Soapbox challenge returns to streets of this East Lancs town next month

Spectators are set to line the streets of an East Lancashire town next month as its annual Soapbox Challenge returns for another year.

The event, organised by #AmazingAccrington, will take place on Saturday, August 24, and will be free to watch as local people and businesses go head-to-head to be crowned champion.

As well as the top prize for being the fastest, there will be other opportunities to take home silverware, including for the best-dressed team and the best-designed kart.

More than 18,000 people attended the event last year (Image: Adam Woodhouse)

New to the race this year will be a two-level height ramp at the start line, which competitors will need to take on before facing the 170m track with many surprises along the way, including jumps, chicanes, and water pistols.

Those wanting to take part should get their entries in soon with more than 30 karts having already signed up for the event.

All entry fees for the Soapbox Challenge will go to local charity Maundy Relief, with more than £8,000 having been raised for Maundy since the event started in 2018.

Alongside the racing, there will be an array of food stalls for visitors to enjoy during an interval between the Soapbox competition, with everything from pizza and kebabs to ice cream on offer.

There will also be entertainment for all the family including dancers and popular local ska band Blowjangles, in what will be a real carnival atmosphere in Accrington town centre.

Murray Dawson, chair of Amazing Accrington, added: “The Soapbox Challenge is back and we are more passionate and as excited as ever!

Local businesses are being encouraged to enter (Image: Adam Woodhouse)

“We are working hard on an incredible track, which will include a much steeper and speedier start.

"That added speed will make for a fast and frenetic race, with entertainment for the thousands of spectators to enjoy.”

Leyanne Fitzmaurice, centre principal at Accrington & Rossendale College, said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring the Soapbox Challenge once again this year, it is one of the best events of the year.

“People come out in their thousands for what is just an incredible day of excitement, entertainment and great community spirit.”

A spokesperson from Hyndburn Council added: “The Soapbox was named as a finalist in the large event of the year category at last year’s Lancashire Tourism Awards, and you can see why. It really is a tremendous event.

“Not only do we get to see fast and ferocious racing, but the event also brings all areas of the community together to enjoy themselves and to #ShopLocal around town.”