Kington goes back to the 70’s as its iconic wheelbarrow race celebrates its 50th anniversary

Kington will go back to the 70’s on Saturday to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its iconic wheelbarrow race.

All eyes will be on the crazy costumes the racers come up with to fit in the 70’s TV sitcom theme.

Local celebrity John Hussey will be back by popular demand on the microphone, providing his inimitable commentary and he will be joined by a surprise guest who promises to add some additional entertainment.

Guilty as Charged will be providing some music before and after the race.

M&S pizzas will be serving their pizzas from Cloud 9 car park and rumour has it that Kington puppets Harry and Aggy will be making a special appearance.

Hundreds of people usually line the main street to see the fantastic fancy dress costumes and watch the speed and agility of the competitors.

There will be prizes for the best dressed barrow in men’s, ladies and mixed groups and prizes for the fastest competitors to make it around each of the town’s pubs for a swift half before making it over the finishing line. This year there will be about 10 stops.

All entrants need to be ready for registration and judging at 6pm at Kington Primary School playground before moving to Doctor’s Lane for the start, led by the town’s Festival attendees.

The race will start at 7pm with the speedsters first and then the fancy dress entrants. Entry costs £5 per person. Roads will be closed to traffic from 6pm until 8.30pm approximately.

Local firefighters will conduct a blanket collection during the evening, and people are urged to bring loose change and show support for the festival.

This year’s Festival attendees will help with the prize giving which will take place outside the Market Hall.