Entries open for wacky races

Those who fancy knocking up a home-made cart and sending it hurtling down a hill are being called upon once more to take part in Richards Castle Soapbox Derby.

The annual event has been going more than a decade and last year saw record crowds turn out to support 30 racers travelling from across the UK to take part.

This year's event raised money for eight different charities and organisers are also calling for business sponsors and raffle prizes for the further fundraising on the day, which will July 9 this year.

Humphrey Salwey, chairman of the event, said: "Since the first cart rolled down the hill in 2004 an amazing £90,000 has been raised for local charities, a phenomenal amount for a community event run by volunteers.

"The success has been down to the generosity of the drivers, businesses and local people who flock to the hill to see the thrills of 'soap box' racing.

"This year sights are firmly set of breaking the £100,000 figure.

"Please get the date in your diary and join us for the 14th annual derby and one of the best 'soap box' events in the country."

There will be categories for both junior and adult teams with some carts designed for speed and others for novelty value in a race against the clock down a 550 metre course with a 50 metre descent at Hanway Common.

Charities have also been announced. Those to benefit this year include Ludlow Foyer, CLD Trust (Strong Young Minds) and Smile for Ludlow Maternity.

Mr Salway said: "These charities enrich, support and empower the lives of young people in our area.

"Ludlow Foyer’s mission is to provide a safe and supported environment for young people to gain the confidence to lead their lives in the community, often achieving new skills.

"CLD Strong Young Minds aims to improve the mental health and wellbeing of young people in Herefordshire.

"The Shropshire Smile Maternity Charity was set up to provide funding to the five maternity units in Shropshire, giving families the best possible start in life, money raised from soap box will be specifically for Ludlow Maternity."

Entry is £30. Entry forms, rules and regulations, and other information can be found www.richardscastlesoapbox.co.uk.

For information on sponsorship, advertising or donating a raffle prize, email asalwey@yahoo.co.uk.