Hampshire's Hero of the Year award has gone to a man who went above and beyond to ensure children could get an education during the pandemic.

David Harper was named our Hero of the Year in the Hampshire Hero Awards, which were screened virtually on our Facebook page last night.

The event was a celebration of the amazing efforts of some of the region’s most remarkable individuals whose hard work and dedication was invaluable during the pandemic.

An RAF veteran, David has been constantly on the lookout for laptops which he asks the community to donate in any condition which he then spends hour’s refurbishing and making good for children who are in need of technology and working at home.

These children may need laptops during lockdown or for homework or because they are not able to get into school for different reasons.

David has helped more than 60 children so far.

The event's Unsung Hero award went to Lisa Carter who went from cleaning up Totton alone, to building up a team of people who pick up litter, cans and other undesirable objects.

Her nominator was someone with a mobility condition who praised Lisa for the difference she had made to the ease of walking with her dog.

She said because of Lisa, Totton is now looking lovely, well-kept and most of all somewhere you could be proud to live.

All the winners: 

Hero of the Year

David Harper

Medical Heroes

Healthcare Team

Hestia Care at Berehill House

Individual Healthcare Professional

Winner – Megan Rayner, Princess Anne Hospital

Medical Support

Winner – Jennifer Bryant, Sentinel, Fordingbridge

Emergency Heroes

999 Award

Captain Karl Williams

In The Moment

Tim Brennan, Horton Heath, and Martin Hancill, Dorset.

Young Hero

Nancy Bastin, Hampshire Cubs

Best Fundraiser

Winner – Jessica Giles

Unsung Heroes

Lisa Carter

Best Keyworker

Andrew Connelly