Andover Events Community Local News

Finalists Announced for 2024 Pride of Andover Awards

The Pride of Andover Awards has revealed its 2024 finalists, marking a significant step towards honouring the town’s unsung heroes at this year’s ceremony, scheduled for October.

On Saturday, 7th September, the Pride of Andover committee gathered at The Incuhive in The Chantry Centre, joined by the sponsors for each award category. The day brought both excitement and challenge, as judges, both new and returning, prepared to assess a series of remarkable nominations.

Each judge approached the day with anticipation, aware of the significance of recognising the extraordinary contributions made by individuals throughout the Andover community. The emotional weight of reading each inspiring story added to the gravity of the task.

With headline sponsors New Street Dental Care, alongside a variety of new and returning category sponsors, the Pride of Andover committee was encouraged by the enthusiasm and dedication of all those involved.

Over the course of six hours, judges carefully reviewed each nomination. Every individual highlighted deserved recognition for their unwavering commitment to Andover, with stories that moved and inspired the panel, showcasing the strength, kindness, and passion within the community.

The committee expressed how honoured they felt to learn about the nominees’ remarkable achievements. These individuals have made lasting impacts on those around them, and the committee is proud to announce the finalists for the Pride of Andover Awards 2024.

The finalists for this year’s awards are:

  • Mark Thorne
  • Chris Duncan-Smith
  • Stuart Randall
  • Tanya Hale
  • Suzanne School Of Dance
  • Rosa Waite
  • Libby Hilling
  • Debbie Burgess
  • Alexi Roberts
  • Katie Vincent
  • Oblivion Dance
  • Billie-Kay Cooper
  • Beth Matthews
  • Kate David
  • Khiana Towana
  • Rooting For Andover
  • Joel Kirby
  • Tony Evans

In the coming weeks, the finalists will be revealed to the public, as the community eagerly awaits the official awards ceremony, where Andover’s local heroes will be celebrated.

The categories and sponsors for the 2024 Pride of Andover Awards are:

  • Spirit of Andover Award – Overall Winner: New Street Dental Care
  • Young Person of the Year Award: Bear Behind
  • Sue Sheppard Award: The Commercial Centre
  • Services Award: The DeeDee Trust
  • Mayor of Test Valley Award: Bulpitt Print
  • Arts Award: The Rock House
  • Inspiring Others Award: Andover Aesthetics Practitioners
  • Heart of Gold Award: Parker Bullen Solicitors
  • Fundraiser Award: AB Building Products
  • Community Champion Award: Ocado
  • Sports Award: The DeeDee Trust & Andover New Street Youth Football Club

The Pride of Andover Awards, organised by a dedicated team of volunteers and made possible through the support of local businesses, aims to shine a spotlight on individuals and groups who work tirelessly to make a difference to the lives of others, often without receiving the recognition they deserve.

For more information about the awards, sponsors, and this year’s categories, visit www.prideofandoverawards.org.uk.

Ben Tuffin