AN ANDOVER organisation has given its backing to the Pride of Andover Awards, by sponsoring the Fundraiser Award.

Purple Oak Support has sponsored the category which recognises an individual or group who has shown a commitment to raising funds for an individual, group, or organisation.

The nominations for the Fundraiser Award are open until August 31, and organisers are encouraging everyone to take part by nominating someone they know that deserves an award.

Chief executive of Purple Oak Support Lisa Rogers said: “Personally I’ve had a number of occasions where I have fundraised for charities, ones that I have personal links to, I know to do this takes hard work, but I know how rewarding that process can be, it is important we recognise the time people take for others.

“As an organisation, we have a charitable arm to Purple Oak Support, fundraising is important to us as an organisation as this helps us to reach out to more people and support more people.

“Please nominate it will take you a few moments of your time but the difference it will make to an individual being nominated will encourage them to keep that spark going, the smallest acknowledgement can make the world of difference to them.”

The categories and sponsors for the Pride of Andover Awards 2023 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
  • Sports Award – Acroud Media Ltd
  • Services Award – The DeeDee Trust
  • Mayor of Test Valley – Bulpitt Print
  • Inspiring Others Award – Andover Aesthetics Practitioners
  • Heart of Gold Award – Carpet Cleaning Lady
  • Fundraiser Award – Purple Oak Support
  • Community Champion Award – Ocado
  • Arts Award – The Rock House

An award spokesperson said: “We are immensely proud to honour the exceptional and selfless local heroes with the Pride of Andover Awards. These awards give well-deserved recognition to Andover's residents who make a positive impact in the lives of others without expecting recognition. Their generous acts are undeniably influential in their community. Their altruism truly makes a meaningful difference in the community.”

Nominations are being accepted prideofandoverawards.org.uk/nominate.