The second quarter of 2025 reminded everyone exactly what Andover does best — coming together, celebrating loudly, and supporting one another when it matters most.
April – Celebration, creativity and a community in mourning
April began with colour, crowds and creativity as A-Fest returned to Andover High Street. By the end of the month, it wasn’t just another successful year — it was a record-breaking one, drawing huge crowds and once again proving just how much Andover loves a full town-centre takeover. Music, performances and activity filled the High Street, reinforcing the appetite for events that bring people together right in the heart of town.
But April also brought sadness as the community learned of the death of David Mellor, remembered by many as a true gentleman and a major local champion.
David was not only the founder of a much-loved independent jewellers — David Mellor Family Jewellers, established in Hampshire in 1976 — but a cherished figure whose story was rooted firmly in the community. Beginning as a market trader, he was a familiar face at Blackbushe Market for 32 years, as well as markets in Andover, Farnborough and Guildford. After a decade working the markets — often running two stalls a day — he opened his first shop in Eastleigh, later expanding to Totton, Romsey, Shirley and eventually Andover. Tributes poured in, reflecting a man whose impact went far beyond business.
Creativity also took centre stage when street artist Hendog unveiled a striking piece of artwork down Shaws Walk. After the door it was painted on was removed and the artwork stolen, heartbreak turned to hope. Following a plea from Penny of Pennies Haberdashery — and amplified by Love Andover’s social media — Hendog vowed to recreate the piece. The artwork now proudly sits inside Pennies, becoming a symbol of resilience, community power and the value of local art.
On the pitch, April ended with emotion as Andover New Street FC’s incredible FA Vase journey came to an end. A narrow 1–0 defeat to AFC Whyteleafe at the DH Property Services Stadium brought heartbreak, but not without pride. The historic run saw record attendances and unwavering support, with the club just one game away from Wembley — a season that will be remembered for years to come.
May – Pride, remembrance and Andover at full throttle
May was one of the most “Andover” months of the year: proud, busy and powered by community spirit.
The town came together to mark VE Day 80, with commemorations taking place across Andover. Andover Radio reflected the significance of the moment with special programming, honouring remembrance while connecting listeners through shared history.
Then came the thrills.
Andover Soapbox Derby 2025
The Andover Soapbox Derby roared back into West Portway, transforming Hopkinson Way into a high-energy hub of creativity, chaos and cheers. Love Andover’s coverage followed the build-up and the race-day excitement, capturing one of the most joyful events in the town’s calendar.
One of the biggest feel-good moments followed after the dust had settled, with organisers confirming the 2025 event raised an incredible £6,000 for local causes — proof that Andover knows how to have fun and make it matter.
Charity football and a Premier League legend
Hundreds gathered on Saturday 3 May for the third annual Jon Baxter Charity Shield, hosted by Andover New Street Youth FC at Foxcotte Lane. The headline moment saw Petr Čech take to the pitch for a second consecutive year.
The former Chelsea and Arsenal goalkeeper — whose daughter plays for the club’s Vixens team — drew crowds as he starred in the main fixture between the Vixens and the Foxes, combining star power with a powerful community cause.
Stories that stopped the town
May also delivered stories that reached far beyond Andover.
In extraordinary news, Ethel Caterham, born in Shipton Bellinger on 21 August 1909, became the world’s oldest living person at 115, believed to be the last surviving subject of King Edward VII.
The village of Shipton Bellinger was also plunged into mourning following the tragic death of Ketan Shah, a much-loved local shopkeeper, father and community figure, who was among the 241 people killed in the devastating Air India plane crash. Mr Shah, 43, was returning to the UK after visiting his sick father in India when Flight AI171 crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad. Tributes reflected the deep loss felt across the village and beyond.
Closer to home, a significant fire at Dairy Court on Charlton Road shocked residents. In the aftermath, Andover showed its strength — with the community rallying to support affected families through donations, practical help and messages of solidarity.
The month closed with pride and unity as Andover Armed Forces Day filled Vigo Park with energy. The day began with a poignant flag-raising ceremony, followed by live performances, arena displays and activities for all ages. A standout highlight was the Armed Forces Day Strongman Competition, where four competitors represented four different charities — combining spectacle with purpose.
June – Pride and retro vibes take centre stage
June delivered two of the year’s most colourful and high-profile weekends.
Andover Pride 2025
Andover Pride returned to Pocket Park – Town Mills with a free, family-friendly celebration rooted in inclusion and togetherness. Love Andover’s coverage captured the message loud and clear: this was a day for everyone, bringing colour, music and positivity into the town centre.
Thruxton Retro – Official Media Partners
From 20–22 June 2025, the inaugural Thruxton Retro burst into life with a full weekend of retro entertainment, live music and motorsport just on Andover’s doorstep.
Love Andover and Andover Radio were proud to be named official media partners for the event, supporting Thruxton Retro both on-air and online — and being present throughout the weekend with Ben Tuffin hosting the whole weekend and capture the atmosphere and connect audiences to one of the standout new festivals of the year.
