Hunstanton Soapbox Derby returns to town for Easter 2023

Hunstanton Soapbox Derby attracted a field of more than 50 hopefuls the last time the event was held in 2019, while thousands lined the streets leading down to the seafront to cheer them on.

Thomas the Tank Engine in full steam at the Hunstanton Soapbox Derby Picture: Chris Bishop (Image: Chris Bishop)

Now the races are returning, with entrants invited to start building their karts ready for the event's 70th anniversary.

Graham Middleton, deputy leader of organisers West Norfolk council, said: “We let people know last September to pencil in the first Sunday of the Easter holiday, April 2 for the event, so we can start the holiday and events season with a massive splash of colour.

Scooby Doo you think we'll make it..? The Mystery Machine hurtles downhill Picture: Chris Bishop (Image: Chris Bishop)

“Having designed, and possibly even started building, their karts they can now enter to take part. I also look forward to seeing the associated activities taking place in the town to support the event."

Last time around, West Norfolk police cadets copped the fastest time in the 13 - 15 age bracket with their replica armed response vehicle.

Blues and twos - the police cadets' armed response vehicle in the 2019 Hunstanton Soapbox Derby Picture: West Norfolk council (Image: West Norfolk council)

Cadet Fin Grief, now 17, was behind the wheel but has now grown too big to fit into the cockpit for this year's event.

"It was exhilarating, a bit of fun, a bit of excitement when the crowd got going," he said.

From left Insp Howard Elvidge, police cadet Katie Hayes, Sgt Darryl Grief and police cadet Fin Grief with the police cadets' kart Picture: Chris Bishop (Image: Chris Bishop)

Cadet supervisor Sgt Darryl Grief said: “We’re so pleased to be back taking part in the Hunstanton Soap Box Derby as it is such a great opportunity for our police cadets.

"They’ll learn some key skills like team building and will also get the opportunity to be out and about in the local community speaking to locals and visitors alike.”

A soapbox derby at Hunstanton in the 1960s Picture: West Norfolk council (Image: BCKLWN)

The course starts on Greevegate and ends up on Beach Terrace Road, with a new ramp to test drivers on the way.

Places can be booked via west-norfolk.gov.uk/soapboxderby from 9am on Friday, February 17.

Hunstanton Soapbox Derby celebrates its 70th anniversary this Easter Picture: West Norfolk council (Image: West Norfolk council)