About Farndon Soapbox Derby

More than a race

Farndon Soapbox Derby is not just a thrilling ride down the High Street – it demonstrates the beating heart of Farndon and Holt. Born from the spirit of togetherness during lockdown, our event unites our communities, celebrates local talents, and uplifts businesses in a vibrant, inclusive, and fun way.

Rooted in collaboration and joy, Soapbox bring people together to create lasting memories, foster connections, and showcase the power of unity. From our dedicated volunteers to supportive sponsors, every twist and turn of the Derby embodies the shared excitement and camaraderie that define the eccentricity of this rather mad day.

Join us as we race toward a future filled with laughter, connection, and the pure joy of achieving something brilliantly daft – together.

SAY HELLO TO THE SOAPY TEAM

Meet the team of local volunteers and business owners behind the Farndon Soapbox Derby and find out more about how you can help to support this incredible community event, have a shed load of family fun AND raise much-needed funds for local village initiatives that are close to our hearts.

Pauline Amphlett

I’m Pauline and a founding member of the Farndon Soapbox Derby as well as being an external examiner in the university sector.  I have lived in the village for 33 years and represent our community as a parish councillor as well as serving the community of North East Wales as a magistrate. 

Sam Spridgeon

Hi I’m Sam, I’m Managing Director of Spectra Media. I came on board to support the marketing and advertising for this brilliant event, when I was asked to be part of the Farndon Soapbox Derby I jumped at the opportunity to support the Hospice of the Good Shepherd and other great causes in my local area.

Tim Kenney aka “Soapy Tim”

I’m a solution-orientated self-employed Chartered Surveyor working predominantly in the commercial sector. I have event management experience as Lead Marshall for the Chester Santa Dash and am very keen to bring the residents of our villages together for another day of fundraising fun!

Hugh Sym

Hello! I’m Hugh and have been a Farndon resident for 33 years currently working as a self-employed joiner.  I’m also a former motor mechanic and qualified fabricator and welder so naturally, I’m responsible for the kart build specifications plus, I will oversee and manage the course design. 

Andy Bond

Hello! I’m Andrew and have been a teacher at the Farndon Primary School for 20 years! The school is the ‘Parc Ferme’ for the Farndon Soapbox Derby and my role is to coordinate all things on-site on the day as well as helping provide a link to families within our community.

Justin Caroe

Hello, I’m Justin the Community and Event Fundraising Manager for the Hospice of the Good Shepherd. The Hospice is absolutely delighted to be main beneficiary from the Soap Box Derby and I will be assisting the team to ensure the event is run as smoothly as possible.

Gary Durnall

Hi, I’m a Health and Safety Consultant based in Tattenhall. My passion is to provide bespoke business Safety advice for small and medium enterprises helping them on a personalised safety journey, not computer-generated policies and procedures. I was invited to assist the team at the Farndon Soapbox Derby with their safety needs and it has been my privilege to be involved in such a fantastic, exciting project – Be Safe, Be Proactive, Be Professional.

Peter Goddard

Hello, I’m Peter and I am a Managing Director of a Chester-based Community Insurance Broker and Cyber Risk Management company as well as being a long-term resident of Farndon. I also sit on the committee of Gresford Athletic FC as their vice-chairman. As an insurance industry professional, my role within the Farndon Soapbox Derby team is to guide and oversee the insurance policies that have been put into place for this exciting, community-focused event.