It is still a relatively new addition to the town's summer festivities but it is already proving one of the most popular.

Cromer is gearing up for the return of its annual Soapbox Derby.

Now in its third year and part of the Carnival celebrations, it is still a relatively new addition to the town's summer festivities but it is already proving one of the most popular.

A section of Runton Road in Cromer will be sealed off for the event which gets underway on Sunday, August 6, from 11.30am.

And crowds of thrill-seekers are expected to line the course to show their support.

Starting near the junction with Beach Road and ending near the Morrisons filling station, the competition has already attracted a lot of interest, with late entries being accepted up to noon on race day.

Looking forward to the event, Tony Shipp, chairman of Cromer Carnival, said: 'We are excited about the way this year's event is shaping up.

'We have retained last year's higher jump and will be extending the landing ramp so that the carts that fly from the top of the ramp have a better chance of hitting the landing area thus giving an even fast and of course smother landing.

'The start ramp is the same as last year with the usual tight chicane to allow the drivers to show their skills on the way to the finish line.'

Scrutineering for the event opens at 11.30am with the first cart away at 1pm with all entries given at least two runs so that they can try and improve their time and have a chance of lifting the Malcolm McGreadie cup for the fastest driver.

There are also prizes for fastest cart in each of the 3 classes and a Concourse de Elegance competition with a certificate for the best soapbox in each class.

The three classes are two junior classes 10 to 15 years and 16 to 18 years with an adult class for those aged 19 and over. More than one driver can use the same cart as long as it passes scrutineering and all drivers who are racing have a fitting crash hat.

This year's event has a new sponsor, the Westerleigh Group operate the town's new crematorium.

Commenting on the sponsorship, crematorium manager Sam Dellbridge said: 'We are delighted to support Cromer Carnival and wish everyone a fun packed week of entertainment.'