The final chapter of the 2026 Andover Soapbox Derby has been written, with organisers confirming that an incredible £8,000 has been raised for local charity Raising Twenty1.
The official cheque handover took place during the event’s wash-up meeting on Monday 22nd June, marking the successful conclusion of one of Andover’s biggest community events of the year.
Held on Sunday 31st May, the Andover Soapbox Derby attracted a record crowd as thousands of people lined the course to enjoy a day packed with laughter, excitement, creativity and community spirit. Thanks to the generosity of local sponsors, the event remained completely free for everyone to attend while raising a record amount for charity.
The event was organised by Andover Community Events and supported by local businesses including Monopoly Insurance, Easy Storage, KJM Windows, Sparkles, Ben’s Quality Dry Cleaners, The Commercial Centre, VPAV, and media partners Andover Radio and Love Andover.
Organisers have praised the sponsors for their unwavering support and generosity, particularly at a time when many businesses continue to face financial challenges. Their commitment ensured the event could be enjoyed by families from across the region while helping to raise vital funds for a worthy local cause.
This year’s event was hosted by Andover Radio’s Ben Tuffin, who kept the crowds entertained throughout the day. He was joined once again by local legends Dave Allon and Pete Burden of The Rock Café, whose commentary brought the action to life and added to the fantastic atmosphere that has become synonymous with the Soapbox Derby.
The £8,000 raised will support the work of Raising Twenty1, a charity rooted in Andover and dedicated to supporting children and young people with Down’s syndrome, along with their families. While the charity has grown significantly since its beginnings, Andover remains at the heart of its identity and community.
Today, Raising Twenty1 supports families across North Hampshire and the surrounding areas, providing guidance, opportunities and a welcoming network for those navigating life with Down’s syndrome. The charity is proud to support families wherever they are on their journey.
The “Twenty1” in the charity’s name honours the unique genetic makeup of individuals with Down’s syndrome. While most people have two copies of chromosome 21, people with Down’s syndrome have three. It is this beautiful difference that inspires everything the charity does and forms the foundation of its mission to empower, support and celebrate every individual and family it works with.
Reflecting on the success of the event, Kev Rush of Andover Community Events said:
“The amount raised is a reflection on the incredible support given to this event. The support from the sponsors, making the whole thing financially possible. The support of the teams, making the effort sometimes at great expense, for Andover’s entertainment. The support of the volunteers, an invaluable group that turned up and gave their time for free.
“And the support of the community that turned out as a record crowd contributing towards this record fundraising total.
“Andover never ceases to amaze me, just incredible.”
The record-breaking fundraising total highlights the power of community spirit in Andover. From sponsors and volunteers to competitors and spectators, every contribution played a part in making the 2026 Soapbox Derby one of the most successful events in its history.
As organisers look back on another memorable year, the legacy of the 2026 event will be measured not just by the spectacular races and entertainment on the day, but by the £8,000 that will now help Raising Twenty1 continue its invaluable work supporting local families across the region.