Soap and glory at Shropshire's wacky races

A total of 36 teams have put their names down to brave a down hill rush in a homemade cart for the annual Richard's Castle Soap Box Derby, which takes place on Sunday.

The quirky event at Hanway Common, in the village near Ludlow, has been going for more than a decade and last year saw record crowds turn out to support 30 ramshackle racers travelling from across the UK to take part.

This year looks to be going the extra mile as 31 adult teams and five junior teams have signed up to take part, and organisers are hoping to crack the £100,000 milestone for money raised for good causes over the years.

Committee member Kate Pearce commented “We have a great entry of soap boxes this year and with names such as Frankestein, Wallace and Gromit Family Outing, Soap and Glory we’re bound to see some sights coming down Hanway Common.

"36 carts in all shapes and sizes will race down Hanway Common from 10am, with entries from London, Fareham, Shropshire, Herefordshire – and course record holder C12 from Chippenham is back. Will anyone catch him this year?"

She said the derby is now in its 14th year and has raised a huge amount of money in its time.

"Richards Castle Soap Box Derby has always been about local money raised going to local causes," she said.

"Since the first event in 2004 an amazing 49 different charities and local causes have benefited from money raised.

"To date the figure stands are £91,020 and the committee have their sights firmly set on reaching £100,000 after this year’s event," she said.

Nominated charities to benefit in 2017 are CLD Trust – Strong Young Minds, Ludlow Foyer and Smile for Ludlow Maternity.

The event is from 10am to 4pm and also has a packed programme of entertainment from The Hereford Landrover Off-Road Club, lawn mower racers, Ludlow Autograss and Ludlow Motor Club, with a bouncy castle, face painting and an array of food and drink.

Entry is £5 for adults, with children under 16 free.