A MEMBER of an iconic English rock band has been announced as the host of this year’s Pride of Andover Awards.

Organisers have announced that Simon Gallup, best known for being the bassist for The Cure, which he joined in 1979, will present the awards in October.

An awards spokesperson said: “The Pride of Andover team are very excited that Simon has joined us as this year’s Pride of Andover Awards host, we are certain his charismatic energy and experience will lighten the stage.

“We are honoured that Simon will be joining us and cannot wait to highlight the great community of people that surround us.”

The awards will once again welcome New Street Dental Care as headline sponsor, having supported the accolades for many years.

Principal dentist Julian Chen said: “We have been sponsors of this great event since my family and I opened our practice in Andover.

“Being able to support and recognise great people in our local community is something we feel is very important for the people of Andover.

“There are so many unsung heroes in our town and we feel that Pride of Andover encourages more people to change our community for the better through actions of their kindness, passion and dedication to others.

“We will always strive to do our best for the community through Pride of Andover Awards.”

The overall winner of the 2024 awards will win the Spirit of Andover award, this is awarded by the main event sponsor, which, in their opinion, is a person whose work in the community and their achievements have been far-reaching.

Nominations for this year’s Pride of Andover Awards open June 8, with 11 categories available for people to nominate those who deserve to be celebrated.