The curtain has closed on another spectacular Andover Carnival, with this year’s event hailed as the most successful to date. In a joyous finale at The Lights Theatre, organisers revealed that the 2025 Carnival raised an incredible £8,000 — the highest total in its history.
The funds will be split evenly between two vital local causes: Simon Says Child Bereavement Support and the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, who each received a £4,000 cheque during the evening’s celebrations.
Kevin Rush, Chair of the Andover Carnival Committee, praised the town’s unwavering community spirit:
“Andover came out in their thousands and once again did what they do best… support, join in and donate! A record amount of £8,000 (that’s a LOT of coins) was donated to both the charities. A great result for everyone and anyone that attended or took part — and on behalf of the Carnival Committee, we thank you all.”
The evening at The Lights also recognised the standout entries from this year’s procession, with rosettes awarded across three categories:
Walkers
🥇 1st – Ruby Slippers
🥈 2nd – Suzanne School of Dancing
🥉 3rd – MS Society
Business Floats
🥇 1st – AYDC (Andover Youth Dance Company)
🥈 2nd – ASDA
🥉 3rd – Disco Dion
Community Floats
🥇 1st – WildKatz
🥈 2nd – Me and My Dad Club
🥉 3rd – Show Off Dance
Among those recognised were two exceptional local teenagers whose selfless actions captured the true spirit of community. Last year, 14-year-old Harry was spotted cleaning up rubbish on his own in the High Street after the carnival, equipped with nothing more than his own bin bags.
This year, Harry returned — this time with friend Fin, aged 15 — and the pair were once again seen voluntarily picking up litter on Bridge Street at around 7.30pm on Carnival Day.
“In a time when negative stories about young people often dominate the headlines, Harry and Fin have shown what it truly means to care for your community,” said a spokesperson for the carnival committee. “Last night, we were proud to welcome them to our celebration and present Harry with a Carnival Community Champion certificate.”
As the town reflects on a day filled with colour, music, generosity, and togetherness, the message from organisers was clear:
“Love where you live — and let’s all be a bit more like Harry and Fin.”
