonne)
- The Foresters Arms (Anne)
- The Station Inn (Alex)
- The Globe Inn (Zandor)
- The Andover Tap (Matt)
- Spin Bar (Wendy)
Across the weekend, these venues were packed with enthusiastic crowds, demonstrating strong community support for the initiative.
What is Andover Rocks?
Andover Rocks was originally founded in 2017 by Marie Ponting, who was inspired to set up the festival following her own experience of postnatal depression. Having found music to be a powerful tool in her recovery, she wanted to create a platform that could support others struggling with their mental health through music and creative expression.
Since its inception, Andover Rocks has grown into a key community event, bringing people together to enjoy live performances while raising money for music-based mental health support projects.
How Will the Money Be Used?
The £5,000 raised will go directly towards community music projects that provide support for people struggling with mental health issues. This includes workshops, music therapy sessions, and creative interventions designed to help individuals express themselves and build resilience through music.
Donations Still Open
Although the festival has come to an end, there is still an opportunity to contribute. Online donations remain open for anyone who wishes to support the cause:
👉 Donate here
A Festival to Remember
With hundreds of performers, packed venues, and a real sense of community spirit, Andover Rocks 2025 was a resounding success. The festival not only raised vital funds but also reinforced the power of music as a tool for healing and connection.
Plans are already being discussed for future projects and events, ensuring that the impact of this weekend extends far beyond the performances themselves.
For more updates on Andover Rocks and how the funds will be used, follow the festival on social media.
