Some of Andover’s most inspirational residents, volunteers, organisations and community champions were recognised at the Pride of Andover Awards 2026, in an evening celebrating the extraordinary people who make a difference across the town.
Held at Thruxton Circuit on Saturday 14 November, the awards brought together local people, businesses and community organisations to recognise those whose dedication, kindness and generosity often go unnoticed.
From young fundraisers and sporting champions to volunteers who have devoted decades to helping others, the evening highlighted the remarkable community spirit that continues to thrive in Andover.
Spirit of Andover Award – David Bonthuys
Sponsored by Andover Aesthetics Practitioners
The evening’s prestigious Spirit of Andover Award was presented to David Bonthuys, recognising an extraordinary lifetime of dedication to martial arts, education and community service.
With 60 years devoted to martial arts, 40 years of teaching and more than three decades supporting the local community, David has influenced thousands of lives.
His commitment extends far beyond teaching martial arts techniques. Through mentoring, charitable fundraising and free sessions delivered in more than 30 local schools, he has helped generations of young people develop confidence, discipline, resilience and respect.
One particularly inspiring initiative encourages junior students to complete 20 acts of kindness before progressing to their next belt, resulting in more than 1,600 acts of kindness.
David has also supported charitable causes, including fundraising for children’s hospice care and helping a seriously ill child enjoy a special family holiday.
His contribution made him a fitting recipient of the evening’s highest honour.
Mayor of Test Valley Award – Robert White
Sponsored by Bulpitt Print
Robert White received the Mayor of Test Valley Award for his outstanding contribution to bringing people together through walking.
What began as a simple walking group has developed into a thriving community of more than 700 members.
Robert voluntarily organises three walks every week, welcoming people of different ages and abilities to explore the local countryside.
However, the benefits extend well beyond physical exercise. His walks have helped tackle loneliness, build friendships and give people a renewed sense of belonging.
By carefully planning routes and ensuring nobody is left behind, Robert has created an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome.
Sue Sheppard Award – Charlotte Cockcroft
Sponsored by The Commercial Centre
Charlotte Cockcroft was recognised for her determination to improve accessibility and inclusion for people with hearing loss.
Having grown up with two parents who have hearing loss, Charlotte experienced first-hand the communication barriers faced by deaf people.
Those experiences inspired her to campaign for greater access to British Sign Language training, encouraging businesses to make simple changes that can transform everyday interactions.
Her community involvement also includes charitable fundraising, raising awareness of domestic abuse and campaigning for women’s safety.
Charlotte’s work demonstrates how personal experience can become a powerful force for positive change.
Heart of Gold Award – Francesca Dunn
Sponsored by Family Harmony
Francesca Dunn received the Heart of Gold Award for her tireless commitment to safeguarding children and supporting the wider community.
As a governor at two local schools, Francesca shares her professional safeguarding expertise to help ensure children are protected, supported and given opportunities to thrive.
She also provides guidance to other schools and those responsible for children’s wellbeing.
Away from education, Francesca volunteers with St John Ambulance, supporting people at local events and during emergencies, while also serving as a trustee of a community charity.
Much of her work takes place behind the scenes, making the recognition particularly meaningful.
Highly Commended – Vikki Cosgrove
Vikki Cosgrove was highly commended for a lifetime of kindness and volunteering, having first started helping others at just ten years old.
From creating free promotional materials for small businesses to helping older residents with technology, Vikki regularly gives her time without expecting anything in return.
She has also volunteered at charity events and completed fundraising skydives despite her fear.
The impact of her generosity was reflected in almost 40 heartfelt cards received from people whose lives she had touched.
Arts Award – Missfits Bellydance
Sponsored by Andover Radio & Love Andover
The Arts Award was presented to Missfits Bellydance, an inspiring group of five women aged between 47 and 73 who use dance to spread happiness, friendship and inclusion.
For five years, the group has volunteered its time performing at community events, visiting care homes and providing free workshops.
Their performances encourage people of all ages and abilities to enjoy music, movement and the social benefits of dance.
Any donations received are passed on to charitable causes, ensuring their creativity benefits the wider community.
The group has demonstrated that artistic expression has no age limit and that the performing arts can be a powerful way of bringing people together.
Highly Commended – Marie Ponting
Marie Ponting received highly commended recognition for her work using music to support mental health and community wellbeing.
Inspired by her own experience of postnatal depression, Marie established a community music festival that celebrates local talent while raising awareness of mental health.
This year alone, the festival provided opportunities for more than 500 performers to showcase their abilities.
Its influence extends beyond live performances, supporting initiatives including a memory choir and a monthly sober café.
Through her dedication, Marie has created opportunities for people to develop confidence, connect with others and experience the positive impact of music.
Inspiring Others Award – Ricki Gayati
Sponsored by Studio 106
Ricki Gayati received the Inspiring Others Award for his dedication to boxing and mentoring young people.
Volunteering several evenings each week and giving up countless weekends to support competitions, Ricki has helped generations of boxers develop their skills.
Under his guidance, athletes have achieved national titles and progressed to professional and international competition.
However, his greatest contribution is arguably the confidence, discipline and sense of belonging he has helped young people discover.
His commitment demonstrates that successful coaching is about far more than sporting achievements.
Highly Commended – Nicky Price
Nicky Price was highly commended for her compassionate work supporting survivors of domestic abuse.
As a specialist advocate, she provides practical guidance, reassurance and emotional support to individuals and families experiencing extremely difficult circumstances.
Through weekly support groups and family activities, Nicky helps survivors rebuild confidence, develop independence and look towards a more positive future.
