IT’S ironic the traffic lights at the top of Chalet Hill have been replaced with a roundabout.

Because more than a dozen drivers were given the green light on Sunday to put their foot down and race.

The first Bordon Soapbox Derby for more than a decade did not disappoint with thousands lining the street for an amazing and amusing spectacle of speed.

‘Speed’ might be the wrong word considering some of the vehicles which took part. Chipmunks might be nimble woodland critters, but they’re less speedy in vehicular form. Top marks to Bordon's Dolly Pots, though.

BORDON SOAPBOX BORDON, HAMPSHIRE ENGLAND 23rd JULY 2023 On Sunday 23rd July 2023 Whitehill & Bordon in Hampshire was transformed into the ultimate community driven soapbox spectacle, the official Bordon Soapbox Derby With the main road through the town closed to traffic the hundreds of spectators were able to walk around the attractions that had been put in place in the early hours of Sunday before gathering many deep on Chalet Hill to watch the 'soapbox racers' take on the challenge to be the fastest competitor to get to the Finish Line ! Some of the racers were quick, some were slow, and some driver's after having spectacular spills were permitted to run to the Finish Line as long as they were carrying 'any part of their soapbox' ! (Photo by Malcolm Wells) Standard reproduction rates apply, contact Malcolm Wells to arrange payment - Mobile: 07802-217-569 malcolmrichardwells@gmail.com
Maybe chipmunks are better suited for the trees. (Photographer: Malcolm Wells )

The sight of a shark making a leap outside Gelthornes won’t be forgotten in a hurry while Only Fools and Horses, The A-Team and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory were among the shows represented on the track. Maybe Del Boy should stick to market trading, as his Life’s a Hitch entry, complete with caravan, finished 16th and just about reached the chequered flag.

BORDON SOAPBOX BORDON, HAMPSHIRE ENGLAND 23rd JULY 2023 On Sunday 23rd July 2023 Whitehill & Bordon in Hampshire was transformed into the ultimate community driven soapbox spectacle, the official Bordon Soapbox Derby With the main road through the town closed to traffic the hundreds of spectators were able to walk around the attractions that had been put in place in the early hours of Sunday before gathering many deep on Chalet Hill to watch the 'soapbox racers' take on the challenge to be the fastest competitor to get to the Finish Line ! Some of the racers were quick, some were slow, and some driver's after having spectacular spills were permitted to run to the Finish Line as long as they were carrying 'any part of their soapbox' ! (Photo by Malcolm Wells) Standard reproduction rates apply, contact Malcolm Wells to arrange payment - Mobile: 07802-217-569 malcolmrichardwells@gmail.com
The jaws of victory? (Photographer: Malcolm Wells )

Just under 20 racers competed with The Fighting 17 claiming top spot on the podium with a blistering time of 26.02 seconds. The Classic Car Mechanic team were more than a second behind with Mercedes Benz of Farnborough taking bronze with 27.75, much to the chagrin of their driver who spoke of “going for the win” in the minutes before his second run.

Although there was the odd scrape, collision and lift-off, the races ran smoothly with organisers estimating the crowds in their thousands. 

BORDON SOAPBOX BORDON, HAMPSHIRE ENGLAND 23rd JULY 2023 On Sunday 23rd July 2023 Whitehill & Bordon in Hampshire was transformed into the ultimate community driven soapbox spectacle, the official Bordon Soapbox Derby With the main road through the town closed to traffic the hundreds of spectators were able to walk around the attractions that had been put in place in the early hours of Sunday before gathering many deep on Chalet Hill to watch the 'soapbox racers' take on the challenge to be the fastest competitor to get to the Finish Line ! Some of the racers were quick, some were slow, and some driver's after having spectacular spills were permitted to run to the Finish Line as long as they were carrying 'any part of their soapbox' ! (Photo by Malcolm Wells) Standard reproduction rates apply, contact Malcolm Wells to arrange payment - Mobile: 07802-217-569 malcolmrichardwells@gmail.com
Willy Wonka is making a run for it (Photographer: Malcolm Wells )

And while the racing was the main attraction there was plenty more around the town with stalls lining the A325 and live music in The Shed throughout the day. Thanks must be given to SiGNAL, Gary Newell and Barry Parker for their roles in returning the event after the 2020 race was shelved due to Covid, with organisers extending their heartfelt gratitude to participants afterwards.

They said: “Your unwavering dedication and passion brought life and excitement to the event, creating an unforgettable experience for all.

“We cannot thank each and every one of you enough for making the 2023 Bordon Soapbox an event to remember.”