Wheelbarrows, Beers and Big Prizes: Overton Set for Hilarious Night of Racing

Get ready for mayhem on wheels as Overton’s legendary Wheelbarrow Race makes its big return this Friday, July 18, bringing with it a night of laughs, lager and ludicrous costumes.

More than 100 racers are signed up to take part in the annual event, which sees teams push their decorated (and often wildly reimagined) wheelbarrows through the village streets—with a compulsory half-pint stop at every pub along the route.

The race kicks off at 7.30pm from Pound Road, but expect the madness to be in full swing well before then.

In years gone by, the village has seen wheelbarrows transformed into pirate ships, Wendy houses, and even Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, with racers dressed as everyone from Tina Turner to Taylor Swift. This year’s entries are being kept under wraps—but if tradition holds, expect the absurd and the outrageous.

Keeping spirits high and the soundtrack pumping, Overton Radio will be hosting the event at The Red Lion, providing commentary, music, and interviews with participants as the race unfolds.

And if that’s not enough excitement—there’s £1,000 up for grabs thanks to a partnership between Overton Radio, The Red Lion, and St Michael’s Hospice, which has a shop right in the heart of the village.

Charity scratchcards will be on sale at the pub, giving supporters the chance to bag the grand prize while helping raise money for a brilliant local cause.

“We want to help promote our wonderful local charity shop and give attendees at the pub something a little extra,” said Rob Francis of Overton Radio.

With a barbecue sizzling, a spacious beer garden, and the perfect view of the race in action, The Red Lion is the place to be on Friday night.

Rob added: “It’s the perfect spot to see the teams roll in, down their half-pint, and then set off again on their mad dash to the finish line.”

Whether you’re racing, cheering, or just in it for the sausage bap and scratchcard thrill, the Overton Wheelbarrow Race promises a night of pure village joy—and maybe even a bit of glory.