'This decision has not been taken lightly' Why the 2026 Longridge Soap Box Derby will not go ahead
‘Not defeated’ The Longridge Soapbox Derby has been cancelled for 2026 but organisers have not given up entirely.
Organisers of Longridge Soapbox Derby have ‘with genuine sadness’ confirmed it will not go ahead for 2026. Rising costs have put paid to the event for this year but organisers hope it will return in the future.
The annual event, which sees Berry Lane closed off and transformed in to a race track for home-made ‘soapbox’ vehicles, traditionally draws huge crowds.
We will regroup — and we will try again
A spokesperson said: “Over the past few months, we’ve carefully explored every option to make the event happen. However, rising costs, wider financial pressures, and changes in sponsor priorities mean that we cannot be confident we would raise the funds required to deliver the event to the standard it deserves. For an event of this scale and complexity, that certainty matters.
“This decision has not been taken lightly. The SoapBox Derby has become something truly special for Longridge, and we know how much it means to our community. Importantly, this is not necessarily the end of the SoapBox Derby. We are not defeated — simply having to take a backward step — and we will do everything we can to bring it back next year. Nothing worth having ever came easily.”
They continued: “Over the last four years, the Derby has been made possible by the incredible support of our sponsors. In particular, we want to thank Raymond James and James Hall, alongside every single business that has contributed in any way. Your generosity has allowed this event to grow, flourish, and ultimately give back to the town we all care so deeply about. We are hugely grateful to you all.
“The event simply would not exist without the volunteers who give their time, energy, and good humour year after year. The SoapBox Derby is a massive logistical challenge, and every volunteer has helped make it safe, smooth, and memorable. Special thanks must go to Mick Ellison and Malc Hayhurst, whose commitment behind the scenes has been extraordinary.
“We also want to thank St Catherine’s Hospice, who have supported the event over the last three years and helped make it what it is. Across four events, the SoapBox Derby has raised around £70,000, enabling St Catherine’s to provide vital outreach support into Longridge. Almost every day, we see local fundraising appeals in support of St Catherine’s — a powerful reminder of how deeply loved and valued this charity is within our community.
“My heartfelt thanks also go to the members of Love Longridge, who have poured blood, sweat, tears, and thousands of volunteer hours into this event for the enjoyment and benefit of the town. I could not be prouder to have led such a committed group through four incredible SoapBox Derbies — events that have won tourism awards and truly helped put Longridge on the map.
“And finally, thank you to the people who bring the event to life on the day itself — including Rupert Swarbrick — whose energy and entertainment help make the SoapBox Derby such a joy to watch.
!While we are disappointed, we remain optimistic and committed. As a group, we will continue to look for other ways to support our local community and help Longridge survive and prosper. If we don’t look out for ourselves, no one else will.
“Thank you, Longridge, for four unforgettable SoapBox Derbies. We will regroup — and we will try again.”