A TOTAL of 124 unsung heroes from 26 organisations across the Andover district were invited to a special presentation lunch where the mayor of Test Valley Cllr Pat West thanked them for their hard work and commitment as volunteers.

The event, organised by Test Valley Community Services (TVCS), was a way of rewarding much-appreciated voluntary workers.

Speaking to the volunteers, TVCS chief officer Janet Bland said: "We're here to celebrate the gift of time that you give to your community.

"Following a recent survey, we estimate that more than £6 million is put into the community by volunteers in Test Valley alone.

"The thing that strikes me is the huge diversity of organisations represented here. We have the whole community here. Well done to all of you and keep up the good work."

The mayor Pat West, added: "I see so many people's faces here that I know.

"I'm really heartened that you've asked me to come along. I know how much you all put in to the work."

Types of volunteers attending the event included support workers, counsellors, general helpers, drivers, special constables and a whole range of other helpers vital to local groups.

The organisations represented were: Hampshire County Council social services (two), Andover VIPs (four), the Royal Air Forces Association Andover Branch (three), Age Concern Andover & District (three), Andover Family Learning Project (two), Andover PHAB (one), Andover Riding for the Disabled (one), Andover Shopmobility (five), Andover War Memorial Hospital Friends (two), Andover Young Carers (ten), British Heart Foundation Andover Branch (eight), Countess of Brecknock Hospice (eight), Cruse Bereavement Care Andover & District (four), The Gee-Bettes Majorettes (one), Andover Girl Guides (three), Anna Valley Girl Guides (three), River Way/Pilgrims Way Community Association (five), Hampshire Constab-ulary Andover Division (nine), 2nd Andover Girls Brigade (one), 2nd Andover Girls Brigade and Gee-Bettes Majorettes (one), 23rd Andover Scouts (one), Voices (five), Test Valley Community Services (two), Hampshire Association for the Care of the Blind (one), Andover Mind (30).