Published: Thursday, 30th July 2020
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and attempts to reduce the spread of the virus it has been decided to cancel the Searles Soap Box Derby in Hunstanton this year.
50 home-made karts were scheduled to be racing down the streets of Hunstanton on 20 September 2020. The decision to cancel the event is due to government guidelines on social distancing and rules on large gatherings.
Cllr Elizabeth Nockolds, Deputy Leader of the Borough Council of King's Lynn & West Norfolk and cabinet member for culture, heritage and health, said: “Many borough council organised events have already been cancelled or postponed. Having successfully brought this annual race back to Hunstanton in 2017 it’s hugely disappointing to be cancelling the soap box derby this year but the health and safety of the public is our priority.
“It takes the teams many months to design and build their karts, some may have already started to work on their vehicles. I look forward to seeing their creations next year when it’s safe to hold this popular event.”
Paul Searle from Searles Leisure Resorts added: "I am very disappointed that this year's event has been cancelled, an event we have been main sponsors of since its reintroduction. It has proved a great success, given a lot of joy to the soap box racers and the spectators who enjoy the friendly competition.
"The soap box has also given both the competitors and local fundraisers an opportunity to raise money for local good causes as the spectators are always generous in their support of our town. When it returns in 2021 we hope to see an even bigger event, building on the successes of the last few years."
Highlights of previous Searles Soap Box Derbies in Hunstanton can be viewed on the borough council YouTube and social media channels.
Several borough council events have been cancelled this year including:
- Folk in the Town on 01 & 02 August.
- Mods & Rockers on 09 August.
- Family entertainment day on 23 August.
VJ Day will be commemorated virtually with a range of activities and events available on the Stories of Lynn website and borough council social media channels.
Other events planned for later this year are still under review.
Highlights from the 2019 and 2018 Soap Box Derbies below