Andover War Memorial Hospital is preparing to mark 100 years since officially opening its doors, with a programme of exciting celebrations, remembrance and community events announced.
For a century, the hospital has been a place of care, service and remembrance for the community. Its roots lie in a small cottage hospital established in Junction Road in 1876, before the Charlton Road site was created as a lasting memorial to local service personnel who lost their lives in the First World War. The hospital was officially opened in 1926 by Field Marshal Viscount Allenby and joined the National Health Service in 1948. Since then, it has continued to evolve to meet local needs, while remaining guided by compassion, dedication and strong local support - values that continue to shape the care it provides today.
To commemorate the centenary, Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is inviting local people to share their memories, photographs and stories from across the decades. These will be brought together in a digital display, celebrating the hospital’s history through the voices of the community it serves.
The celebrations will include a special event for current and former staff on Tuesday 7 July, marking 100 years since the hospital site first opened. The centenary programme also features Hampshire Hospitals Charity’s Party in the Pavilion on Saturday 1 August, which will welcome the wider community to come together and celebrate this milestone. Taking place after the charity’s Colour Run, the free event will include stalls, refreshments and live music, offering a relaxed, family‑friendly way to support the hospital.
From former nurses and doctors to porters, volunteers, patients and visitors, generations of families in Andover and the surrounding area have a connection to the hospital. The centenary provides an opportunity to reflect on its history, recognise the dedication of staff past and present, and celebrate the vital role it continues to play in local healthcare.
Sue Harriman, Chief Executive at Hampshire Hospitals said:
“Reaching 100 years is an incredible moment for Andover War Memorial Hospital and for the community it has served for generations. This milestone belongs to every member of staff, past and present, whose skill, commitment and compassion have shaped a century of care. We are also deeply grateful to the patients, families and community members who have placed their trust in us over the years.
“We are incredibly proud of the role the hospital continues to play in the lives of people across Andover and beyond and look forward to celebrating this special milestone with everyone in our community.”
Donna McCormack, Andover War Memorial Hospital EFM Site Coordinator, added:
“So many people have a personal connection to this hospital, whether through working here, receiving care, visiting loved ones or supporting fundraising efforts. We would love to hear their stories and see their photographs, so together we can create a lasting tribute to 100 years of care and celebrate the important role the hospital continues to play for Andover and beyond.”
To share a memory or find out more, click here.
