The much anticipated Super Soapbox Challenge is set to give Barrow's economy a major boost.

Barrow BID are hoping the event can recreate the success of other areas which have held similar events.

These saw crowds of more that 25,000 filling the town centre and gave the local economy a boost of over £1.2 million.

Barrow BID has teamed up with The Super Soapbox Challenge Company Ltd for the event which takes place on Saturday June 29.

The race will run along Dalton Road, right through the central shopping area of Barrow.

It will be launched by Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards, who will also be in Barrow on Friday June 28, for a special screening of his film biopic, Eddie will then give a talk after the screening.

During the event, teams of five will compete not only for the fastest times but a number of other prizes including ‘most innovative cart design’, ‘best turned-out soapbox crew’ and ‘joker of the day’.

Barrow BID are hoping the event will take advantage of Barrow’s engineering expertise and attract plenty of well-built carts from the local area although entries so far have come from as far away as Manchester.

Teams are encouraged to pair up with charities in order to use the event as an opportunity to raise money for a good cause as well as benefit the the town.

The Barrow BID Super Soapbox Challenge is central to the BID’s initiative to regenerate and promote Barrow’s town centre, not only to daytime shoppers but also to people who want to enjoy a night out visiting the theatre or a meal and drinks in the many bars and restaurants Barrow has to offer.

Colin Garnett, Barrow BID’s Manager, said although the news Marks and Spencer will be leaving Barrow is a major blow, the Soap Box race would still have gone ahead had they known in at the time.

He said, "The event’s role has become even more important in getting people to come back into the centre to see what’s on offer and boost the economy for the many businesses in the town.”