It has been incredibly heartwarming to see such a wonderful display of community spirit over the last month. Town centre businesses have come together to host a series of events aimed at bringing joy and unity to our town.

The start of the summer holidays kicked off with the Centennial Andover Carnival where the entire town came together in a spectacular celebration. Town centre businesses, performers, entertainers, and stallholders all played their part in creating a fabulous community event. The carnival was a testament to the unity and vibrancy of Andover, featuring the incredibly long and colourful procession, live music, and a wide array of food and craft stalls. The overwhelming support from local businesses and residents made the Andover Carnival a memorable and joyous occasion for everyone involved.

Quickly followed by the highly successful “Step Into Summer” event, seeing an impressive turnout as businesses, including the Andover Museum, the Leisure Centre, CAS Community, and numerous sporting groups, joined forces to offer a variety of activities. Families and individuals from all walks of life participated in interactive workshops, fitness sessions, and cultural displays, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere that showcased the best of what Andover has to offer.

Late-night venues have also been playing a crucial role in this community initiative. By offering live music and other unique events these businesses ensure that the vibrancy of Andover continues well into the evening, fostering a sense of safety and togetherness among revellers.

Through the summer holidays, this collaborative spirit is continuing through “Four Fun Fridays,” a weekly series of events throughout August, designed to provide fun and entertainment for all ages. With activities ranging from table tennis at the Chantry Centre to engaging performances and workshops, these Fridays have become a staple in the community calendar, eagerly anticipated by residents and visitors alike.

Having dedicated the month of July to showcasing a different local business each day through our social media channels we continue to be amazed by the amount of interest and support for our local business ‘stars’ in the town centre. Our main aim will always be to encourage the community to come along to as many of the events taking place throughout the Andover town centre and support the local businesses not just for July but throughout the year. Rest assured, we are also working tirelessly with other key stakeholders to ensure that new businesses are attracted to the town.

The businesses of Andover are dedicated to keeping our community strong and ensuring that everyone can enjoy the best our town centre has to offer. Their commitment to collaboration and community support is a testament to the enduring spirit of Andover. As we look forward to the rest of the summer, we can all take pride in the unity and resilience of our town.

For more information about upcoming events, visit the InAndover website inandover.co.uk/events or our social media channels @InAndoverUK.