Published: Tuesday, 19th September 2017
Hunstanton saw the return of the Soap Box Derby last weekend (17 September), with some 40 teams entering the race. Karts of all shapes and colours took part in the event which drew crowds of people into the town to cheer them on.
Races began at noon, with each team making two timed runs down the course. The route began at the top of Boston Square and then took a 90-degree left turn onto Cliff Parade. Karts then had to negotiate a ramp before finishing at the mini-roundabout.
Cllr Elizabeth Nockolds, borough council cabinet member for Culture, Heritage and Health, said: “It was a very enjoyable day watching the Soap box entries. They were all shapes and sizes and some very fast. The crowds cheering everyone on sympathising with those whose carts lost pieces on the way. The weather was on our side and it resulted in perfect seaside entertainment.”
Mayor of the borough Cllr Carol Bower, added: “The Soap Box Derby was a resounding success with much enthusiasm from participants and observers alike. It was lovely to see the town packed and buzzing with life.
“The music on stage and the band in the evening all added to the atmosphere, along with the children’s entertainment. Thanks must also go to KLFM’s Simon Rowe who provided commentary for the event. Generally people are hoping the event will return next year and we have received lots of positive feedback. It was pure fun.”
Winners were as follows:
Fastest – The Beach Boys
Fastest junior – Midnight Riders
Best Decorated – Wacky Races
Wild Card Award – Bathtime Blunders
The event was organised as part of the Hunstanton Heritage Gardens activities programme which is designed to encourage people to enjoy the newly refurbished gardens. The regeneration of the Hunstanton Heritage Gardens is a £1.3m project funded by the borough council and the National Lottery through a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Big Lottery Fund.