Soapbox Derby to raise money for church (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Soapbox Derby to raise money for church

FUNDRAISERS in Northleach are busy tinkering away preparing for a 'no motors allowed' grand soapbox derby this September.

The derby, which is part of a 1940s street festival weekend, is in aid of the church restoration fund and will be held on Sunday, September 18.

Children and parents are already involved in designing and creating their self-propelled soapboxes.

And organisers are warning the parking of prams in Northleach is now hazardous as wheels and frames are avidly sought for construction.

Organiser Wendy Crouch said: "There is already a lot of rivalry between the guys in town about who is going to built the best racer.

"I think it will be a brilliant weekend and hopefully great fun for everyone who takes part."

The various classes in the derby include 10-14 years old, 15 years and over, all ages, and a ladies race.

But the 1940s weekend will kick off on the Saturday before with a dance at the Cotswold Hall, featuring period dance music. There will also be a black-market table, a raffle for pre-war items and wartime refreshments.

Wendy added: "These are just two of many events to be held as part of a two-year project to raise funds for the maintenance and restoration of our church."

The Church of St Peter and St Paul is in need of £600,000 to make safe the high-level windows and to repair the faltering 70-year-old heating system. Currently an extensive internal scaffolding system is temporarily shoring up the damage to the roofing masonry.

A charitable trust has been formed with Lord Vestey as the patron but a vital element is a 'self-help contribution by the community'.

For more information about each of these fundraising events call Sheena Loveday on 01451 860009. Tickets are being sold for the dance and derby separately.