A SOAPBOX derby which attracts thousands of residents will return to Billericay next weekend.

Here is everything you need to know about the event:

The Billericay Soapbox Derby sees residents race through the town centre at high speed in custom built vehicles. 

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Last year more than 5,000 people gathered to watch the races, which was the first since the pandemic halted the popular event. 

This year’s event will take place next weekend on April 30 at Sun Corner, confirmed by the Billericay Rotary Club.

It is a day which is a huge amount of fun for both spectators and participants.

Racers taking part in the derby will be judged on “team performance”, “soapbox design” and “spectator’s reaction” to give an overall score. 

There will also be a separate trophy and cash price for the fastest three soapboxes.

The three categories this year included students - drivers between 12 and 21 - corporate - including police, fire service, shops, and institutions - and wacky races - those with creative wacky-looking soapboxes.

Anyone is able to apply to race, providing you meet the criteria.

Pre-event tickets cost £5, and tickets on the day cost £7.

The gates open to the public at 10am, with racing commencing at 11am.

For more information or to sign up, visit https://mayflowerrotary.org/events/soap-box-derby/