Her dedication has made a significant difference to people seeking safety, stability and hope.
Sports Award – Harley Quinn Guiver
Sponsored by Input Joinery
At just 11 years old, Harley Quinn Guiver has already achieved sporting success that many athletes can only dream of.
The talented kickboxer is a five-time World Champion, European Champion and holder of numerous British and English titles.
Her achievements are the result of exceptional dedication, with hours of training balanced alongside school commitments.
Despite her success, Harley remains committed to encouraging others.
As a junior leader at her club, she helps fellow students develop confidence and improve their skills, making her an inspiring role model for young people across Andover.
Highly Commended – Rhian Lewis-Elgar
Rhian Lewis-Elgar was recognised for her work making netball more accessible and inclusive.
Just one year ago, she founded a not-for-profit netball club built around three principles: respect, belong and ignite.
The club has since expanded to six teams, welcoming participants from primary school age through to women over 50.
Through voluntary coaching, umpiring and organising, Rhian has created opportunities for people to enjoy sport, develop friendships and feel part of a team.
Education Award – David Bonthuys
Sponsored by New Street Dental Care
David Bonthuys received his second honour of the evening, winning the Education Award in recognition of his decades of teaching and mentoring.
His 40 years as a martial arts instructor have helped thousands of students develop valuable life skills, including confidence, responsibility and respect.
His work in local schools and his emphasis on charitable acts demonstrate a belief that education should develop character as well as ability.
By encouraging students to practise kindness and support others, David has helped create a legacy extending far beyond the martial arts community.
Highly Commended – John Nulty
John Nulty was highly commended for his longstanding commitment to education, volunteering and community support.
Through his involvement in Scouting, John has helped young people develop practical skills, independence and confidence.
He has also supported children with additional needs through his work as a school governor, assisted residents experiencing financial difficulties and offered companionship to older people.
His dedication reflects the importance of those who quietly give their time to help others succeed.
Young Person of the Year – Grace Bailey
Sponsored by BRIKT CIC
Eighteen-year-old Grace Bailey received the Young Person of the Year Award for an inspiring journey of personal determination and community involvement.
Having experienced isolation and communication difficulties, Grace has transformed those challenges into a commitment to helping others feel included.
Now volunteering across several community groups, Grace welcomes and supports young people who may be experiencing similar difficulties.
The award recognises remarkable courage, compassion and a determination to ensure others have opportunities to build friendships and feel a sense of belonging.
Highly Commended – Sofia, Alegra and Mariela
Three young sisters, Sofia, Alegra and Mariela, received highly commended recognition for their exceptional fundraising achievements.
Aged just ten, ten and twelve, the sisters have raised more than £8,700 for five charities.
For six years, they have dedicated their summer holidays to fundraising challenges, including cycling, running and climbing Mount Snowdon.
More recently, they have also turned their attention to environmental projects, collecting litter and encouraging others to care for their local surroundings.
Their achievements demonstrate that age is no barrier to making a meaningful difference.
Community Champion Award – Me & My Dad Club
Sponsored by Ocado
Me & My Dad Club was named Community Champion for its work bringing fathers and children together.
With between 80 and 100 dads and children attending each session, the club provides a welcoming environment where families can enjoy activities, build friendships and spend valuable time together.
From crafts and games to outings and shared meals, its volunteers create opportunities for fathers to strengthen relationships with their children while connecting with other parents.
The club’s inclusive approach ensures families from different backgrounds can take part and feel supported.
Highly Commended – Caroline Maitland
Caroline Maitland was highly commended for her dedication to supporting young people facing difficult circumstances.
As a You Matter Mentor at Yellow Brick Road Projects, Caroline helps young people develop confidence, independence and essential life skills.
Her support ranges from helping individuals access education and employment to providing food parcels, emotional support and practical guidance.
As a mother of six, her willingness to dedicate so much time to helping others makes her contribution particularly remarkable.
Fundraiser Award – Andover Tap
Sponsored by Stannah
Andover Tap received the Fundraiser Award after raising more than £26,000 for charitable causes in just two years.
The popular local pub has supported numerous organisations helping children, families and people experiencing difficult circumstances.
Beyond fundraising, Andover Tap has become a community hub, hosting events, supporting local businesses and creating opportunities for people to come together.
Its success highlights the important role local businesses can play in supporting their communities.
Highly Commended – Suzanne School of Dance
Suzanne School of Dance was highly commended for its extraordinary fundraising legacy.
Established in 1947, the school has spent generations bringing people together through dance while supporting charitable causes.
Between 1992 and 2026, it donated an impressive £96,488.55 to more than 20 charities and community initiatives.
The achievement reflects the dedication of teachers, dancers and families who have consistently used their passion for performing to help others.
A Night That Showcased the Very Best of Andover
The Pride of Andover Awards 2026 provided a powerful reminder that some of the most important contributions to community life come from ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
Whether through sport, education, fundraising, volunteering, the arts or simply offering kindness to someone in need, each recipient has helped make Andover a better place.
The evening also highlighted the importance of local businesses supporting community recognition, with sponsors helping ensure these achievements receive the attention they deserve.
For Andover Radio and Love Andover, sponsoring the Arts Award was an opportunity to celebrate the role music, dance and creativity play in connecting people and enriching local life.
While trophies were presented to the winners and highly commended recipients, the evening was also a celebration of every nominee whose work has made a difference.
And if one message emerged from the Pride of Andover Awards 2026, it was that Andover has an extraordinary amount to be proud of.