The race is on… the Avon Dassett Soapbox Derby takes place later this month

THE aerodynamics have been tested, the drivers put through their paces and now they are ready for the big race… the Avon Dassett Soapbox Derby.

The fun-filled event returns on Saturday, 21st June, promising fast downhill action, competitive racing and some remarkable home-made machines.

Racing begins with practice runs at 9.45am and continues through to 4.30pm with 22 senior and four junior karts taking part, including teams from as far afield as Doncaster and Norfolk.

The senior race is run as a knock-out competition - two karts at a time will race down the hill, reaching speeds up to 40mph, with the winner heading into the next heat until one kart claims the Champion of the Hill trophy.

A spokesperson for the event said: “The Soapbox Derby is a unique and popular event in the summer calendar and the village welcomes thousands of visitors each year.

“There is free parking and the Yew Tree Pub is open all day. There will also be a number of art and craft stalls as well as a fairground ride and food and drink vendors.”

The race raises money for charity and will this year support the Children's Christmas Wish List.