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KJM Takes Flight at the 2026 Andover Soapbox

KJM Takes Flight at the 2026 Andover Soapbox Derby

📍 Community News

On Sunday 31 May, Hopkinson Way in Andover was transformed into a high-adrenaline racecourse for the highly anticipated 2026 Andover Soapbox Derby.

Action shot from the 2026 Andover Soapbox Derby

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📌 Event Summary

KJM Windows & Conservatories proudly stepped up as a headline sponsor for the 2026 Andover Soapbox Derby. By covering the essential running costs, we helped keep the spectacular event entirely free for the estimated 3,500-4,000 spectators. This ensured that all profits generated on the day—totalling more than £6,000—went directly to Raising Twenty1, an incredible local charity supporting children with Down’s syndrome.

Funding the Fun

We believe in supporting the communities we serve. KJM offered vital financial backing for the derby, playing a crucial role in covering the logistical running costs, event programmes, and essential advertising.

Most importantly, our direct involvement ensured this thrilling community spectacle remained completely free for spectators to attend. Because the overheads were covered, every single penny of profit generated from the event could be funnelled directly to local causes. This year, the designated charity was Raising Twenty1, an inspiring local organisation dedicated to supporting children with Down’s syndrome and their families.

A soapbox kart launching off the KJM Kicker ramp at the start of the race

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Hitting the “KJM Kicker”—the first and biggest jump on the Hopkinson Way descent.

Tackling the “KJM Kicker”

Twenty uniquely crafted karts tried their luck on the specially built, branded obstacle course. Drivers had to boldly navigate the “KJM Kicker,” the very first and absolute biggest jump on the run down Hopkinson Way.

Estimates put the crowd at a fantastic 3,500 to 4,000 people. Spectators watched in total awe as the gravity-powered carts hit our branded jump, catching a serious amount of air and leaping remarkably high before speeding (and occasionally crashing) towards the finish line.

A soapbox kart catching serious air mid-flight after launching off the ramp

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Gravity takes over: One of the brave teams catching some impressive mid-flight air.

Team KJM Takes to the Track

Our participation went well beyond simply signing a sponsorship cheque. For the very first time, KJM entered its own dedicated racing team to brave the descent.

Driven by one of our fitters, Charlie Hearmon, the KJM kart was propelled off the start line by a powerful push from Josh and Jordan. Off the track, KJM Install Manager Brian Harkin took on an official role, assisting with the tough job of judging the creative, chaotic, and downright hilarious entries.

A soapbox kart heavily covered in soap suds making its way down the track

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It wouldn’t be a Soapbox Derby without an absolute mountain of soap suds.

A Brilliant Atmosphere

The crowds were incredibly well looked after. Alongside the soapbox racing acting as the main entertainment, there were plenty of places to buy fantastic local food and drink. There was even a surprise sighting of Elvis in the crowd!

To keep everyone on their toes, water pistols were freely fired throughout the day, adding an extra level of jeopardy and fun for both the drivers and the race organisers.

A soapbox kart going over a jump while deploying bright red smoke flares

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Going out in style: Hitting the jump with smoke flares deployed.

A Word from the Managing Director

“A huge amount of work goes into organising the event, and a special mention should go to the organisers and the team of volunteers who work tirelessly on the day. This year was brilliant for the whole community and successfully raised more than £6,000 of much-needed funds for Raising Twenty1. KJM will definitely be backing and competing in the Andover Soapbox Derby again in 2027!”

— Mark Pearce, KJM Group

Support Raising Twenty1

Raising Twenty1 is a brilliant Andover-based charity that provides vital support, resources, and community events for children with Down’s syndrome and their families across Hampshire.

Learn More & Donate Here

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Mark Pearce

With over four decades in the glazing industry, Mark Pearce has been at the heart of KJM Windows & Conservatories since 1983. Starting as a building labourer, he quickly rose through the ranks, working as a window and door installer from 1984, a factory operator manufacturing windows later that year, factory manager in 1992, and joining the sales team in 1994. Becoming a Director in 2002, and finally, the sole owner in 2010, Mark Pearce is truly a double glazing expert and has led KJM to become a leading supplier of high-quality windows, doors, and conservatories across Andover and the South of England.

Mark Pearce is a highly experienced specialist in the double glazing industry, having built his knowledge from the ground up through hands-on experience in installation, manufacturing, sales, and business management. Beyond his role at KJM, Mark is a keen blogger, writer, and traveller, often sharing insights on the latest innovations in the home improvement industry.