Andover Sound, the independent radio station for North West Hampshire, has won one of the biggest radio awards in the world.

The station has just picked up a NEW YORK FESTIVALS RADIO AWARD for BEST DOCUMENTARY/NEWS SPECIAL in the 2009 awards.

The winning programme, called 'Remembering Jamie', was broadcast after the sudden and unexplained death of popular Andover schoolboy Jamie Gentleman.  The half hour special, which featured emotional interviews with Jamie's mum, dad and brother mixed with the music played at his memorial service, was awarded the bronze medal in the awards. It beat competition from across the world.

For 52 years the New York Awards have recognised the world's best work in radio broadcasting with over 30 countries submitting entries. Those are then judged by the 'Grand Jury', made up of radio professionals from across the world. This year the Grand Jury included judges from Bauer Radio, ABC Networks, Ten Alps, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, BBC World Service and senior broadcasters from Australia, Hong Kong, India, Germany and New Zealand as well as the UK.

Owner and Managing Director of Andover Sound, Ian Axton said: "Winning a New York Award is a huge accolade for any radio station, but for an independent station which is one of the smallest in the UK this is a huge achievement. It's a tribute to the great work of our News Editor Ben McGrail and to the entire team that make Andover Sound what it is -  passionate, professional local radio."

Jamie Gentleman's Mum Jacqui said: "We're proud of everything Jamie achieved and very grateful for almost 14 years of such wonderful and happy memories. Our whole family is thrilled that Andover Sound has won this award - their coverage of Jamie's story was sensitive and respectful, yet also uplifting. Andover Sound has been the focal point for hundreds of people affected by Jamie's passing - kindness, love and support - it's really brought our community together."

North West Hampshire's MP, Sir George Young, said: "Many congratulations to Andover Sound. It makes one proud to be part of a town that's achieved this recognition at the beginning of the radio station's career up against some well-established radio stations that have been around for a long time."

Andover Sound now sits alongside brands like BBC Radio 4, BBC World Service, ABC Australia, RTE in Ireland and SIRIUS in the USA as a proud winner of a New York Festivals Radio Award.

Click here to listen to the award-winning programme