The
naming of the town dates back to the 10th century and it's believed
that the current name was derived from "aet Andefers",
the name of a local king.
In
the late 10th century the infamous viking, King Olaf Tryggvasson
was constantly plundering the south coast of England, including
the small township of Andover ,and generally wreaking havoc.
In
994, a deal was struck between Olaf and the king, whereby
in return for protection money, the sum of £16,000,
Olaf would cease his raids upon the southern town, release
all his hostages and convert to Christianity.