A TEAM from a Chester-based law firm were crowned winners of the Farndon Soapbox Derby, an annual event raising funds for the Hospice of the Good Shepherd.

A total of 33 teams representing businesses across Cheshire took part in the event which raised more than £40,000 in total for the palliative care charity, almost doubling the amount raised from last year's inaugural event. Racing with gravity powered home-made karts and contraptions, the teams were competing against each other down a steep, obstacle-filled track through Farndon village.

Aaron & Partners, who were among the event's sponsors for the second year running, were declared the winners.

The Aaron & Partners’ race team included Joe-Fletcher Hunt, Real Estate Partner; Matt Roberts, a Real Estate Paralegal; Marketing Executive Jake Ryan and Digital Marketing Manager Jonny Edwards, who was piloting the car.

Joe Fletcher-Hunt said: "This was our second attempt at the Farndon Soapbox Derby and we were really proud to finish in first place this year.

"It’s a brilliant event with a great atmosphere that raised lots of money for a fantastic cause. Competition was fierce, and I think we will struggle to win again next year."

Caroline Siddall, Hospice Director of Income Generation, said: "This was another magnificent event and all thanks to all the amazing entries, a massive attendance and most of all the sheer determination and hard work of a group of volunteers working alongside a dedicated local committee led by Tim Kenney.

"We are immensely grateful to everyone involved, to our sponsors and to all those who so generously donated both online and on the day."