ORGANISERS of the upcoming White Horse Soapbox Derby have asked for Westbury residents to help with stewarding the event that is being described as ‘the steepest and most challenging course in the UK’.
Ryan Child, events manager for Westbury Town Council said, “We are looking to volunteers to help us deliver this historic event on May 21st, with stewarding, marshalling and general volunteering duties all available. It’s a great chance to be part of this amazing event. There are various shifts available and loads to do, so we need all the help we can get.”
The town council hopes the event will put Westbury on the map by attracting spectators from miles around. They are also using the event to encourage more youngsters to find enjoyment in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), as well as cementing the link between local businesses and schools through workshops.
The Soapbox derby, which will see drivers hurtling down the picturesque chalk escarpment above at the White Horse, was planned to be held last year, but had to be postponed due to the restrictions put in place due to Covid. Teams of engineers will be up against colleges, schools and the general public to take on the obstacle laden course. The course length is 850m long with a max speed of 70kph, with an average gradient of 8.4% and a maximum one of 18.4%.
There will be also be a drag race for local junior schools, a gravity race for younger children and an engineering fair for students in the area. Every White Horse Soapbox team will be asked to follow a historical engineering theme when it comes to decorating their vehicle, which could range from Viking ships to the Pyramids.
If you can help at the event, please contact Ryan on events@westburytowncouncil.gov.uk
