Hitchin's first ever Soapbox Derby proved a runaway success, with thousands turning out to enjoy a sun-soaked day of racing, food, and community spirit on Windmill Hill.

Team Mcqueen, clad in bright red jumpsuits, stormed to victory in the inaugural event on Sunday, completing their fastest run in under 20 seconds to claim the title.

Organisers estimate that as many as 6,000 people attended, spread across the trackside, food and drink stalls, and the lively pit lane. Following the event's success, plans are already in motion for the Derby to return in 2026.

Matt Bean, one of the organisers and owner of Cantinas Carnitas, told Hitchin Nub News:

"It was absolutely fantastic! As the first ever soapbox derby to be held in our town we were blown away by the level of passion from racers, volunteers and spectators that made this a truly remarkable event. One stand-out moment for me was at the end of the day when people grabbed a hay bale and carried it down the hill to help with the tidy up!"

Danny Pearson, Town Centre Manager for Visit Hitchin, added:

"Wow! Wow! Wow! Hitchin Soapbox Derby 2025 was absolutely outstanding – Hitchin at its best. The town came out in force for this truly remarkable event. Shops, cafes and restaurants were packed all day, with a few even selling out of food. Mother nature was very kind to us on this wonderfully barmy sunny Sunday. A huge thank you goes out to the Hitchin Soapbox Derby team, the volunteers, the racers, the food and drink stalls, the local scout groups, the police and fire brigade teams and of course the people who came along to enjoy the event! What! A! Town! ❤️ 🏁"

(Team Crackers share a prayer before their first run)

The Derby was as much about performance as it was about personality, with several teams treating the crowds to pre-race dances at the top of the hill before launching their handmade racers down the course.

Some entrants had been working on their vehicles for nearly 10 months, showcasing both engineering skill and artistic flair. While style points weren't officially on offer, the combination of creativity, competition and community made the day one to remember.

(Thankfully a quiet day for the medics)