OVER 200 people turned out to watch the Winchester District Scouts second Pinewood Derby on Sunday (April 6).

Beavers, cubs, scouts, explorers, leaders and parents all joined in to build and race 130 racing cars at Prince’s Mead School, near Kings Worthy.

Each entry had to be modelled within a weight and size limit, and made from identical blocks of pinewood and sets of wheels.

They were judged in categories: the most realistic car, funniest model, best paint job, the most futuristic and best modelled, with each entry receiving a certificate.

The first of 86 races kicked off at 1pm, with all cars on clear view in the pit lane of the purpose-built six lane track.

Manager of scout active support, Andrew Rolt, said the day was a success.

He said: “The range of innovative technical design, modeling excellence and sheer entertainment madness was exceptional and obviously captivated those attending.

“At 90 seconds per race and with each car getting three races in, the organising team really had to mimic an F1 pit lane crew in moving the cars off the pits to the starter and collecting back off the finish line, without losing any timings data and knock out stage positioning.”

The derby was put on to raise awareness of the needs of the new welfare and accommodation facilities building project which starts soon at its Pinsent Camp.

Sponsorship was secured from Harestock Garage.