From clucking chickens to crime-fighting caped crusaders, Overton was bursting with colour, creativity and community spirit on Friday night as the village’s annual Wheelbarrow Race once again proved why it’s a firm local favourite.

More than 100 racers took to the streets in gloriously over-the-top costumes, with entries including Batman and Robin, a gang of Minions, and even a group dressed as giant chickens – wheelbarrows decked out just as imaginatively as their drivers.

The race, which began at 7.30pm on Pound Road, took teams on a high-energy dash through the village, with a crucial half-pint pit stop at each of Overton’s pubs. Locals and visitors lined the route, cheering on racers and soaking in the brilliant atmosphere.

The pre-race hog roast at The Greyhound was a hit with hungry spectators, and Overton Radio’s commentary from The Red Lion brought music, interviews, and real-time updates to the crowd. Charity scratchcards in aid of St Michael’s Hospice offered pub customers the chance to win £1,000, adding even more excitement to the evening.

But the fun didn’t end at the finish line. Bridge Street hosted a buzzing after-party, complete with an open-air disco, food from Yum Yum (serving up burgers and hot dogs), and a fully licensed bar.

Rob Francis of Overton Radio said:
“It was one of the best nights we’ve seen – the effort people put into their costumes and barrows was unbelievable. The village came alive, and the support for the race and the hospice was amazing.

With a mix of laughs, local love, and a little bit of silliness, this year’s Wheelbarrow Race cemented its place as one of Overton’s best-loved traditions.

And if the chatter in the pubs afterwards was anything to go by, next year’s race might be even more outrageous.