The Pride of Andover Awards have revealed the names of the 2024 finalists to make it one step closer to celebrating Andover’s unsung heroes at this year’s award ceremony in October.

The finalists in various categories are Mark Thorne, Chris Duncan Smith, Stuart Randall, Tanya Hale, Suzanne School of Dancing, Rosa Waite, Libby Hilling, Debbie Burgess, Alexi Roberts, Katie Vincent, Oblivion Dance, Billie-Kay Cooper, Beth Matthews, Kate David, Khiana Towana, Rooting for Andover, Joel Kirby, and Tony Evans.

On Saturday, September 7, the Pride of Andover committee gathered at The Incuhive in The Chantry Centre, joined by all event category sponsors, to decide the finalists.

The day was set for an exciting yet challenging task, as a team of judges, comprising both new and seasoned members, prepared to review the incredible nominations.

READ MORE: Nominations close for this year's Pride of Andover Awards

Each person eagerly anticipated the day ahead, knowing the importance of recognising the outstanding contributions made by individuals across our community and also the emotion that reading each amazing story brings.

Welcoming headline sponsors New Street Dental Care and a host of new and returning category sponsors, the Pride of Andover committee was delighted by the turnout and enthusiasm of everyone involved.

Over the course of more than six hours, judges carefully reviewed every single nomination—each one deserving recognition for their commitment and dedication to Andover.

A spokesperson for the Awards said: “Our dedicated committee and sponsors had the privilege of hearing stories that moved and inspired us, showcasing the strength, kindness, and passion within our community.

“Every nomination highlighted individuals whose hard work and commitment have made a lasting impact on our town. It has been a tremendous honour to learn about the remarkable achievements of these nominees, and there is no doubt that they deserve to be celebrated.

“Their contributions have uplifted and inspired those around them, and we are immensely proud to announce the finalists for The Pride of Andover Awards 2024.

“Stay tuned as we prepare for the next phase of this wonderful journey, meeting with our finalists and sharing these with you over the upcoming weeks ahead of the awards ceremony, where we will officially honour our local heroes.

The categories and sponsors for the Pride of Andover Awards 2024 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
  • Services Award – The DeeDee Trust
  • Mayor of Test Valley – Bulpitt Print
  • Arts Award – The Rock House
  • Inspiring Others Award – Andover Aesthetics Practitioners
  • Heart of Gold Award – Parker Bullen Solicitors
  • Fundraiser Award – AB Building Products
  • Community Champion Award – Ocado
  • Sports Award – The DeeDee Trust & Andover New Street Youth Football Club