asparagus-shaped soapbox cart will ensure that Evesham is suitably represented in a legendary race where vehicles are powered by nothing more than gravity and courage.The team behind the annual British Asparagus Festival, which was launched last week at the Fleece Inn in Bretforton, are building their own entry (right) to take part in the Red Bull Soapbox Race being held on Sunday, July 14, at London’s Alexandra Palace.
The AsparaCart has been chosen as one of just 70 competitors to take on the steep downhill course as part of the event which is being held in the UK for the first time since 2004.
It promises to be the nuttiest road race ever staged on UK soil and comes hot on the wheels of sell-out soapbox races across the globe including in Mumbai and Hong Kong.
Teams are judged on speed, creativity and showmanship, with previous winners including a piano, a pair of dentures and a huge corn on the cob.
The AsparaCart is the brainchild of landlord of The Fleece Nigel Smith and his regulars.
They won over the race organisers with a video which told the tale of Gus the Asparaman who needs a form of transport to win over the girl of his dreams.
Commenting on his cart, Gus said: “People will be green with envy when they see the size of this thing. I’d go as far as to say it will be the talk of the festival.”
The final design will be unveiled at AsparaFest – the Vale of Evesham’s new family festival offering a mix of music, food and farming over the weekend of June 1- 2.
Asparagus Festival favourites including Jemima the Asparamancer will be on hand and festival-goers can take part in competitions or the search for the King Of Asparagus.
Asparagus beer and cocktails are also on the menu.
The British Asparagus Festival runs until June 21.
