Otterton revs up for Grand Soap Box Derby

With just over a month to go, anticipation is growing for Otterton’s Grand Soap Box Derby, set to take place on Saturday, 19 April 2025, from 10am to 4pm (weather permitting).

Following the huge success of last year’s revival, organisers are expecting another action-packed day filled with creativity, competition, and community spirit.

To mark the upcoming event, the official 2025 derby logo has been unveiled, featuring the event’s signature ‘racing otter’ - this year sporting a green helmet.

Early-bird entry stickers are now on sale for £2 at local locations, including the Kings Arms pub and Otterton Village Shop. Stickers will also be available for purchase on the day.

Children under five can attend for free with adult entry fees priced at £20.

Money raised from the event will go towards upgrading Otterton’s children’s play park, ensuring that local families continue to benefit from improved facilities.

The funds will help install new play equipment, improve safety features, and create an engaging outdoor space for children of all ages. Organisers are also working on additional fundraising activities, including raffles and community sponsorship opportunities, to further support the project.

The 2025 course will take place across two connected fields at Stantyway Farm (EX9), offering spectators unparalleled views of the entire race. While the main competition is based on distance, organisers are introducing a speed challenge for this year’s event, adding an extra level of excitement.

A number of sponsors have already joined the lineup, and those looking to enter their own soap boxes are encouraged to do so quickly, as places are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Otterton Village Council Leader Ian Simpson expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming derby:

“We were truly amazed by the fantastic response last year when we rekindled this event after 40 years. This time, we’ve designed a new course that allows spectators to see the entire race from the starting area. Given the quality of last year’s entries, we’re expecting an even more exciting competition in 2025.”

Those interested in competing or attending can find full entry details, derby rules, and spectator information via the event’s Facebook page.