The #AmazingAccrington Soapbox Challenge has become a firm fixture of the Bank Holiday weekend, taking place this year on Saturday 24th August from 10 am – 3 pm.
It’s free-to-spectate, with thousands cheering on the streets of Accrington enjoying the spectacle of businesses and individuals racing their carts on Blackburn Road as they go head-to-head to be crowned Soapbox champion.
BBC Radio Lancashire’s Graham Liver has been a huge fan of the event, competing in the previous two races. He’s back again for this year, racing against colleague Parin Begum this time for some healthy competition. To keep the course interesting, this year has a two-level height ramp at the start line, then a 170-metre-long track with many surprises along the way, including jumps, chicanes, water pistols and much more.
The theme for this year is Back to the Future – and the famous Delorean car will feature in the day’s spectacular celebrations. There will be a Delorean on site for photo opportunities and a chance to see one close-up.
Attendees are also invited to celebrate the 33rd anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence. The day is marked as a symbol of national identity and pride in the Ukrainian people’s resilience. There will be an amazing dance troupe, special Ukrainian flags for those attending to wave during the Soapbox racing and the entry of a Ukrainian-themed cart into the Soapbox, plus Ukrainian food on offer.
All entry fees for the Soapbox Challenge will go to local charity Maundy Relief, with over £8,000 having been raised for Maundy since the event started in 2018.
BBC Radio Lancashire’s Graham Liver said, “We’ve had a fantastic time at the last two Soapbox Challenges and our custom-built carts have been really spectacular. I’m looking forward to racing against Parin this year, and seeing what changes have been made to the track!”
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 Borough Council, said: “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.”
The Soapbox Challenge is being sponsored by Hyndburn Borough Council as part of their 50th anniversary commemorations, Accrington & Rossendale College and Financial Affairs. You can find more information on the #AmazingAccrington website: https://www.amazingaccrington.co.uk/soapbox-challenge/
